- Must visit
Old Masters Picture Gallery
Major art museum in the Zwinger, famed for Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and an outstanding collection of European master paintings.
Cheapest price
$520
Average price
$524
Fastest journey
1 d 6 h 55 m
Average duration
1 d 7 h 55 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1789 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Dresden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Dresden will cost around $524 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $520.
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Dresden without transferring at least 4 times.




Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $96. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.8 - 4.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $96, and a train costs an average of $520.
Distance: 1111 miles (1789 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$524 Average price | $252 Average price | $167 Average price Cheapest | $453 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
32h 7m Average total duration 31h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 28m Average total duration Fastest 3h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 31h 46m Average total duration 31h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 22h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 5.4 - 10.7kg CO2 emissions | 1.8 - 4.5kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Dresden:
A bus is $85 (€69) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Dresden costing on average $252 (€204).
A bus is $357 (€289) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Dresden costing on average $524 (€424).
Other travel options to Dresden take longer:
Bus takes on average 31h 16m.
Train takes on average 31h 37m.
Tickets start at around $524 (€424) compared to roughly $453 (€367) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-71.01 (€-57.46). The journey takes 31h 37m versus 22h 28m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Dresden trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 12:50 PM Madrid | 30h55 | 7:45 PM Dresden | 5 transfers | |
![]() | 12:50 PM Madrid | 32h55 | 9:45 PM Dresden | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Madrid to Dresden run on average 4 times per day, taking around 31h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $520 (€421) but you can travel from only $63 (€51) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 1111 miles (1789 km) distance in 30h 30m.
Distance 1111 miles (1789 km) |
Average train duration 31h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $520 (€421) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 30h 30m |
First train 12:40 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Dresden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dresden trip today.
Major art museum in the Zwinger, famed for Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and an outstanding collection of European master paintings.
World-famous treasury in Dresden Castle displaying exquisite jewels, goldsmith works, and court treasures of the Saxon rulers.
Leading museum for modern art and sculpture, with works from Romanticism to the present in a refined riverside setting.
Reconstructed historic square around the Frauenkirche, lively and photogenic, with some of Dresden’s most iconic urban views.
Dresden’s traditional central square, important for city life, markets, and seasonal events such as the famous Striezelmarkt.
Historic bridge with superb old town skyline views, especially popular for sunrise, sunset, and riverfront photography.
Rich yeasted fruit bread with butter, raisins, candied citrus, and marzipan, protected as a Dresden specialty and especially famous during Advent.
Traditional Saxon sheet cake with layers of dough, quark filling, and a custardy egg-butter topping; one of Dresden’s best-known pastries.
Saxon-style marinated pot roast, often served with red cabbage and dumplings; a classic regional comfort dish found in traditional inns.
Established upscale seafood and fine-dining restaurant near the Frauenkirche, known for polished service and an elegant setting.
Well-known historic vaulted restaurant serving Saxon and German classics in a distinctive atmospheric cellar near the old town landmarks.
Popular Bavarian beer hall in central Dresden with hearty German dishes, Augustiner beer, and a lively traditional atmosphere.
Prices are moderate by German standards. Museums and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but small tips are expected. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service and hand it directly to staff.
Official public transport app
Dresden Hbf -> Altmarkt, Dresden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Dresden 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 Dresden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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