The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Granada
Cheapest price
£18
Average price
£75
Fastest journey
3 h 17 m
Average duration
3 h 35 m
Trains per day
39
Distance
359 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Granada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Granada will cost around £75 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.
Of the 39 trains that leave Madrid for Granada every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 359 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 56 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.
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08295Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Madrid to Granada
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Granada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. 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 £21, and a flight costs an average of £40.
Distance: 359 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£64 Average Price | £25 Average Price Cheapest | £207 Average Price |
4h 14m Average total duration 3h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.2kg 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
Madrid to Granada train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Granada trains for today, Saturday 15 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02068+ 08295 | On time 05:20 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h31 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
02068+ 08335 | On time 05:20 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h32 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
02068+ 02076 | On time 05:20 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h46 | 10:06 Granada station | 1 change | |
02072+ 08335 | On time 06:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h17 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
02072+ 08295 | On time 06:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h16 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
02076+ 08295 | On time 06:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h16 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
02076 | On time 06:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h31 | 10:06 Granada station | 0 changesdirect | |
06078+ 08335 | On time 06:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h57 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06078+ 03930 | On time 06:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h16 | 12:11 Granada station | 1 change | |
06078+ 08295 | On time 06:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h56 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
09366+ 08295 | On time 07:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h46 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
09366+ 08335 | On time 07:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h47 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06086+ 03930 | On time 07:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h16 | 12:11 Granada station | 1 change | |
06086+ 08335 | On time 07:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h57 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06086+ 08295 | On time 07:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h56 | 11:51 Granada station | 1 change | |
06106+ 08335 | On time 09:30 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h22 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
02108+ 08395 | On time 09:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 11h17 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
02108+ 08335 | On time 09:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h17 | 13:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06118+ 08395 | On time 10:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h57 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06118+ 02366 | On time 10:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h00 | 18:55 Granada station | 1 change | |
06118+ 02136 | On time 10:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h57 | 15:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06010+ 02366 | On time 12:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h50 | 18:55 Granada station | 1 change | |
06010+ 02136 | On time 12:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h47 | 15:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06010+ 08395 | On time 12:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h47 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
02136 | On time 12:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h17 | 15:52 Granada station | 0 changesdirect | |
06136+ 02366 | On time 12:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h00 | 18:55 Granada station | 1 change | |
06136+ 02196 | On time 12:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 9h28 | 22:23 Granada station | 1 change | |
06136+ 08395 | On time 12:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 7h57 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06020+ 02196 | On time 14:03 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 8h20 | 22:23 Granada station | 1 change | |
06020+ 08395 | On time 14:03 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h49 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06020+ 02366 | On time 14:03 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h52 | 18:55 Granada station | 1 change | |
02366 | On time 15:10 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h45 | 18:55 Granada station | 0 changesdirect | |
02162+ 08395 | On time 15:35 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 5h17 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06168+ 08395 | On time 15:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h57 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06168+ 02196 | On time 15:55 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h28 | 22:23 Granada station | 1 change | |
06014+ 02196 | On time 16:03 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 6h20 | 22:23 Granada station | 1 change | |
06014+ 08395 | On time 16:03 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h49 | 20:52 Granada station | 1 change | |
06196+ 02196 | On time 18:05 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 4h18 | 22:23 Granada station | 1 change | |
02196 | On time 19:00 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes | 3h23 | 22:23 Granada station | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Granada by train, coach or flight
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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Madrid to Granada

Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Granada
Trains from Madrid to Granada run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £21 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:04, the last at 20:05. The fastest train covers the 359 km distance in 3h 23m.
Distance 359 km |
Average train duration 3h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 23m |
First train 06:04 |
Last train 20:05 |
Train companies: AVE, iryo, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe Avant, Renfe Intercity, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Granada trainsAVE, iryo, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe Avant, Renfe Intercity, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Granada from £21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
AVE
iryo
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe Avant
Renfe Intercity
Renfe AVLO
Renfe Viajeros
The Spanish ‘Duck’ AVE Train: Madrid to Granada
Introduction
You may have considered visiting Alicante, Málaga, or Seville during your trip to southern Spain, but my top recommendation is Granada! This charming old town has a lot to offer, especially the STUNNING Alhambra palace and fort, and it’s very easy to access by train from Madrid! I bought the cheapest ticket on a Spanish high-speed train to check it out.
Route Overview
The Madrid to Granada route runs predominantly on high-speed tracks and reaches an impressive maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The trains used on this route are the AVE S-112, nicknamed ‘El Pato’ or ‘Duck’ in English, thanks to their elongated noses. They run to Granada through rural central and southern Spain, across many viaducts and through many tunnels. It’s a superb journey, one to definitely grab a window seat for!

