- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for 21 Aug
Cheapest price
£707
Average price
£712
Fastest journey
1 d 2 h 19 m
Average duration
1 d 9 h 11 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1728 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Edinburgh will cost around £712 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £707.
Fast trains
To travel from Madrid to Edinburgh you need to make at least 5 changes.
12:5026h19Madrid15:09Edinburgh£7071One-way5 changes
21:0740h03Madrid13:10Edinburgh£7161One-way5 changes
- 12:5026h19Madrid15:09Edinburgh£7071One-way5 changes
- 21:0740h03Madrid13:10Edinburgh£7161One-way5 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Madrid to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from £66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 49m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the coach is your best bet as it emits only 1.7 - 4.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of £66, and a train costs an average of £707.
Distance: 1728 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£712 Average Price | £119 Average Price Cheapest | £139 Average Price |
32h 35m Average total duration 32h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 36h 23m Average total duration 35h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
- CO2 emissions | 5.2 - 10.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 4.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Madrid to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Edinburgh trains for today, Thursday 20 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21:07 Madrid | 38h04 | 11:11 Edinburgh | 5 changes | |
| Friday 21 August | |||||
| 12:50 Madrid | 26h19 | 15:09 Edinburgh | 5 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Edinburgh 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 Madrid to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Madrid to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Edinburgh.
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 Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Edinburgh.
- 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 Madrid to Edinburgh.
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 Madrid to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Edinburgh
Spain
United Kingdom
Trains from Madrid to Edinburgh run on average 1 times per day, taking around 32h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £707 but you can travel from only £66 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 12:50, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 1728 km distance in 26h 19m.
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
Flight from £66
Distance 1728 km |
Average train duration 32h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £707 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 26h 19m |
First train 12:50 |
Last train 21:07 |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Flight from £66
Train companies: AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Edinburgh trainsAVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Edinburgh from £66. 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
Average Duration
38h 1m
Cheapest Price
£716
AVE frequency
1 a day
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
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26h 19m
Cheapest Price
£707
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.
- Recommended
Fruitmarket
Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, shops and public buildings. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano with popular walking routes and broad views over the city and coast. A rewarding outdoor escape close to the centre.
- Recommended
Princes Street Gardens
Large public gardens below the castle, good for a break between Old and New Town sights, with monuments, lawns and seasonal planting.
- Gluten-free
Cullen skink
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, closely associated with east coast cooking and widely enjoyed in Edinburgh.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties at Burns suppers.
- Vegetarian
Cranachan
A classic Scottish dessert of raspberries, whipped cream, honey and toasted oats, often linked with soft fruit from eastern Scotland.
The Kitchin
Elegant dining room serving refined Scottish tasting menus focused on seasonal produce in a calm central setting.
Whiski Rooms
Popular traditional restaurant near the Castle, specialising in haggis, game and hearty Scottish comfort food.
The Cafe Royal
Stylish brasserie and oyster bar with Scottish seafood, shellfish and classic dishes in a grand city-centre space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.
Bus & Tram
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Edinburgh Waverley -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless works on trams with Tap On, Tap Off. Use the same card or device all day to benefit from the city day cap of £5.70.
- On trams, buy, validate or activate your ticket before boarding. If you use contactless on trams, remember to tap off when you leave.
FAQs: Madrid to Edinburgh train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £707, while the average price tends to be around £712.
The train from Madrid to Edinburgh takes 26h 19m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Madrid to Edinburgh is 1728 km.
The first train from Madrid to Edinburgh leaves at 12:50.
The last train from Madrid to Edinburgh departs at 21:07.
Trains from Madrid to Edinburgh run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Madrid to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Edinburgh.
To get from Madrid to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Edinburgh is by flight, costing approximately £66.
Booking trains from Madrid to Edinburgh in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Madrid to Edinburgh offers a mix of scenic views, particularly as you travel through the lush landscapes of northern Spain and the picturesque countryside of southern France. With mountain vistas and charming villages along the way, the route provides a delightful visual experience. However, as you approach the urban areas and industrial zones closer to major cities, the scenery becomes more subdued.
A day trip from Madrid to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 26h 19m, covering a distance of 1728 km. The frequency is 2 per day for trains.
In Edinburgh, you can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket with its pubs, shops, and street performances, or enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults. Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for beautiful landscapes. Discover hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market. Must-see sights include Edinburgh Castle, offering panoramic views and housing the Crown Jewels, Arthur's Seat for hiking and city views, The Royal Mile lined with shops and landmarks, Holyrood Palace with its stunning gardens, and the National Museum of Scotland showcasing diverse exhibits.
To fully experience Edinburgh's historic sites, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Edinburgh.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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