- Must visit
Museo del Castillo de los Templarios
Museum inside the Templar Castle showcasing medieval life, arms, and archaeology, adding strong context to Ponferrada’s most famous monument.
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
The cheapest and fastest trains from Salamanca to Ponferrada
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$49
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$65
Fastest journey on Sep 14
5 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
6 h 4 m
Trains on Sep 14
15
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Salamanca to Ponferrada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Salamanca to Ponferrada will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Salamanca to Ponferrada without transferring at least once.
18302+
3717912:30 PM9h18Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$491One-way1 transfer- 18306 · 371792:00 PM7h48Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$511One-way1 transfer
- 18314 · 371794:08 PM5h40Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$511One-way1 transfer
- 18310 · 37101+
041796:00 AM15h48Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$511One-way2 transfers - 18302+0417912:30 PM9h18Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$591One-way1 transfer
- 18314 · 371794:08 PM5h40Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$511One-way1 transfer
- 18314+041794:08 PM5h40Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$611One-way1 transfer
- 18314+
04161+041794:08 PM5h40Salamanca station9:48 PMPonferrada station$971One-way2 transfers - 18302+37101+
0062212:30 PM6h07Salamanca station6:37 PMPonferrada station$641One-way2 transfers - 37431+05071+126017:20 AM7h14Salamanca station2:34 PMPonferrada station$771One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Salamanca to Ponferrada
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Salamanca to Ponferrada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $14 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 4h 15m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $14, while a bus costs an average of $29.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price Cheapest | $29 Average price | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 47m Average total duration 4h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 3h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Salamanca to Ponferrada is a train with an average price of $14 (€12).
This is compared to other travel options from Salamanca to Ponferrada:
A train is $15 (€12) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Salamanca to Ponferrada costing on average $29 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Salamanca to Ponferrada is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 45m.
Other travel options to Ponferrada take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salamanca and Ponferrada including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Salamanca to Ponferrada 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 $14 (€12) compared to roughly $55 (€44) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $40 (€33). The journey takes 4h 17m versus 2h 29m 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
Salamanca to Ponferrada train times
The table below shows live departures for Salamanca to Ponferrada trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18310 · 37101+00622 | On time 6:00 AM Salamanca station | 12h37 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 18310 · 37101+04179 | On time 6:00 AM Salamanca station | 15h48 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 18310+05071+12601 | Delayed 6:00 AM Salamanca station | 8h34 | 12:34 PM 12:34 PMPonferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 00631+37101+00622 | On time 7:20 AM Salamanca station | 11h17 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 00631+05071+12601 | Delayed 7:20 AM Salamanca station | 7h14 | 12:34 PM 12:34 PMPonferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 37431+05071+12601 | Delayed 7:20 AM Salamanca station | 7h14 | 12:34 PM 12:34 PMPonferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 18302+04179 | On time 12:30 PM Salamanca station | 9h18 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18302+37179 | On time 12:30 PM Salamanca station | 9h18 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18302+37101+00622 | On time 12:30 PM Salamanca station | 6h07 | 6:37 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 18306 · 37179 | 2:00 PM Salamanca station | 7h48 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18306+04179 | 2:00 PM Salamanca station | 7h48 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18306+04151+04179 | 2:00 PM Salamanca station | 7h48 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
| 18314+04179 | 4:08 PM Salamanca station | 5h40 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18314 · 37179 | 4:08 PM Salamanca station | 5h40 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 1 transfer | |
| 18314+04161+04179 | 4:08 PM Salamanca station | 5h40 | 9:48 PM Ponferrada station | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Salamanca to Ponferrada by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Why should you book Salamanca to Ponferrada trains with Omio?
Renfe MD as well as Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe MD?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe MD, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
- 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 Renfe MD with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Salamanca to Ponferrada
SpainSpain
Trains from Salamanca to Ponferrada run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 16:08. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average train duration 4h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 3h 50m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 4:08 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Renfe ALVIA, AVE from Salamanca to Ponferrada trainsRenfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Renfe ALVIA, AVE trains will get you between Salamanca and Ponferrada from $29 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe MD Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$11 (€9)
Renfe MD frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe INTERCITY Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$11 (€9)
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
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 13m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$11 (€9)
Renfe frequency
3 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
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$11 (€9)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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
5h 0m
Cheapest AVE Price
$11 (€9)
AVE frequency
5 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 Ponferrada
Things to do in Ponferrada
Discover the best of Ponferrada — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ponferrada trip today.
- Must visit
La Fábrica de Luz. Museo de la Energía
Contemporary museum devoted to Spain’s energy story, with interactive displays on coal, electricity, and transition, set in a restored power plant.
- Recommended
Museo del Bierzo
Important contemporary art museum with changing exhibitions and striking architecture, one of the region’s leading cultural venues.
- Must visit
Plaza de la Encina
Historic square beside the basilica and castle, one of Ponferrada’s most atmospheric spots for architecture and photos.
- Must visit
Casco Antiguo de Ponferrada
Historic quarter around the castle and basilica, best explored on foot for medieval lanes, stone buildings, and Camino character.
- Recommended
Plaza del Ayuntamiento
Main square of the old town, framed by historic buildings and arcades, ideal for orienting yourself before visiting nearby monuments.
- Gluten-free
Botillo del Bierzo
Smoked pork sausage from El Bierzo, usually pan-fried or grilled. It is one of the comarca’s best-known cured meats and a staple in local taverns.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Maragato
A hearty chickpea and meat stew linked to nearby Maragatería but widely eaten in Ponferrada. It is famous for its unusual serving order and rich flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pimiento Asado del Bierzo
Roasted green peppers from El Bierzo with a sweet, delicate flavor. They are prized for local terroir and often served grilled or preserved.
MuNa
Refined restaurant in Ponferrada known for contemporary Bierzo cuisine, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
Casa Noval
Well-known traditional restaurant specializing in Bierzo classics and seasonal products, with a warm dining room and strong local reputation.
Las Cuadras
Popular central venue for León and Bierzo cooking, offering local meats, botillo, and regional wines in a classic, comfortable atmosphere.
Euro (€)
More affordable than Spain's big cities, with lower hotel rates, modest dining prices, and low local transport costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafés; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Salamanca to Ponferrada
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salamanca to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Salamanca to Ponferrada can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $14 (€12).
The train from Salamanca to Ponferrada takes 3h 50m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Salamanca to Ponferrada is 119 miles (192 km).
The first train from Salamanca to Ponferrada leaves at 6:00 AM.
The last train from Salamanca to Ponferrada leaves at 4:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
There is no direct train service currently available from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
The cheapest way to get from Salamanca to Ponferrada is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
Yes, the train journey from Salamanca to Ponferrada is scenic, offering views of the picturesque Castilian landscapes, charming villages, and the lush green hills of the Bierzo region.
A day trip from Salamanca to Ponferrada is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 50m. There is 1 train per day covering a distance of 119 miles (192 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Ponferrada, including its historic Templar castle, the Basilica de la Encina, and the nearby Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, you can take the train from Salamanca to Ponferrada.
Since both Salamanca and Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada include León, O Barco de Valdeorras, Monforte de Lemos, Astorga, A Rua.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Salamanca to Ponferrada 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.
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.
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 Ponferrada, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings and keep valuables secure. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions like avoiding overly persistent street vendors and verifying taxi fares before rides are recommended to 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.
Most popular train connections from Salamanca
More options for your journey from Salamanca to Ponferrada
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ponferrada and Salamanca
Most popular train connections to Ponferrada
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.
