- Must visit
MUSAC - Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León
León’s leading contemporary art museum, known for its colorful stained-glass-inspired facade and rotating exhibitions of Spanish and international contemporary art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to León
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$69
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h 6 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
288 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to León is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to León will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast trains
Of the 13 trains that leave Madrid for León on Mon, Jul 13, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 13 the direct trains cover the 288 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .
On Mon, Jul 13 the slowest trains will take 2 h 11 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.
043617:10 AM2h12Madrid Chamartín9:22 AMLeón station$431One-way0 transfers
180034:26 PM4h32Madrid Príncipe Pío8:58 PMLeón station$471One-way0 transfers- 180056:23 PM4h43Madrid Príncipe Pío11:06 PMLeón station$471One-way0 transfers
- 041491:53 PM2h11Madrid Chamartín4:04 PMLeón station$511One-way0 transfers
- 041614:37 PM2h06Madrid Chamartín6:43 PMLeón station$601One-way0 transfers
- 051838:30 PM2h00Madrid Chamartín10:30 PMLeón station$851One-way0 transfers
- 050719:56 AM2h05Madrid Chamartín12:01 PMLeón station$681One-way0 transfers
- 041614:37 PM2h06Madrid Chamartín6:43 PMLeón station$601One-way0 transfers
- 041512:59 PM2h10Madrid Chamartín5:09 PMLeón station$771One-way0 transfers
- 041491:53 PM2h11Madrid Chamartín4:04 PMLeón station$511One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Madrid to León
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to León among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $15.
Distance: 178 miles (288 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$43 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest |
3h 28m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 39m Average total duration 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
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 León is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to León:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to León costing on average $43 (€35).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to León is by train with an average journey time of 2h 58m.
Other travel options to León take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and León including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to León among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to León train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to León trains for tomorrow, Monday, July 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04361 | Delayed 7:10 AM Madrid Chamartín | 2h12 | 7:22 AM 7:22 AMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
 04091 | Delayed 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 2h21 | 9:36 AM 9:36 AMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04291 | Delayed 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 2h21 | 9:36 AM 9:36 AMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 05071 | On time 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 2h05 | 12:01 PM León station | 0 transfersDirect | |
 04121 | Delayed 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 2h18 | 11:41 AM 11:41 AMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04149 | Delayed 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 2h11 | 2:04 PM 2:04 PMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04151 | Delayed 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 2h10 | 3:09 PM 3:09 PMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 18003 | On time 4:26 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 4h32 | 8:58 PM León station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04161 | Delayed 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 2h06 | 4:43 PM 4:43 PMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
 04179 | Delayed 5:30 PM Madrid Chamartín | 2h17 | 5:48 PM 5:48 PMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 18005 | On time 6:23 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 4h43 | 11:06 PM León station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04181 | Delayed 4:51 PM 6:51 PMMadrid Chamartín | 2h20 | 7:11 PM 7:11 PMLeón station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 05183 | Delayed 6:30 PM 8:30 PMMadrid Chamartín | 2h00 | 8:30 PM 8:30 PMLeón 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 León by bus or train
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Why should you book Madrid to León trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD and more offer trains services from Madrid to León.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to León.
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 ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to León.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to León.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to León.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to León.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to León?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to León is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to León route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to León 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 León.
Trains
from $41Buses
from $39Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to León
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to León run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:16, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 178 miles (288 km) distance in 2h 0m.
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 178 miles (288 km) |
Average train duration 2h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 (€12) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 2h 0m |
First train 5:16 AM |
Last train 9:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 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: AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD from Madrid to León trainsAVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD trains will get you between Madrid and León from $15 (€12). 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
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
AVE frequency
4 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 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 Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
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
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 Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
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
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 Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Renfe MD frequency
2 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 AVLO
About
Renfe Avlo is Spain’s low-cost high-speed rail service operated by the national rail company Renfe. Serving routes between major cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, Girona, and Figueres, Avlo trains reach speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All tickets are for Economy Class (“Básica”) with assigned seating and include onboard services such as free Wi-Fi, entertainment via the PlayRenfe app, power sockets, and vending machines. Child tickets are available for ages 0–13, while passengers aged 14 and over require an adult ticket. Each fare includes a backpack and hand luggage (55x35x25 cm, no weight limit), with the option to upgrade for extra baggage. Prices start from as low as €7, making Avlo a budget-friendly way to travel between Spain’s most popular destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Renfe AVLO frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and 1 personal item (35x30x20cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers under 10kg allowed free. Service animals allowed
Complete guide to León
Things to do in León
Discover the best of León — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect León trip today.
