- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Madrid’s premier art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A cornerstone of the city’s Golden Triangle of Art.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Zagreb to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zagreb to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $127. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.7 - 4.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $127, and a flight costs an average of $81.
Distance: 1056 miles (1701 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$282 Average price | $214 Average price Cheapest | $611 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 17m Average total duration Fastest 4h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 37h 16m Average total duration 36h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
5.1 - 10.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 4.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Zagreb to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $214 (€172).
This is compared to other travel options from Zagreb to Madrid:
A bus is $68 (€55) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zagreb to Madrid costing on average $282 (€227).
The fastest way to travel from Zagreb to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 17m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 36h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zagreb and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zagreb to Madrid among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Zagreb to Madrid by bus or flight
Compare 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 Zagreb to Madrid
Croatia
Spain
Take a train from Zagreb to Madrid and enjoy the approximately 1056 miles (1701 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 13:18, the last at 13:18.
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 $81 (€65)
Distance 1056 miles (1701 km) |
First train 1:18 PM |
Last train 1:18 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 2 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 $81 (€65)
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
Spain’s national museum of 20th-century and contemporary art, best known for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
A major art museum spanning Old Masters to modern works, complementing the Prado and Reina Sofía with an exceptionally broad private collection.
- Must visit
Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s grand historic square, lined with arcades and elegant façades, and a classic starting point for exploring the old center.
- Must visit
Puerta del Sol
The symbolic heart of Madrid, known for Kilometer Zero, the clock tower, and constant energy day and night.
- Must visit
Parque de El Retiro
Madrid’s most famous park, ideal for walks, boating, monuments, gardens, and popular photo spots such as the Crystal Palace area.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Madrileño
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, served in courses with broth, vegetables, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most traditional 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 simple, iconic, and widely loved.
- Gluten-free
Callos A La Madrileña
A rich stew of tripe, chorizo, and morcilla cooked with paprika. It is a historic Madrid tavern dish with bold, hearty flavors.
Sobrino De Botín
Historic restaurant founded in the eighteenth century, famous for roast meats and classic Castilian cooking in an atmospheric old setting.
Casa Lucio
Legendary traditional restaurant best known for huevos rotos, with a polished yet classic tavern feel and strong local reputation.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic spot for churros con chocolate, open long hours and known for a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe. Museums and transport are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for tapas, menu del día, 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 espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave EUR 1-2 in cafés; 5-10% in restaurants for very good service. Taxis are often rounded up, but tipping is not obligatory.
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 -> Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- On EMT buses, contactless card payment is generally available on board, but Metro and Cercanías tickets are usually bought before travel.
- If you plan several trips in one day, the Tourist Travel Pass can be better value than single tickets, especially for airport and metro use.
FAQs: Trains from Zagreb to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zagreb 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.
The distance by train from Zagreb to Madrid is 1056 miles (1701 km).
The first train from Zagreb to Madrid leaves at 1:18 PM.
The last train from Zagreb to Madrid leaves at 1:18 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zagreb to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Zagreb to Madrid is by flight, with a cost of around $81 (€65).
The train journey from Zagreb to Madrid can offer scenic views, especially through the countryside and mountainous regions in Croatia and Slovenia, but it largely depends on the specific route and train services chosen.
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.
No, you cannot take the train from Zagreb to Madrid.
Since both Zagreb 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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb
More options for your journey from Zagreb to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Zagreb
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