Madrid to Tarragona train with AVE

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
iryo
Renfe
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
iryo
Renfe
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Tarragona

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$30
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$64
Fastest journey on Nov 04
2 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
2 h 33 m
Trains on Nov 04
22
Distance
424 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Tarragona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Madrid to Tarragona will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 22 trains from Madrid to Tarragona, including 16 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 424 km distance in an average of 2 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 27 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 41 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.

  • SNCF OUIGO06501
    0 transfers
  • AVE03173
    0 transfers
  • AVE03301
    0 transfers
  • AVE03091
    0 transfers
  • AVE03113
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Tarragona

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Tarragona run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€16) but you can travel from only $6 (€5) by bus.

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 263 miles (424 km) distance in 2h 4m.

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 $6 (€5)

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance263 miles (424 km)
  • Average train duration3h 21m
  • Cheapest ticket price$18 (€16)
  • Trains per day14
  • Direct trains11
  • Fastest train2h 4m
  • First train6:08 AM
  • Last train9:13 PM
  • Cheapest MonthMar
  • Cheapest DaySat
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayThu
  • Least Busy DaySun
  • Best time to book14 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $6 (€5)

Frequently asked questions about your Madrid to Tarragona trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Madrid to Tarragona.

Train ticket prices from Madrid to Tarragona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€16), while the average price is around $69 (€58).
The train from Madrid to Tarragona takes 2h 4m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Tarragona is 263 miles (424 km).
The first train from Madrid to Tarragona leaves at 6:08 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Tarragona leaves at 9:13 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Tarragona. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by AVE, SNCF OUIGO, iryo.

Live departures

Madrid to Tarragona train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Tarragona trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
AVE03073
On time
7:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
3h01
10:28 AM Camp de Tarragona
0 transfersDirect
AVE03091
On time
8:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h28
11:25 AM Camp de Tarragona
0 transfersDirect
iryo06091+Renfe170569:12 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
11h12
8:24 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
iryo06091+Renfe170509:12 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
6h42
3:54 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
AVE030939:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h54
12:21 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
SNCF OUIGO065019:31 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h44
12:15 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo060119:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h42
12:39 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo06011+Renfe170569:57 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
10h27
8:24 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
iryo06111+Renfe1705611:22 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
9h02
8:24 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
AVE0311311:27 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
3h01
2:28 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo06121+Renfe1705612:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
8h02
8:24 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
AVE0972512:50 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h48
3:38 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo060212:42 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h45
5:27 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
AVE033053:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
3h02
6:29 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
AVE031735:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h59
8:26 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
AVE031836:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h41
9:08 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo061816:32 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h28
9:00 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo060157:29 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h40
10:09 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
AVE033097:34 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
3h03
10:37 PM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, November 4
iryo062616:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h41
8:50 AM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect
iryo06261+Renfe170506:09 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
9h45
3:54 PM Tarragona station1 transfer
AVE033016:16 AM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h27
8:43 AM Camp de Tarragona0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Madrid to Tarragona trains with Omio?

AVE as well as SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe and more offer trains services from Madrid to Tarragona.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Tarragona.

Why book with Omio vs AVE?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF OUIGO, iryo or Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Tarragona.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Tarragona.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF OUIGO, iryo or Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Tarragona.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Tarragona.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Tarragona?

The best time to book your train from Madrid to Tarragona is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Tarragona route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Tarragona per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Madrid to Tarragona.

Train companies

Train companies from Madrid to Tarragona

Trains from Madrid to Tarragona with AVE, Renfe, and iryo. High-speed trains available on this route with AVE, iryo, and SNCF OUIGO. Regional trains available on this route with Renfe. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 AVE Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest AVE Price
$18 (€16)
AVE frequency
10 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

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
4h 56m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$24 (€21)
Renfe frequency
5 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

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
$27 (€23)
iryo frequency
4 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

SNCF OUIGO

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF OUIGO Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest SNCF OUIGO Price
$30 (€25)
SNCF OUIGO frequency
1 a day

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Madrid and Tarragona

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Tarragona.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Tarragona.
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.

Complete guide to Tarragona

Things to do in Tarragona

Discover the best of Tarragona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tarragona trip today.

  • Must visit

Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona

Main archaeological museum for Roman Tarraco, with mosaics, sculpture, inscriptions, and essential context for the UNESCO site.

  • Recommended

Maqueta de Tarraco

Detailed model and interpretation center explaining ancient Tarraco's layout, ideal before exploring the Roman remains.

  • Recommended

Museu Diocesà de Tarragona

Museum inside the cathedral complex featuring liturgical art, sculpture, and treasures tied to Tarragona's religious history.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Spain: dining is reasonable, local transit is cheap, and summer hotels rise but stay below Barcelona.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple menu.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for great service. For cafes and taxis, round up or leave small change.

Plan your visit to Tarragona

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Tarragona.

Yes, the train journey from Madrid to Tarragona offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through diverse landscapes including the rolling hills of the Spanish countryside, picturesque villages, and along parts of the Mediterranean coast.
Popular day trips by train from Tarragona include Barcelona, Zaragoza, Lleida, Reus, Vinaros.
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 Tarragona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and near popular tourist sites. Common scams include overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or trying to sell fake tickets. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy spots and use official transportation and ticket vendors to avoid fraud.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Tarragona

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Tarragona.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Madrid to Tarragona

Most Madrid to Tarragona trains use the Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Camp de Tarragona station pair, with some services arriving at Tarragona. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Tarragona 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 Tarragona

Which Madrid station do trains to Tarragona leave from?

Trains from Madrid to Tarragona 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 912432343WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $2 · every ~15 min
Bus26, 32 · 6m · $2 · every ~60 min
Subway1 · 6m · $3 · 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.

Train stations for Madrid to Tarragona

Check train stations information for Madrid and Tarragona, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Madrid that goes to Tarragona is Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, which connects to Camp de Tarragona.

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