- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Nice to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$185
Average price
$185
Fastest journey
1 d 1 h 8 m
Average duration
1 d 1 h 8 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
976 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nice to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nice to Madrid will cost around $185 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $185.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Nice to Madrid without transferring at least once.
3:10 PM25h08Nice4:18 PMMadrid$1851One-way1 transfer
- 3:10 PM25h08Nice4:18 PMMadrid$1851One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Nice to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Nice to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.0 - 2.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a flight costs an average of $57.
Distance: 606 miles (976 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$185 Average price | $234 Average price | $103 Average price Cheapest | $317 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 30m Average total duration 10h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 28m Average total duration Fastest 4h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 7m Average total duration 16h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 2.9 - 5.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Nice to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $103 (€85).
This is compared to other travel options from Nice to Madrid:
A bus is $82 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nice to Madrid costing on average $185 (€152).
A bus is $131 (€108) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Nice to Madrid costing on average $234 (€192).
The fastest way to travel from Nice to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 28m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 0m.
Bus takes on average 16h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Nice and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Nice to Madrid among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 30m faster (10h 0m by train vs 12h 30m by car) and roughly $131 (€108) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($185 (€152) vs $317 (€260)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Nice to Madrid 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 Nice to Madrid trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV INOUI as well as iryo or SNCF | Intercités offer trains services from Nice to Madrid.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV INOUI tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV INOUI?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV INOUI, but also compare tickets for the likes of iryo or SNCF | Intercités to find the best option for your trip from Nice to Madrid.
- 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 | TGV INOUI with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nice to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Nice to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Nice to Madrid is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Nice to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Nice to Madrid 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 Nice to Madrid.
Trains
from $29Buses
from $77Flights
from $268Journey information
Overview: Train from Nice to Madrid
France
Spain
Trains from Nice to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 10h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $185 (€152) but you can travel from only $48 (€39) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 19:25. The fastest train covers the 606 miles (976 km) distance in 24h 22m.
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 $48 (€39)
Distance 606 miles (976 km) |
Average train duration 10h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $185 (€152) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 24h 22m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 7:25 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $48 (€39)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, iryo, SNCF | Intercités from Nice to Madrid trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, iryo, SNCF | Intercités trains will get you between Nice and Madrid from $48 (€39). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 22m
Cheapest Price
$185 (€152)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: 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
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 | Intercités
About
SNCF Intercités is the brand used by France's national railway company, SNCF, for its non-high-speed, long and medium-distance services on the classic rail network. Established in 2006, it encompasses routes not served by the TGV network, including both day and overnight trains. Intercités connects major regional cities and offers an alternative for destinations not on the high-speed lines, such as Paris to Clermont-Ferrand, Bordeaux to Marseille, and Nantes to Lyon. These trains are known for being comfortable and air-conditioned, with services like luggage space and, on some lines, Wi-Fi.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by SNCF
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar-buffet car with snacks and drinks, or trolley service depending on route
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, additional fee applies. Free in 1st class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance service must be booked 48h in advance
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Madrid buses allow contactless bank card payment onboard, but Metro tickets are usually bought from station machines with card or cash.
- A 10-trip ticket can cost less per ride than single tickets if you plan several Metro or bus journeys.
FAQs: Trains from Nice to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nice to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Nice to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $185 (€152), while the average price is around $185 (€152).
The train from Nice to Madrid runs once a day and takes approximately 24h 22m.
The first train from Nice to Madrid leaves at 12:14 AM.
The distance by train from Nice to Madrid is 606 miles (976 km).
The last train from Nice to Madrid leaves at 7:25 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Nice to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Nice to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nice to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Nice to Madrid is by bus, with a cost of around $48 (€39).
The train journey from Nice to Madrid offers picturesque views, particularly as it travels along the French Riviera and through the Pyrenees, showcasing beautiful coastal and mountain landscapes.
A day trip from Nice to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 22m and the distance is 606 miles (976 km). Additionally, there is only 1 train per day available for this route.
In Madrid, you can explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere, and savor gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel. Discover the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, enjoy a traditional flamenco show, or visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. For cultural sights, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and Retiro Park. Don't miss Plaza Mayor and the lively Gran Vía for shopping and theaters.
For a well-rounded experience in Madrid, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Nice to Madrid.
Since both Nice and Madrid 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 Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Nice to Madrid 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.
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 Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps minimize risks.
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 Nice to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Nice
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