- Must visit
Casa Botines Museum
A museum inside Gaudí’s Casa Botines, combining architecture, interiors, and art collections in one of León’s most iconic modernist buildings.
- Recommended
Museo de León
The city’s main historical museum, covering León province from prehistory to the modern era through archaeology, art, and decorative objects.
- Must visit
Barrio Húmedo
León’s best-known historic quarter, famous for its lively lanes, traditional atmosphere, and dense concentration of old buildings and plazas.
- Must visit
Calle Ancha
One of León’s most important pedestrian streets, linking key monuments and offering some of the city’s most photogenic urban views.
- Must visit
Plaza del Grano
A much-loved traditional square with an uneven historic surface and local character, often highlighted as one of León’s prettiest corners.
- Gluten-free
Cecina De León
Air-cured beef with a deep smoky flavor, one of León’s signature products and often served thinly sliced as a tapa.
- Gluten-free
Morcilla De León
León-style blood sausage, typically softer and spreadable than other Spanish morcillas, often served on bread or in tapas.
- Gluten-free
Botillo Del Bierzo
A hearty pork dish from the wider province, made from seasoned pork cuts stuffed and cured, then cooked with cabbage and potatoes.
Cocinandos
Michelin-starred restaurant known for refined Leonese cuisine, creative tasting menus, and an elegant modern setting.
Casa Mando
Established central restaurant offering grilled meats, regional products, and stylish dining in a historic building.
Restaurante Ezequiel
Well-known traditional restaurant celebrated for Cecina De León and classic local meat dishes in a polished yet approachable atmosphere.
Euro
Generally affordable by Spanish standards. Tapas and casual dining are good value, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for tapas or a simple menu.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-80+ per person at upscale places.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxi tips are optional.
ALESA Urbanos de León
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.20 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
León Railway Station, León -> Santo Domingo, León
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- City buses in León are operated by ALESA; check routes and service updates in the official app or on the operator website.
- Card payment availability onboard buses is not consistently guaranteed, so carry cash or confirm current payment methods before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to León
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to León 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 León, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to León can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Madrid to León takes 2h 0m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Madrid to León leaves at 5:16 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to León is 178 miles (288 km).
The last train from Madrid to León leaves at 9:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to León.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to León. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to León.
The train station in Madrid that goes to León is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to León station.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to León is by train, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Madrid to León offers a scenic experience, showcasing picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming countryside views as it traverses the beautiful Spanish regions.
A day trip from Madrid to León is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 0m each way, though there are 9 trains available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 178 miles (288 km).
In León, you can explore the lively Barrio Húmedo, known for its tapas bars and vibrant nightlife. Visit the stunning Catedral de León to admire its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, and explore the rooftop for panoramic city views. Discover the Basílica de San Isidoro with its remarkable frescoes, and Casa Botines, a modernist building by Antoni Gaudí. Enjoy cultural events at the historic Teatro Emperador or the avant-garde exhibitions at MUSAC. Stroll along the Bernesga River for scenic views, and explore the Museo de León to learn about the region's history. Lastly, the Convento de San Marcos offers a glimpse into history with its Plateresque façade.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in León is generally ideal to explore its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and enjoy its renowned gastronomy.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to León.
Since both Madrid and León 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 León include Oviedo, Valladolid, Palencia, Ponferrada, Astorga.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to León 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 León, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for taxi rides or tours to prevent overcharging scams. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in busy tourist spots.
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 León
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from León and Madrid
Most popular train connections to León
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