- 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 Paris to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Aug 20
Cheapest price
$186
Average price
$188
Fastest journey
10 h 10 m
Average duration
12 h 5 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
1052 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Paris to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Paris to Madrid will cost around $188 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $186.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Paris to Madrid without transferring at least once.
9711+
061806:42 AM13h40Paris Gare de Lyon8:22 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1861One-way1 transfer- 9713+061807:42 AM12h40Paris Gare de Lyon8:22 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1861One-way1 transfer
- 9711+061506:42 AM11h10Paris Gare de Lyon5:52 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1881One-way1 transfer
- 9713+061507:42 AM10h10Paris Gare de Lyon5:52 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1881One-way1 transfer
- 9711+
031706:42 AM13h45Paris Gare de Lyon8:27 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1891One-way1 transfer
- 9713+061507:42 AM10h10Paris Gare de Lyon5:52 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1881One-way1 transfer
- 9711+061506:42 AM11h10Paris Gare de Lyon5:52 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1881One-way1 transfer
- 9713+061807:42 AM12h40Paris Gare de Lyon8:22 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1861One-way1 transfer
- 9713+031707:42 AM12h45Paris Gare de Lyon8:27 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1891One-way1 transfer
- 9711+061806:42 AM13h40Paris Gare de Lyon8:22 PMMadrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes$1861One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Paris to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Paris to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $363.
Distance: 653 miles (1052 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$363 Average price | $197 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $381 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 16m Average total duration 8h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 12m Average total duration Fastest 6h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 47m Average total duration 11h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.2 - 6.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions | - 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 Paris to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $78 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Paris to Madrid:
A bus is $119 (€96) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Paris to Madrid costing on average $197 (€159).
A bus is $286 (€231) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Paris to Madrid costing on average $363 (€294).
The fastest way to travel from Paris to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 12m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 46m.
Bus takes on average 11h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Paris and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Paris to Madrid among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 4h 19m faster (8h 46m by train vs 13h 5m by car) and roughly $18 (€15) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($363 (€294) vs $381 (€309)). 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.
Live departures
Paris to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Paris to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9711+06150 | On time 6:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 11h10 | 5:52 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
| 9711+03170 | On time 6:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 13h45 | 8:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
| 9711+06180 | On time 6:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 13h40 | 8:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
| 9713+03170 | On time 7:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 12h45 | 8:27 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
| 9713+06150 | On time 7:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 10h10 | 5:52 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
| 9713+06180 | On time 7:42 AM Paris Gare de Lyon | 12h40 | 8:22 PM Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Paris 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Paris to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Paris to Madrid is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Paris to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Paris 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 Paris to Madrid.
Trains
from $117Buses
from $70Flights
from $219ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Paris to Madrid
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Good wifiPlenty of storage spaceDisadvantages
Cool temperatureOn 29 May, I travelled from Paris to Madrid. It was a very long journey that took about 10 hours. I had to change trains once during the journey from TGV 9708 to AVL 6301. The staff were very helpful and I was able to buy hot meals, snacks and drinks. There was wifi as well as power sockets and tables to work at. The seats were still comfortable after 10 hours. Unfortunately, it was a bit chilly because of the air conditioning.
Advantages
The catering was goodDisadvantages
You had to pay for the wifiAt 20:09 I boarded the OGV 7827 train. Nothing special had happened during the two-and-a-half hour journey. When I arrived in Avignon TGV, I had to book a hotel as the onward journey didn't continue for another 10 hours. However, the hotel was already paid for with my ticket. At 8:40 I boarded the AVG 9730 and travelled for 7 hours until I arrived in Madrid. The catering on the long journey was good, there were drinks and food and a large selection of snacks. The price was worth the journey, but unfortunately I still had to pay for the wifi.
Advantages
WIFIDisadvantages
Slight odourThe train that left at 21:34 on 24 March was TGV 6137 and then 9730 after changing trains. The comfort of the journey was good, there was food to buy, which was quite good, as well as comfortable seats, with the wifi I was able to surf the internet without any problems. The staff were friendly and helped me with my ticket. The train was clean and the toilets were hygienic.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Paris to Madrid
France
Spain
Trains from Paris to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $363 (€294) but you can travel from only $31 (€25) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 22:14. The fastest train covers the 653 miles (1052 km) distance in 20h 9m.