I traveled on a service in the middle of the day, the 13:35 departure from Madrid Atocha, which covers the 360-kilometer (223-mile) distance in just 3 hours and 17 minutes. Impressive!
Transportation Experience
Every Spanish medium and long-distance train requires a reservation to travel on it, and they can sell out, especially on routes like Madrid-Granada, which see a lesser service compared to other routes. Additionally, prices are dynamic and increase with demand. Last-minute trains will be more (way more) expensive. Tickets are available on Omio from three months before departure on this route. So grab a bargain early, like I did!
Route Details
Departure & Arrival Stations
Trains to Granada leave from Puerta de Atocha, which is located quite centrally within Madrid. It is very easy to reach using the Madrid metro or Cercanías local trains. Like at all Spanish high-speed train stations, you must go through an airport-style security check prior to accessing the platform. Don’t worry, as you won’t have to remove your electronics from your bag, and there is no limit on liquids. Arrive with enough time to complete the security check and visit the station's famous botanical garden. I’d recommend around 45 to 60 minutes before departure time.

Trains arrive at Granada’s single long-distance station, simply named Granada, which is also very conveniently located within the city. It is directly connected to the Metro light rail system at the Estación Ferrocarril stop.
Schedule & Frequency
There are three AVE trains between Madrid and Granada: morning, midday, and evening. On top of this, there is also a direct Alvia service with a comparable journey time. The service may differ slightly, but it is still a very comfortable long-distance option.
Onboard Experience & Services
Like many trains by the Spanish company Talgo, the S-112 has a low-floor design, allowing for step-free boarding. Onboard comfort is very good for a Second Class offering, branded as ‘Estándar’ on Renfe services. The seats recline and are laid out in a 2+2 configuration, and I found the space on board to be plentiful. There are large tray tables, ideal for working, and most seats are airline-style, with only a few seats facing to form bays of four with tables. There are overhead screens showing information about the journey and free Wi-Fi that remained decent throughout, although I preferred the view out of the window to that of my phone!
Luggage, while not strictly limited in quantity, does need some common sense. That means you need to be able to carry and safely store it yourself. Both large luggage stacks and overhead racks are available on these trains.
Of course, I bought the cheapest ticket, so I didn’t expect any complimentary service. However, all AVE services feature a buffet counter that sells hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and small snacks. Toilets are located in all the vestibules.
First Class (Confort) seats are also available for an additional cost, with the Elige fare just being a seat upgrade to a 2+1 configuration or the Premium fare, which includes pre-boarding lounge access and a complimentary onboard meal, including alcoholic drinks.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown
Prices are dynamic and vary based on demand, so be sure to reserve in advance. I paid just €26, with exactly one month’s notice. I think this is a spectacular value for money for a comfortable 360km high-speed train trip lasting over three hours with amazing views!
| Item | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Train ticket (Madrid to Granada) | €26.00 |
| Total | €26.00 |

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations
- Check out the botanical gardens in Madrid Puerta de Atocha before going through the security checks.
- Book well in advance and avoid peak or holiday times to get the cheapest fares.
- If you want a bit more space (a solo seat, for instance), you can buy the reasonably priced ‘Elige’ fare, which includes the ‘Confort’ First Class seat, but no food or drinks service.
Conclusion
I think €26 is incredible value for money, especially considering the length of this high-speed train journey, and this isn’t even the cheapest price. It does surprise me that some people would opt to fly when you can easily travel from one city center to the other in under 3 hours and 30 minutes for such an absolutely ridiculous price. The AVE is undeniably a great service in all classes of travel, and this includes their cheapest seats!
About the Author: Nonstop Eurotrip
- Job Title: Travel Content Creator
- Bio: Nonstop Eurotrip creates YouTube trip reports and reviews on trains, planes, buses and ferries within Europe—and all around the world—and also shares blog posts and travel deals on their website.
The Madrid to Granada Train
Travelling to Granada from Madrid and want to know which train to get? We’ve got you covered. The Omio guide to trains in Spain covers all the connections between popular and major cities, including the route between Madrid to Granada. We’ve pulled together the most up to date and important information for you to decide how to get from Madrid, the capital of Flamenco, to Granada. Our easy guide covers everything from the train stations in Madrid and Granada, train providers, how to book cheap tickets, train schedules, as well as travel tips for your time in Spain.

