- Must visit
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Portugal’s leading tile museum in a former convent, tracing the history of azulejos from the 15th century to today. A standout for Lisbon-specific decorative arts and one of the city’s most memorable,
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Lisbon
Showing times and prices for May 20
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
10 h 1 m
Average duration
10 h 30 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Lisbon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Lisbon will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Lisbon without transferring at least 2 times.
00190+
R 482 · R 44288:51 AM10h14Atocha-Cercanías6:05 PMLisbon - Oriente$731One-way2 transfers- 00190+R 482 · R 44308:51 AM11h14Atocha-Cercanías7:05 PMLisbon - Oriente$731One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · IC 7228:51 AM10h01Atocha-Cercanías5:52 PMLisbon - Oriente$791One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · IC 7228:51 AM10h01Atocha-Cercanías5:52 PMLisbon - Oriente$791One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · R 44288:51 AM10h14Atocha-Cercanías6:05 PMLisbon - Oriente$731One-way2 transfers
- 00190+R 482 · R 44308:51 AM11h14Atocha-Cercanías7:05 PMLisbon - Oriente$731One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Lisbon
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Lisbon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $59.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$109 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $208 Average price | $125 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 41m Average total duration 6h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration 5h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 31m Average total duration Fastest 4h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | 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 Lisbon is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Lisbon:
A bus is $77 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Lisbon costing on average $109 (€88).
A bus is $176 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Lisbon costing on average $208 (€168).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Lisbon is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 31m.
Other travel options to Lisbon take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 56m.
Train takes on average 6h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Lisbon including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Lisbon 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 $109 (€88) compared to roughly $125 (€100) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $15 (€12). The journey takes 6h 11m versus 5h 58m 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 Lisbon train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Lisbon trains for today, Tuesday, May 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00190+R 4428 · R 482 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 10h14 | 6:05 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
| 00190+R 482 · R 4430 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 11h14 | 7:05 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
| 00190+IC 722 · R 482 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 10h01 | 5:52 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Lisbon by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Madrid to Lisbon trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Comboios De Portugal, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Madrid to Lisbon.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe INTERCITY, Comboios De Portugal, Renfe or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Lisbon.
- 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 ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Lisbon.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Lisbon?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Lisbon is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Lisbon route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Lisbon 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 Lisbon.
Trains
from $19Buses
from $30Flights
from $109Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Lisbon
Spain
Portugal
Trains from Madrid to Lisbon run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $109 (€88) but you can travel from only $12 (€9) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 8h 1m.
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 $12 (€9)
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 6h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $109 (€88) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 8h 1m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 8:45 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $12 (€9)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Comboios De Portugal, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Lisbon trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Comboios De Portugal, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Lisbon from $12 (€9). 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
0
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
0
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
Comboios De Portugal
About
Comboios de Portugal (CP) is the national railway company of Portugal, operating medium- and long-distance services across the country as well as international connections to Spain and France. CP’s train types include Alfa Pendular (AP), high-speed trains reaching up to 220 km/h between Porto, Lisbon, and Faro; Intercidades, long-distance trains running at up to 200 km/h; Inter-Regional (IR) for medium-distance travel; and Regional services for local routes. International (IN) trains connect Portugal with key destinations abroad. Fare options include Promo tickets — available 5 to 60 days in advance and non-refundable — and Normal tickets, which are refundable for a fee. Both fare types are offered in 1st and 2nd class. Onboard amenities may include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Lisbon–Porto, Lisbon–Faro, and Porto–Faro, offering scenic views of Portugal’s countryside and coastline.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar-cafeteria service with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Renfe
About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 1m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€88)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Lisbon
Things to do in Lisbon
Discover the best of Lisbon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lisbon trip today.
- Must visit
Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
Portugal’s premier fine arts museum, with major Portuguese and European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. Essential for seeing national masterpieces in one place.
- Must visit
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
A highly regarded museum with an exceptional private collection spanning Egyptian, Islamic, Asian, and European art. Calm galleries and quality curation make it a local favorite.
- Must visit
Alfama
Lisbon’s oldest district, known for narrow lanes, miradouros, traditional character, and layered history. It is one of the city’s most atmospheric and essential walking areas.
- Must visit
Baixa
The elegant downtown rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, with grand squares and straight streets. Ideal for first-time visitors exploring central Lisbon on foot.
- Must visit
Praca do Comercio
Lisbon’s monumental riverfront square, framed by arcades and historic facades. One of the city’s defining public spaces and a natural orientation point for visitors.
- Vegetarian
Pastel De Nata
Lisbon’s iconic custard tart with flaky pastry and a caramelized top, famously associated with Belém and eaten warm with cinnamon.
- Gluten-free
Bacalhau À Brás
A classic Lisbon cod dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, eggs, and thin fried potatoes, widely loved in traditional tascas.
- Gluten-free
Sardinhas Assadas
Chargrilled sardines, especially popular during the June Festas de Lisboa, served simply and celebrated as a local summer staple.
