- Recommended
Torre Vella Exhibition Space
Historic defensive tower used for cultural exhibitions and contemporary art shows; Salou’s best-known small museum venue.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Salou
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$53
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$99
Fastest journey on Sep 01
2 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
2 h 39 m
Trains on Sep 01
5
Distance
415 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Salou is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Salou will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 5 trains from Madrid to Salou, including 5 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 415 km distance in an average of 2 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 28 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
060157:29 PM2h40Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes10:09 PMCamp de Tarragona$531One-way0 transfers- 061816:32 PM2h28Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes9:00 PMCamp de Tarragona$591One-way0 transfers
- 060212:42 PM2h45Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes5:27 PMCamp de Tarragona$1011One-way0 transfers
- 060119:57 AM2h42Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes12:39 PMCamp de Tarragona$1331One-way0 transfers
- 062616:09 AM2h41Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes8:50 AMCamp de Tarragona$1501One-way0 transfers
- 061816:32 PM2h28Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes9:00 PMCamp de Tarragona$591One-way0 transfers
- 060157:29 PM2h40Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes10:09 PMCamp de Tarragona$531One-way0 transfers
- 062616:09 AM2h41Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes8:50 AMCamp de Tarragona$1501One-way0 transfers
- 060119:57 AM2h42Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes12:39 PMCamp de Tarragona$1331One-way0 transfers
- 060212:42 PM2h45Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes5:27 PMCamp de Tarragona$1011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Madrid to Salou
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Salou among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $61 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 42m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $61, while a flight costs an average of $106.
Distance: 257 miles (415 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$61 Average price Cheapest | $67 Average price | $106 Average price | $105 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 30m Average total duration 5h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 22m Average total duration 5h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 42m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Salou is a train with an average price of $61 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Salou:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Salou costing on average $67 (€54).
A train is $44 (€36) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Salou costing on average $106 (€86).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Salou is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 42m.
Other travel options to Salou take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 0m.
Bus takes on average 5h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Salou including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Salou among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 29m faster (5h 0m by train vs 5h 29m by car) and roughly $44 (€35) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($61 (€50) vs $105 (€85)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Madrid to Salou train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Salou trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06261 | Delayed 6:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 2h41 | 6:50 AM 6:50 AMCamp de Tarragona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 06011 | Delayed 9:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 2h42 | 10:39 AM 10:39 AMCamp de Tarragona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 06021 | 2:42 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 2h45 | 5:27 PM Camp de Tarragona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 06181 | 6:32 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 2h28 | 9:00 PM Camp de Tarragona | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 06015 | 7:29 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 2h40 | 10:09 PM Camp de Tarragona | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Salou 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 Salou trains with Omio?
SNCF OUIGO as well as iryo or Renfe offer trains services from Madrid to Salou.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF OUIGO tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF OUIGO?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF OUIGO, but also compare tickets for the likes of iryo or Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Salou.
- 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 SNCF OUIGO with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Salou.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Salou
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Salou run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:14, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 257 miles (415 km) distance in 2h 28m.
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 257 miles (415 km) |
Average train duration 5h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€13) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 28m |
First train 9:14 AM |
Last train 9:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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: SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe from Madrid to Salou trainsSNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe trains will get you between Madrid and Salou from $17 (€13). 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 iryo Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest iryo Price
$17 (€13)
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
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
7h 38m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$5 (€4)
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
SNCF OUIGO
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF OUIGO Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest SNCF OUIGO Price
$17 (€14)
SNCF OUIGO frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Salou
Things to do in Salou
Discover the best of Salou — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salou trip today.
- Recommended
Ruta dels Búnquers de Salou
Open-air heritage route with preserved civil war bunkers and panels explaining coastal defense history around Cape Salou.
- Recommended
Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona
Nearby major Roman museum in Tarragona with mosaics and artifacts; a strong museum option for visitors staying in Salou.
- Must visit
Passeig Jaume I
Palm-lined seafront promenade and Salou’s signature walking area, linking beaches, fountains, sculptures, and major viewpoints.
