- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum houses Velázquez, Goya and El Greco masterpieces, making it essential for understanding European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Madrid
Showing times and prices for 27 Aug
Cheapest price
£38
Average price
£48
Fastest journey
4 h 35 m
Average duration
5 h 52 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
323 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Madrid will cost around £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £38.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Bilbao for Madrid every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 323 km distance in an average of 5 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 35 m .
The slowest trains will take 7 h 18 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
71872 · 0417213:408h40Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve22:20Madrid Chamartín£381One-way1 change- 71870 · 041528:5310h07Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve19:00Madrid Chamartín£381One-way1 change
- 71870 · 041528:4510h15Bilbao-Concordia19:00Madrid Chamartín£391One-way1 change
- 71872 · 0417213:328h48Bilbao-Concordia22:20Madrid Chamartín£391One-way1 change
041866:534h35Bilbao-Abando11:28Madrid Chamartín£411One-way0 changes
- 041866:534h35Bilbao-Abando11:28Madrid Chamartín£411One-way0 changes
- 0436617:125h08Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£461One-way0 changes
- 00437+0478615:025h21Bilbao-Abando20:23Madrid Chamartín£521One-way1 change
- 04186 · 040866:536h58Bilbao-Abando13:51Madrid Chamartín£511One-way1 change
- 00437 · 0417615:027h18Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£631One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Bilbao to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £31, and a flight costs an average of £29.
Distance: 323 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£41 Average Price | £38 Average Price Cheapest | £124 Average Price |
4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 3h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 50m Average total duration 5h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 16m Average total duration 4h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Bilbao to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Madrid trains for today, Wednesday 26 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00283 · 04786 | Delayed 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 8h25 | 18:23 18:23Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00283+04176 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 10h22 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00283+04366 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 10h22 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00437 · 04366 | 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 7h18 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00437 · 04176 | On time 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 7h18 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00437+04786 | Delayed 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 5h21 | 18:23 18:23Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 04366 | 17:12 Bilbao-Abando | 5h08 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 27 August | |||||
| 04186 | 6:53 Bilbao-Abando | 4h35 | 11:28 Madrid Chamartín | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04186 · 04086 | 6:53 Bilbao-Abando | 6h58 | 13:51 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 71870 · 04152 | 8:45 Bilbao-Concordia | 10h15 | 19:00 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 71870+04142 | 8:53 Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve | 9h13 | 18:06 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 71870 · 04152 | 8:53 Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve | 10h07 | 19:00 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Madrid by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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 Bilbao to Madrid trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Bilbao to Madrid.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao 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 Renfe ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bilbao to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Madrid is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao 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 Bilbao to Madrid.
Trains
from £19Coaches
from £37Flights
from £69Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 17:37. The fastest train covers the 323 km distance in 4h 35m.
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 323 km |
Average train duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 35m |
First train 0:30 |
Last train 17:37 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 91 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
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros from Bilbao to Madrid trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Bilbao and Madrid from £22. 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 Duration
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
£22
Renfe ALVIA frequency
2 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
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
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 First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
£31
Renfe Viajeros 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 Sofia
Madrid’s leading modern art museum is famed for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections of Dalí, Miró and 20th-century works.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
This refined museum features major works by Titian, Rubens and Caravaggio in a manageable collection inside a grand palace.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers lakes, gardens, sculptures and broad promenades, perfect for walking, rowing and people-watching.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
This grand boulevard links major museums and historic fountains, making it one of the city’s most elegant and culture-rich walks.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
A busy central avenue known for theatres, shops and illuminated façades, ideal for architecture, nightlife and classic city views.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables and soup, long associated with Madrid taverns and traditional lunchtime dining.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Deep-fried squid rings served in a crusty bread roll, a classic fast bite around Plaza Mayor and one of Madrid’s best-known snacks.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Madrid-style tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla, rich and slow-cooked, traditionally eaten in colder months.
Casa Dani
Traditional bar celebrated for excellent tortilla española and honest Madrid-style tapas in a lively, no-frills atmosphere.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic tavern famed for roast suckling pig and classic Castilian dishes in an old-fashioned, atmospheric setting near Plaza Mayor.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic churrería serving Madrid’s classic chocolate con churros around the clock in a bustling, traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe. Rooms, meals and Metro fares are usually cheaper than Paris or London, but central hotels and popular dining areas raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or menú del día.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for 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, leaving small change is enough.
Mi Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city centre
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is being introduced in Metro turnstiles for single tickets; buses and other modes may still require a transport card or other ticket.
- For the widest urban coverage, use CRTM fares and check your loaded ticket before entering Metro gates or boarding buses.
+ 
FAQs: Bilbao to Madrid train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao 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 cost of a train ticket from Bilbao to Madrid can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £41.
The train journey from Bilbao to Madrid covers a distance of 323 km and takes approximately 4h 35m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Bilbao to Madrid is 323 km.
The first train from Bilbao to Madrid leaves at 0:30.
The last train from Bilbao to Madrid departs at 17:37.
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bilbao to Madrid.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bilbao and Madrid. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros.
To get from Bilbao to Madrid, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Bilbao to Madrid.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Madrid is Bilbao-Abando, and it arrives at Madrid Chamartín.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Madrid is by train, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from Bilbao to Madrid in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bilbao to Madrid offers varied landscapes, including lush green hills, charming villages, and the scenic Basque countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Bilbao to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 35m and the frequency of trains is 2 per day.
In Madrid, visit the bustling Puerta del Sol for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a variety of gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel and explore the lively nightlife in the Malasaña district. Experience traditional Spanish culture by attending a flamenco show. Sports enthusiasts can visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for a tour or a football match. Discover artistic masterpieces at the Prado Museum and explore the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid. Relax in Retiro Park, admire the Plaza Mayor, and enjoy shopping or entertainment along Gran Vía.
To fully experience Madrid, 3 to 4 days are recommended, allowing time to explore its cultural landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods, and rich culinary scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Madrid.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bilbao and Madrid
Most Bilbao to Madrid trains use the Bilbao-Abando to Madrid Chamartín station pair. Use this guide to compare Bilbao and Madrid train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bilbao
Arrival train stations in Madrid
Which Bilbao station do trains to Madrid leave from?
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid leave from Bilbao-Abando. The station is from Bilbao city centre at 48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain.
Bilbao-Abando48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao-Abando from Bilbao city centre
Bus03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · £2 · every ~51 min
A3631, A3632 · 8m · £2 · every ~7 min
TramTr · 1m · £2 · every ~16 min
Bilbao-Abando train station facilities and services
Bilbao-Abando has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bilbao-Abando. Information desks are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao-Abando: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bilbao-Abando: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Which Madrid station do trains from Bilbao arrive at?
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid arrive at Madrid Chamartín. Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre.
Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Chamartín from Madrid city centre
Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · £0.90 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · £3 · every ~11 min
Subway1 · 19m · £2 · every ~24 min
Madrid Chamartín train station facilities and services
Madrid Chamartín has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid Chamartín. Information desks are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Bilbao
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