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Barcelona to Madrid from $30: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Barcelona, Spain
to
Madrid, Spain

How to Get from Barcelona to Madrid: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$30 RideshareBest price
509.76 kmDistance
2h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Barcelona to Madrid with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$23-85
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar.es
Rideshare
Average Duration
7h  17m
Estimated price
$30-32
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 509.76 km
Duration: 2h 30m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$27-106
Company
ALSA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  39m
Estimated price
$44-82
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
6h  2m
Estimated price
$110-170

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $8 $5 $5 $11 $40 $13 $40
Train $18 $20 $20 $20 $30 $21 $22
Fly $26 $20 $24 $21 $28 $33 $42
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Barcelona to Madrid

Traveling between Barcelona and Madrid offers a fascinating contrast between Barcelona's vibrant coastal charm and Madrid's rich historical and cultural heart.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madrid

Madrid's neighborhoods each showcase distinct character and charm, perfect for exploration.

Malasaña
• Known for its vibrant street art scene.
• Home to trendy cafes and boutiques.
Chueca
• Famous for its lively LGBTQ+ culture.
• Offers a fantastic array of dining options.
La Latina
• Ideal for tapas bars and local markets.
• Features beautiful, narrow medieval streets.

Best Times To Visit Madrid's Attractions

Timing can enhance your experience at Madrid's famous sites, ensuring a more enjoyable visit.

Prado Museum
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer visitors.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Weekdays early in the day offer a quieter experience.
Retiro Park
Mornings on weekdays are perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Madrid Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madrid enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times to explore the city. Weather can significantly impact your travel plans, with sunny days ideal for outdoor activities and cooler months inviting cozy indoor experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Madrid

Savor the traditional dish of cocido madrileño at La Dama, a hearty chickpea stew that showcases Madrid’s robust flavors and local ingredients, providing a delightful contrast to Barcelona’s lighter tapas culture. The lively atmosphere of this restaurant enhances the communal dining experience, inviting you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of the capital.

Barcelona - Madrid operators

Explore transport companies operating between Barcelona and Madrid, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
55-80
Contact phone
+34 910 150 000
Website
https://iryo.eu/en/home

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
2h 52m
Estimated price
30-85
Contact phone
+34 910 780 990
Website
https://www.ouigo.com/es/en

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
23-35
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Barcelona-Sants to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
50-75
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord to Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
50-80
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Bus from Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord to Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
40-65
Rideshare
Website
https://blablacar.com

Rideshare from Barcelona to Madrid

Average Duration
7h 17m
Estimated price
30-32
Plane Show flights
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
28-170
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
28-170
Website
aireuropa.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
35-200
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Barcelona (BCN) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
40-290

Barcelona to Madrid: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Barcelona and Madrid offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Barcelona to Madrid, covering a distance of 626.0 km. 💰 Save money by opting for a car journey, with prices ranging from €101 to €157 for the trip from Barcelona to Madrid.
Average price
€101 - €157
🚄 Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid by train is a convenient and efficient way to move between the two iconic Spanish cities. The direct train service departs every 30 minutes from Barcelona-Sants station and arrives at Estación de tren de Atocha in Madrid, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. 🌆 The route covers a distance of 601 km, offering travelers a smooth and scenic journey through the Spanish countryside. Renfe AVE operates the train services from Barcelona to Madrid, providing passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Prices for the train tickets can range from €21 to €78, making it an affordable option for transportation. 📞 For booking and inquiries, travelers can contact Renfe at 011 34 902 32 03 20 or visit their website at http://www.
Departure Point
Barcelona-Sants station
Arrival Point
Estación de tren de Atocha station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Renfe trains from Barcelona to Madrid include a catering service where passengers can order food and drinks. The menu features a variety of options, such as sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, including coffee, wines, and soft drinks. Be sure to check out the Bistro option available in the higher classes for a more substantial meal and a wider selection.
• The train operator Renfe offers three seating classes: Turista (Economy), Preferente (First Class), and Club (Business Class). Turista is the most economical option, while Preferente features wider seats, more legroom, and complimentary meal service. Club provides an enhanced experience with premium amenities, better catering options, and exclusive lounges before boarding.
• On this route, Renfe is the main operator. You can find more information and book tickets at their website: renfe.com Additionally, the AVE trains are another option, providing high-speed services. For booking and details on their high-speed services, visit the AVE section on the Renfe website as well.
🛫 Flying from Barcelona to Madrid is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking only 1 hour and 25 minutes on average. 💸 The prices for a flight from Barcelona to Madrid can range from €25 to €98, offering budget-friendly choices for those looking to travel between these two vibrant Spanish cities.
Departure Point
Barcelona Airport
Arrival Point
Madrid Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with either Iberia or Vueling Airlines for competitive pricing and the convenience of frequent departures; both airlines often provide promotional fares that can lower your travel costs.
• Upon arrival at Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), use the 'T4' terminal for the most direct access to the city; the airport’s navigation can be complex, so follow the signage for ‘Metro’ to easily connect to the city’s bustling transport system.
• A taxi from Madrid-Barajas Airport to the city center will generally cost around €30-€35; expect added fees during night hours or rush times, and consider booking an Uber for potentially better rates and ease of payment.
🚌 There is no direct bus from Barcelona to Madrid. However, you can take a bus media distancia from Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord to Cibeles via Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4, with a journey time of approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes. 🛣️ Route 1 takes about 7 hours and 35 minutes to reach Madrid from Barcelona, covering a distance of 519 km. The bus Barcelona-Zaragoza-Madrid operated by ALSA departs from Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord and arrives at Aeropuerto Madrid-Barajas T4. 🚆 Route 2 offers a faster option, taking 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel the 601 km between Barcelona and Madrid by train. The train service by Renfe departs from Barcelona-Sants and arrives at Estación Madrid - Puerta de Atocha.
Departure Point
Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord station
Arrival Point
Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4. Bus largo recorrido station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure you arrive at Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord at least 30 minutes before your departure; this station can be busy, and you'll want time to find your bus and get through security.
• Consider downloading the ALSA app or visiting their website at alsa.ma to check real-time bus schedules and book your tickets in advance, as prices can fluctuate between €40 and €74 depending on demand.
• Upon arriving at Aeropuerto Madrid Barajas T4, follow the signs to the metro and bus connections; the airport is well-connected to the city center, making it easy to reach your final destination in Madrid via the Metro or local buses.

Trips from Barcelona