Madrid to Salzburg train with AVE

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
AVE
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
AVE
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Salzburg

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Salzburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $105. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.6 - 3.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $105, and a train costs an average of $445.

Distance: 971 miles (1564 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$465

Average price

$385

Average price

$156

Average price

Cheapest

$424

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

41h 36m

Average total duration

41h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 52m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

30h 16m

Average total duration

29h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

20h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

-

CO2 emissions

4.7 - 9.4kg

CO2 emissions

1.6 - 3.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

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 Salzburg is a bus with an average price of $156 (€126).

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

A bus is $228 (€184) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Salzburg costing on average $385 (€310).

A bus is $309 (€249) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Salzburg costing on average $465 (€375).

The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Salzburg is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 52m.

Other travel options to Salzburg take longer:

Bus takes on average 29h 46m.

Train takes on average 41h 6m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Salzburg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Salzburg 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 $465 (€375) compared to roughly $424 (€342) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-41.10 (€-33.14). The journey takes 41h 6m versus 20h 50m 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.

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 Salzburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Salzburg trains for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Renfe AVE9:07 PM Madrid
38h56
12:03 PM Salzburg4 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare train, bus, 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 Salzburg trains with Omio?

AVE operates all trains services from Madrid to Salzburg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Salzburg.

Why book with Omio vs AVE?

  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Salzburg.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Salzburg.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Salzburg

SpainSpain
AustriaAustria
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Salzburg run on average 1 times per day, taking around 41h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $445 (€359) but you can travel from only $105 (€84) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:55, the last at 17:07. The fastest train covers the 971 miles (1564 km) distance in 38h 56m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $105 (€84)
Distance
971 miles (1564 km)
Average train duration
41h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$445 (€359)
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
38h 56m
First train
5:55 AM
Last train
5:07 PM
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $105 (€84)

Train companies: AVE from Madrid to Salzburg trainsAVE trains will get you between Madrid and Salzburg from $105 (€84). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
38h 56m
Cheapest Price
$445 (€359)
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

FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Salzburg

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Salzburg 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 Salzburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Salzburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $445 (€359), while the average price is around $465 (€375).
The train from Madrid to Salzburg runs once a day and takes approximately 38h 56m.
The distance by train from Madrid to Salzburg is 971 miles (1564 km).
The first train from Madrid to Salzburg leaves at 5:55 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Salzburg leaves at 5:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Salzburg.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Salzburg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Salzburg.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Salzburg is by bus, with a cost of around $105 (€84).
The train journey from Madrid to Salzburg offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the diverse landscapes of Spain and the picturesque alpine regions of Austria, allowing travelers to enjoy the changing vistas en route.
A day trip from Madrid to Salzburg is not feasible. The journey takes 38h 56m and covers a distance of 971 miles (1564 km). There is only 1 train per day.
In Salzburg, you can explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the city and Alps, visit the baroque Mirabell Palace and Gardens, discover Mozart's Birthplace to learn about the famous composer, admire the stunning architecture of Salzburg Cathedral, and stroll along Getreidegasse, a charming shopping street with historic buildings and cafes.
To fully experience Salzburg, including its historic sites, cultural attractions, and scenic views, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Salzburg.
Since both Madrid and Salzburg 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 Salzburg include Munich, Linz, Zell am See, Bad Gastein, Schladming.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Salzburg 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.
Austria uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Salzburg, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Beware of distraction scams where individuals may approach to engage in conversation or ask for signatures, aiming to steal valuables. It’s also advisable to use licensed taxis and official transportation services to avoid overcharging. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night 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.

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