- Recommended
Museo Civico Castello Ursino
The city museum inside Catania’s 13th-century castle, with archaeological finds, paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. A strong choice for understanding local history in a landmark setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to Catania
Showing times and prices for May 23
Cheapest price
$205
Average price
$254
Fastest journey
1 d 17 h 30 m
Average duration
2 d 2 h 32 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
1653 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to Catania is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Catania will cost around $254 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $205.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Catania without transferring at least 2 times.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:59 PM55h56Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)7:55 AMCatania, Via D'Amico$2051One-way2 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:35 PM56h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses7:55 AMCatania, Via D'Amico$2081One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus8:50 PM48h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses9:10 PMCatania, Via D'Amico$2611One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus7:05 PM41h30Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses12:35 PMCatania, Via D'Amico$3411One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus7:05 PM41h30Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses12:35 PMCatania, Via D'Amico$3411One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus8:50 PM48h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses9:10 PMCatania, Via D'Amico$2611One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:59 PM55h56Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)7:55 AMCatania, Via D'Amico$2051One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:35 PM56h20Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses7:55 AMCatania, Via D'Amico$2081One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Catania
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Catania among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $140. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.7 - 4.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $140, and a train costs an average of $512.
Distance: 1027 miles (1653 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
$223 Average price Cheapest | $265 Average price | $512 Average price |
24h 2m Average total duration 23h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 36m Average total duration Fastest 7h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 30h 25m Average total duration 29h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
1.7 - 4.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 5.0 - 9.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Catania is a bus with an average price of $223 (€180).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Catania:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Catania costing on average $265 (€214).
A bus is $289 (€234) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Catania costing on average $512 (€414).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Catania is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 36m.
Other travel options to Catania take longer:
Bus takes on average 23h 32m.
Train takes on average 29h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Catania including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Catania among Omio's users.
Madrid to Catania Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 53h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $175 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 41h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 48h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $177 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 57h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $157 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 57h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $269 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 56h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $197 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 55h56 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $204 |
Live departures
Madrid to Catania bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Catania buses for today, Friday, May 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:05 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 41h30 | 12:35 PM Catania, Via D'Amico | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:50 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 48h20 | 9:10 PM Catania, Via D'Amico | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:35 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 56h20 | 7:55 AM Catania, Via D'Amico | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:59 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 55h56 | 7:55 AM Catania, Via D'Amico | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Catania 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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Why should you book Madrid to Catania buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Madrid to Catania.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Catania.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Catania.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- 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 Catania.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madrid to Catania
Spain
Italy
Buses from Madrid to Catania run on average 5 times per day, taking around 23h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $140 (€113) but you can travel from only $44 (€36) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 1027 miles (1653 km) distance in 41h 30m.
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
Flight from $44 (€36)
Distance 1027 miles (1653 km) |
Average bus duration 23h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $140 (€113) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 41h 30m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from $44 (€36)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Madrid to CataniaYou can travel by bus between Madrid to Catania with FlixBus for as low as $44 (€36). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
41h 30m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€113)
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Catania
Things to do in Catania
Discover the best of Catania — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Catania trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943
A well-regarded museum on the Allied landing in Sicily during World War II, using immersive displays, documents, and reconstructed scenes. Especially interesting for military and modern history fans.
Museo Diocesano Catania
Museum of the Archdiocese near the cathedral, displaying sacred art, liturgical objects, and works tied to Saint Agatha and the city’s religious heritage. Its terrace views are an added highlight.
- Must visit
Piazza del Duomo
The monumental main square of Catania, framed by the cathedral, the elephant fountain, and major Baroque palaces. It is the essential starting point for first-time visitors and evening strolls.
- Must visit
Via Etnea
Catania’s principal shopping and walking street, lined with churches, palaces, cafes, and views toward Mount Etna. It is the city’s classic promenade and a top place for atmosphere and architecture.
- Must visit
Via Crociferi
A short but spectacular Baroque street lined with historic churches and monasteries. Its architecture makes it one of Catania’s most photogenic urban scenes and a favorite among visitors.
- Vegetarian
Pasta Alla Norma
Catania’s signature pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, salted ricotta, and basil, named after Bellini’s opera Norma.
Arancino Al Ragù
A classic Sicilian rice ball, breaded and fried, usually filled with meat ragù, peas, and cheese; a beloved street food in Catania.
Cipollina
A flaky puff pastry filled with tomato, onion, ham, and melted cheese, commonly eaten at Catania bars and bakeries as a savory snack.
Me Cumpari Turiddu
Well-known Sicilian restaurant with rustic decor, strong wine selection, and classic dishes such as pasta alla Norma and local meat specialties.
Il Sale Art Cafe
Established central restaurant offering refined Sicilian cuisine in an elegant setting, popular for seafood and contemporary presentations.
Osteria Antica Marina
Historic seafood restaurant at La Pescheria market, known for fresh local fish and a lively traditional atmosphere.
Euro
Generally cheaper than Rome or Milan. Food is good value, while central hotels cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or minimal. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares.
AMTS Catania
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.00
- Day pass
- EUR 2.50
To the city center
Catania, Partenze - Terminal A -> Catania Centrale
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate AMTS tickets immediately after boarding buses to avoid fines.
- Card payment may be available on some buses and airport services, but carrying cash or buying in the AMTS app is advisable.
FAQs: Bus from Madrid to Catania
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Catania 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 Catania, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to Catania can start from as little as $140 (€113) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to Catania is $223 (€180) ; 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 Catania is 41h 30m to travel the 1027 miles (1653 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 Catania leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madrid to Catania leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Madrid to Catania which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Madrid to Catania, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Catania. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madrid and Catania and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Catania from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 41h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madrid to Catania is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Catania including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Catania:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to Catania for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Catania are:
- Piazza del Duomo, the central square featuring the iconic Elephant Fountain and the Cathedral of Sant'Agata
- Teatro Massimo Bellini, an opera house renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural performances
- Castello Ursino, a 13th-century castle housing the Civic Museum with historical artifacts and art
- Via Etnea, the main shopping street offering a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and views of Mount Etna
- Monastero dei Benedettini, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive Baroque architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Catania include:
- Mount Etna, explore Europe's most active volcano with guided tours and hiking trails
- La Pescheria, experience the vibrant daily fish market offering fresh seafood and local delicacies
- Giardino Bellini, relax in Catania's oldest urban park with beautiful gardens and scenic views
- Aci Castello, visit the picturesque coastal town with a medieval castle overlooking the sea
- Catania's Street Food Tour, savor local flavors and traditional Sicilian dishes on a guided culinary adventure.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Catania depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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 Catania.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Catania:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Catania:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Catania. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to Catania with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to Catania with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to Catania with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Madrid and Catania 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Catania among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Catania, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis, avoid unlicensed guides, and keep valuables secure to minimize risks.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Madrid to Catania
Madrid
Catania
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
3 km
Car connection
Calle de Méndez ÁlvaroWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafetería de la estación (in the station)
- Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km)
- La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
- Bus: 8, 102, 148 Metro: L6 Train: C1, C5
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
Amenities at bus station
DiningATMAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
12 kmCar connection
M-40, M-14Dining
- Rodilla, Mahoudrid
Accessibility
- Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets
WC
- Located inside the terminal, well-signposted, accessible, and generally clean
Shower
- No public showers in the bus station area; showers available in airport lounges (approx. €15-€30 for lounge access)
Public transit options for Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
- Metro Line 8, Aeropuerto T4, 12 km
More options for your journey from Madrid to Catania
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Catania and Madrid
Most popular bus connections to Catania
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