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Madrid, Community of Madrid to Barcelona, Catalonia from $33: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
Barcelona, Spain

How to Get from Madrid to Barcelona: 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.

$33 RideshareBest price
508.6 kmDistance
2h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid to Barcelona 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 AVE
Train
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$23-85
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
$33-33
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 508.6 km
Duration: 2h 30m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  28m
Estimated price
$27-106
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
$33-33
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  58m
Estimated price
$110-170

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 30/12Tu 31/12We 01/01Th 02/01Fr 03/01Sa 04/01Su 05/01
Bus $7 $5 $5 $13 $23 $11 $40
Train $19 $20 $21 $22 $18 $20 $40
Fly $24 $24 $27 $30 $22 $31 $37
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Madrid to Barcelona

Traveling from Madrid to Barcelona offers a captivating shift from the bustling energy of Spain's capital to the vibrant coastal charm of Catalonia's crown jewel.

Best Neighbourhoods in Barcelona

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

Gothic Quarter
• Ancient buildings and labyrinthine streets.
• Rich history with stunning Gothic architecture.
Gracia
• Bohemian vibe with unique local shops.
• Lively plazas perfect for socializing.
Barceloneta
• Vibrant beach scene and waterfront dining.
• Fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Barcelona's Attractions

Timing your visits to Barcelona's top attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Sagrada Familia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Park Güell
Weekdays are best, especially early morning to enjoy peace and quiet.
La Rambla
Late evening strolls provide a lively atmosphere with fewer daytime tourists.

Barcelona Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during spring and fall for comfortable temperatures, which can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Barcelona

Try a plate of delicious seafood paella at Can Majó, where the fresh catch from the nearby Mediterranean brings a burst of flavors that contrast with Madrid's hearty stews. Dining in Barcelona allows you to savor the vibrant coastal ambiance and seasonal ingredients that create a refreshing culinary experience distinct from the traditional fare of the capital.

Madrid - Barcelona operators

Explore transport companies operating between Madrid and Barcelona, 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 Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

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

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

Average Duration
2h 52m
Estimated price
$30-85
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

Average Duration
2h 57m
Estimated price
$50-75
Contact phone
+34 910 780 990
Website
https://www.ouigo.com/es/en

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$23-35
Plane Show flights
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Barcelona (BCN)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$28-170
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Barcelona (BCN)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$28-170
Website
aireuropa.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Barcelona (BCN)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$35-200
Rideshare
Website
blablacar.com

