MADRID to MÉRIDA train from $4 with Renfe ALVIA

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Mérida

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05

Cheapest price on Sep 05

$48

Average ticket price on Sep 05

$63

Fastest journey on Sep 05

4 h 2 m

Average journey duration on Sep 05

4 h 16 m

Trains on Sep 05

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 $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 05, we found 4 trains from Madrid to Mérida, including 4 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 281 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 2 m .

On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 30 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.

17902
10:55 AM4h30
Atocha-Cercanías
3:25 PMMérida station
$481One-way
0 transfers
35902
10:55 AM4h30
Atocha-Cercanías
3:25 PMMérida station
$481One-way
0 transfers
00190
9:31 AM4h02
Atocha-Cercanías
1:33 PMMérida station
$511One-way
0 transfers
00192
4:38 PM4h02
Atocha-Cercanías
8:40 PMMérida station
$1031One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Madrid to Mérida

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Mérida among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $38, while a flight costs an average of $120.

Distance: 174 miles (281 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight
$38 Average price Cheapest	$57 Average price	$120 Average price
4h 36m Average total duration 4h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 12m Average total duration 5h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions	0.8 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline
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 Mérida is a train with an average price of $38.

This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Mérida:

A train is $18 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Mérida costing on average $57.

A train is $82 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Mérida costing on average $120.

The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Mérida is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.

Other travel options to Mérida take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 6m.

Bus takes on average 5h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Mérida including taking a bus, train, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Mérida among Omio's users.

Live departures

Madrid to Mérida train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Mérida trains for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
	2:38 PM Madrid	3h41	6:19 PM Mérida	0 transfersDirect
	3:38 PM Madrid	3h41	7:19 PM Mérida	0 transfersDirect
Saturday, September 5
00190	9:31 AM Atocha-Cercanías	4h02	1:33 PM Mérida station	0 transfersDirect
17902	10:55 AM Atocha-Cercanías	4h30	3:25 PM Mérida station	0 transfersDirect
35902	10:55 AM Atocha-Cercanías	4h30	3:25 PM Mérida station	0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Mérida by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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 Mérida trains with Omio?

Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY and more 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, Renfe MD or Renfe INTERCITY 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Mérida

Spain

Trains from Madrid to Mérida run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 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 51m.

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 6m

Cheapest ticket price

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

3h 51m

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

Price information

Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY from Madrid to Mérida trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Madrid and Mérida from $4. 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 51m

Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price

$19

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

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

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

Learn more about Renfe

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

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

4h 29m

Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price

$25

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

Learn more about Renfe INTERCITY

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.

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

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 $4, while the average price is around $38.

The train from Madrid to Mérida takes 3h 51m and runs 3 per day.

The distance by train from Madrid to Mérida is 174 miles (281 km).

The first train from Madrid to Mérida leaves at 7:52 AM.

The last train from Madrid to Mérida leaves at 6:38 PM.

There is no high speed train available 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.

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 cheapest way to get from Madrid to Mérida is by train, with a cost of around $4.

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.

A day trip from Madrid to Mérida is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 51m. Trains operate 3 times per day for this route.

In Mérida, explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Theatre and attend performances to delve into Roman history. Visit the Alcazaba of Mérida for panoramic views and historical exhibits, and stroll across the Roman Bridge for a scenic walk along the Guadiana River. Discover local cuisine at Plaza de España, ideal for dining and people-watching, and enjoy a leisurely walk in Parque de las Siete Sillas. Don't miss the Temple of Diana with its impressive Corinthian columns and the National Museum of Roman Art's extensive collection of artifacts and mosaics.

To fully experience Mérida's cultural attractions, colonial architecture, nearby cenotes, and the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, plan to spend about 3 to 4 days.

Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Mérida.

Since both Madrid and Mérida 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 Mérida include Badajoz, Cáceres, Don Benito, Almendralejo, Villanueva de la Serena.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Mérida 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 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

Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain Parking

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.

More about Madrid Chamartín

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena GrandesGlorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain+34 912432343 Wifi

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.