- Must visit
DomQuartier Salzburg
Museum complex linking the Cathedral, Residenz, and St Peter’s areas, showcasing Baroque state rooms, art, and church treasures.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
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 $103. 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 $103, and a train costs an average of $437.
Distance: 971 miles (1564 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$457 Average price | $378 Average price | $153 Average price Cheapest | $417 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 $153 (€126).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Salzburg:
A bus is $224 (€184) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Salzburg costing on average $378 (€310).
A bus is $304 (€249) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Salzburg costing on average $457 (€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 $457 (€375) compared to roughly $417 (€342) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-40.37 (€-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, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:07 PM Madrid | 38h56 | 12:03 PM Salzburg | 4 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
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
Spain
Austria
Trains from Madrid to Salzburg run on average 1 times per day, taking around 41h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $437 (€359) but you can travel from only $103 (€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 $103 (€84)
Distance 971 miles (1564 km) |
Average train duration 41h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $437 (€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 $103 (€84)
Train companies: AVE from Madrid to Salzburg trainsAVE trains will get you between Madrid and Salzburg from $103 (€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
$437 (€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
Complete guide to Salzburg
Things to do in Salzburg
Discover the best of Salzburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salzburg trip today.
- Must visit
Mozart's Birthplace
One of Salzburg’s most famous museums, presenting Mozart’s early life, instruments, family history, and original documents.
- Recommended
Museum der Moderne Salzburg
Major modern and contemporary art museum with exhibitions split between the Mönchsberg hilltop venue and Rupertinum in the old town.
- Must visit
Getreidegasse
Salzburg’s most famous shopping street, lined with historic facades, wrought-iron guild signs, and Mozart associations.
- Must visit
Altstadt Salzburg
UNESCO-listed old town with Baroque streets, church domes, courtyards, and many of the city’s signature sights.
- Must visit
Mirabell Gardens
Formal palace gardens with fountains, sculptures, and classic postcard views toward the fortress and old town.
- Vegetarian
Salzburger Nockerl
A classic Salzburg dessert of airy sweet soufflé peaks, traditionally said to resemble the city’s surrounding mountains. It is one of Salzburg’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
Kasnocken
Small dumpling-like pasta pieces tossed with melted mountain cheese and topped with fried onions. A beloved Alpine comfort dish commonly eaten in Salzburg.
- Gluten-free
Tafelspitz
Boiled beef served with broth, root vegetables, and sauces such as apple horseradish. A traditional Austrian specialty widely appreciated in Salzburg.
St. Peter Stiftskulinarium
Historic restaurant in St. Peter’s Abbey known for refined Austrian cuisine and elegant dining rooms. Ideal for a classic Salzburg fine-dining experience.
Augustiner Bräustübl
Historic brewery tavern loved for fresh beer and a traditional food market atmosphere. A classic place to experience Salzburg’s beer culture.
Sternbräu
Large traditional beer hall and restaurant serving Austrian classics, local beer, and hearty portions in a lively historic setting.
Euro
Prices are high by Austrian standards, especially for hotels and central dining, but bakeries, transit, and casual lunches can still be reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3.50-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or add about 5-10% for good service. Round up for taxis. Small tips are appreciated in cafés, hotels, and for guides.
Salzburg Verkehr
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.60
- Day pass
- EUR 4.90
To the city center
Salzburg Hbf, Salzburg -> Mozartplatz, Salzburg
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy tickets in the Salzburg Verkehr app, at ticket machines, or from many sales points before boarding. On buses, card payment is not always available, so buy in advance when possible.
- Validate whether your ticket needs activation before travel and keep it ready for inspection. The KlimaTicket Salzburg and some guest cards may cover local transport.
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.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Salzburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $437 (€359), while the average price is around $457 (€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 $103 (€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.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Salzburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Salzburg and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Salzburg
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
