- Must visit
La Fábrica de Luz. Museo de la Energía
Industrial heritage and science museum in a restored power station, explaining coal, electricity, and the region’s energy history. One of the area’s most distinctive museum visits.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Ponferrada
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$41
Average price
$74
Fastest journey
4 h 12 m
Average duration
4 h 12 m
Trains per day
2
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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Madrid for Ponferrada on Thu, Jul 09, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 338 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 12 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 4 h 12 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.
4:30 PM4h12Madrid8:42 PMPonferrada$411One-way0 transfers- 3:30 PM4h12Madrid7:42 PMPonferrada$1081One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 PM4h12Madrid8:42 PMPonferrada$411One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM4h12Madrid7:42 PMPonferrada$1081One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Madrid to Ponferrada
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Ponferrada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 30m. 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 $37, and a train costs an average of $31.
Distance: 210 miles (338 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$72 Average price | $45 Average price Cheapest | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 9m Average total duration 5h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Ponferrada is a bus with an average price of $45 (€37).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Ponferrada:
A bus is $26 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Ponferrada costing on average $72 (€59).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Ponferrada is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 30m.
Other travel options to Ponferrada take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Ponferrada including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros.
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 Ponferrada train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Ponferrada trains for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:30 PM Madrid | 4h12 | 7:42 PM Ponferrada | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:30 PM Madrid | 4h12 | 8:42 PM Ponferrada | 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 Ponferrada by train or bus
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Why should you book Madrid to Ponferrada trains with Omio?
Renfe INTERCITY as well as Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe INTERCITY tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe INTERCITY?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe INTERCITY, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, AVE or Renfe Viajeros 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 Renfe INTERCITY with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Ponferrada
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) 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 4h 12m.
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 5h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 12m |
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 Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Train companies: Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Ponferrada trainsRenfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Ponferrada from $31 (€25). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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
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 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
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 Duration
4h 38m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€57)
AVE frequency
1 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 Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
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.
- Recommended
Museo de la Radio Luis del Olmo
Museum dedicated to the history of radio in Spain, created around broadcaster Luis del Olmo. A compact local museum with vintage receivers, microphones, and broadcasting memorabilia.
- Recommended
Museo del Bierzo
City museum in the old prison building covering archaeology, local history, and culture of El Bierzo. A solid introduction to Ponferrada and the wider comarca.
- Must visit
Casco Antiguo de Ponferrada
Historic center with medieval streets, traditional facades, and easy access to the castle, basilica, and key museums. The best area for strolling and atmosphere.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Main civic square framed by historic buildings and the town hall. A natural meeting point and one of the most photogenic urban spaces in central Ponferrada.
- Recommended
Plaza de la Encina
Lively square beside the basilica and close to the castle, central to the old town’s identity. Good for photos, people-watching, and orienting yourself in the historic core.
- Gluten-free
Botillo del Bierzo
The signature dish of El Bierzo: pork rib, tail and other cuts stuffed into a casing, smoked and cured, then cooked and served with cabbage and potatoes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pimientos Asados del Bierzo
Roasted red peppers from El Bierzo, prized for their sweetness and protected local status. Often served as a tapa, salad or side dish.
- Gluten-free
Cecina
Air-cured beef, deeply savory and traditional in León province. It is commonly served thinly sliced with olive oil as a tapa or starter.
Muna
Refined contemporary restaurant in Ponferrada with a strong reputation for modern tasting menus rooted in Bierzo products and flavors.
La Bodega de Godivah
Popular, established spot for tapas, wine and casual dining, appreciated for local products and a lively central atmosphere.
Casa Noval
Traditional restaurant in Ponferrada known for regional Leonese and Bierzo cooking, including hearty local specialties in a classic setting.
Euro
Generally affordable by Spanish city standards. Meals and coffee are reasonable, while upscale dining and hotels cost more in peak Camino season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for tapas, menu del día, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 45-70 per person at an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-2.50 for a coffee or café con leche.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change in cafés is enough. Taxis are usually rounded up, and hotel tipping is optional.
Ayuntamiento de Ponferrada
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.10 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Estación de Ponferrada, Ponferrada -> Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Ponferrada
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- Urban buses are the main public transport option in Ponferrada; check municipal service updates before traveling.
- Card payment on local buses is not consistently documented on official sources, so carry cash for tickets.
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 $31 (€25), while the average price is around $72 (€59).
The train from Madrid to Ponferrada runs once a day and takes approximately 4h 12m.
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, Renfe Viajeros.
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.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Ponferrada is by train, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
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.
A day trip from Madrid to Ponferrada is not feasible as the journey time is 4h 12m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a day trip. The distance is 210 miles (338 km), and there is 1 train per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Ponferrada, including its historic Templar castle, the Basilica de la Encina, and the nearby Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Since both Madrid and Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada include León, O Barco de Valdeorras, Monforte de Lemos, Astorga, A Rua.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 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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