Bilbao to Madrid train with Renfe ALVIA

Sat, Apr 25
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Renfe ALVIA
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Madrid

Showing times and prices for Apr 25

Cheapest price

$71

Average price

$76

Fastest journey

4 h 35 m

Average duration

7 h 15 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

323 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bilbao to Madrid will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $71.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Bilbao for Madrid on Sat, Apr 25, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Apr 25 the direct trains cover the 323 km distance in an average of 7 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 35 m .

On Sat, Apr 25 the slowest trains will take 10 h 15 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.

  • Renfe INTERCITY00283+Renfe ALVIA04176
    11:58 AM10h15
    Bilbao-Abando
    10:13 PMMadrid Chamartín
    $711One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA00437 · 04176
    3:02 PM7h11
    Bilbao-Abando
    10:13 PMMadrid Chamartín
    $731One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04186
    6:53 AM4h35
    Bilbao-Abando
    11:28 AMMadrid Chamartín
    $741One-way
    0 transfers
  • Renfe ALVIA04186 · 04086
    6:53 AM6h58
    Bilbao-Abando
    1:51 PMMadrid Chamartín
    $861One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Bilbao to Madrid

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $37.

Distance: 200 miles (323 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$57

Average price

$52

Average price

Cheapest

$167

Average price

4h 22m

Average total duration

3h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 46m

Average total duration

5h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 21m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

1.0 - 1.9kg

CO2 emissions

Renfe ALVIA

Most popular train company

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Iberia

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Bilbao to Madrid train times

The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Madrid trains for today, Friday, April 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
RenfeALVIA04366
Delayed
5:28 PM Bilbao-Abando
4h45
8:13 PM 8:13 PMMadrid Chamartín		0 transfersDirect
Saturday, April 25
RenfeALVIA04186 · 04086
On time
6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando
6h58
1:51 PM Madrid Chamartín		1 transfer
RenfeALVIA04186
On time
6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando
4h35
11:28 AM Madrid Chamartín		0 transfersDirect
RenfeINTERCITY00283+RenfeALVIA0417611:58 AM Bilbao-Abando
10h15
10:13 PM Madrid Chamartín1 transfer
RenfeALVIA00437 · 041763:02 PM Bilbao-Abando
7h11
10:13 PM Madrid Chamartín1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Madrid 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Madrid?

The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Madrid is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao to Madrid per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Bilbao to Madrid.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bilbao to Madrid

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Bilbao to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 17:37. The fastest train covers the 200 miles (323 km) distance in 4h 28m.

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
Distance
200 miles (323 km)
Average train duration
3h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$24 (€19)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 28m
First train
12:30 AM
Last train
5:37 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
91 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

Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros from Bilbao to Madrid trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Bilbao and Madrid from $24 (€19). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Renfe ALVIA

About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Renfe INTERCITY

About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Learn more about Renfe INTERCITY

Renfe Viajeros

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Bilbao to Madrid

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Madrid by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $57 (€46).
The train from Bilbao to Madrid takes 4h 28m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Madrid is 200 miles (323 km).
The first train from Bilbao to Madrid leaves at 12:30 AM.
The last train from Bilbao to Madrid leaves at 5:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bilbao to Madrid.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bilbao to Madrid. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Madrid.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Madrid is Bilbao-Abando, which connects to Madrid Chamartín.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Madrid is by train, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The Bilbao to Madrid train offers a diverse landscape, featuring lush green hills, charming villages, and expansive plains, providing a pleasant and varied scenic experience.
A day trip from Bilbao to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 28m. The distance is 200 miles (323 km), and there are 2 train trips available per day.
In Madrid, you can explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere, and savor gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel. Discover the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, enjoy a traditional flamenco show, or visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. For cultural sights, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and Retiro Park. Don't miss Plaza Mayor and the lively Gran Vía for shopping and theaters.
For a well-rounded experience in Madrid, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Madrid.
Since both Bilbao and Madrid 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.
Popular day trips by train from Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Madrid among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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 Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps 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 train stations

Popular train stations from Bilbao to Madrid

Bilbao
Madrid
The major train station for departures in Bilbao is Bilbao-Abando. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao-Abando for your trip from Bilbao to Madrid.
Bilbao-AbandoParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain

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