- Must visit
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
One of Lisbon’s finest museums, known for its exceptional art collection spanning antiquity to European masters. The quiet garden setting also makes it a local favorite.
Cheapest price
$107
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
14 h 9 m
Average duration
14 h 40 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
502 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Lisbon is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Lisbon will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Lisbon without transferring at least 2 times.
00190+
R 486 · R 4440
00190+
R 486 · IC 528
00190+
R 486 · IC 544
00190+
R 486 · IC 544
00190+
R 486 · IC 528
00190+
R 486 · R 4440Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Lisbon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $58.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$107 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $205 Average price | $123 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 41m Average total duration 6h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration 5h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 31m Average total duration Fastest 4h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Lisbon:
A bus is $76 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Lisbon costing on average $107 (€88).
A bus is $173 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Lisbon costing on average $205 (€168).
Other travel options to Lisbon take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 56m.
Train takes on average 6h 11m.
Tickets start at around $107 (€88) compared to roughly $123 (€100) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $15 (€12). The journey takes 6h 11m versus 5h 58m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Lisbon trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
00190+ R 482 · IC 722 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 10h01 | 5:52 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
00190+ R 482 · R 4428 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 10h14 | 6:05 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
00190+ R 482 · R 4430 | On time 8:51 AM Atocha-Cercanías | 11h14 | 7:05 PM Lisbon - Oriente | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
By Estefanía Ojea

For a long time, it never even really occurred to me to take the train from Madrid to Lisbon. Unlike most other capital cities in Europe, Spain and Portugal still do not have a direct rail link between them. For reasons of curiosity rather than convenience, I decided to give the journey a go anyway. It involved making a couple of changes along the way, but I was curious to see what the journey was like.

Lisbon Tram 28
The journey from Madrid to Lisbon by train involves two changes of trains. The most common route starts by taking a train from Madrid to Badajoz, passing through the Spanish and Portuguese borders, and then entering Portuguese territory. After reaching Badajoz, the trains head to Entroncamento, where passengers change trains once again and then continue their journey to Lisbon. Although the route is feasible by train, the journey takes a long time, and the changes of trains are not always well coordinated, which makes the journey less efficient compared to taking a plane or a bus.
I began my journey on a Renfe Alvia train from Madrid to Badajoz. The initial part of my journey was quite comfortable, traversing the expansive terrain of western Spain before arriving in Extremadura. Once I arrived in Badajoz, my journey continued to Portugal. Here, I boarded another train, which felt like a slower and more local train compared to the initial part of my journey. The subsequent stop was Entroncamento, where I had to switch trains and operators before proceeding to my destination, Lisbon. In fact, some people use this stop to visit Elvas, a town in Portugal near the Spanish-Portuguese border. This town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its impressive fortress walls. However, I did not stop to visit this town.
The journey begins at one of Madrid’s main railway stations depending on the specific service to Badajoz. As with many long-distance trains in Spain, access to the platforms involves passing through ticket control, so arriving with some extra time before departure is helpful.
The final station for trains traveling along this particular route is normally Lisboa Santa Apolónia, though at times it may also be Lisboa Oriente, depending on the train you take from Entroncamento. The two stations are well linked to the rest of Lisbon by metro, bus, and taxi, so you can get anywhere you want once you arrive.
Rail connections between Spain and Portugal on this route are still relatively limited. Because the journey involves multiple transfers, it’s important to check the schedules in advance and allow enough time between trains.
The Alvia train between Madrid and Badajoz provides comfortable seating and the usual amenities of a long-distance train, such as storage of luggage and comfortable seating arrangements. The Portuguese regional trains are quite simple but suffice for the remainder of the journey. It’s a long journey, and there are several changes to make, so it might be a good idea to bring something to read or work on.
Ticket prices vary depending on how the different segments are booked. Here’s roughly what my journey looked like:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €55 |
| Food & drinks | €6 |
| Travel to departure station | €2 |
| Travel from arrival station | €3 |
| Total | € 66 |
Traveling from Madrid to Lisbon by train is possible, but it is certainly not the most efficient way to make the trip. The various connections and the long travel time make it not very comfortable if your goal is simply to get to Lisbon as quickly as possible. That being said, it can still be a worthwhile trip if you make it more of a slow train trip, almost akin to a road trip by train. Stopping in Badajoz and exploring the area before continuing onward to Portugal can make the trip a much more exciting travel experience.
