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Centre Walter Benjamin
Local interpretation space on Walter Benjamin’s final journey and exile history, central to understanding Portbou’s cultural identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Portbou
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
zł204
Average price
zł275
Fastest journey
5 h 28 m
Average duration
5 h 56 m
Trains per day
40
Distance
614 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Portbou is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Portbou will cost around zł275 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł204.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Portbou without transferring at least once.
06121+
1581612:22 PM7h29Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes7:51 PMPortbou stationzł2041One-way1 transfer- 06111+1581611:22 AM8h29Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes7:51 PMPortbou stationzł2041One-way1 transfer
- 06111+1591811:22 AM6h29Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes5:51 PMPortbou stationzł2041One-way1 transfer
- 06121+1581612:22 PM7h29Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes7:51 PMPortbou stationzł2041One-way1 transfer
- 06111+1581611:22 AM8h29Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes7:51 PMPortbou stationzł2041One-way1 transfer
03181+152675:57 PM5h28Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes11:25 PMPortbou stationzł3821One-way1 transfer- 03143+
158182:27 PM5h32Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes7:59 PMPortbou stationzł6411One-way1 transfer - 03311+158066:27 AM6h02Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes12:29 PMPortbou stationzł2311One-way1 transfer
- 06261+158066:09 AM6h20Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes12:29 PMPortbou stationzł2291One-way1 transfer
- 06261+158066:09 AM6h20Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes12:29 PMPortbou stationzł2291One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Portbou
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Portbou run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł303 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 11:27. The fastest train covers the 381 miles (614 km) distance in 5h 24m.
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 381 miles (614 km) |
Average train duration 4h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price zł303 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 5h 24m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:27 AM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 Portbou train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Portbou trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03143+15267 | On time 2:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h58 | 11:25 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03143+15820 | On time 2:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h24 | 9:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03143+15818 | On time 2:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h32 | 7:59 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06021+15820 | On time 2:42 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h09 | 9:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03163+15267 | On time 4:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h58 | 11:25 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03181+15267 | On time 5:57 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h28 | 11:25 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, August 6 | |||||
| 06261+15806 | On time 6:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h20 | 12:29 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06261+15806 | On time 6:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h20 | 12:29 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06261+15912 | On time 6:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h42 | 1:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03311+15806 | 6:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h02 | 12:29 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03311+15912 | 6:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h24 | 1:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03311+15916 | 6:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h25 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06071+15916 | 7:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h30 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06071+15912 | 7:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h29 | 1:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06071+15912 | 7:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h29 | 1:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06081+15916 | 8:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h30 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06081+15916 | 8:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h30 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03083+15916 | 8:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h25 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06281+15916 | 8:50 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h02 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06281+15916 | 8:50 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h02 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03091+15916 | 8:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h55 | 3:52 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03093+15818 | 9:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 10h32 | 7:59 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03093+15918 | 9:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h24 | 5:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03093+15816 | 9:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 10h24 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06011+15918 | 9:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h54 | 5:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06011+15816 | 9:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h54 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06011+15918 | 9:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h54 | 5:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03303+15818 | 10:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h32 | 7:59 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03303+15918 | 10:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h24 | 5:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 03303+15816 | 10:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h24 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06111+15816 | 11:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h29 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06111+15816 | 11:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h29 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06111+15918 | 11:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h29 | 5:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06121+15818 | 12:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h37 | 7:59 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06121+15816 | 12:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h29 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 06121+15816 | 12:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h29 | 7:51 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 09725+15818 | 12:50 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h09 | 7:59 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 09725+15263 | 12:50 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h30 | 7:20 PM Portbou station | 1 transfer | |
| 09725+15816 | 12:50 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h01 | 7:51 PM Portbou 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 Portbou trains with Omio?
Renfe AVLO as well as iryo, AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo and more offer trains services from Madrid to Portbou.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe AVLO tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe AVLO?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe AVLO, but also compare tickets for the likes of iryo, AVE, Renfe Viajeros or Ouigo to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Portbou.
- 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.
