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Madrid to Leon from $19: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
Leon, Spain

How to Get from Madrid to Leon: 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.

$19 RideshareBest price
290 kmDistance
3h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid to Leon 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
Renfe Viajeros
Train
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$32-57
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
4h  7m
Estimated price
$19-19
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 290 km
Duration: 3h 16m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
ALSA
Bus
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$28-45
Company
Renfe Viajeros
Train
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$60-90

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $16 $14 $16 $22 $33 $22 $33
Train $15 $20 $20 $27 $18 $32 $32
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Traveling From Madrid to Leon

Traveling from Madrid to Leon offers a striking contrast between the vibrant energy of Spain's capital and the charming, historic ambiance of Leon's streets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Leon

Leon boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and character.

Historic Center
• Home to the stunning Gothic Cathedral.
• Lively plazas filled with cafes and shops.
El Húmedo
• Known for its tapas bars and vibrant nightlife.
• Features narrow streets with a local atmosphere.
Antón Martín
• A blend of modernity with traditional charm.
• Offers local markets and unique boutique shops.

Best Times To Visit Leon's Attractions

Timing your visits to Leon's attractions can enhance your experience and minimize crowds.

Leon Cathedral
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for quieter moments and stunning lighting.
Basilica de San Isidoro
Weekdays are ideal; fewer visitors allow for a more peaceful exploration.
Plaza Mayor
Early evening offers a vibrant ambiance, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining without crowds.

Leon Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Leon enjoys a continental climate, with warm summers and chilly winters, making spring and early autumn the best times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel experience, impacting activities and the atmosphere around the city's beautiful historic sites.

Dining Recommendation in Leon

Experience the rich flavors of Leon by trying ‘Cecina de León’, a cured beef delicacy that contrasts with Madrid's tapas culture. Enjoy the warm, rustic atmosphere of local eateries like Casa de las Fritas, where the emphasis on fresh, local ingredients truly showcases the region’s culinary heritage.

Madrid - Leon operators

Explore transport companies operating between Madrid and Leon, 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 Madrid-Chamartin to Leon

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
$30-45

Train from Madrid-Principe Pio to Leon

Average Duration
4h 32m
Estimated price
$35-55

Train from Madrid-Chamartin to Leon

Average Duration
3h 24m
Estimated price
$30-60
Bus
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Madrid Moncloa to Leon

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$28-45
Rideshare
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Madrid to León

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
$19-19

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

Traveling between Madrid and Leon 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 a scenic road trip from Madrid to León covering a distance of 338.0 km, with a driving time of approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes. 💰 Prices to travel by car from Madrid to León range from €55 to €83, offering flexibility to suit various budgets for this journey. 🚗 Explore the option of using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare opportunities between the vibrant cities of Madrid and León, ideal for those without a driver's license or seeking an alternative to public transportation.
Average price
€55 - €83
🚆 Experience a scenic train journey from Madrid to Leon with Renfe Viajeros. 🌄 Enjoy a relaxing 4-hour and 32-minute ride through the Spanish countryside as you make your way from Madrid-Principe Pio station to the charming city of Leon. 💰 Ticket prices for the Madrid to Leon train range from €29 to €52, providing an affordable and efficient transportation option to explore the cultural delights of Leon.
Departure Point
Madrid-Principe Pio station
Arrival Point
Leon station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Madrid to Leon, you can expect onboard catering services provided by Renfe, which operates the AVE and Alvia services. The catering includes options for light snacks, beverages, and meals that can be ordered at your seat or purchased from the cafeteria car. Make sure to check the menu online before your journey to know your options.
• For your seating options, Renfe offers various classes: First Class (Preferente), Business Class (Club), and Economy Class (Turista). First Class provides wider seats and complimentary meals, while Business Class offers more amenities than Economy but fewer than First. If you prefer a quieter environment and additional services, Business Class is a great middle ground.
• Multiple operators run services on this route, mainly Renfe. You can check schedules and book tickets on their official website: renfe.com Alternatively, you might find additional services provided by OUIGO (ouigo.com), which offers a lower-cost option but with fewer frills.
• Upon arriving at Leon's train station, expect to find luggage storage services available, which can be helpful if you wish to explore the city without heavy bags. The station also has clean restrooms but does not currently offer shower facilities.
• The fastest way to get from Leon's train station to the city center is by taking Bus Line 9, which directly connects the station with the city center. Alternatively, Line 1 can also be used. Buses run frequently, making it a convenient option.
🌄 The scenic route takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, allowing travelers to sit back, relax, and enjoy the Spanish countryside on their way to Leon. 💸 Bus tickets between Madrid and Leon range from €26 to €41, offering an affordable and comfortable transportation option for those looking to explore these two beautiful Spanish cities.
Departure Point
Madrid Moncloa station
Arrival Point
Leon station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance on the ALSA website (alsa.es) to secure the best prices, as fares between Madrid and León typically range from €25 to €41 depending on the operator and time of booking.
• During your 3h 45m journey, enjoy the scenic views of the Spanish countryside; sitting on the left side of the bus offers the best sights as you approach León.
• Upon arrival at León bus station, take note that there are local buses and taxis available just outside the terminal; if you're planning to explore the city, the city bus line 11 connects the station to the city center with ease.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madrid to Leon.

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The distance between Madrid and Leon is approximately 289.7 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 3 hours and 33 minutes to reach Leon from Madrid by train, 3 hours and 16 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 30 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Madrid to Leon is ridesharing, which costs €17 and takes approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option. It takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes, but the cost ranges from €56 to €83, considering fuel expenses. Alternatively, train and bus options are also available, taking approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes and 3 hours and 30 minutes, respectively.
The prices for a train ticket from Madrid to Leon vary between €29 and €53. For a bus ticket from Leon to Madrid, the prices range between €42 and €69.
To travel from Madrid to León without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service. This platform allows you to find rideshare options between the two cities, which is a great alternative if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The distance between Madrid and León by car is approximately 338.0 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling can vary between €56 and €83, depending on the specific arrangements made with the driver.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Madrid to Leon is by bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes and ticket prices range from €42 to €69.
Yes, there is a direct link between Madrid and Leon. You can take a direct train from Madrid-Principe Pio station to Leon, which takes approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes. There are two departures daily and the service operates every day. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus from Madrid Moncloa station to Leon, with four departures daily, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Leon. With over 385 hotels to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Leon start at €51 and vary depending on the location and amenities.

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