Rideshare from Madrid to Barcelona

Average Duration
7h 13m
Estimated price
$33-33

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

Traveling between Madrid and Barcelona 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 picturesque journey from Madrid to Barcelona, covering a driving distance of 388 miles. Enjoy the scenic Spanish landscapes as you make your way towards the vibrant city of Barcelona in just under 6 hours. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from €101 to €157 for a car trip from Madrid to Barcelona. Whether you're a solo traveler or with friends, sharing the costs can make this road trip an affordable and convenient choice for your travel itinerary.
Average price
€101 - €157
Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan your fuel stops along the A-2 or AP-2 highways; expect gas prices to be around €1.45 to €1.60 per liter, with stations available roughly every 50 km.
• When arriving in Barcelona, be aware of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the city center, where older vehicles may be restricted; consider booking parking in advance to save time, with daily rates generally between €15 and €25.
• Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and navigation; also keep in mind that the speed limit on highways is 120 km/h and that overtaking is typically done on the left in Spain.
🚆 Embark on a convenient journey from Madrid to Barcelona by train. The direct train service from Estación de tren de Atocha to Barcelona-Sants runs every 30 minutes, taking approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. 🌆 Admire the picturesque scenery on this 601 km route as you travel from the bustling capital of Madrid to the vibrant city of Barcelona. Renfe AVE operates the comfortable and efficient train services for this popular route. 💰 With ticket prices ranging from €21 to €78, the Madrid to Barcelona train offers a cost-effective and speedy option for travelers looking to explore two of Spain's most iconic cities effortlessly. Enjoy a hassle-free journey with Renfe and soak in the beauty of Spain along the way.
Departure Point
Estación de tren de Atocha station
Arrival Point
Barcelona-Sants station
Useful tips for train travellers
• During your train trip from Madrid to Barcelona, you can take advantage of the onboard catering services offered by Renfe, the main operator on this route. They provide a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks that can be purchased from their menu. In First Class, you might find an upgraded meal service with complimentary options, while Economy passengers can still enjoy snack and drink options available for purchase.
• The train line offers several seating options: First Class (Preferente) seats are spacious and provide a more luxurious experience with complimentary catering; Business Class (Clase Business) offers comfort with more legroom and some perks; and Economy Class (Turista) provides standard seating at a lower price point. For the best experience, consider booking First Class if you want a quieter atmosphere with additional services.
• There are multiple operators on this train route, primarily Renfe and AVE. You can visit their websites for ticket bookings: Renfe ">">renfe.com and AVE ">">ave.com For local transport in Barcelona, check out the transport schedules at ">">tmb.cat and the station map on ">">barcelona.cat
🛫 Flying from Madrid Airport to Barcelona Airport is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking only 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines such as Vueling Airlines, Air Europa, and Iberia operate this route. 🌆 The journey from Madrid to Barcelona by plane lasts around 3 hours and 28 minutes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the aerial views of Spain along the way. 💸 Depending on the airline and time of booking, flights between Barcelona and Madrid can range in price from €25 to €98, making it a cost-effective way to travel between these vibrant Spanish cities.
Departure Point
Madrid Airport
Arrival Point
Barcelona Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Opt for an early morning flight from Madrid as these tend to be less crowded and often on time, maximizing your enjoyment of Barcelona's attractions upon arrival.
• Upon landing at Barcelona El Prat Airport, follow signs for 'Renfe' to access the train to the city; it's an efficient way to avoid traffic, and trains depart every 30 minutes.
• Expect to pay approximately €30-€35 for a taxi from Barcelona El Prat Airport to the city center; be aware of potential surcharges during late-night rides or peak hours.
🚌 Traveling from Madrid to Barcelona by bus is a convenient and scenic journey that takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to cover the 601 km distance. 🚌 Renfe is the agency operating this route, and they can be reached at 011 34 902 32 03 20 or through their website http://www.renfe.com/ for ticket reservations and further travel information.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets in advance through various operators like ALSA (alsa.es) and FlixBus (flixbus.com) to ensure better prices and availability, especially during weekends or holidays.
• Bring along some snacks and a refillable water bottle for the journey, as gas station stops may not offer many dining options, while having your own supplies can enhance comfort on the 2.5-hour trip.
• Upon arriving at Barcelona-Sants, follow the signs for 'Metro' if you plan to take public transportation; the station is well-connected to the city’s metro lines, making it easy to explore the rest of Barcelona.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madrid to Barcelona.

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The distance between Madrid and Barcelona is approximately 316 miles, or 387.6 miles by road. The typical travel time by train from Madrid to Barcelona is 2 hours and 30 minutes. By plane, the journey takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. If you choose to drive, it will take approximately 5 hours and 58 minutes, while a bus journey can take up to 8 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Madrid to Barcelona is by rideshare, which costs €29. However, this option takes the longest time, with a travel duration of 7 hours and 13 minutes. If you are looking for a more time-efficient option, the fastest way to travel is by train, which takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. The train ticket costs between €20 and €77, depending on the type of train and class you choose.
The prices of a train between Madrid and Barcelona range from €20 to €77. The prices of a bus between Barcelona and Madrid vary from €82 to €127. Keep in mind that the prices may fluctuate depending on the time of year, the class of travel, and the booking window. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
If you want to travel from Madrid to Barcelona without using public transportation, a great option is to check out Blablacar's carpooling service. This allows you to find rideshare options with other people traveling the same route. The driving distance between Madrid and Barcelona is approximately 388 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 58 minutes to drive this distance. The prices for carpooling on Blablacar range from €100 to €155, so you can find an option that fits your budget.
To travel from Madrid to Barcelona without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and tickets can range from €20 to €77. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 8 hours and 5 minutes and costs around €82 to €127. Flying is also an option, with flight times around 3 hours and 27 minutes, and ticket prices between €25 and €100. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose the mode of transportation that suits you best for your journey from Madrid to Barcelona.
Yes, there is a direct link between Madrid and Barcelona by train and bus. The train service operated by Renfe AVE departs from Madrid-Puerta De Atocha and arrives at Barcelona-Sants, with trains departing hourly. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The bus service operated by ALSA also provides a direct connection, with buses departing from Madrid every two hours and arriving in Barcelona after approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight between Madrid and Barcelona typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The prices for a flight between the two cities range from €25 to €92. It is important to note that these prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and the airline chosen. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your desired travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Barcelona. With over 1986 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices start at €43 per night, ensuring that there is something available for every traveler. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, Barcelona has a wide range of options to suit your needs.

Trips to Barcelona