Pasteis De Belem
Historic pastry house renowned for Lisbon’s most famous pastel de nata, with a classic and always-busy setting.
Belcanto
High-end fine dining restaurant by José Avillez, celebrated for refined Portuguese cuisine in an elegant setting.
Cervejaria Ramiro
Legendary casual seafood restaurant famous for shellfish, garlic shrimp, and a lively Lisbon atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by Western European standards: transit is cheap, meals vary, and central hotels cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for taxis and cafes is appreciated, not required.
Navegante
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.80 EUR
- Day pass
- 6.80 EUR
To the city center
Lisbon Oriente -> Baixa-Chiado, Lisbon
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Use a reusable Navegante Occasional card for metro, bus, tram, and ferry tickets in Lisbon.
- Card payment is not reliably available on all buses and trams, so buy and load tickets in advance at machines or stations.
Discover Iberian landscapes on the Madrid to Lisbon Train
Depart Madrid in the evening and watch the city’s terracotta rooftops give way to rolling plains of olive groves and cork oak forests. As the train picks up speed, settle into your sleeper cabin, complete with comfortable bedding and private lighting, and relax to the steady rhythm of the rails. Keep an eye out for river crossings and low hills outlined against the night sky.
By morning, you’ll be crossing Alentejo, where vineyards and open fields stretch to the horizon. Mist often lingers in the valleys at first light, and the fresh air carries hints of wild herbs. The route passes through small towns and over historic stone bridges, perfect spots for a quick photo, but the real highlight is the uninterrupted view as you travel (and rest) your way into Lisbon.
When to Book Your Madrid to Lisbon Ticket
Renfe and CP release sleeper fares 60 days before departure, and availability is extremely limited on the two daily Trenhotel services. To secure a lower “Promo” or “Estrella” berth, aim to book 2–3 months in advance, especially for weekend or holiday travel. Monitor Omio’s price alerts for sudden drops, and compare Renfe’s official site with CP’s Portuguese Rail offers for any cross-border discounts.
How to Buy Cheap Madrid to Lisbon Train Tickets
- Travel midweek or off-peak. Tuesdays and Wednesdays see the fewest bookings.
- Split your journey. Book Madrid → Badajoz and Badajoz → Lisbon separately—regional operators sometimes run flash-sale tariffs.
- Choose the lower-class berth. Promo (3-berth) compartments are cheaper than 2-berth.
- Use rail passes. A Spain–Portugal Eurail Pass can cover both legs for a fixed price.
- Set price alerts. Never miss a fare drop by using Omio’s free notifications on the Omio app
Top Train Routes
| Connection | Duration | From € |
|---|---|---|
| Lisbon Oriente → Madrid Chamartín | 10 h 15 m (avg) | 33 € |
| Madrid Chamartín → Lisbon Oriente | 10 h 15 m (avg) | 33 € |
| Madrid Chamartín → Badajoz → Lisbon Oriente | ~9 h 45 m | 28 € |
Standard sleeper tickets include one main suitcase (up to 25 kg) plus one small carry-on free of charge. Oversized items (e.g., surfboards, skis) may incur a handling fee - see our Travel Company Policies for details.
Flexible fares allow free changes up to 1 hour before departure. Promo/Estrella fares incur a change fee (typically €5-€15) and may be non-refundable. Always review the fare conditions when booking or see How to change or cancel a ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Lisbon
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Lisbon 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 Lisbon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Lisbon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $109 (€88), while the average price is around $109 (€88).
The train from Madrid to Lisbon runs once a day and takes approximately 8h 1m.
The first train from Madrid to Lisbon leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Lisbon is 311 miles (502 km).
The last train from Madrid to Lisbon leaves at 8:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Lisbon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Lisbon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Lisbon.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Lisbon is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€9).
The Madrid to Lisbon train journey offers scenic views of the Spanish and Portuguese countryside, with rolling hills, quaint villages, and picturesque landscapes visible along the route.
A day trip from Madrid to Lisbon is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 1m and covers 311 miles (502 km). Additionally, there is only 1 train per day.
In Lisbon, you can ride Tram 28 to explore the historic neighborhoods, discover Alfama with its narrow streets and traditional Fado music, and stroll through LX Factory, a trendy area with shops and art spaces. Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum for a diverse art collection and enjoy a sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for breathtaking views. Key sights include Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, Oceanário de Lisboa, and Lisbon Cathedral.
To explore Lisbon's main attractions and get a feel for the city's vibrant culture, spending 3 to 4 days is generally recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Lisbon.
Since both Madrid and Lisbon 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 Lisbon include Fátima, Évora, Santarém, Tomar, Pombal.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Lisbon 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 Lisbon, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like trams, metro stations, and popular tourist spots such as Alfama and Baixa. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use authorized transportation and keep valuables secure 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.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Lisbon
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lisbon and Madrid
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