Traveling between Madrid and Valencia by train is fast, affordable, and flexible. Here’s what you need to know:
- Quickest Journey: Renfe AVE trains take just 1 hour and 38 minutes.
- Budget Options: OUIGO tickets start at $10 for adults and $5.50 for kids.
- Frequent Departures: Trains run throughout the day from Madrid to Valencia.
- Comfort Levels: Choose from budget, standard, or first-class services.
- Booking Tips: Book early for the best prices and discounts.
| Operator | Fastest Time | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renfe AVE | 1h 38m | $43.50 | High-speed, premium comfort |
| OUIGO | 1h 53m | $10 | Budget-friendly, Wi-Fi included |
| Avlo | 1h 50m | $7.70 | Economy-only, free Wi-Fi |
| Iryo | 1h 45m | Varies | Premium seating, flexible tickets |
Pro Tip: Book early, travel mid-week, and explore discounts for seniors, youth, and children. Keep reading for details on ticket options, train schedules, and ways to save!
Train Ticket Classes
When traveling between Madrid and Valencia, train operators provide a variety of comfort and service options to suit different needs and budgets.
Standard Class Seats
Standard class ensures a comfortable journey with basic amenities. On Renfe AVE trains, Turista includes reclining seats, fold-down tables, air conditioning, power outlets, media screens, a cafeteria car, baby-changing facilities, and play areas. For extra legroom, Turista Plus is available.
Iryo offers Inicial, a standard second-class option, while Singular provides a slight upgrade for added comfort.
If you’re looking for a more premium experience, check out the First Class options.
First Class Service
Renfe’s Preferente class features leather reclining seats, à la carte dining, in-seat bar service, VIP lounge access, and onboard meal service.
Iryo’s higher-end options include Singular Only You, which combines first-class seating with access to the café car, and Infinita Bistro, where meals and drinks are included.
Budget Train Options
For travelers seeking lower fares, budget carriers offer simplified services:
| Operator | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| OUIGO | $10 (approx. €9) | Single class, optional XL seats, Wi-Fi |
| Avlo | $7.70 (approx. €7) | Economy class only, free Wi-Fi |
| Child Fare | $5.50 (approx. €5, under 14) | One discounted child ticket per adult ticket |
OUIGO also provides a Flex option, allowing schedule changes up to 30 minutes before departure. While these low-cost services may lack some amenities, they maintain the speed and efficiency expected on the Madrid–Valencia route.
Train Companies
Three key operators run train services between Madrid and Valencia, each offering various service levels and amenities. Here’s an overview of their offerings.
Renfe Trains
Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, provides two options for this route:
- AVE High-Speed Service: This full-service option includes a cafe-bar car, comfortable seating, and frequent departures throughout the day.
- Avlo Budget Service: A no-frills alternative with automated vending machines and basic amenities at a lower price. Both services offer air conditioning, power outlets, and Wi-Fi. However, Avlo has stricter baggage rules – oversized luggage can incur a $33 fee, which might reduce the cost advantage.
OUIGO Services
OUIGO connects Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor station to Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla station. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Journey Time | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Starting Fares | From $9.90 for adults |
| Child Fares | From $5.50 for ages 3–14 |
| Included Services | Basic seat, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options |
| Pet Policy | Up to 2 pets allowed, each weighing no more than 22 lbs (10 kg) |
| Bicycle Transport | Permitted in cases (max dimensions 120 x 90 cm; up to 66 lbs) |
iryo Trains
iryo is a newer competitor on the Madrid–Valencia route, offering a premium experience. Their trains feature leather seating, dedicated dining options, flexible ticketing, and multiple travel classes.
Since the market opened up in 2021, competition has improved both service quality and pricing across all operators on this route.
How to Buy Tickets
Here’s a quick guide to purchasing train tickets for your journey.
Company Websites
You can book tickets directly on the train operators’ websites. For example, Renfe’s website offers tickets for both AVE and Avlo services. Joining the Más Renfe loyalty program can also get you a 10% discount on your next booking [3][4].
Booking Platforms
Online booking platforms make it easier to compare and purchase tickets from multiple operators. Here’s what they typically offer:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Price Comparison | Compare fares from different operators. |
| Digital Tickets | Access your tickets through mobile apps. |
| Flexible Changes | Modify bookings, depending on the rate. |
| Invoice Access | Download travel documents easily. |
| 24/7 Booking | Buy tickets any time, day or night. |
Train Station Sales
Tickets can also be purchased at Madrid Puerta de Atocha and Valencia Joaquin Sorolla stations. This option works well for last-minute travelers, those with complex itineraries needing staff assistance, or seniors using Dorada Card discounts. At Madrid’s Cercanías Madrid Aeropuerto-T4 station, international tourists can buy the Spain Rail Pass, which is specifically for non-residents [4]. Ticket offices at stations accept multiple payment methods and provide updates on schedules, platforms, and services.
The next section will cover ticket prices and ways to save.
Ticket Prices
Price List
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Valencia depend on the operator, ticket type, and when you book. Here’s a breakdown of base fares for various options:
| Operator | Service Type | Base Fare |
|---|---|---|
| OUIGO | Standard Adult | $9.80 (€9) |
| OUIGO | Child (3–13) | $5.45 (€5) |
| Renfe | Promo Fare | $7.60 (€7) |
| Renfe | Promo+ Fare | $16.30 (€15) |
| Renfe | Base Fare | $43.50 (€40) |
*Renfe Base Fare tickets allow more flexibility for changes and cancellations. Children under 3 travel free on OUIGO trains.
Ticket prices can vary based on demand and season, so booking early is key to finding the best rates. There are also several ways to save even more.
