- Must visit
Museu Cargaleiro
Leading museum of modern art and embroidery, with strong collections by Manuel Cargaleiro and a major cultural role in the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Castelo Branco
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$83
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$84
Fastest journey on Sep 18
12 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
13 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 18
3
Distance
329 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Castelo Branco is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Castelo Branco will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Castelo Branco without transferring at least 2 times.
00190+
R 5601 · R 45601 · R 256018:51 AM12h38Atocha-Cercanías8:29 PMCastelo Branco station$831One-way4 transfers- 00190+R 482 · R 55625 · R 256258:51 AM14h48Atocha-Cercanías10:39 PMCastelo Branco station$831One-way4 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · IC 115458:51 AM14h24Atocha-Cercanías10:15 PMCastelo Branco station$871One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 5601 · R 45601 · R 256018:51 AM12h38Atocha-Cercanías8:29 PMCastelo Branco station$831One-way4 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · IC 115458:51 AM14h24Atocha-Cercanías10:15 PMCastelo Branco station$871One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · R 55625 · R 256258:51 AM14h48Atocha-Cercanías10:39 PMCastelo Branco station$831One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Madrid to Castelo Branco
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Castelo Branco among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $12 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 9h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $12, while a bus costs an average of $75.
Distance: 204 miles (329 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$12 Average price Cheapest | $75 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 11m Average total duration Fastest 8h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 53m Average total duration 9h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Castelo Branco is a train with an average price of $12.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Castelo Branco:
A train is $62 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Castelo Branco costing on average $75.
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Castelo Branco is by train with an average journey time of 8h 41m.
Other travel options to Castelo Branco take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Castelo Branco including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Castelo Branco 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 $12 compared to roughly $78 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $66. The journey takes 8h 41m versus 4h 14m 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 Castelo Branco train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Castelo Branco trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00190+R 482 · IC 11545 | 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 14h24 | 10:15 PM Castelo Branco station | 2 transfers | |
| 00190+R 482 · R 5601 · R 45601 | 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 12h38 | 8:29 PM Castelo Branco station | 4 transfers | |
| 00190+R 482 · R 5625 · R 55625 | 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 14h48 | 10:39 PM Castelo Branco station | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Castelo Branco by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Castelo Branco
Spain
Portugal
Trains from Madrid to Castelo Branco run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 11:23. The fastest train covers the 204 miles (329 km) distance in 8h 6m.
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
Distance 204 miles (329 km) |
Average train duration 8h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 8h 6m |
First train 4:52 AM |
Last train 11:23 AM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Madrid to Castelo Branco trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Madrid and Castelo Branco from $25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
8h 6m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$8
Renfe ALVIA frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Castelo Branco
Things to do in Castelo Branco
Discover the best of Castelo Branco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Castelo Branco trip today.
- Must visit
Museu Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior
Museum inside the former episcopal palace, known for the iconic embroidered bedspread and collections on regional art and history.
- Recommended
Centro de Interpretação do Bordado de Castelo Branco
Interpretation center dedicated to Castelo Branco embroidery, explaining techniques, symbolism, and the city's best-known craft tradition.
- Must visit
Jardim do Paço Episcopal
Formal baroque gardens beside the episcopal palace, famous for statues, box hedges, and one of Portugal's finest historic garden designs.
- Recommended
Praça do Município
Main civic square framed by municipal buildings and cafés, ideal for people-watching and understanding the everyday rhythm of the city center.
- Recommended
Parque da Cidade
Tree-lined urban park with lawns, walking paths, and sports areas; a popular local retreat for a relaxed break near the center.
Sopa de Borrego com Hortelã
A rich soup of kid or lamb with mint, bread, and broth, linked to Easter and family celebrations in Beira Baixa.
- Gluten-free
Cabrito Assado
Slow-roasted kid, usually seasoned simply and cooked in a wood oven. A festive regional centerpiece in inland central Portugal.
