- 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 Lisbon to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 13
- Cheapest price on Nov 13
- $77
- Average ticket price on Nov 13
- $79
- Fastest journey on Nov 13
- 13 h 38 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 13
- 15 h 46 m
- Trains on Nov 13
- 5
- Distance
- 502 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lisbon to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lisbon to Madrid will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Lisbon to Madrid without transferring at least 2 times.
R 4401 · R 481+
0029512:25 AM 20h52 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers- R 4403 · R 481+00295
5:58 AM 15h19 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers - R 4405 · R 481+00295
6:53 AM 14h24 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers - IC 511 · R 481+00295
7:39 AM 13h38 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $83 1 One-way 2 transfers - IC 521 · R 481+00295
6:39 AM 14h38 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $83 1 One-way 2 transfers
- IC 511 · R 481+00295
7:39 AM 13h38 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $83 1 One-way 2 transfers - R 4405 · R 481+00295
6:53 AM 14h24 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers - IC 521 · R 481+00295
6:39 AM 14h38 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $83 1 One-way 2 transfers - R 4403 · R 481+00295
5:58 AM 15h19 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers - R 4401 · R 481+00295
12:25 AM 20h52 Lisbon - Oriente 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías $77 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lisbon to Madrid
Portugal
Spain
Trains from Lisbon to Madrid run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 7h 45m.
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 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 8h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 7h 45m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 8:45 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 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
Frequently asked questions about your Lisbon to Madrid trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Lisbon to Madrid.
Train ticket prices from Lisbon to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $6, while the average price is around $12.
The train from Lisbon to Madrid takes 7h 45m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Lisbon to Madrid is 311 miles (502 km).
The first train from Lisbon to Madrid leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Lisbon to Madrid leaves at 8:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lisbon to Madrid.
Live departures
Lisbon to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Lisbon to Madrid trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R 4401 · R 481+00295 | 12:25 AM Lisbon - Oriente | 20h52 | 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 2 transfers | |
| R 4403 · R 481+00295 | 5:58 AM Lisbon - Oriente | 15h19 | 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 2 transfers | |
| IC 521 · R 481+00295 | 6:39 AM Lisbon - Oriente | 14h38 | 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 2 transfers | |
| R 4405 · R 481+00295 | 6:53 AM Lisbon - Oriente | 14h24 | 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 2 transfers | |
| IC 511 · R 481+00295 | 7:39 AM Lisbon - Oriente | 13h38 | 10:17 PM Atocha-Cercanías | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Lisbon to Madrid by trainLisbon to Madrid by Train: A Long but Scenic Trip Through Iberia
By Estefanía Ojea
Estefanía OjeaContent Editor and Travel Writer
Estefanía Ojea is a content editor and travel writer who has been working in digital writing since 2011 and focusing on travel content since 2020. Based in Galicia, Spain, she enjoys exploring cities slowly and seeking out unusual places such as historic cemeteries, curious churches, and the occasional slightly macabre landmark. She is particularly fond of train travel as a way to discover new destinations across Europe.
I decided to take the train from Lisbon to Madrid, even though I knew it was not going to be a quick trip, as there is no direct route between the two cities, requiring a few changes of trains and some time spent waiting around.
It ended up being a full day of travel, but it was also a chance to see a different side of Iberia.
Street in Lisbon
Route overview
I began early at Lisboa Oriente station by taking a regional train towards Entroncamento. This section of the journey is relatively short and easy, simply passing through quiet suburban or rural areas.
Once arriving at Entroncamento, there was a long wait until the next connection. This is something to bear in mind, as the schedule is not particularly rushed and allows for a number of hours of waiting.
From here, another regional train was taken towards Badajoz. The countryside becomes more rural as one approaches the Spanish border, still at a relatively slow pace compared to faster routes.
Once arriving at Badajoz, another connection was required before taking a Renfe Alvia train towards Madrid. This section of the trip was the most comfortable, as well as the fastest, arriving at Madrid Atocha in the evening.
Transportation experience
This is not the most comfortable option for travelling between Lisbon and Madrid, or the other way around. Although the journey is quite scenic, the multiple transfers make it feel longer and somewhat tiring.
The trains themselves are comfortable, especially on the Spanish leg of the journey, but having to change trains several times breaks the rhythm of the trip.
If possible, I would recommend choosing a night journey, as it makes the overall experience more manageable and helps avoid spending the entire day travelling.
Departure station
The trip begins at Lisboa Oriente station, one of the city's main transport hubs. It's well served by metro, regional trains, and buses, making it easy to get here from most areas of the city. The station itself is modern and easy to get around, making the beginning of the trip fairly easy despite the long day ahead.
Arrival station
The journey terminates at Madrid Atocha, which is one of the main railway stations in the capital. From Atocha, it is relatively easy to get to other parts of the city using Cercanías, metro, or bus. Atocha is a well-organised station, although it can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings when many long-distance trains arrive.
Schedule & frequency
The number of trains available for this route is approximately five per day, but all of them demand a change of trains at least twice. The quickest travel time for this route is 13 hours and 26 minutes, though the average time taken is 15 hours and 34 minutes. Before planning your travel, it is important to note the schedules, as the frequency of the trains is not too high.
Onboard experience & services
This varies depending on the leg of the trip. The regional trains used in Portugal are quite simple but get the job done. There is basic seating available but no other amenities on the train itself. Finally, the Alvia train from Badajoz to Madrid is quite comfortable, with air conditioning, assigned seating, and space for luggage. This part of the trip is much more relaxed after several hours of travel.
Ticketing advice & budget breakdown
Train tickets for this route start at around €72, with an average price of approximately €74 if booked close to the departure date.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €72 |
| Food & drinks | €3 |
| Travel to departure station | €2 |
| Travel from arrival station | €2 |
| Total | € 79 |
Top tips & recommendations
- This is not the most practical way to travel between Lisbon and Madrid, so only do so if you want the experience.
- Be prepared to spend a long time waiting for connections, especially at Entroncamento and Badajoz.
- Take your own provisions, as the journey could take more than 13 hours.
- Travel light to make changing trains easier.
Conclusion
Traveling from Lisbon to Madrid by train is an interesting idea, although it is not the most practical option. Traveling by train is a picturesque way to travel through the Iberian Peninsula, but the many changes of train and the long duration of the journey make the flight or the direct bus the best option.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Lisbon to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Lisbon to Madrid is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Lisbon to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Lisbon 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 Lisbon to Madrid.
Trains
from $6Buses
from $12Flights
from $38Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Lisbon to Madrid trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Lisbon and Madrid from $6. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
7h 45m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$6
Renfe ALVIA frequency
6 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Lisbon and Madrid
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lisbon to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lisbon to Madrid.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Madrid
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Madrid.
The train journey from Lisbon to Madrid offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the Portuguese and Spanish countryside, with rolling hills, olive groves, and small villages, although much of the route also passes through less visually striking plains and urban areas.
Popular day trips by train from Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Lisbon to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lisbon 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Lisbon to Madrid.
More options for your journey from Lisbon to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Lisbon
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