- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Aug 14
Cheapest price
$398
Average price
$398
Fastest journey
1 d 44 m
Average duration
1 d 44 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1247 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Madrid will cost around $398 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $398.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Madrid without transferring at least 2 times.
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3:34 PM24h44Zurich4:18 PMMadrid$3981One-way2 transfers
- 3:34 PM24h44Zurich4:18 PMMadrid$3981One-way2 transfers
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 $90. 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 $90, and a train costs an average of $398.
Distance: 774 miles (1247 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$398 Average price | $256 Average price | $169 Average price Cheapest | $503 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 $169 (€138).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Madrid:
A bus is $86 (€70) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $256 (€208).
A bus is $228 (€186) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Madrid costing on average $398 (€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 $106 (€86) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($398 (€324) vs $503 (€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, Thursday, August 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 $104Flights
from $216Journey 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 $398 (€324) but you can travel from only $90 (€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 $90 (€73)
Distance 774 miles (1247 km) |
Average train duration 12h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $398 (€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 $90 (€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 $90 (€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
$398 (€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
Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Madrid buses allow contactless bank card payment onboard, but Metro tickets are usually bought from station machines with card or cash.
- A 10-trip ticket can cost less per ride than single tickets if you plan several Metro or bus journeys.
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 $398 (€324), while the average price is around $398 (€324).
The train from Zurich to Madrid runs once a day and takes approximately 24h 44m.
The distance by train from Zurich to Madrid is 774 miles (1247 km).
The first train from Zurich to Madrid leaves at 6:59 AM.
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 $90 (€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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