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
Flight from $31 (€25)
Distance 653 miles (1052 km) |
Average train duration 8h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $363 (€294) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 20h 9m |
First train 6:08 AM |
Last train 10:14 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 84 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
Flight from $31 (€25)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | Intercités de nuit, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Paris to Madrid trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | Intercités de nuit, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Paris and Madrid from $31 (€25). 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
10h 28m
Cheapest Price
$150 (€121)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
3 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
SNCF | Intercités de nuit
About
SNCF Intercités de nuit is the regular overnight train service offered by France's national railway company, SNCF, since 2012. These trains, primarily using Corail coaches, provide a time-effective way to travel across France, connecting Paris to various destinations in the south, including the Alps, the Côte d'Azur, and the Pyrenees. Passengers can choose from reclining seats, 6-berth couchettes in second class, or 4-berth couchettes in first class, with the option to book an entire compartment for privacy. Services can include Wi-Fi, pre-ordered meals, and even shower access at select stations for first-class travelers. Popular routes include Paris to Nice, Toulouse, Briançon, and Lourdes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Vending machine with snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
20h 9m
Cheapest Price
$363 (€294)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day
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.
Traveling by train from Paris to Madrid
The train connection between Paris and Madrid offers a seamless travel experience, allowing you to explore two cities with ease. The journey is serviced by renowned providers such as SNCF | TGV INOUI and Renfe-SNCF, ensuring comfort and efficiency throughout your trip. With multiple daily departures, travelers can enjoy scenic views while covering the distance of approximately 1,270 km in just about 12 hours. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this high-speed rail option provides an excellent way to traverse from France's capital to Spain's bustling heart.
Train Connection: Paris to Madrid
Traveling from Paris to Madrid takes approximately 14 hours and 31 minutes, with a total of 3 connections per day. The journey is not direct, requiring transfers along the way.
Paris to Madrid Train Connection
The first daily train journey from Paris to Madrid departs at 07:11, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities. The last departure is scheduled for 20:03, allowing visitors a full day of sightseeing before heading off on their evening adventure.
Train Tickets Price for Paris to Madrid
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Paris and Madrid is €287. The average ticket price tends to be around €289, making it a competitive option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.
Exploring Madrid's Cultural Treasures
The Prado Museum, established in 1819, is one of the world's premier art galleries and houses an extensive collection of European masterpieces from the 12th to early 20th centuries. Its significance lies not only in its vast array of works by renowned artists like Velázquez and Goya but also as a cultural beacon that reflects Spain's rich artistic heritage. Unique features include its stunning neoclassical architecture and the opportunity for visitors to explore lesser-known gems alongside iconic pieces.
The Royal Palace of Madrid serves as both a historical monument and the official residence of Spanish royalty, showcasing over three thousand rooms filled with exquisite art, furniture, and decor dating back to the 18th century. This grand palace holds immense significance as it symbolizes Spain’s royal history while offering insights into various architectural styles through its opulent design. One unique feature is the breathtaking Sabatini Gardens that provide a serene escape amidst this bustling city.
Plaza Mayor stands out as Madrid's central square since its construction in the late 16th century; it has been a focal point for public gatherings, markets, and celebrations throughout history. The plaza’s importance stems from being at the heart of social life in Madrid where locals gather to enjoy tapas or watch street performances under beautifully designed arches adorned with vibrant frescoes. A distinctive aspect is how each side showcases different architectural styles reflecting various periods—making every angle worth exploring!
FAQs: Trains from Paris to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paris 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 Paris to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $363 (€294), while the average price is around $363 (€294).
The train from Paris to Madrid runs once a day and takes approximately 20h 9m.
The distance by train from Paris to Madrid is 653 miles (1052 km).
The first train from Paris to Madrid leaves at 6:08 AM.
The last train from Paris to Madrid leaves at 10:14 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Paris to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Paris to Madrid.
Yes, there is a night train from Paris to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Paris to Madrid is by flight, with a cost of around $31 (€25).
The train journey from Paris to Madrid offers a mix of scenic views, including rolling countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the Pyrenees mountains, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Paris to Madrid is not feasible, as the journey takes 20h 9m and covers a distance of 653 miles (1052 km). Additionally, the frequency is 1 per day for trains.
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 Paris to Madrid.
Since both Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris to Madrid
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Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Paris
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