- Must visit
Aquarium La Rochelle
One of Europe's leading aquariums, showcasing Atlantic and tropical marine life. A flagship family attraction connected to La Rochelle's seafaring identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to La Rochelle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$203
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$207
Fastest journey on Sep 20
13 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
17 h 1 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
672 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to La Rochelle 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 Rochelle will cost around $207 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $203.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to La Rochelle without transferring at least 3 times.
2:46 PM19h29Madrid10:15 AMLa Rochelle$2031One-way3 transfers- 7:20 AM13h04Madrid8:24 PMLa Rochelle$2091One-way3 transfers
- 5:37 PM18h29Madrid12:06 PMLa Rochelle$2091One-way3 transfers
- 7:20 AM13h04Madrid8:24 PMLa Rochelle$2091One-way3 transfers
- 5:37 PM18h29Madrid12:06 PMLa Rochelle$2091One-way3 transfers
- 2:46 PM19h29Madrid10:15 AMLa Rochelle$2031One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Madrid to La Rochelle
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to La Rochelle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $74 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, while a flight costs an average of $149.
Distance: 417 miles (672 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price Cheapest | $149 Average price | $178 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 47m Average total duration 13h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration Fastest 4h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to La Rochelle is a bus with an average price of $74.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to La Rochelle:
A bus is $75 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to La Rochelle costing on average $149.
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to La Rochelle is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 14m.
Other travel options to La Rochelle take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and La Rochelle including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to La Rochelle among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to La Rochelle train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to La Rochelle trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:37 PM Madrid | 18h29 | 12:06 PM La Rochelle | 3 transfers | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| 7:20 AM Madrid | 13h04 | 8:24 PM La Rochelle | 3 transfers | |
| 2:46 PM Madrid | 19h29 | 10:15 AM La Rochelle | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to La Rochelle 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to La Rochelle
Spain
France
Take a train from Madrid to La Rochelle and enjoy the approximately 417 miles (672 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 07:20, the last at 17:37.
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 $34
Distance 417 miles (672 km) |
First train 7:20 AM |
Last train 5:37 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $34
Complete guide to La Rochelle
Things to do in La Rochelle
Discover the best of La Rochelle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Rochelle trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
Maritime museum featuring preserved ships and exhibits on navigation, trade, and ocean life. Ideal for exploring La Rochelle's strong nautical heritage.
- Recommended
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle
Natural history museum with zoology, ethnography, and regional collections in a historic setting. Excellent for understanding science and global curiosities.
- Must visit
Vieux Port
The city's postcard harbor lined with historic towers, quays, and lively promenades. Essential for first-time visitors, photos, and atmosphere day or night.
- Recommended
Rue du Palais
Elegant arcaded shopping street in the historic center. Great for wandering beneath covered walkways and admiring La Rochelle's distinctive stone architecture.
- Recommended
Marché Central Area
Historic market district centered on the covered market halls. It is one of the best areas to feel daily local life in the old city.
- Gluten-free
Huîtres de Marennes-Oléron
Fresh Atlantic oysters from nearby Marennes-Oléron, prized for their briny taste and strong link to the Charente coast and local oyster farming.
- Gluten-free
Moules de bouchot
Blue mussels from the Bay of Aiguillon or nearby coast, often served simply steamed to highlight a classic local shellfish tradition.
- Gluten-free
Crevettes grises
Small local shrimp, usually eaten chilled with butter or mayonnaise. A staple seafood snack tied to the fishing culture of La Rochelle.
Christopher Coutanceau
Refined Michelin-starred dining in the old port area, known for elegant seafood-focused tasting menus and polished service.
Les Flots
Well-known harbor restaurant specializing in fresh fish, oysters, and regional seafood in a lively, traditional setting.
André
Historic seafood institution near the harbor, celebrated for shellfish platters, fish dishes, and a classic La Rochelle brasserie atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for coastal France; hotels rise in summer, but dining and local transit are manageable versus larger French tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; small change is enough in cafes.
Yélo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €4.20
To the city center
La Rochelle Airport -> Place de Verdun, La Rochelle
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the Yélo app or from ticket machines before boarding when available. Validate your ticket at the start of each bus trip.
- Contactless bank card payment is not reliably available on all buses, so carry a valid ticket or buy in the official app first.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to La Rochelle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to La Rochelle 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 Rochelle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Madrid to La Rochelle leaves at 7:20 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to La Rochelle is 417 miles (672 km).
The last train from Madrid to La Rochelle leaves at 5:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to La Rochelle.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to La Rochelle.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to La Rochelle is by bus, with a cost of around $34.
The train journey from Madrid to La Rochelle offers scenic views as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the rolling hills of northern Spain and picturesque French countryside, especially as you approach the coastal region of La Rochelle.
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in La Rochelle allows you to explore its historic old town, visit the iconic towers, enjoy the local cuisine, and take a day trip to nearby Île de Ré.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to La Rochelle.
Since both Madrid and La Rochelle 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 Rochelle include Poitiers, Niort, Rochefort, Saintes, La Roche-sur-Yon.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to La Rochelle 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.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In La Rochelle, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old port and during festivals. Avoid leaving belongings unattended and be wary of distraction techniques. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at small shops can occur, so always confirm prices in advance. Petty theft near popular tourist sites is the main safety concern to watch out for.
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.
More options for your journey from Madrid to La Rochelle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from La Rochelle and Madrid
Most popular train connections to La Rochelle
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