View from the Alhambra in Granada. Source: Shutterstock
How to find cheap train tickets from Madrid to Granada?
Travellers looking for cheaper train tickets from Madrid to Granada should consider buying tickets in advance. Ticket sellers often release tickets a few months before their scheduled travel dates. The earlier you buy, the cheaper they’ll cost. If you can consider being flexible with your schedule, certain departure times and days can be more expensive – such as travelling during peak hours – so search around for cheaper hours and days to land a ticket deal. Trains with stops often have cheaper tickets than trains with direct and faster services. Train operators also offer discounts for students, seniors and disabled travellers, as well as for large groups or families travelling together.
Paperless train tickets from Madrid to Granada
The Omio booking pages have been designed to give you a quick and easy snapshot of the best tickets available. Once you’ve purchased your ticket, you’ll have everything sent to your phone with no need to print. What’s more, you can also enjoy live journey updates, meaning you'll be notified of any platform changes or delays, and we’ll send you a reminder when it's time to set off. If you need any help along the way, there’s a dedicated helpline to make your journey as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Explore your train options on Omio from the comfort of your home or on the go. Download the free Omio app today to receive notifications about deals and discounts with Spanish train providers.
Which train companies travel from Madrid to Granada?
Trains from Madrid to Granada are operated by Spain’s state owned rail company Renfe. It is the largest rail company in Spain with an extensive network and super modern and comfortable trains. Between Madrid and Granada, Renfe operates its high-speed AVE fleet which run at an astounding 192 mph (310 km/h).
Travel first class on trains from Madrid to Granada
When travelling with Renfe you’ll have the option to choose between three different ticket types. Each ticket type is priced according to the flexibility of the ticket, the level of comfort and service you’ll receive onboard.
- Básico (Basic) ticket: these are the cheapest tickets on the standard coaches. Passengers will receive all benefits of travelling on standard including plenty of legroom, WIFI, luggage storage and power sockets. Básico tickets cannot be exchanged or cancelled for a refund. Add-ons can be bought however, and these include seat selection for €5 extra, or bringing a pet for an extra €10.
- Elige (the Pick and mix) ticket: these tickets can be tailored to your needs. Elige ticket holders have more flexibility with exchanging or cancelling their tickets or even changing the ticket holder. The Elige ticket also gives the option to travel on Elige ESTÁNDAR (with standard seats) or Elige CONFORT (with XL comfort seats). Add-ons include seat selection, travelling with pets, or a box of food delivered to your seat for an extra €7.50
- Prémium (Premium) ticket: these tickets offer full first class comfort and flexibility. The perks of travelling with this ticket includes XL comfort seats, unlimited free changes to your ticket, a full refund if you cancel your ticket 7 days in advance, and if you miss your train simply hop on the next one for free. The Prémium includes all add-ons including seat selection, taking pets, food service to your seat.
Journey duration on the Madrid to Granada train
The train trip between Granada from Madrid covers a distance of around 223 miles (359 km), taking passengers from city centre to city centre. The fastest train takes 3 h 25 min to cover the 223 mile stretch on a high-speed train. The average journey takes around 3 h 35 min while the longest can be up to 6 h. The trains on this route are an even mix of direct trains and those that require one transfer, which makes for a longer journey time.
Daily departures: Madrid to Granada train times
There are usually between 3 and 6 daily trains from Madrid to Granada. The earliest departure leaves Madrid at around 7:00 a.m. The last evening train departs at around 8:00 p.m. getting into Granada at around 11:50 p.m. Train times do vary throughout the weekdays and weekends so be sure to check out Omio’s live and up-to-date schedule with the latest timetables.

Popular Train Journeys in Spain
We've compiled a list of the most popular train routes through the country. These include high-speed, low cost trains from Madrid to Alicante and Malaga to Madrid, as well as the speedy inter-city trains between Barcelona and Madrid. Omio helps you compare prices to different cities, see journey times and click through to buy train tickets for your upcoming holiday in Spain.

