- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum, famous for Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. A core stop for classical European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Pau to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$109
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
9 h 46 m
Average duration
11 h 6 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
423 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Pau to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Pau to Madrid will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $109.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Pau to Madrid without transferring at least once.
8717+
041769:55 AM12h25Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc)10:20 PMMadrid Chamartín$1091One-way1 transfer- 8717+
041669:55 AM9h46Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc)7:41 PMMadrid Chamartín$1131One-way1 transfer
- 8717+041669:55 AM9h46Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc)7:41 PMMadrid Chamartín$1131One-way1 transfer
- 8717+041769:55 AM12h25Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc)10:20 PMMadrid Chamartín$1091One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Pau to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Pau to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 9h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a flight costs an average of $173.
Distance: 262 miles (423 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$116 Average price | $88 Average price Cheapest | $424 Average price | $151 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 52m Average total duration 12h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 21m Average total duration Fastest 9h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 12m Average total duration 11h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Pau to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $88 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Pau to Madrid:
A bus is $29 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Pau to Madrid costing on average $116 (€96).
A bus is $337 (€277) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Pau to Madrid costing on average $424 (€349).
The fastest way to travel from Pau to Madrid is by bus with an average journey time of 9h 51m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Flight takes on average 11h 12m.
Train takes on average 12h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Pau and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Pau to Madrid 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 $116 (€96) compared to roughly $151 (€124) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $35 (€29). The journey takes 12h 22m versus 6h 42m 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
Pau to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Pau to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8717+04176 | 9:55 AM Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc) | 12h25 | 10:20 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 8717+04166 | 9:55 AM Pau, Bd Lucien Favre (Technopôle Héliparc) | 9h46 | 7:41 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Pau 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Pau to Madrid
France
Spain
Trains from Pau to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 12h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 (€87) but you can travel from only $49 (€41) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:20, the last at 10:55. The fastest train covers the 262 miles (423 km) distance in 8h 49m.
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 $49 (€41)
Distance 262 miles (423 km) |
Average train duration 12h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $106 (€87) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 8h 49m |
First train 7:20 AM |
Last train 10:55 AM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $49 (€41)
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI from Pau to Madrid trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), SNCF | TGV INOUI trains will get you between Pau and Madrid from $49 (€41). 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
9h 41m
Cheapest Price
$142 (€117)
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
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 49m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€87)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
2 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
Madrid’s leading modern art museum, best known for Picasso’s Guernica and major 20th-century Spanish collections.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Major museum spanning Renaissance to modern art, complementing Prado and Reina Sofía with an accessible, broad collection.
- Must visit
Parque del Retiro
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for strolling, boating, monuments, and relaxed city breaks between museums.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Madrid’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, rooftops, theaters, and nonstop urban energy.
- Must visit
Puerta del Sol
Central square and symbolic heart of Madrid, home to key landmarks and a constant flow of local life.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Madrileño
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, traditionally served in stages with broth, vegetables, chickpeas, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most emblematic comfort dishes.
Bocadillo de Calamares
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is one of the city’s most famous quick bites.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
A hearty traditional stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla in a rich paprika sauce. It is a historic tavern dish strongly linked to Madrid cuisine.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic restaurant famous for roast suckling pig and Castilian specialties. Traditional wood-fired cooking and a classic old-Madrid atmosphere make it one of the city’s landmark dining rooms.
Casa Lucio
Legendary Madrid restaurant best known for huevos rotos. Elegant but relaxed, it is a long-established favorite for classic Spanish cooking.
La Bola
Traditional tavern celebrated for cocido madrileño cooked in individual clay pots. It offers a historic setting and one of the best-known versions of Madrid’s signature stew.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and tapas can be good value, but central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple lunch or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes, 5-10% at restaurants for great service, and round up taxi fares.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, Madrid -> Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay by bank card on Metro ticket machines, but city buses do not always accept card onboard, so buy tickets in advance when possible.
- The Tourist Travel Pass covers Metro, EMT buses, and Cercanías services within the selected zones and validity period.
FAQs: Trains from Pau to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Pau 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 Pau to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106 (€87), while the average price is around $116 (€96).
The train from Pau to Madrid takes 8h 49m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Pau to Madrid is 262 miles (423 km).
The first train from Pau to Madrid leaves at 7:20 AM.
The last train from Pau to Madrid leaves at 10:55 AM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Pau to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Pau to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Pau to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Pau to Madrid is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€41).
The train journey from Pau to Madrid offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Pyrenees and the rolling hills of northern Spain, providing passengers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Pau to Madrid is not feasible, as the journey takes 8h 49m. The distance between the two cities is 262 miles (423 km). There is a frequency of 1 trip per day 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 Pau to Madrid.
Since both Pau 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Pau 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.
Most popular train connections from Pau
More options for your journey from Pau to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Pau
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