- Must visit
Museo Nacional de Arte Romano
National museum housing Mérida’s finest Roman mosaics, sculptures and inscriptions. Essential for understanding the city’s UNESCO archaeological sites.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Mérida
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20
Cheapest price on Oct 20
$44
Average ticket price on Oct 20
$45
Fastest journey on Oct 20
4 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Oct 20
4 h 12 m
Trains on Oct 20
4
Distance
281 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Mérida is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Mérida will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 20, we found 4 trains from Madrid to Mérida, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 20 the direct trains cover the 281 km distance in an average of 4 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 2 m .
On Tue, Oct 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 20 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.
001924:38 PM4h02Atocha-Cercanías8:40 PMMérida station$441One-way0 transfers- 001908:51 AM4h04Atocha-Cercanías12:55 PMMérida station$441One-way0 transfers
3590210:55 AM4h20Atocha-Cercanías3:15 PMMérida station$471One-way0 transfers- 1790210:55 AM4h20Atocha-Cercanías3:15 PMMérida station$471One-way0 transfers
- 001924:38 PM4h02Atocha-Cercanías8:40 PMMérida station$441One-way0 transfers
- 001908:51 AM4h04Atocha-Cercanías12:55 PMMérida station$441One-way0 transfers
- 3590210:55 AM4h20Atocha-Cercanías3:15 PMMérida station$471One-way0 transfers
- 1790210:55 AM4h20Atocha-Cercanías3:15 PMMérida station$471One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Mérida
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Mérida run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:52, the last at 18:38. The fastest train covers the 174 miles (281 km) distance in 3h 41m.
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 174 miles (281 km) |
Average train duration 4h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€16) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 7:52 AM |
Last train 6:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Live departures
Madrid to Mérida train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Mérida trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00190 | 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 4h04 | 12:55 PM Mérida station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 35902 | 10:55 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 4h20 | 3:15 PM Mérida station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 17902 | 10:55 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 4h20 | 3:15 PM Mérida station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 00192 | 4:38 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 4h02 | 8:40 PM Mérida station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Madrid to Mérida trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe or Renfe MD offer trains services from Madrid to Mérida.
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 or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Mérida.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Mérida.
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe from Madrid to Mérida trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe trains will get you between Madrid and Mérida from $19 (€16). 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
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$19 (€16)
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 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$47 (€39)
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
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
Average Renfe Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$39 (€33)
Renfe frequency
1 a day
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
Complete guide to Mérida
Things to do in Mérida
Discover the best of Mérida — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mérida trip today.
- Recommended
Casa del Mitreo
Roman house remains with mosaics and murals, presented as an archaeological museum site. A strong companion visit to the main monuments.
- Recommended
Cripta de Santa Eulalia
Archaeological crypt preserving Roman and Visigothic remains beneath the basilica. A fascinating layered site for visitors interested in hidden history.
- Must visit
Entorno del Conjunto Arqueológico
Urban area around the Roman theatre and amphitheatre, best explored slowly. It concentrates the city’s greatest monuments within an easy walking circuit.
- Recommended
Plaza de España
Lively central square lined with arcades, civic buildings and terraces. A natural meeting point and good base for exploring the old town on foot.
- Recommended
Plaza de Margarita Xirgu
Historic square beside the Temple of Diana, surrounded by noble architecture. One of the city’s most atmospheric places for day or evening walks.
- Gluten-free
Arroz A La Extremeña
A creamy rice dish from Extremadura made with pork liver, garlic and spices. It is a rustic local specialty linked to traditional pig slaughter season.
Gazpacho Extremeño
A chilled soup of tomato, bread, garlic and olive oil, often topped with ham and egg. It is a summer staple across Extremadura and very common in Mérida.
Sopa De Ajo
A thick garlic soup with bread, paprika and often egg or ham. It is a humble traditional dish from inland Spain, widely eaten in Extremadura.
Restaurante Rex Numitor
Refined restaurant known for updated Extremaduran cuisine and careful presentation in an elegant setting near Mérida’s historic center.
Sybarit Gastroshop
Popular casual spot for tapas, raciones and local specialties, with a lively atmosphere suited to sampling regional flavors.
Restaurante A De Arco
Well-known traditional venue serving Extremaduran classics, Iberian pork and regional wines in a warm, classic dining room.
Euro (€)
Budget-friendly for Spain: lodging, tapas, and local transport usually cost less than in Madrid, Barcelona, or Seville.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-70 per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafes; round up taxi fares.
Moovit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.00
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Mérida Railway Station -> Plaza de España, Mérida
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- City buses are limited; many central sights are walkable from Mérida Railway Station and Plaza de España.
- Check with the driver before boarding about card payment, as onboard payment methods may vary by bus line.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Mérida
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Mérida 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 Mérida, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Mérida can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€16), while the average price is around $46 (€39).
The train from Madrid to Mérida takes 3h 41m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Madrid to Mérida leaves at 7:52 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Mérida is 174 miles (281 km).
The last train from Madrid to Mérida leaves at 6:38 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Mérida.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Mérida. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Mérida.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Mérida is Atocha-Cercanías, which connects to Mérida station.
The train journey from Madrid to Mérida offers a scenic experience as it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of Extremadura, including rolling hills, vineyards, and charming rural villages, providing travelers with a glimpse of Spain's natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Mérida.
Popular day trips by train from Mérida include Badajoz, Cáceres, Don Benito, Almendralejo, Villanueva de la Serena.
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 Mérida, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded markets and public transport. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for transportation or tours to prevent overcharging scams. It is also advisable to use authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps rather than hailing cabs on the street. Staying vigilant in less crowded areas at night helps reduce risk. Overall, Mérida is considered relatively safe, but standard travel precautions are recommended.
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 Mérida
Most Madrid to Mérida trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Mérida station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Mérida 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 Mérida
Which Madrid station do trains to Mérida leave from?
Trains from Madrid to Mérida leave from Madrid Chamartín. The station is 3 miles (6 km) from Madrid city centre at 28036 Madrid, Spain.
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 · $2 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min
Subway1 · 19m · $3 · 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.
Which Mérida station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Mérida arrive at Mérida. Mérida is 0 miles (1 km) from Mérida city centre.
Mérida06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain+34 912 32 03 20
City-centre transport
Getting to Mérida from Mérida city centre
BusR901 · 35m · $2 · every ~1 min
Mérida train station facilities and services
Mérida has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Umami
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mérida.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mérida: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mérida: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mérida.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Mérida
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mérida and Madrid
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