- Gluten-free
Morcela da Beira Baixa
Rustic blood sausage from Beira Baixa, traditionally served grilled or with greens. It reflects the area's pork-based village cuisine.
O Lagarto
Traditional restaurant known for regional Beira Baixa cooking, grilled meats, and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Telheiro do Abílio
Casual, established spot popular for hearty Portuguese dishes, generous portions, and dependable service.
Retiro do Caçador
Well-regarded local dining room serving Portuguese classics and regional specialties in a polished but welcoming setting.
Euro (€)
More affordable than Lisbon or Porto. Hotels, meals, and local transport are usually lower, making it good value for budget and mid-range travelers.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €35-60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not required. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. For cafes and taxis, round up small amounts.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Castelo Branco Railway Station -> Praça do Município, Castelo Branco
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Buy tickets from the driver on local buses; exact change may be helpful.
- Contactless bank card payment on Castelo Branco local buses is not reliably confirmed, so carry cash for onboard ticket purchase.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Castelo Branco
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Castelo Branco 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 Castelo Branco, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Castelo Branco can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8, while the average price is around $12.
The train from Madrid to Castelo Branco takes 8h 6m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Castelo Branco is 204 miles (329 km).
The first train from Madrid to Castelo Branco leaves at 4:52 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Castelo Branco leaves at 11:23 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Castelo Branco.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Castelo Branco.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Castelo Branco.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Castelo Branco is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
Yes, the train journey from Madrid to Castelo Branco offers scenic views of the Spanish countryside, including the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains and rolling hills, making it a pleasant and picturesque route.
In Castelo Branco, you can visit the Centro de Cultura Contemporânea for contemporary art exhibitions, and admire the 13th-century architecture of Igreja de São Miguel. Explore local markets for crafts and delicacies, and enjoy performances at Cine-Teatro Avenida. For outdoor activities, hike in the Serra da Gardunha mountains. Don't miss the Jardim do Paço Episcopal for its baroque beauty, Castelo Branco Castle for panoramic views, and the Museu Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior for regional archaeology and art. The Sé Catedral de Castelo Branco and Parque da Cidade also offer rich historical and leisure experiences.
Two to three days are recommended to explore Castelo Branco, giving you ample time to visit its historic sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the unique cultural attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Castelo Branco.
Since both Madrid and Castelo Branco 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 Castelo Branco include Vila Velha De Rodão, Entroncamento, Covilha, Fundao, Abrantes.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Castelo Branco 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.
Portugal uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, while carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Castelo Branco, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas and markets. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated spots at night. Scams involving overcharging taxi drivers or unofficial transport services can occur, so using registered taxis or pre-booked transport is recommended. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and verify prices beforehand to ensure a safe visit.
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 Madrid to Castelo Branco
Most Madrid to Castelo Branco trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Castelo Branco station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Castelo Branco train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Madrid
Arrival train stations in Castelo Branco
Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Chamartín from Madrid city centre
Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · $1 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min
Subway1 · 19m · $2 · every ~24 min
Madrid Chamartín train station facilities and services
Madrid Chamartín has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid Chamartín. Information desks are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Which Castelo Branco station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Castelo Branco arrive at Castelo Branco. Castelo Branco is from Castelo Branco city centre.
Castelo BrancoAvenida Nuno Álvares, 6000-083 Castelo Branco, Portugal+351 272 348 234
City-centre transport
Getting to Castelo Branco from Castelo Branco city centre
Bus2, 3, 4 · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min
Castelo Branco train station facilities and services
Castelo Branco has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurante Pinguim, Restaurante O Lagarto
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Castelo Branco. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Castelo Branco. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Castelo Branco: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Castelo Branco: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Castelo Branco: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Rainha D. Amélia, Hotel TRYP Colina do Castelo, Hotel Império do Rei.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Castelo Branco
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Castelo Branco and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Castelo Branco
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