Savings Options
If you’re looking to cut costs, consider these tips and discounts:
- Age-based discounts:
- Children (4–13): Up to 40% off
- Youth (under 26): 25% off
- Seniors (over 60): Up to 40% off on weekday tickets
- Booking tips:
- Reserve tickets early to snag the lowest Promo fares.
- OUIGO’s "TIME TO THINK" feature lets you lock in a fare for 48 hours.
- Traveling mid-week often means lower prices.
- Special programs:
- Seniors can purchase the Dorada Card for $5.50 (€5.05) to access additional discounts.
- Keep an eye out for seasonal deals.
Always check for the latest offers when booking. Next, take a look at train schedules to plan your trip efficiently.
Train Times
Fast Trains
Renfe’s AVE high-speed trains make traveling between Madrid and Valencia quick and convenient. The journey takes just 1 hour and 38 minutes, with departures roughly every hour [1]. Renfe schedules 15 trains daily in each direction, giving you plenty of options throughout the day [1].
If you’re looking for speed and frequent departures, these trains are a great choice. However, if you prefer a slower pace with more stops, local trains might suit you better.
Local Trains
Regional trains offer a slower, more budget-friendly way to travel. These trains run less often than the high-speed AVE service but include scenic stops along the route. While they don’t match the speed or frequency of AVE, they provide a more relaxed and economical option for travelers.
Extra Costs
Traveling often comes with more than just the base fare. Here’s a breakdown of additional fees you might encounter.
Ticket Changes
Policies for changing or canceling tickets depend on the type of fare you choose.
| Ticket Type | Changes | Cancellations | Change Passenger Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Básico | $10 plus any fare difference | Non-refundable | $40 |
| Elige Estándar/Confort | First change free, then €10 plus fare difference | 70% refund (30% cancellation fee applies) | €20 |
| Prémium | Unlimited free changes | 100% refund if canceled 7+ days before; 95% refund if canceled within 6 days | Free |
You can also purchase flexibility add-ons for Elige Estándar and Confort tickets, allowing unlimited changes or full refunds.
Baggage Rules
Baggage policies and fees differ depending on the operator. Here’s what you need to know:
- Renfe AVE Trains:
- Up to 3 pieces of hand luggage included
- Total weight limit: 55 pounds (25 kg)
- Size limit per piece: 33.5 x 21.7 x 13.8 inches (85 x 55 x 35 cm)
- Combined dimensions must not exceed 114 inches (290 cm)
- OUIGO Services:
- Basic allowance includes one handbag (14.2 x 10.6 x 9.8 inches) and one cabin bag (21.7 x 13.8 x 9.8 inches)
- Extra baggage (up to 55 pounds/25 kg) available for an additional fee
- Bicycles must be disassembled and stored in a case no larger than 47.2 x 35.4 inches (120 x 90 cm)
- Avlo (Budget Service):
- Adding larger luggage (33.5 x 23.6 x 13.8 inches or 85 x 60 x 35 cm) costs €10 if booked in advance
- Late baggage add-ons are €15 if purchased up to 30 minutes before departure
Folded bicycles and non-electric kick scooters are considered hand luggage as long as their combined dimensions stay under 70.9 inches (180 cm).
Rail Pass Rules
Rail passes come with specific guidelines that travelers need to follow. Here’s a breakdown of the key rules and considerations.
Pass Coverage
Rail passes are valid exclusively on Renfe AVE trains. Budget operators like OUIGO, AVLO, and iryo are not included in the pass coverage.
Reservation Requirements
Even with a valid rail pass, seat reservations are mandatory on all Renfe AVE trains. Reservation fees typically range from $10 to $20 for second-class seats and $35 for first-class seats, which may include a meal.
| Class | Reservation Fee | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class | $10–20 | Basic seat assignment |
| First Class | $35 | Seat assignment + meal |
Pass Types and Pricing
If you’re traveling within Spain, the Interrail Spain Pass is available for European residents, while non-European residents must purchase a Eurail Pass. Note that One Country Passes do not cover international travel to or from Spain. Below are the approximate prices for passes, converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate of 1.1 USD per € (prices may vary):
| Pass Duration (Within 1 Month) | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| 3 days | $160 |
| 4 days | $184 |
| 5 days | $207 |
| 6 days | $227 |
| 8 days | $263 |
Booking Reservations
Reservations must be purchased in person at Spanish long-distance train stations, as there is no online option. Keep in mind that during busy travel periods, reservations can sell out, and ticket counters may have long wait times.
Cost Considerations
When deciding whether to use a rail pass, compare the total cost (including reservation fees) with the price of advance point-to-point tickets. While rail passes offer flexibility for multiple trips, they might not always be the cheapest option for certain routes [5].
Summary
The Madrid–Valencia route offers quick and frequent travel options. The fastest trip, on Renfe’s AVE trains, takes just 1 hour and 38 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 205 mph (330 km/h) [1].
| Service Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Operators | Renfe AVE, OUIGO, iryo |
| Journey Time | 1h 38m (fastest) |
| Main Stations | Madrid Puerta de Atocha to Valencia Joaquin Sorolla |
Ticket prices depend on the type of fare and how early you book. Budget-friendly options are available, with OUIGO fares starting at around $10 for adults and $5.50 for children [2].
Discount Options
- Seniors (60+): Save up to 40% on weekday fares.
- Youth (under 26): Get 25% off with eligible cards.
- Children (4–13): Discounts up to 40%.
- Kids (under 3): Travel free on OUIGO services [1][2].
Booking early and being flexible with your schedule can help you find the best deals.
