- 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, prices and bookable tickets for 11 Oct
Cheapest price on 11 Oct
£41
Average ticket price on 11 Oct
£57
Fastest journey on 11 Oct
4 h 35 m
Average journey duration on 11 Oct
5 h 52 m
Trains on 11 Oct
11
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 £57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £41.
Fast trains
On Sun 11 Oct, we found 11 trains from Bilbao to Madrid, including 2 direct services.
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.
00437+
0478615:025h21Bilbao-Abando20:23Madrid Chamartín£411One-way1 change- 00283 · 0478611:588h25Bilbao-Abando20:23Madrid Chamartín£421One-way1 change
- 041866:534h35Bilbao-Abando11:28Madrid Chamartín£461One-way0 changes
- 0436617:125h08Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£461One-way0 changes
- 00437 · 0436615:027h18Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£521One-way1 change
- 041866:534h35Bilbao-Abando11:28Madrid Chamartín£461One-way0 changes
- 0436617:125h08Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£461One-way0 changes
- 00437+0478615:025h21Bilbao-Abando20:23Madrid Chamartín£411One-way1 change
- 04186 · 040866:536h58Bilbao-Abando13:51Madrid Chamartín£731One-way1 change
- 00437 · 0417615:027h18Bilbao-Abando22:20Madrid Chamartín£571One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £4 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 3h 52m.
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 5h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 0:30 |
Last train 17:37 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Live departures
Bilbao to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Madrid trains for today, Saturday 10 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00283+04176 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 10h22 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 00437 · 04176 | 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 7h18 | 22:20 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| Sunday 11 October | |||||
| 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+04142 | 8:45 Bilbao-Concordia | 9h10 | 17:55 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
| 71870+04142 | 8:53 Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve | 9h02 | 17:55 Madrid Chamartín | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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 1 day 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 £7Coaches
from £34Flights
from £28Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from Bilbao to Madrid trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Bilbao and Madrid from £4. 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
4h 2m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
£4
Renfe ALVIA frequency
7 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
Average Renfe INTERCITY Duration
3h 52m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
£4
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
2 a day
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
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.
Best day trips from Madrid by train
The most popular day trips by train from Madrid are Toledo, Segovia, Ávila, Cuenca and Valladolid. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Madrid on Omio.
Day trip from Madrid to Toledo by train
Why visit Toledo for the day?
Toledo is a historic hilltop city known for its medieval skyline, cathedral and Christian, Muslim and Jewish heritage. Its winding old streets, stone buildings and Tagus views give it a distinct, time-worn character.
How to get from Madrid to Toledo by train?
There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:25, the last at 21:37. The fastest train covers the 68 km distance in 34m.
Day trip from Madrid to Segovia by train
Why visit Segovia for the day?
Segovia is known for its Roman aqueduct, the Alcázar and a handsome old town crowned by a grand cathedral. Its Castilian character, historic streets and famous roast suckling pig make it feel elegant yet grounded.
How to get from Madrid to Segovia by train?
There are 29 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:15, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 69 km distance in 25m.
Day trip from Madrid to Ávila by train
Why visit Ávila for the day?
Ávila is best known for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval walls and its strong Castilian character. Granite streets, Romanesque churches and the legacy of Saint Teresa give the city a calm, historic atmosphere.
How to get from Madrid to Ávila by train?
There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:55, the last at 21:58. The fastest train covers the 88 km distance in 1h 26m.
Day trip from Madrid to Cuenca by train
Why visit Cuenca for the day?
Cuenca is known for its Casas Colgadas and its old town set above a dramatic gorge. Medieval streets, a notable cathedral and a calm Castilian atmosphere define its character.
How to get from Madrid to Cuenca by train?
There are 22 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:12, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 139 km distance in 56m.
Day trip from Madrid to Valladolid by train
Why visit Valladolid for the day?
Valladolid is a stately Castilian city known for Renaissance buildings, literary heritage and a strong tapas scene. Its broad plazas, churches and museums give the centre a calm, cultured feel shaped by wine and regional cuisine.
How to get from Madrid to Valladolid by train?
There are 37 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:23, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 162 km distance in 54m.
+ 
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 £4, while the average price tends to be around £14.
The train journey from Bilbao to Madrid covers a distance of 323 km and takes approximately 3h 52m. Trains run 8 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 8 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.
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.
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.
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, with some services arriving at Madrid Príncipe Pío. 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.
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve48013 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve from Bilbao city centre
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve is 4 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C2 · 10m · £0.89 · every ~10 min
Bus85 · 21m · £2 · every ~5 min
SubwayLínea De Metro Bilbao · 9m · £2 · every ~33 min
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve train station facilities and services
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve.
Bilbao-Concordia48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao-Concordia from Bilbao city centre
BusA3631, A3632 · 5m · £2 · every ~7 min
03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · £2 · every ~51 min
TramTr · 1m · £2 · every ~16 min
Bilbao-Concordia train station facilities and services
Bilbao-Concordia has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Which Madrid station do trains from Bilbao arrive at?
Trains from Bilbao to Madrid most often arrive at Madrid Chamartín. Some services arrive at Madrid Príncipe Pío, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Madrid arrival station.
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 · £0.89 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · £0.89 · 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.
Madrid Príncipe PíoPaseo de la Florida, s/n, 28008 Madrid, Spain+34 902 320 320
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Príncipe Pío from Madrid city centre
Madrid Príncipe Pío is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN18, N19, N20 · 6m · £0.89 · every ~34 min
N18, N20, N19 · 7m · £0.89 · every ~34 min
Madrid Príncipe Pío train station facilities and services
Madrid Príncipe Pío has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Casa Mingo, Café de Oriente, Noodles King
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid Príncipe Pío. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Madrid Príncipe Pío. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Príncipe Pío, Acta Madfor Hotel, Hotel Exe Moncloa.
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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