Trains from Madrid to Lisbon run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $107 (€88) but you can travel from only $12 (€9) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 8h 1m.
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 6h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $107 (€88) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 8h 1m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 8:45 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Lisbon — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lisbon trip today.
One of Lisbon’s finest museums, known for its exceptional art collection spanning antiquity to European masters. The quiet garden setting also makes it a local favorite.
Portugal’s national museum of ancient art, housing major Portuguese and European works. It is essential for understanding the country’s artistic and imperial history.
Portugal’s leading tile museum in a former convent, tracing the history of azulejos from the 15th century to today. A standout for Lisbon’s visual identity and a favorite beyond the city center.
Lisbon’s oldest district, known for steep lanes, tiled facades, viewpoints and strong traditional character. It is one of the city’s essential walking areas.
A central district blending historic elegance, shopping streets, cafes and cultural venues. It is one of the most popular areas for strolling in central Lisbon.
Lisbon’s grand waterfront square, framed by monumental buildings and opening toward the Tagus. A classic meeting point and one of the city’s signature public spaces.
A classic Lisbon cod dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, straw fries, and softly scrambled eggs, usually topped with parsley and olives.
Chargrilled sardines, especially iconic during the June Festas de Lisboa, typically served with bread, potatoes, or salad.
Clams cooked with garlic, olive oil, white wine, and coriander. A beloved Portuguese seafood petisco strongly associated with Lisbon dining.
José Avillez's celebrated fine-dining restaurant in Chiado, known for refined Portuguese cuisine and a polished special-occasion experience.
The historic pastry shop most famous for Lisbon's iconic custard tarts, with a classic, busy atmosphere and strong local tradition.
A famed seafood restaurant known for shellfish, garlic prawns, and a lively traditional atmosphere. One of Lisbon's most established dining institutions.
Moderate for Western Europe: good value on transit and casual dining, but central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Rounding up is common; 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants for good service. Small tips for taxis are optional; not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Lisbon Oriente -> Baixa-Chiado, Lisbon
Depart Madrid in the evening and watch the city’s terracotta rooftops give way to rolling plains of olive groves and cork oak forests. As the train picks up speed, settle into your sleeper cabin, complete with comfortable bedding and private lighting, and relax to the steady rhythm of the rails. Keep an eye out for river crossings and low hills outlined against the night sky.
By morning, you’ll be crossing Alentejo, where vineyards and open fields stretch to the horizon. Mist often lingers in the valleys at first light, and the fresh air carries hints of wild herbs. The route passes through small towns and over historic stone bridges, perfect spots for a quick photo, but the real highlight is the uninterrupted view as you travel (and rest) your way into Lisbon.
Renfe and CP release sleeper fares 60 days before departure, and availability is extremely limited on the two daily Trenhotel services. To secure a lower “Promo” or “Estrella” berth, aim to book 2–3 months in advance, especially for weekend or holiday travel. Monitor Omio’s price alerts for sudden drops, and compare Renfe’s official site with CP’s Portuguese Rail offers for any cross-border discounts.
| Connection | Duration | From € |
|---|---|---|
| Lisbon Oriente → Madrid Chamartín | 10 h 15 m (avg) | 33 € |
| Madrid Chamartín → Lisbon Oriente | 10 h 15 m (avg) | 33 € |
| Madrid Chamartín → Badajoz → Lisbon Oriente | ~9 h 45 m | 28 € |
Standard sleeper tickets include one main suitcase (up to 25 kg) plus one small carry-on free of charge. Oversized items (e.g., surfboards, skis) may incur a handling fee - see our Travel Company Policies for details.
Flexible fares allow free changes up to 1 hour before departure. Promo/Estrella fares incur a change fee (typically €5-€15) and may be non-refundable. Always review the fare conditions when booking or see How to change or cancel a ticket.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Lisbon 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 Lisbon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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