- Must visit
Museo del Bierzo
Main local history museum of El Bierzo, housed in a historic building in the center. Its collections cover archaeology, ethnography, and the region’s cultural heritage.
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
1 h 47 m
Average duration
1 h 53 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
85 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from León to Ponferrada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from León to Ponferrada will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Of the 4 trains that leave León for Ponferrada on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 85 km distance in an average of 1 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 47 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 4 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.
12613
12601
37722
00622
37722
00622
12613
12601Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from León to Ponferrada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $14.
Distance: 52 miles (85 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
$15 Average price | $14 Average price Cheapest |
2h 15m Average total duration 1h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
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 León to Ponferrada:
A bus is $0.55 (€0.45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from León to Ponferrada costing on average $15 (€12).
Other travel options to Ponferrada take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 45m.
The table below shows live departures for León to Ponferrada trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
12601 | On time 12:30 PM León station | 2h04 | 2:34 PM Ponferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
37722 | 4:58 PM León station | 1h39 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
00622 | Delayed 4:58 PM León station | 1h39 | 4:37 PM 4:37 PMPonferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
12603 | Delayed 5:58 PM León station | 2h02 | 6:00 PM 6:00 PMPonferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
37179 | 7:53 PM León station | 1h49 | 9:42 PM Ponferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
04179 | Delayed 5:53 PM 7:53 PMLeón station | 1h49 | 7:42 PM 7:42 PMPonferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
12613 | 7:05 AM León station | 1h55 | 9:00 AM Ponferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and train 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.
Trains from León to Ponferrada run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 52 miles (85 km) distance in 1h 38m.
Distance 52 miles (85 km) |
Average train duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€11) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 38m |
First train 6:08 AM |
Last train 8:34 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Ponferrada — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ponferrada trip today.
Main local history museum of El Bierzo, housed in a historic building in the center. Its collections cover archaeology, ethnography, and the region’s cultural heritage.
Large industrial and science museum set in the former Compostilla I power plant. It is one of Ponferrada’s most distinctive cultural sites, explaining energy production and industrial heritage.
Museum dedicated to the history of radio broadcasting, created around the legacy of broadcaster Luis del Olmo. A good stop for media history and local culture in the old town.
Historic old town with medieval lanes, traditional squares, and many of the city’s main monuments. It is the best area for first-time visitors and atmospheric evening walks.
One of Ponferrada’s signature streets, linking important monuments in the old quarter. It is ideal for a slow walk through the city’s most historic urban scenery.
Main civic square framed by historic architecture and close to key heritage sights. A natural meeting point and one of the classic places to feel the rhythm of the old center.
The signature dish of El Bierzo: pork rib and tail cuts seasoned, stuffed into casing, then cured and cooked, usually served with cabbage and potatoes.
Roasted peppers from the Bierzo area, prized for their sweetness and protected local origin; often served as a tapa or side dish.
Air-cured smoked beef from León province, commonly sliced thin as a tapa and valued for its deep, savory flavor.
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Ponferrada known for creative cuisine rooted in El Bierzo products, with an elegant contemporary atmosphere.
A classic local restaurant associated with traditional Leonese and Bierzo cooking, especially hearty regional specialties in a formal setting.
A well-known traditional mesón with rustic atmosphere, popular for grilled meats, regional dishes, and generous portions.
Generally cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona. Good value for menus, coffee, and local bars; hotels vary by season.
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Not expected for coffee or tapas, but small change is appreciated. Round up taxis.
Official public transport app
Estación de Ponferrada, Ponferrada -> Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Ponferrada
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from León to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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