Train service
Renfe
Renfe is Spain’s national railway operator, offering high-speed, long-distance, and regional train services with extensive domestic coverage.
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.
Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, intercity, and regional trains across the country and beyond.
SNCB
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway operator, offering domestic and international train services with flexible ticket options, including youth and senior discounts.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
Travelers using an Interrail Global Pass can travel from Paris to Madrid since it is valid for international train journeys across Europe, including France and Spain. However, the Interrail One Country Pass cannot be used for this journey as it applies only to travel within a single country, and travelers would need separate passes for France and Spain. The Eurail Pass is valid for non-EU residents and can also cover the journey from Paris to Madrid, as it offers similar international travel benefits as the Interrail Global Pass for eligible travelers.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Madrid by train, you will likely find yourself at one of the city's major train stations like Atocha or Chamartín. From there, you have several options for getting around the city using local transportation. The Madrid Metro system is extensive and efficient, with 12 lines covering most areas of the city, making it one of the best ways to navigate. Metro stations are well-marked and tickets can be purchased at machines inside the stations.
The EMT buses are another convenient option, operating throughout the city with numerous routes and frequent service. Buses can take you to places not easily served by the Metro. For a comfortable and direct option, taxis are widely available, easily recognizable by their white color with a red stripe, and can be hailed on the street or booked via taxi apps.
Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify also operate in Madrid, providing a reliable alternative to traditional taxis. While Madrid does not have a tram system, the city does offer regional train services called Cercanías, which connect the city with surrounding suburbs and can also be useful for certain intra-city travel. For ticketing convenience, consider getting a Multi Card, which can be used for the Metro, buses, and Cercanías trains.
Onward connections
Madrid, Spain's bustling capital, serves as a central hub for a well-connected rail network that facilitates domestic and international travel. Domestically, the high-speed AVE train network operated by Renfe connects Madrid to major cities across Spain with remarkable efficiency. The Madrid-Barcelona route is one of the most popular, with frequent AVE trains covering the distance in roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a preferred option for both business and leisure travelers. Madrid is also well-connected to Seville, reaching the Andalusian city in about 2.5 hours. Similarly, Valencia is accessible in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, and Malaga in around 2.5 hours, offering travelers convenient access to the stunning Mediterranean coast.
For those venturing to northern Spain, the high-speed network also links Madrid to cities like Zaragoza in about 1.5 hours and extends up to the cultural city of Bilbao in around 4.5 hours, despite part of the journey not being on the AVE line. Additionally, the Alvia trains provide access to Galicia, with routes to Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña taking around 5 to 6 hours.
Internationally, train travel from Madrid often involves connections via France. The AVE service to Barcelona can link travelers with French cities like Marseille, Lyon, and Paris via high-speed connections facilitated by cooperation between Renfe and SNCF, the French national railway company. Although the direct high-speed train to Paris is not currently operational, travelers can journey from Barcelona to Paris in about 6.5 hours, requiring a change in Barcelona. Another option includes the Trenhotel service, a night train connecting Madrid directly to Lisbon, taking about 10 hours, offering a unique experience of overnight travel between the Iberian Peninsula's two capital cities.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Madrid is generally during the spring months of April to June and the fall months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot and enjoying outdoor activities. Train travel to Madrid in these months often offers more scenic views, thanks to the blooming landscapes in spring and the colorful foliage in fall. Prices for accommodation and attractions can be more favorable compared to the peak tourist season in summer. Additionally, several cultural and traditional events occur in these months, such as the San Isidro Festival in May, which is Madrid's largest festival featuring parades, concerts, and traditional attire. Autumn also offers an array of cultural activities and food festivals that highlight local Spanish cuisine. Traveling by train allows for a refreshing arrival into the city center, avoiding the busy airport traffic typical in peak summer months.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Paris to Madrid?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices from Paris to Madrid are dynamic. Demand heavily influences prices. Booking timing is crucial; prices are often lower months in advance. Peak travel seasons increase costs. Weekends and holidays see higher prices. Weekday travel is usually cheaper. Special promotions and discounts can affect prices. Seat availability impacts ticket costs. Different service classes have varying prices. Rail operator pricing strategies play a role.
What trains run from Paris to Madrid?
Trains from Paris to Madrid are operated by SNCF. The service is also available from Renfe. There are no direct trains from Paris to Madrid operated by Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia, Benerail, or Ouigo. Flixbus operates bus services from Paris to Madrid.
How long does the train from Paris to Madrid take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Paris to Madrid takes 9–11.5 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Paris to Madrid?
The best time to travel from Paris to Madrid by train depends on several factors. Mid-week generally sees fewer crowds. Prices tend to be lower during these times. Demand is higher on weekends. Holidays can also increase crowds and prices. Consider avoiding peak travel times. Early morning trains might offer better availability. Late evening trains can be less crowded. Weather can affect travel comfort. Check for any scheduled rail maintenance.
What’s the best route or train to take from Paris to Madrid?
SNCF runs direct train services from Paris to Madrid. Ouigo runs direct train services from Paris to Madrid. Flixbus operates direct bus services from Paris to Madrid.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Paris to Madrid?
According to EveryRail, the Global Pass applies to the route from Paris to Madrid. It is valid because the journey is between France and Spain, which are different countries.