Train companies: Renfe AVLO, iryo, AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo from Madrid to Portbou trainsRenfe AVLO, iryo, AVE, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains will get you between Madrid and Portbou from zł303. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
iryo
About
iryo is a new brand from railway operator ILSA operating in Spain since 2022. iryo uses Frecciarossa 1000 trains which are modern, can travel at up to 360km/h and have a minimal environmental impact. iryo’s Frecciarossa trains have different classes, all of which come with free unlimited WiFi, power sockets, toilets and an onboard entertainment portal where you can watch films and TV series. The main classes are: Infinita Class, Singular Café Class, Singular Class, Inicial Class. These new trains take 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Madrid and Barcelona. They depart from Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants stations, and stop in Zaragoza along the way. iryo services also cover Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Córdoba, Seville and Málaga.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 37m
Cheapest Price
zł422
iryo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (36x56x26cm) and 1 handbag (36x30x10cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead compartments and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with Mediterranean cuisine, at-seat service in both classes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Large dogs need paid ticket
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
5h 24m
Cheapest Price
zł339
AVE frequency
5 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 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
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
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 20m
Cheapest Price
zł303
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 44m
Cheapest Price
zł367
Ouigo frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Portbou
Things to do in Portbou
Discover the best of Portbou — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portbou trip today.
Sala Municipal d'Exposicions
Town exhibition area used for local art, photography, and heritage displays, offering insight into Portbou’s community culture.
Espai del Ferrocarril de Portbou
Interpretive space inside or near the station focused on railway history and Portbou’s role as a major border rail hub.
- Must visit
Camí de Ronda de Portbou
Scenic coastal path segment with dramatic cliffs and views toward France, especially appealing for walkers and photographers.
- Recommended
Platja Gran de Portbou
Main town beach with clear water, promenade access, and classic views of Portbou’s bay, station hills, and maritime setting.
- Recommended
Platja Petita de Portbou
Smaller beach cove popular with locals, offering a quieter atmosphere and attractive views near the center.
- Gluten-free
Suquet De Peix
Suquet de peix is a Catalan fishermen’s stew of local rockfish, potatoes, garlic and saffron, long linked to the Costa Brava’s small fishing ports.
- Gluten-free
Arròs Negre
Arròs negre is rice cooked with cuttlefish and squid ink, giving it a deep sea flavor and black color. It is a classic coastal dish across this part of Catalonia.
Fideuà
Fideuà is a seaside favorite made like paella but with short noodles, usually with seafood. It is popular in Empordà and commonly served in local restaurants.
Restaurant La Gambina
Traditional dining room in nearby Colera, valued for grilled fish, shellfish and classic Costa Brava cooking in a longstanding setting.
Restaurant Passatges
Established seafront restaurant known for seafood, rice dishes and relaxed Mediterranean views near Portbou’s waterfront.
Bar Platja
Casual local spot in Portbou for tapas, fish and simple Catalan plates, with an unfussy atmosphere popular for everyday dining.
Euro (€)
Moderate for coastal Spain: lodging can rise in summer, but casual meals and short local trips stay fairly affordable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €45-70 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Cafes: small change. Taxis: round up the fare; tips are appreciated but not expected.
Rodalies de Catalunya
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Portbou railway station -> Plaça Major, Portbou
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Portbou is small and the center is walkable from the station in about 5 min.
- For regional trains, buy tickets before boarding; card payment availability can vary by machine and operator.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Portbou
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Portbou 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 Portbou, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Portbou can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł303, while the average price is around zł373.
The train from Madrid to Portbou takes 5h 24m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Madrid to Portbou leaves at 12:14 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Portbou is 381 miles (614 km).
The last train from Madrid to Portbou leaves at 11:27 AM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Portbou.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Portbou.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Portbou.
The train journey from Madrid to Portbou offers scenic views, especially as it approaches the Catalan coast, with picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Portbou.
Popular day trips by train from Portbou include Perpignan, Collioure, Narbonne, Barcelona, Argelès-sur-Mer.
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 Portbou, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and popular tourist spots. Staying vigilant in busy places and keeping valuables secure helps reduce risk. There are no widely reported scams specific to Portbou, but travelers should always be wary of unsolicited offers or overly aggressive vendors. Road safety should also be considered when exploring the surrounding coastal paths.
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 Portbou
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portbou and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Portbou
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