- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier fine art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A top priority for first-time visitors and art lovers.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $89. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $89, and a train costs an average of $393.
Distance: 774 miles (1247 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$393 Average price | $253 Average price | $167 Average price Cheapest | $498 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 53m Average total duration 12h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 1m Average total duration 26h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.7 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 3.1kg 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 Zurich to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $167 (€138).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Madrid:
A bus is $85 (€70) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $253 (€208).
A bus is $226 (€186) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $393 (€324).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 16m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 23m.
Bus takes on average 26h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Madrid including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 0m faster (12h 23m by train vs 16h 23m by car) and roughly $105 (€86) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($393 (€324) vs $498 (€410)). 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
Zurich to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Madrid trains for today, Monday, June 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.png) | 3:34 PM Zurich | 24h44 | 4:18 PM Madrid | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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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Why should you book Zurich to Madrid trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Madrid.
Why book with Omio vs AVE?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for AVE, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Madrid.
- 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 AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Madrid.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Zurich to Madrid is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich 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 Zurich to Madrid.
Trains
from $19Buses
from $102Flights
from $214Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Madrid
Switzerland
Spain
Trains from Zurich to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 12h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $393 (€324) but you can travel from only $89 (€73) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:59, the last at 07:34. The fastest train covers the 774 miles (1247 km) distance in 24h 44m.
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 $89 (€73)
Distance 774 miles (1247 km) |
Average train duration 12h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $393 (€324) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 24h 44m |
First train 6:59 AM |
Last train 7:34 AM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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 $89 (€73)
Train companies: AVE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Madrid trainsAVE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Madrid from $89 (€73). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 44m
Cheapest Price
$393 (€324)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) 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
Madrid’s leading modern art museum, best known for Picasso’s Guernica alongside major works by Dalí and Miró. Essential for 20th-century art.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
A major collection spanning medieval to modern art, completing Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art. Strong for European painting and accessible curation.
- Must visit
Plaza Mayor
Madrid’s historic main square, surrounded by arcaded buildings and linked to the city’s Habsburg past. A classic stop for architecture and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Puerta del Sol
Madrid’s central square and symbolic heart, home to the Kilometer Zero marker and the famous Bear and Strawberry Tree statue.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Madrid’s iconic boulevard lined with historic architecture, shops, and theaters. It is one of the city’s busiest and most recognizable streets.
- 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 iconic quick bites.
- Gluten-free
Callos A La Madrileña
A rich traditional stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla in a paprika-forward sauce. It is a historic Madrid tavern specialty.
Casa Revuelta
Classic casual bar famed for fried cod and old-school tapas, popular for a quick authentic stop in central Madrid.
Casa Lucio
Celebrated traditional restaurant known for huevos rotos and classic Spanish cooking in a refined but lively setting.
Taberna La Bola
Historic tavern especially known for cocido madrileño cooked in individual clay pots, with a classic old-Madrid feel.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe: museums and transit are fair, 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 1.80-3.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change in cafes, bars, and taxis is appreciated, not required.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.40 EUR
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Metro and buses in Madrid generally allow contactless card payment only for some onboard purchases; for easiest travel, use a transport card or buy tickets in stations.
- If you plan multiple trips in one day, the Tourist Travel Pass can be better value than single tickets and covers Metro, buses, and Cercanías within its validity zone.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $393 (€324), while the average price is around $393 (€324).
The train from Zurich to Madrid runs once a day and takes approximately 24h 44m.
The first train from Zurich to Madrid leaves at 6:59 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Madrid is 774 miles (1247 km).
The last train from Zurich to Madrid leaves at 7:34 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Madrid is by bus, with a cost of around $89 (€73).
The train journey from Zurich to Madrid offers varying scenery, including picturesque views of the Swiss Alps, charming countryside landscapes in France, and the diverse terrain of northern Spain, making it a scenic option for travelers.
A day trip from Zurich to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 44m and covers a distance of 774 miles (1247 km). The frequency of this trip 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 Zurich to Madrid.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Zurich
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