- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Madrid’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A cornerstone of the city’s Golden Triangle of Art.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Heidelberg to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Heidelberg to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, and a train costs an average of $599.
Distance: 866 miles (1394 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$599 Average price | $228 Average price | $136 Average price Cheapest | $491 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
29h 50m Average total duration 29h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 0m Average total duration 23h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Heidelberg to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $136 (€110).
This is compared to other travel options from Heidelberg to Madrid:
A bus is $91 (€73) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Heidelberg to Madrid costing on average $228 (€183).
A bus is $462 (€372) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Heidelberg to Madrid costing on average $599 (€482).
The fastest way to travel from Heidelberg to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 18m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 23h 30m.
Train takes on average 29h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Heidelberg and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Heidelberg to Madrid among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $599 (€482) compared to roughly $491 (€396) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-107.45 (€-86.49). The journey takes 29h 20m versus 17h 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Heidelberg 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Heidelberg to Madrid
Germany
Spain
Trains from Heidelberg to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 29h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $599 (€482) but you can travel from only $72 (€58) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 866 miles (1394 km) distance in 26h 0m.
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 $72 (€58)
Distance 866 miles (1394 km) |
Average train duration 29h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $599 (€482) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 26h 0m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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 $72 (€58)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Heidelberg to Madrid trainsDeutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Heidelberg and Madrid from $72 (€58). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26h 0m
Cheapest Price
$599 (€482)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 a day
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
Spain’s national museum of 20th-century and contemporary art, best known for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
A major art museum spanning Old Masters to modern works, complementing the Prado and Reina Sofía with an exceptionally broad private collection.
- Must visit
Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s grand historic square, lined with arcades and elegant façades, and a classic starting point for exploring the old center.
- Must visit
Puerta del Sol
The symbolic heart of Madrid, known for Kilometer Zero, the clock tower, and constant energy day and night.
- Must visit
Parque de El Retiro
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for walks, boating, monuments, gardens, and popular photo spots such as the Crystal Palace area.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Madrileño
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, served in courses with broth, vegetables, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most traditional comfort dishes.
Bocadillo De Calamares
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is simple, iconic, and widely loved.
- Gluten-free
Callos A La Madrileña
A rich stew of tripe, chorizo, and morcilla cooked with paprika. It is a historic Madrid tavern dish with bold, hearty flavors.
Sobrino De Botín
Historic restaurant founded in the eighteenth century, famous for roast meats and classic Castilian cooking in an atmospheric old setting.
Casa Lucio
Legendary traditional restaurant best known for huevos rotos, with a polished yet classic tavern feel and strong local reputation.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic spot for churros con chocolate, open long hours and known for a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and transport are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for tapas, menu del día, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave EUR 1-2 in cafés; 5-10% in restaurants for very good service. Taxis are often rounded up, but tipping is not obligatory.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- On EMT buses, contactless card payment is generally available on board, but Metro and Cercanías tickets are usually bought before travel.
- If you plan several trips in one day, the Tourist Travel Pass can be better value than single tickets, especially for airport and metro use.
FAQs: Trains from Heidelberg to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $599 (€482), while the average price is around $599 (€482).
The train from Heidelberg to Madrid takes 26h 0m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Heidelberg to Madrid is 866 miles (1394 km).
The first train from Heidelberg to Madrid leaves at 12:35 AM.
The last train from Heidelberg to Madrid leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Heidelberg to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Heidelberg to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Heidelberg to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Heidelberg to Madrid is by bus, with a cost of around $72 (€58).
The train journey from Heidelberg to Madrid is scenic, offering views of the Rhine Valley's vineyards and castles, the rolling hills and forests of central France, and the picturesque landscapes of northern Spain.
A day trip from Heidelberg to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 26h 0m and covers a distance of 866 miles (1394 km). The frequency of this trip per day for trains is 2.
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 Heidelberg to Madrid.
Since both Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Heidelberg to Madrid
Heidelberg
Madrid
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Heid´s Grill
- McDonald's
- Uuuhmami
- Taj Mahal
Hotel
- Leonardo Hotel
- Qube Hotel
- NH Heidelberg
- Krokodil
Most popular train connections from Heidelberg
More options for your journey from Heidelberg to Madrid
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Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Heidelberg
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