- Recommended
Museo de La Carolina
Local history museum focused on La Carolina's 18th-century foundation and Sierra Morena colonization. Best place to understand the town's origins.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to La Carolina
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$4
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$4
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h 19 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
3 h 24 m
Trains on Sep 08
4
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to La Carolina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to La Carolina will cost around $4 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 4 trains from Madrid to La Carolina, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 3 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 3 h 33 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.
180323:58 PM3h19Atocha-Cercanías7:17 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers- 180309:16 AM3h33Atocha-Cercanías12:49 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180367:31 PM3h24Atocha-Cercanías10:55 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180345:39 PM3h19Atocha-Cercanías8:58 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180323:58 PM3h19Atocha-Cercanías7:17 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180345:39 PM3h19Atocha-Cercanías8:58 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180367:31 PM3h24Atocha-Cercanías10:55 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
- 180309:16 AM3h33Atocha-Cercanías12:49 PMVilches station$41One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Madrid to La Carolina
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to La Carolina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $35 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, while a train costs an average of $36.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$36 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m 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 La Carolina is a bus with an average price of $35.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to La Carolina:
A bus is $1 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to La Carolina costing on average $36.
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to La Carolina is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.
Other travel options to La Carolina take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and La Carolina including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to La Carolina 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 $36 compared to roughly $55 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $19. The journey takes 3h 4m versus 2h 47m 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.
Direct services run with Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY.
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 La Carolina train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to La Carolina trains for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18032 | 3:58 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 3h19 | 7:17 PM Vilches station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 18034 | 5:39 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 3h19 | 8:58 PM Vilches station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 18036 | 7:31 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 3h24 | 10:55 PM Vilches station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
| 18030 | 9:16 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 3h33 | 12:49 PM Vilches station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to La Carolina by bus or train
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.
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
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Sep 09
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Sep 10
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Sep 11
Sep 11
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Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Why should you book Madrid to La Carolina trains with Omio?
Renfe MD as well as Renfe INTERCITY offer trains services from Madrid to La Carolina.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to La Carolina.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe MD?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe MD, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe INTERCITY to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to La Carolina.
- 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 Renfe MD with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to La Carolina.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to La Carolina.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to La Carolina
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to La Carolina run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:06, the last at 19:31. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 2h 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
Distance 147 miles (238 km) |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 54m |
First train 7:06 AM |
Last train 7:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY from Madrid to La Carolina trainsRenfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Madrid and La Carolina from $13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe MD Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$39
Renfe MD frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe INTERCITY Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$13
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
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 First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to La Carolina
Things to do in La Carolina
Discover the best of La Carolina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Carolina trip today.
- Recommended
Museo de la Batalla de Las Navas de Tolosa
Interpretation center explaining the 1212 battle fought nearby. Exhibits give valuable context before visiting the battlefield landscape.
- Recommended
Centro de Interpretación de las Nuevas Poblaciones
Smaller heritage display area linked to the town's founding narrative. It complements the main museum with local historical interpretation.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
The town's main square and social heart, framed by key civic buildings. Ideal for orienting yourself and appreciating La Carolina's planned layout.
- Recommended
Calle Carlos III
Important urban axis reflecting the settlement plan of the new colonies. A pleasant route for seeing civic architecture and local commerce.
- Recommended
Plaza de Carlos III
Central square dedicated to the founding monarch. It is a useful stop for understanding the symbolic identity of this Enlightenment-planned town.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Aceite De Oliva Virgen Extra De Jaén
A rich olive oil from Jaén, prized locally for its intense fruity flavor. It defines the area’s cooking and is central to bread, salads, and traditional stews.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pipirrana Jiennense
A traditional cold soup of tomato, garlic, olive oil, bread, and green pepper. In Jaén province it is a classic summer dish tied to local olive oil.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Espinacas Con Garbanzos
A rustic spinach stew with chickpeas, garlic, paprika, and olive oil. Common in Andalusian home cooking and often eaten during Lent and cooler months.
Mesón Despeñaperros
Traditional Andalusian restaurant known for grilled meats, tapas, and hearty regional dishes in a relaxed local setting.
Cervecería Tapería La Estación
Established casual venue serving tapas, local plates, and daily menus. Popular with residents for generous portions and informal atmosphere.
Restaurante NH La Perdiz
Hotel restaurant offering a more formal dining option with regional cuisine, game dishes, and a quieter setting for travelers.
Euro (€)
Generally cheaper than major Spanish tourist cities. Hotels, meals, and local transport are usually modestly priced for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €40-60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafes; taxi tips are optional, often rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to La Carolina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to La Carolina 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 La Carolina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to La Carolina can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13, while the average price is around $36.
The train from Madrid to La Carolina takes 2h 54m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Madrid to La Carolina leaves at 7:06 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to La Carolina is 147 miles (238 km).
The last train from Madrid to La Carolina leaves at 7:31 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to La Carolina.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to La Carolina. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to La Carolina.
The train station in Madrid that goes to La Carolina is Atocha-Cercanías, which connects to Vilches station.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to La Carolina is by train, with a cost of around $13.
The train journey from Madrid to La Carolina offers a blend of scenic views, featuring the picturesque Spanish countryside with rolling hills, olive groves, and charming villages, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Madrid to La Carolina is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 54m. Trains run 3 times per day.
To fully experience La Carolina, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its main attractions and enjoy local activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to La Carolina.
Since both Madrid and La Carolina 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 La Carolina include Jaén, Alcazar de San Juan, Córdoba.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to La Carolina 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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 La Carolina, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and markets. It’s important to avoid displaying valuables openly and to stay vigilant in public spaces. Scams involving overcharging for transportation or services can occur, so agreeing on prices beforehand is advised. Staying in well-lit, populated areas at night enhances 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madrid to La Carolina
Most Madrid to La Carolina trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Vilches station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and La Carolina 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 La Carolina
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.
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena GrandesGlorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain+34 912432343
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes from Madrid city centre
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 5m · $1 · every ~15 min
Bus26, 32 · 6m · $1 · every ~60 min
Subway1 · 6m · $2 · every ~24 min
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train station facilities and services
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, 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 options include: Passion Food, La Barrila, Enrique Tomás, Pic Nic, Foodissimo!, PureGusto, Burger King
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi in the station and on all Renfe trains. ATMs are in various points at the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00. Information desks are on the ground floor of the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is open daily from 05:30 to 22:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Wheelchair parking, adapted elevators, adapted platforms, lobby shopping area.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include 60 Balconies Urban Stay, Only YOU Hotel Atocha, SLEEP’N Atocha.
More options for your journey from Madrid to La Carolina
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from La Carolina and Madrid
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