- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. A cornerstone of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art and a top priority for first-time visitors.
Cheapest price
$129
Average price
$167
Fastest journey
1 d 6 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 10 h 12 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
1247 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zurich to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Madrid will cost around $167 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $129.
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Madrid without transferring at least once.
4733 · 3186
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
4733 · 3186
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $91. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $91, and a train costs an average of $399.
Distance: 774 miles (1247 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$170 Average price Cheapest | $257 Average price | $399 Average price | $505 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 1m Average total duration 26h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 53m Average total duration 12h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.2 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions | 3.7 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Madrid:
A bus is $87 (€70) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $257 (€208).
A bus is $229 (€186) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $399 (€324).
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 23m.
Bus takes on average 26h 31m.
Tickets start at around $170 (€138) compared to roughly $505 (€410) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $335 (€272). The journey takes 26h 31m versus 16h 23m 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 Alsa.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 07:34AM | Duration 28h09 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 30h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 44h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $202 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 35h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 08:40AM | Duration 35h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $121 |
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Madrid buses for today, Sunday, June 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) | 35h30 | 7:55 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) | 35h00 | 7:25 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) | 35h15 | 8:40 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) | 34h45 | 8:10 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, June 15 | |||||
4733 · 3186 | 3:25 AM Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) | 30h30 | 9:55 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Zurich to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 26h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $91 (€73) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:14, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 774 miles (1247 km) distance in 26h 30m.
Distance 774 miles (1247 km) |
Average bus duration 26h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 (€73) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 26h 30m |
First bus 12:14 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
Spain’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. A cornerstone of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art and a top priority for first-time visitors.
Madrid’s leading modern art museum, best known for Picasso’s Guernica alongside major works by Dalí and Miró. Essential for modern and contemporary art lovers.
A major museum spanning European painting from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Its broad collection complements the Prado and Reina Sofía perfectly.
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for walking, boating, and relaxing among monuments and formal gardens. A top city experience for nearly every visitor.
Madrid’s best-known avenue, lined with historic architecture, theaters, shops, and rooftop views. Energetic by day and night, it is one of the city’s defining walks.
The symbolic heart of Madrid and a major meeting point, home to the Kilómetro Cero marker and famous public celebrations. Constantly busy and central.
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, traditionally served in stages with broth, vegetables, chickpeas, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most emblematic comfort dishes.
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is a simple local staple and iconic snack.
A rich traditional stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla in a paprika-forward sauce. It is a historic tavern dish closely linked to Madrid cuisine.
Prestigious flamenco venue with acclaimed dining, known for refined Spanish cuisine in an intimate historic setting. It combines performance and high-end gastronomy.
Historic traditional restaurant famous for roast suckling pig and Castilian classics. It offers an old-world atmosphere and is one of Madrid’s most iconic dining rooms.
Well-known classic restaurant celebrated for huevos rotos and traditional Spanish cooking. It is a long-established spot with a lively, polished tavern feel.
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and transport are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 in cafés and 5-10% at restaurants for very good service. Tipping is appreciated, not required.
Official public transport app
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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