Calatayud to Madrid train with AVE

Going From Calatayud to Madrid by Train with Renfe AVE

Introduction

After a relaxing weekend in Calatayud, I boarded Renfe’s AVE high-speed train for a quick return to Madrid. The relaxing journey combines speed and simplicity, linking Aragón’s peaceful landscapes with Spain’s bustling capital. With comfortable seating in a quiet First Class cabin, it’s one of the easiest ways to reach Madrid without the hassle of airport check-ins. Here's what to expect if you're also taking the train from Calatayud to Madrid.

Route Overview

The Renfe AVE from Calatayud to Madrid covers roughly 220 km in about 1 hour and 10 minutes along Spain’s central high-speed corridor. The train departs from Calatayud and heads through the plains of Aragón. From there, it climbs slightly toward the Castilian plateau before approaching Madrid’s city outskirts. The scenery alternates between farmland and open country views. Admiring Spain’s natural beauty at 300 km/h makes this one of the best ways to travel from Calatayud to Madrid.

Transportation Experience

About a month before my trip, I reserved a First Class seat on Renfe’s AVE train from Calatayud to Madrid. Booking online through Omio was easy as always, and the ticket with a QR code appeared in the app and in my inbox within moments. It was great not having to print anything. Choosing the train made the most sense since it takes about half the time of the bus. Buses from Calatayud to Madrid usually take 2 to 2.5 hours with Intercity or ALSA, depending on the route and any delays. Because Calatayud doesn’t have its own airport (the closest one is in Zaragoza), the train is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the capital.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Renfe AVE trains to Madrid leave from Calatayud station. The station is a smaller regional stop, located close to the city center. It connects easily by taxi, local bus or even on foot. The station is simple but efficient, with a small waiting area and some vending machines for drinks, crisps and sweets. There are no restaurants directly in the station, so it’s best to eat before departure or after arriving in Madrid.

Trains from Calatayud arrive at Madrid Puerta de Atocha. It's one of Spain’s busiest rail terminals. As such, it has excellent connections to the Cercanías network, metro, buses, and taxis. Inside, you’ll find everything from fast food to more upscale Mediterranean dining options. There is also a bar located in the renovated area that serves excellent tapas.

Schedule & Frequency

Renfe operates several AVE departures daily between Calatayud and Madrid, starting in the early morning and continuing until early evening. There are usually around 11 to 14 trains per day, with the first leaving at around 8:00 AM and the last one in the evening at around 9:00 PM. I took the first train out for a full day in the capital, arriving right on time at 9:10 AM. Frequent departures make it easy to plan same-day returns or flexible weekend trips.

Onboard Experience & Services

Once on board the train from Calatayud to Madrid, the First Class cabin on the AVE felt as relaxing as expected. It had spacious leather seats and large windows, perfect for watching the countryside glide by. Each seat reclined comfortably and came with reading lights, a foldable table and generous legroom.

On AVE trains, Wi-Fi is available through the PlayRenfe app, giving access to a wide range of movies, documentaries, newspapers, and more. The connection stayed strong for most of the trip. During the journey, I ordered an at-seat breakfast for €22, which included fresh fruit, a hot coffee, orange juice and two pastries. The food was tasty, and the presentation was well above average for train dining.

In addition to the at-seat service, there was a bar car offering snacks, sandwiches, salads, coffee, and soft drinks at fair prices. I stopped by for a quick coffee and was impressed by the friendly service as always. The views of the diverse Spanish countryside, from rolling plains to distant mountains, were the highlight of the trip. Combined with attentive staff and the train’s smooth 300 km/h ride, this short AVE journey was both comfortable and enjoyable. It's exactly what high-speed travel in Spain should be.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Booking with Omio one month in advance helped secure an excellent fare for my trip from Calatayud to Madrid by train. As with all Renfe AVE services, the ticket includes three bags (up to 25 kg total), comfortable seats, and the fantastic PlayRenfe entertainment app. For all that, it's a good price for a First Class seat.

Budget breakdown:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

To make your Calatayud to Madrid train trip even smoother:

• Bring your ID or passport: You never know when you might need it.
• Sit on the left side: You'll get the best countryside views and a great arrival into Atocha.
• Order breakfast on the train: Renfe AVE trains have an excellent at-seat menu and service.
• Use the PlayRenfe app: It offers entertainment, route info, and Wi-Fi access during the trip.
• Take a break at the bar car: Its modern layout, friendly service, and fresh products make it worth a visit.
• Treat the trip as a moment of relaxation: Even in just one hour, the smooth ride and quiet cabin make it feel like a short escape.

Conclusion

The journey from Calatayud to Madrid aboard Renfe’s AVE train combines speed and comfort on one of Spain’s most convenient high-speed services. In just a little over 1 hour, you travel to the heart of Madrid with no airport queues or driving stress. It is a smooth ride, with excellent onboard entertainment and amenities. Pack your bags, plan your journey, and book tickets on the Omio app today.

About the Author: Paulo Monteiro

• Job Title: Travel Creator and Rail Writer
• Bio: Paulo Monteiro is a European rail specialist and creator of travel videos and guides. He documents first-hand train journeys across Europe and focuses on onboard comfort, practical tips, and scenic moments.