Madrid to Brussels train with AVE

Mon, May 25
+ Add return
AVE
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
AVE
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Brussels

Showing times and prices for May 25

Cheapest price

$502

Average price

$508

Fastest journey

18 h 54 m

Average duration

20 h 17 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

1316 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Madrid to Brussels will cost around $508 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $502.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Madrid to Brussels without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Renfe Viajeros
    12:50 PM18h54
    Madrid
    7:44 AMBrussels
    $5021One-way
    3 transfers
  • Renfe AVE
    9:07 PM21h40
    Madrid
    6:47 PMBrussels
    $5141One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Madrid to Brussels

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Brussels among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $57. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.3 - 3.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $57, and a train costs an average of $502.

Distance: 817 miles (1316 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$508

Average price

$280

Average price

$103

Average price

Cheapest

$315

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

21h 13m

Average total duration

20h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 4m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

18h 8m

Average total duration

17h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

16h 17m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

-

CO2 emissions

3.9 - 7.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 3.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

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 Madrid to Brussels is a bus with an average price of $103 (€84).

This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Brussels:

A bus is $176 (€143) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Brussels costing on average $280 (€226).

A bus is $404 (€327) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Brussels costing on average $508 (€411).

The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Brussels is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 4m.

Other travel options to Brussels take longer:

Bus takes on average 17h 38m.

Train takes on average 20h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Brussels including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Brussels 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 $508 (€411) compared to roughly $315 (€255) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-192.52 (€-155.78). The journey takes 20h 43m versus 16h 17m 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.

Live departures

Madrid to Brussels train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Renfe Viajeros12:50 PM Madrid
18h54
7:44 AM Brussels3 transfers
Renfe AVE9:07 PM Madrid
21h40
6:47 PM Brussels3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Brussels by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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 Madrid to Brussels trains with Omio?

AVE as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Madrid to Brussels.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Brussels.

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 Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Brussels.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Brussels.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Brussels.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Brussels?

The best time to book your train from Madrid to Brussels is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Brussels route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Brussels 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 Madrid to Brussels.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Brussels

SpainSpain
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Brussels run on average 2 times per day, taking around 20h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $502 (€406) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) 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 18h 54m.

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 $57 (€46)
Distance
817 miles (1316 km)
Average train duration
20h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$502 (€406)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
18h 54m
First train
5:50 AM
Last train
5:20 PM
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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 $57 (€46)

Train companies: AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Brussels trainsAVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Brussels from $57 (€46). 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
21h 40m
Cheapest Price
$514 (€416)
AVE frequency
1 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

Renfe Viajeros

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18h 54m
Cheapest Price
$502 (€406)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Brussels

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Brussels can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $502 (€406), while the average price is around $508 (€411).
The train from Madrid to Brussels takes 18h 54m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Brussels is 817 miles (1316 km).
The first train from Madrid to Brussels leaves at 5:50 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Brussels leaves at 5:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Brussels.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Brussels.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Brussels.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Brussels is by bus, with a cost of around $57 (€46).
The train journey from Madrid to Brussels offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain and France, including picturesque towns and countryside, although it's less renowned for dramatic scenery compared to other European routes.
A day trip from Madrid to Brussels is not feasible as the travel duration is 18h 54m and the distance is 817 miles (1316 km). There is 1 trip per day available for trains.
In Brussels, explore the vibrant Marolles district with its antique shops and street art, and enjoy a stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire with its impressive arches and museums. Sample Belgian chocolates at the city's renowned chocolatiers, and experience the lively Saint-Géry district's trendy bars and cafes. Attend a performance at the historic La Monnaie opera house. Don't miss top sights like the opulent Grand Place, Atomium for panoramic views, the iconic Manneken Pis statue, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Magritte Museum.
For a fulfilling experience in Brussels, plan on spending 2 to 3 days to explore key attractions such as the Grand Place, Atomium, and various museums, as well as to enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Brussels.
Since both Madrid and Brussels 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 Brussels include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Lille, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Brussels 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Brussels, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Grand Place, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake petitions. It's advisable to stay vigilant, avoid displaying expensive items, and use official taxi services to ensure safety.
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.

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