- Must visit
Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial
The monastery’s state rooms, basilica, libraries and royal collections form the town’s premier museum experience and Spain’s artistic highlight.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to El Escorial
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 11
Cheapest price on Oct 11
$3
Average ticket price on Oct 11
$3
Fastest journey on Oct 11
10 m
Average journey duration on Oct 11
18 m
Buses on Oct 11
5
Distance
42 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to El Escorial is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to El Escorial will cost around $3 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $3.
Fast buses
On Sun, Oct 11, we found 5 buses from Madrid to El Escorial, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Oct 11 the direct buses cover the 42 km distance in an average of 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 m .
On Sun, Oct 11 the slowest buses will take 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:50 PM0h10Madrid8:00 PMEl Escorial$31One-way0 transfers- 10:30 AM0h20Madrid10:50 AMEl Escorial$31One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM0h20Madrid1:50 PMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM0h20Madrid7:20 AMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM0h20Madrid8:20 PMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 PM0h10Madrid8:00 PMEl Escorial$31One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM0h20Madrid1:50 PMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM0h20Madrid7:20 AMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM0h20Madrid10:50 AMEl Escorial$31One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 PM0h20Madrid8:20 PMEl Escorial$41One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madrid to El Escorial
SpainSpain
Buses from Madrid to El Escorial run on average 1 times per day, taking around 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:20, the last at 08:20. The fastest bus covers the 26 miles (42 km) distance in 50m.
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 $5 (€4)
Distance 26 miles (42 km) |
Average bus duration 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 50m |
First bus 8:20 AM |
Last bus 8:20 AM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $5 (€4)
Madrid to El Escorial Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 0h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 0h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $3 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $2 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 0h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $2 |
Live departures
Madrid to El Escorial bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to El Escorial buses for tomorrow, Sunday, October 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Madrid | 0h20 | 7:20 AM El Escorial | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:30 AM Madrid | 0h20 | 10:50 AM El Escorial | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Madrid to El Escorial buses with Omio?
Alsa operates all buses services from Madrid to El Escorial.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to El Escorial.
Why book with Omio vs Alsa?
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to El Escorial.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to El Escorial.
Bus providers: Alsa from Madrid to El EscorialYou can travel by bus between Madrid to El Escorial with Alsa for as low as $5 (€4). 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 Alsa Duration
50m
Cheapest Alsa Price
$23 (€19)
Alsa frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to El Escorial
Things to do in El Escorial
Discover the best of El Escorial — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect El Escorial trip today.
- Must visit
Biblioteca del Monasterio de El Escorial
Monastery library visit featuring rare manuscripts, globes and frescoes; one of Europe’s great historic reading rooms inside the main complex.
- Must visit
Panteón de Reyes del Monasterio de El Escorial
Royal pantheon visit within the monastery, admired for black marble design and its exceptional connection to Spain’s Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties.
- Must visit
Calle Floridablanca
Broad monumental avenue framing classic views of the monastery façade, ideal for first impressions, architecture walks and evening strolls.
- Must visit
La Herrería
Large historic parkland and dehesa on the edge of town, appreciated for easy walks, open views and a strong sense of the royal landscape.
- Must visit
Monte Abantos
Granite summit area above town with expansive Sierra views; a favorite local escape for hiking, photography and sunset panoramas.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Escurialense
Slow-cooked bean stew from nearby San Lorenzo de El Escorial, often with meats and blood sausage. A hearty mountain dish strongly tied to the monastery area.
- Gluten-free
Cochinillo Asado
Roast suckling pig with crisp skin and tender meat. Common in traditional mesones around the Sierra and a classic celebratory Castilian dish.
- Gluten-free
Cordero Asado
Wood-fired roast lamb, usually seasoned simply with salt and water. A hallmark of inland Castilian cooking valued for its purity and rich flavor.
Restaurante Charolés
Historic restaurant near the monastery known for traditional Castilian roasts, game, and old-world dining rooms with a classic formal atmosphere.
Mesón Las Tinajas
Classic mesón-style venue offering Spanish staples, grilled meats, and generous portions in a relaxed, traditional atmosphere.
Asador del Rey
Well-known asador serving roast meats, hearty regional dishes, and tapas in a traditional setting popular for family meals and local gatherings.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Madrid region; dining and lodging are lower than central Madrid, while monastery-area cafes and hotels can cost a bit more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-70 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; taxis are usually rounded up, and small change is fine in cafes.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
El Escorial -> Plaza de España, El Escorial
- Distance
- 800 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local travel is on Comunidad de Madrid buses and Cercanías trains; check fares and routes in the official CRTM channels before travel.
- Contactless bank card payment is not generally available on CRTM buses or Cercanías for regular fares; buy a ticket or use the Tarjeta Transporte card.
FAQs: Bus from Madrid to El Escorial
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to El Escorial 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 El Escorial, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to El Escorial can start from as little as $23 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to El Escorial is $23 (€19) ; 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 El Escorial is 50m to travel the 26 miles (42 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 El Escorial leaves at 8:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madrid to El Escorial leaves at 8:20 AM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Madrid to El Escorial with Alsa. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Madrid to El Escorial, you can count on Alsa for the best way to get you to El Escorial. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madrid and El Escorial and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Madrid, Principe Pio, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at El Escorial, Estación de Tren, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and El Escorial including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to El Escorial for bus company Alsa.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to El Escorial:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to El Escorial 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Alsa.
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 El Escorial.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to El Escorial:
- Alsa
- 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 El Escorial:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to El Escorial. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to El Escorial with the following bus company: Alsa
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to El Escorial with the following bus company: Alsa.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to El Escorial with the following bus company: Alsa.
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 El Escorial, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near the Royal Monastery and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to stay vigilant with personal belongings and avoid accepting unsolicited help from strangers. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions such as using official ticket counters and authorized guides help ensure a safe experience.
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 El Escorial
Most Madrid to El Escorial buses use the Madrid, Principe Pio to El Escorial, Estación de Tren station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and El Escorial bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Madrid
Arrival bus stations in El Escorial
Which Madrid station do buses to El Escorial leave from?
Buses from Madrid to El Escorial leave from Madrid, Principe Pio. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Madrid city centre at Príncipe Pío, Moncloa - Aravaca, 28008 Madrid, Spain.
Madrid, Principe PioPríncipe Pío, Moncloa - Aravaca, 28008 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid, Principe Pio from Madrid city centre
Madrid, Principe Pio is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN18, N19, N20 · 6m · $1 · every ~34 min
N18, N20, N19 · 7m · $1 · every ~34 min
Madrid, Principe Pio bus station facilities and services
Madrid, Principe Pio has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple eateries and cafes inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines located near the ticket counters.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Principe Pio.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid, Principe Pio: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Principe Pio: Wheelchair accessible ramps and elevators.
Which El Escorial station do buses from Madrid arrive at?
Buses from Madrid to El Escorial arrive at El Escorial, Estación de Tren. El Escorial, Estación de Tren is 0 miles (1 km) from El Escorial city centre.
El Escorial, Estación de TrenEl Escorial, 28280 El Escorial, Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to El Escorial, Estación de Tren from El Escorial city centre
El Escorial, Estación de Tren is 1 km from El Escorial city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
El Escorial, Estación de Tren bus station facilities and services
El Escorial, Estación de Tren has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at El Escorial, Estación de Tren. ATMs are available at El Escorial, Estación de Tren.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at El Escorial, Estación de Tren.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at El Escorial, Estación de Tren: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at El Escorial, Estación de Tren: Ramps available for wheelchair access.
More options for your journey from Madrid to El Escorial
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from El Escorial and Madrid
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