Atocha train station in Madrid. Source: Shutterstock
What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Madrid to Granada?
Departure train station: Madrid Puerta de Atocha. This station is popular for its beautiful historic setting blended with a tropical garden next to a modern terminus. The station features a lost luggage area and luggage lockers with long-term and short-term storage options. It also offers several food and shopping concessions, ATMs, currency exchange services, and a waiting area. There are several washrooms, baby changing facilities, and water fountains. Travellers can get to the station by foot from the city centre. Alternatively, they can get taxis or private transfers. Travellers can also hop on the metro with line 2 providing services to and from the station.
Arrival train station: Granada train station. This central train station sits just to the north of the centre and is around just 0.8 miles (1.4 km) away from downtown Granada. If you are looking for public transportation to get you from the station to the centre of Granada the 123 bus makes the trip in around 7 min. When you reach the station you will find a small cafe that offers food and great coffee drinks, plus there are also restrooms, seating areas, ticket offices, as well as an information booth and rental cars.
Sustainable travel with trains from Madrid to Granada
Trains are by far the most sustainable and greenest means of travel. Their emissions only represent about two percent of the transport sector emissions. They also have a low energy consumption, which equals a tenth of the fuel used by small cars and aircraft. Trains have the ability to occupy minimal space in the environment and at the same time offer the most spacious areas to passengers onboard. Trains have a long lifetime and can go for up to 50 years without the need to re-invest in spare parts and non-renewable energy. Renfe is constantly modernising its fleet and streamlining its operations to operate in the most environmentally friendly way possible to ensure that your trip from Madrid to Granada is as environmentally friendly as it can be.
Services on board: Madrid to Granada
>Renfe trains offer two travel classes, the major difference between the first and second classes is the seating arrangement. Second-class coaches offer a two-by-two-seat configuration, while first class offers two-by-one seat configurations. Seats in first class are far more spacious, and they offer more legroom. Another perk of first-class travel is the at-seat catering service that is available. Renfe trains have on-board personnel who provide services in different languages throughout the train journeys.
Trains are also equipped with a buffet car, which offers seasonal menus, a children’s menu, and a variety of drinks. The trains also provide free Wi-Fi onboard for travellers’ entertainment. Renfe trains have luggage restrictions with a maximum of three luggage items per traveller. The measurement limit is 33x21x13 inches (85x55x35 cm), and the weight limit is 50 lbs (25 kg). They also offer power outlets for travellers to keep their equipment charged. Pets are allowed on board with a ticket and as long as they are on a leash. Renfe trains are wheelchair accessible with designated areas for wheelchairs, step-free boarding equipment, and adapted services
Travel tips: exploring Granada
Granada is a small town, tucked along the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the south of Spain. The city has a notoriously infectious charm which combines a European flair with the mystery of its famous, storied history. Here you will find churches that were once mosques, bakeries that were once bathhouses, and tapas shops that were once tea houses. When visiting Granada, you might come across an impromptu flamenco show in the streets, or shop for gifts that might otherwise be found on the streets of Morocco. Whatever exciting activities you come across in the day, you’re bound to end your evening satiated with Granada’s delectable and varied dishes. Here’s just a few things to look out for on your trip:
- Alhambra
- Nasrid Palaces
- Royal Chapel of Granada
- Calle Mirador de San Nicolás
- Patio de Los Leones
- Parque de las Ciencias
- Generalife
- Catedral de Granada
Looking for more inspiration and top tips for things to do in Granada?Visit the Omio magazine which offers you advice on the best travel experience, wherever your travels take you.
FAQs: Madrid to Granada train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Granada 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 Granada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and Granada
- Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00
- Free WiFi in the station and on all Renfe trains.
- Open daily from 05:30 to 22:00.
- Passion Food
- La Barrila
- Enrique Tomás
- Pic Nic
- Foodissimo!
- PureGusto
- Burger King
- Wheelchair parking, adapted elevators, adapted platforms, lobby shopping area.
- 60 Balconies Urban Stay
- Only YOU Hotel Atocha
- SLEEP’N Atocha
- Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00
- On the ground floor of the main concourse.
- Metro lines: 1
- Bus lines: 10, 14, 24, 26, 32, 37, 54, 57, 59, 85, 86, 102, 121, 203
- Train lines: C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C7, C8, C10
More options for your journey from Madrid to Granada
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