- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
zł1952
Average price
zł1952
Fastest journey
22 h 5 m
Average duration
22 h 5 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1316 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Madrid will cost around zł1952 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł1952.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Brussels to Madrid without transferring at least 3 times.
6:13 PM22h05Brussels4:18 PMMadridzł19521One-way3 transfers
- 6:13 PM22h05Brussels4:18 PMMadridzł19521One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Brussels to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from zł37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł37, and a flight costs an average of zł92.
Distance: 817 miles (1316 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
zł219 Average price | zł1811 Average price | zł197 Average price Cheapest | zł1715 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 11m Average total duration 11h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 40m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 25m Average total duration 20h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.9 - 7.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Brussels to Madrid is a bus with an average price of zł197.
This is compared to other travel options from Brussels to Madrid:
A bus is zł22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels to Madrid costing on average zł219.
A bus is zł1614 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brussels to Madrid costing on average zł1811.
The fastest way to travel from Brussels to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 40m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 41m.
Bus takes on average 20h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brussels and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels to Madrid among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 4h 13m faster (11h 41m by train vs 15h 54m by car) and roughly zł1496 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (zł219 vs zł1715). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Brussels to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:13 PM Brussels | 22h05 | 4:18 PM Madrid | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels 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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Why should you book Brussels to Madrid trains with Omio?
AVE as well as TGV or Eurostar offer trains services from Brussels to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels to Madrid.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of TGV or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Brussels to Madrid.
- 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 AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Madrid.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of TGV or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Brussels to Madrid.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brussels to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Brussels to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Brussels to Madrid is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Brussels to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Brussels 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 Brussels to Madrid.
Trains
from zł160Buses
from zł341Flights
from zł783Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Madrid
Belgium
Spain
Trains from Brussels to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł92 but you can travel from only zł37 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 17:20. The fastest train covers the 817 miles (1316 km) distance in 11h 8m.
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
Bus from zł37
Distance 817 miles (1316 km) |
Average train duration 11h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price zł92 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 11h 8m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 5:20 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 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
Bus from zł37
Train companies: AVE from Brussels to Madrid trainsAVE trains will get you between Brussels and Madrid from zł92. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest Price
zł92
AVE frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Madrid buses allow contactless bank card payment onboard, but Metro tickets are usually bought from station machines with card or cash.
- A 10-trip ticket can cost less per ride than single tickets if you plan several Metro or bus journeys.
Traveling by train from Brussels to Madrid
The train connection between Brussels and Madrid offers a convenient and comfortable way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can enjoy high-speed services provided by Renfe AVE INT, along with options from Renfe and the joint service of Renfe-SNCF. With modern amenities on board, travelers can relax while taking in scenic views as they journey through Europe’s picturesque landscapes.
Train Connection: Brussels to Madrid
The train journey from Brussels to Madrid takes approximately 20 hours and 2 minutes, with a total of 1 connection required. There are no direct trains available for this route, and the connections occur twice daily.
Brussels to Madrid Train Connection
The first daily train journey from Brussels to Madrid departs at 17:13, while the last departure is scheduled for 19:43. This connection offers travelers a convenient option to explore both vibrant cities and their rich cultures.
Train Tickets Price for Brussels to Madrid
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Brussels to Madrid is €46.1, while the average ticket price tends to be around €51.9.
Exploring Madrid's Cultural Treasures
The Prado Museum, established in 1819, is one of the world's premier art galleries and houses an extensive collection of European masterpieces from artists like Velázquez and Goya. Its significance lies not only in its vast array of artworks but also as a cultural symbol for Spain, showcasing the nation's rich artistic heritage to millions each year. Unique features include its stunning neoclassical architecture and the opportunity to view works that span over eight centuries.
The Royal Palace of Madrid serves as both a historical monument and the official residence of Spanish royalty, though it is now primarily used for state ceremonies. This magnificent structure reflects Spain's royal history with opulent rooms adorned with exquisite tapestries, frescoes by renowned artists such as Tiepolo, and beautiful gardens that offer breathtaking views. One unique aspect is its impressive armory collection featuring armor worn by kings throughout history—an absolute must-see for any visitor interested in royal traditions.
Plaza Mayor stands out as one of Madrid’s most iconic squares since its construction in the early 17th century; it has been a central hub for public life including markets, bullfights, and celebrations. The square's architectural harmony showcases striking red-brick buildings lined with balconies overlooking lively cafés where you can soak up local culture while enjoying tapas or churros con chocolate. A distinctive feature is the statue of King Philip III at its center—a perfect spot to capture memorable photos against this historic backdrop!
FAQs: Trains from Brussels to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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.
Train ticket prices from Brussels to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł92, while the average price is around zł219.
The train from Brussels to Madrid takes 11h 8m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Brussels to Madrid is 817 miles (1316 km).
The first train from Brussels to Madrid leaves at 5:50 AM.
The last train from Brussels to Madrid leaves at 5:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Brussels to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brussels to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels to Madrid is by flight, with a cost of around zł92.
The train journey from Brussels to Madrid is more functional than scenic, primarily passing through urban and industrial areas, with brief views of the countryside in France and Spain. For scenic routes, consider traveling through the Pyrenees or taking detours through regions like Provence or the Basque Country.
A day trip from Brussels to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 8m and the distance is 817 miles (1316 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
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 Brussels to Madrid.
Since both Brussels 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels 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.
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.
More options for your journey from Brussels to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Brussels
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