- Must visit
Camí de Ronda
Scenic coastal path with coves, cliffs, and lookout points between beaches; one of the best walks for views in Salou.
- Recommended
Barri Antic de Salou
Historic neighborhood around the church and port, offering a more local atmosphere than the beachfront tourist zone.
- Gluten-free
Arrossejat
Arrossejat is a Costa Daurada rice dish cooked in rich fish stock, often with cuttlefish or prawns. It is a local seaside favorite linked to nearby fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Suquet De Peix
Suquet de peix is a Catalan fisherman’s stew of local fish, potatoes, garlic, and saffron. It is traditional along the Tarragona coast and prized for deep seafood flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Romesco
Romesco sauce, made with roasted peppers, almonds, hazelnuts, garlic, and olive oil, is a hallmark of Tarragona cuisine. It is served with fish, vegetables, and calçots.
Moss
Refined restaurant at Gran Palas Hotel, offering modern Mediterranean cooking and a more elegant atmosphere for special meals.
Restaurante La Goleta
Established seafood restaurant on the seafront, known for rice dishes, paella, and Mediterranean fish in a relaxed coastal setting.
La Brasa De Bonair
Popular casual spot for tapas, grilled meats, and Spanish favorites. It has a lively, informal atmosphere and a long-standing local following.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Costa Dorada resorts: hotels rise in summer, meals are fair, and local buses are affordable versus larger Spanish beach cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafes, small change is enough.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Salou
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Salou 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 Salou, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Salou can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $17 (€13), while the average price is around $61 (€50).
The train from Madrid to Salou takes 2h 28m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Madrid to Salou leaves at 9:14 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Salou is 257 miles (415 km).
The last train from Madrid to Salou leaves at 9:13 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Salou.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Salou. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Salou.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Salou is Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, which connects to Camp de Tarragona.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Salou is by train, with a cost of around $17 (€13).
The train journey from Madrid to Salou offers a mix of landscapes, including views of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and small towns, but it is not particularly known for being exceptionally scenic compared to other routes in Spain.
A day trip from Madrid to Salou is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 28m, and trains run 2 times per day. The distance is 257 miles (415 km).
In Salou, you can enjoy the lively Salou Promenade with its shops and restaurants, and explore Bosc Aventura Salou for adventure activities like zip-lining and climbing. Relax at Cala Crancs or Capellans Beach, or experience the magic at House of Illusion. For thrill-seekers, Karting Salou offers exciting go-karting. Don't miss the popular PortAventura World theme park or the scenic views from Salou Lighthouse. Llevant Beach provides golden sands for sunbathing, and the Illuminated Fountain offers a colorful nightly show.
To fully experience Salou, including its beaches, theme parks, and cultural attractions, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Salou.
Since both Madrid and Salou 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 Salou include Barcelona, Tardienta, Tarragona, Vinaros, Tudela.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Salou 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 Salou, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Avoid unlicensed taxis and always agree on fares beforehand to prevent overcharging. Be wary of overly aggressive street vendors and scams involving fake tickets or timeshares. Staying vigilant in busy tourist zones helps 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 Salou
Most Madrid to Salou trains use the Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Camp de Tarragona station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Salou 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 Salou
Which Madrid station do trains to Salou leave from?
Trains from Madrid to Salou leave from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Madrid city centre at Glorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain.
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena GrandesGlorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain+34 912432343
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.
Food and drink
Food options include: Passion Food, La Barrila, Enrique Tomás, Pic Nic, Foodissimo!, PureGusto, Burger King
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi in the station and on all Renfe trains. ATMs are in various points at the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00. Information desks are on the ground floor of the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is open daily from 05:30 to 22:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Wheelchair parking, adapted elevators, adapted platforms, lobby shopping area.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include 60 Balconies Urban Stay, Only YOU Hotel Atocha, SLEEP’N Atocha.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Salou
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Salou and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Salou
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