Stuttgart to Madrid train with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Mon, May 18
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Stuttgart to Madrid

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Stuttgart to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $79. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.4 - 3.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $79, and a train costs an average of $583.

Distance: 855 miles (1377 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

$583

Average price

$353

Average price

$151

Average price

Cheapest

$350

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

30h 56m

Average total duration

30h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 31m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

25h 31m

Average total duration

25h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

19h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

-

CO2 emissions

4.1 - 8.3kg

CO2 emissions

1.4 - 3.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

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 Stuttgart to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $151 (€122).

This is compared to other travel options from Stuttgart to Madrid:

A bus is $202 (€163) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Stuttgart to Madrid costing on average $353 (€285).

A bus is $432 (€349) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stuttgart to Madrid costing on average $583 (€471).

The fastest way to travel from Stuttgart to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 31m.

Other travel options to Madrid take longer:

Bus takes on average 25h 1m.

Train takes on average 30h 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Stuttgart and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Stuttgart 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 $583 (€471) compared to roughly $350 (€282) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-233.58 (€-188.63). The journey takes 30h 26m versus 19h 1m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to Madrid?

The best time to book your train from Stuttgart to Madrid is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Stuttgart to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to Madrid.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stuttgart to Madrid

GermanyGermany
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Stuttgart to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 30h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $583 (€471) but you can travel from only $79 (€63) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:16, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 855 miles (1377 km) distance in 25h 26m.

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 $79 (€63)
Distance
855 miles (1377 km)
Average train duration
30h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$583 (€471)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
25h 26m
First train
12:16 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
21 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 $79 (€63)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Stuttgart to Madrid trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Stuttgart and Madrid from $79 (€63). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
25h 26m
Cheapest Price
$583 (€471)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) 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 del Prado

Spain’s premier art museum, famous for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A core stop on Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art.

  • Must visit

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

Spain’s leading museum of modern and contemporary art, best known for Picasso’s Guernica alongside works by Dalí and Miró.

  • Must visit

Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

Major collection spanning medieval to modern art, with celebrated works by Caravaggio, Monet, Van Gogh, Hopper, and Kandinsky.

Euro

Moderate for Western Europe: tapas and transit are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 10-15 for a simple meal.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person.
Fine dining
EUR 60+ per person.
Coffee
EUR 1.80-3 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 at cafes; about 5-10% in restaurants for great service. Taxis are usually rounded up.

FAQs: Trains from Stuttgart to Madrid

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stuttgart 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Stuttgart to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $583 (€471), while the average price is around $583 (€471).
The train from Stuttgart to Madrid takes 25h 26m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Stuttgart to Madrid leaves at 12:16 AM.
The distance by train from Stuttgart to Madrid is 855 miles (1377 km).
The last train from Stuttgart to Madrid leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Stuttgart to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Stuttgart to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stuttgart to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Stuttgart to Madrid is by bus, with a cost of around $79 (€63).
The train journey from Stuttgart to Madrid offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the German countryside, the rolling hills of eastern France, and the diverse vistas of the Spanish plains, providing a charming mix of natural and urban views along the route.
A day trip from Stuttgart to Madrid is not feasible due to a travel duration of 25h 26m. However, there are 2 trains available per day for this 855 miles (1377 km) journey.
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 Stuttgart to Madrid.
Since both Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Stuttgart to Madrid

Stuttgart
Madrid
Stuttgart, Arnulf-Klett-Platz (Hauptbahnhof)Accessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information

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