- Must visit
Museo del Castillo de los Templarios
Museum inside the Templar Castle showcasing medieval life, arms, and archaeology, adding strong context to Ponferrada’s most famous monument.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Ponferrada
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 07
Cheapest price on Oct 07
$56
Average ticket price on Oct 07
$78
Fastest journey on Oct 07
4 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Oct 07
4 h 43 m
Trains on Oct 07
21
Distance
338 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Ponferrada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Ponferrada will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast trains
On Wed, Oct 07, we found 21 trains from Madrid to Ponferrada, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 07 the direct trains cover the 338 km distance in an average of 4 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 18 m .
On Wed, Oct 07 the slowest trains will take 5 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.
05071+
377229:56 AM8h41Madrid Chamartín6:37 PMPonferrada station$561One-way1 transfer- 05071+
126019:56 AM4h38Madrid Chamartín2:34 PMPonferrada station$561One-way1 transfer 
04121+
0417911:23 AM10h25Madrid Chamartín9:48 PMPonferrada station$631One-way1 transfer- 04121+3772211:23 AM7h14Madrid Chamartín6:37 PMPonferrada station$651One-way1 transfer
04091+377229:15 AM9h22Madrid Chamartín6:37 PMPonferrada station$661One-way1 transfer
- 041795:30 PM4h18Madrid Chamartín9:48 PMPonferrada station$761One-way0 transfers
- 05071+126019:56 AM4h38Madrid Chamartín2:34 PMPonferrada station$561One-way1 transfer
- 04149+377221:53 PM4h44Madrid Chamartín6:37 PMPonferrada station$721One-way1 transfer
- 04149+006221:53 PM4h44Madrid Chamartín6:37 PMPonferrada station$831One-way1 transfer
- 04161+371794:37 PM5h11Madrid Chamartín9:48 PMPonferrada station$801One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Ponferrada
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 17:30. The fastest train covers the 210 miles (338 km) distance in 3h 36m.
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 210 miles (338 km) |
Average train duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 36m |
First train 6:08 AM |
Last train 5:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 Ponferrada train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Ponferrada trains for today, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04161+04179 | On time 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h11 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+37179 | On time 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h11 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04179 | On time 5:30 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h18 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, October 7 | |||||
| 04087 · 00622 | On time 6:55 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h42 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04261 · 00622 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h33 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04261+37722 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h33 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04261+12601 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h30 | 2:34 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04091 · 00622 | 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h22 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04091+37722 | 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h22 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04091+12601 | 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h19 | 2:34 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+37722 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h41 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+00622 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h41 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+12601 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 4h38 | 2:34 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+00622 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h14 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+37722 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h14 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+04179 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h25 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04149+37722 | 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h44 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04149+00622 | 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h44 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04149+04179 | 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h55 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04151+37179 | 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h49 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 04151+04179 | 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h49 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Madrid to Ponferrada trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO and more offer trains services from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Ponferrada.
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 INTERCITY, Renfe ALVIA or Renfe AVLO to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Ponferrada.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Ponferrada.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Ponferrada?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Ponferrada is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Ponferrada route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada.
Trains
from $14Buses
from $43Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe AVLO from Madrid to Ponferrada trainsRenfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe AVLO trains will get you between Madrid and Ponferrada from $12 (€10). 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 43m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$13 (€11)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
1 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
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 AVE Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest AVE Price
$12 (€10)
AVE frequency
10 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 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 12m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$23 (€19)
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 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 Renfe AVLO Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Renfe AVLO Price
$12 (€10)
Renfe AVLO frequency
3 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 Ponferrada
Things to do in Ponferrada
Discover the best of Ponferrada — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ponferrada trip today.
- Must visit
La Fábrica de Luz. Museo de la Energía
Contemporary museum devoted to Spain’s energy story, with interactive displays on coal, electricity, and transition, set in a restored power plant.
- Recommended
Museo del Bierzo
Important contemporary art museum with changing exhibitions and striking architecture, one of the region’s leading cultural venues.
- Must visit
Plaza de la Encina
Historic square beside the basilica and castle, one of Ponferrada’s most atmospheric spots for architecture and photos.
- Must visit
Casco Antiguo de Ponferrada
Historic quarter around the castle and basilica, best explored on foot for medieval lanes, stone buildings, and Camino character.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Main square of the old town, framed by historic buildings and arcades, ideal for orienting yourself before visiting nearby monuments.
- Gluten-free
Botillo del Bierzo
Smoked pork sausage from El Bierzo, usually pan-fried or grilled. It is one of the comarca’s best-known cured meats and a staple in local taverns.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Maragato
A hearty chickpea and meat stew linked to nearby Maragatería but widely eaten in Ponferrada. It is famous for its unusual serving order and rich flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pimiento Asado del Bierzo
Roasted green peppers from El Bierzo with a sweet, delicate flavor. They are prized for local terroir and often served grilled or preserved.
MuNa
Refined restaurant in Ponferrada known for contemporary Bierzo cuisine, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
Casa Noval
Well-known traditional restaurant specializing in Bierzo classics and seasonal products, with a warm dining room and strong local reputation.
Las Cuadras
Popular central venue for León and Bierzo cooking, offering local meats, botillo, and regional wines in a classic, comfortable atmosphere.
Euro (€)
More affordable than Spain's big cities, with lower hotel rates, modest dining prices, and low local transport costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafés; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Ponferrada can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $31 (€26).
The train from Madrid to Ponferrada takes 3h 36m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Madrid to Ponferrada leaves at 6:08 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Ponferrada is 210 miles (338 km).
The last train from Madrid to Ponferrada leaves at 5:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Ponferrada. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe INTERCITY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Ponferrada.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Ponferrada is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Ponferrada station.
Yes, the train journey from Madrid to Ponferrada offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and charming small towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Popular day trips by train from Ponferrada include León, O Barco de Valdeorras, Monforte de Lemos, Astorga, A Rua.
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 Ponferrada, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings and keep valuables secure. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions like avoiding overly persistent street vendors and verifying taxi fares before rides are recommended 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madrid to Ponferrada
Most Madrid to Ponferrada trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Ponferrada station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada
Which Madrid station do trains to Ponferrada leave from?
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 · $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.
Which Ponferrada station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada arrive at Ponferrada. Ponferrada is 0 miles (1 km) from Ponferrada city centre.
PonferradaEstación de Ponferrada, Avenida de la Libertad, 24400 Ponferrada, León, Spain+34 987 410 000
City-centre transport
Getting to Ponferrada from Ponferrada city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TaxiAvailable outside the station
Ponferrada train station facilities and services
Ponferrada 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, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Perla, Restaurante Mencía
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ponferrada. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ponferrada. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ponferrada: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ponferrada: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ponferrada: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include AC Hotel Ponferrada, Hotel Temple Ponferrada, Hotel Aroi Ponferrada.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Ponferrada
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ponferrada and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Ponferrada
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