- Recommended
Centro de Interpretación de las Cigüeñas
Interpretation center dedicated to Alfaro's famous storks and urban nature, ideal for understanding the colony on San Miguel.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to Alfaro
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
5 h 45 m
Average duration
5 h 45 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
255 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to Alfaro is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Alfaro will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Alfaro without transferring at least once.
3:00 PM5h45Madrid8:45 PMAlfaro$611One-way1 transfer
- 3:00 PM5h45Madrid8:45 PMAlfaro$611One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Alfaro
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Alfaro among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $47.
Distance: 158 miles (255 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$59 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest | $193 Average price | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Alfaro is a train with an average price of $44 (€36).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Alfaro:
A train is $15 (€12) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Alfaro costing on average $59 (€48).
A train is $149 (€122) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Alfaro costing on average $193 (€157).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Alfaro is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to Alfaro take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 30m.
Bus takes on average 4h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Alfaro including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Alfaro among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $59 (€48) compared to roughly $63 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $4 (€4). The journey takes 4h 15m versus 3h 10m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by BlaBlaCar.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Madrid to Alfaro Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:49PM | Duration 4h49 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator ALSA | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Live departures
Madrid to Alfaro bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Alfaro buses for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM Madrid | 7h30 | 4:30 PM Alfaro | 1 transfer | |
| 12:00 PM Madrid | 4h49 | 4:49 PM Alfaro (la Rioja) | 1 transfer | |
| 1:00 PM Madrid | 6h00 | 7:00 PM Alfaro | 1 transfer | |
| 3:00 PM Madrid | 5h45 | 8:45 PM Alfaro | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Alfaro by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Aug 08
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Aug 12
Why should you book Madrid to Alfaro buses with Omio?
Alsa as well as Alsa Supra offer buses services from Madrid to Alfaro.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Alfaro.
Why book with Omio vs Alsa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alsa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Alfaro.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Alsa with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Alfaro.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Alfaro.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Alfaro.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madrid to Alfaro
SpainSpain
Buses from Madrid to Alfaro run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by train.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:30, the last at 12:13. The fastest bus covers the 158 miles (255 km) distance in 4h 49m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $23 (€19)
Distance 158 miles (255 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 49m |
First bus 7:30 AM |
Last bus 12:13 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 63 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $23 (€19)
Bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar from Madrid to AlfaroYou can travel by bus between Madrid to Alfaro with Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar for as low as $23 (€19). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Alsa
About
Alsa is the main provider of bus travel in Spain and a subsidiary of the UK’s National Express. It operates an extensive network of regional, national, and international routes, transporting more than 300 million passengers annually. Alsa’s modern fleet offers varying levels of comfort and amenities. The standard Alsa Normal buses include free Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, footrests, and entertainment. For a more premium experience, Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus, and Alsa Premium services provide enhanced comfort and luxury features.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Alsa frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for an additional fee; must be packed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must travel in the hold.
Alsa Supra
About
Alsa Supra is a premium service offered by Alsa, a leading Spanish bus company. It provides a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers, aiming to make each journey a unique experience. Key features of Alsa Supra buses include reclining leather seats with footrests, individual seating rows, high-speed Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and an "Ociobus" on-board entertainment system with films, documentaries, and music. Passengers can also enjoy daily newspapers and a food and drink service, with a special menu available in the Premium class. Alsa Supra also offers services for people with reduced mobility, including reserved seating and wheelchair spaces. These services are available on various national and international routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Alsa Supra frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; prior reservation required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Alfaro
Things to do in Alfaro
Discover the best of Alfaro — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Alfaro trip today.
Sala de Exposiciones de Alfaro
Regional exhibition venue for temporary art and cultural shows, useful for discovering contemporary local programming.
Centro Cultural de Alfaro
Cultural space within a historic setting that hosts exhibitions and heritage activities connected to the town's past.
- Must visit
Entorno de la Colegiata de San Miguel
Atmospheric old-town area around the collegiate church, popular for architecture, stork watching, and quiet wandering.
- Must visit
Reserva Natural de los Sotos del Ebro en Alfaro
Green riverside reserve near Alfaro, renowned for birdlife, wetlands, and easy nature walks in the Ebro basin.
- Recommended
Plaza de España
Main square of Alfaro, lined with civic buildings and ideal for absorbing the town's everyday rhythm and historic core.
- Gluten-free
Chuletillas Al Sarmiento
Rioja-style lamb chops grilled over vine shoots. A classic Ebro Valley dish prized for smoky flavor and strong links to local wine culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Menestra De Verduras
Vegetable stew from the Rioja orchard, usually with artichokes, asparagus, peas, and lettuce. Celebrated for showcasing the fertile local huerta.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Espárragos De Navarra Y La Rioja
White asparagus from the Ebro valley, often served simply with olive oil or vinaigrette. A regional specialty valued for tenderness and freshness.
Hotel Palacios Restaurant
Well-regarded hotel restaurant serving Rioja cuisine with a polished setting. Good choice for regional dishes, wine, and a more refined meal.
Restaurante Graccurris
Traditional restaurant known locally for hearty Rioja plates, grilled meats, and a relaxed dining room suited to casual lunches and dinners.
Bar Restaurante La Plaza
Established bar-restaurant with a casual atmosphere, useful for tapas, daily menus, and simple local favorites in the town center.
Euro (€)
More affordable than major Spanish cities. Dining is reasonable, local stays are usually modestly priced, and most sights are walkable, keeping transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple local meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €40-60 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. In cafes, small change is fine. In taxis, rounding up the fare is customary.
FAQs: Bus from Madrid to Alfaro
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Alfaro by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Alfaro, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to Alfaro can start from as little as $50 (€41) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to Alfaro is $59 (€48) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Madrid to Alfaro is 4h 49m to travel the 158 miles (255 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Madrid to Alfaro leaves at 7:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madrid to Alfaro leaves at 12:13 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Madrid to Alfaro with BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Madrid to Alfaro, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar for the best way to get you to Alfaro. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madrid and Alfaro and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Alfaro from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 49m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Alfaro including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Alfaro:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to Alfaro for bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Alfaro depends on the bus companies:
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Madrid to Alfaro.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Alfaro:
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- Alsa Supra
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Alfaro:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Alfaro. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
- Alsa Supra
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to Alfaro with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to Alfaro with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to Alfaro with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Since both Madrid and Alfaro are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Alfaro among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Alfaro, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to stay vigilant when using public transportation and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for rides to prevent scams. Additionally, travelers should be wary of unofficial ticket sellers and always purchase transportation tickets from authorized vendors to ensure safety and avoid fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Alfaro
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Alfaro and Madrid
Most popular bus connections to Alfaro
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