MADRID to LEÓN train from £11 with AVE

Name: How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to León?
Creator: Omio

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to León

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct

Cheapest price on 20 Oct

£28

Average ticket price on 20 Oct

£43

Fastest journey on 20 Oct

2 h

Average journey duration on 20 Oct

2 h 6 m

Trains on 20 Oct

Distance

288 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to León is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Madrid to León will cost around £43 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.

Fast trains

On Tue 20 Oct, we found 10 trains from Madrid to León, including 10 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 288 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 11 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.

04091
9:152h21
Madrid Chamartín
11:36León station
£281One-way
0 changes
18005
18:234h43
Madrid Príncipe Pío
23:06León station
£351One-way
0 changes
18003
16:264h32
Madrid Príncipe Pío
20:58León station
£351One-way
0 changes
05183
20:302h00
Madrid Chamartín
22:30León station
£381One-way
0 changes
04149
13:532h11
Madrid Chamartín
16:04León station
£381One-way
0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to León

Spain

Trains from Madrid to León run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:16, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 288 km distance in 2h 0m.

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

Coach from £11

Distance

288 km

Average train duration

2h 40m

Cheapest ticket price

£11

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 0m

First train

5:16

Last train

21:13

Cheapest Month

Dec

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sept

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

70 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from £11

Live departures

Madrid to León train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to León trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
04149	On time 13:53 Madrid Chamartín	2h11	16:04 León station	0 changesdirect
04151	14:59 Madrid Chamartín	2h10	17:09 León station	0 changesdirect
18003	16:26 Madrid Príncipe Pío	4h32	20:58 León station	0 changesdirect
04161	16:37 Madrid Chamartín	2h06	18:43 León station	0 changesdirect
04179	17:30 Madrid Chamartín	2h18	19:48 León station	0 changesdirect
18005	18:23 Madrid Príncipe Pío	4h43	23:06 León station	0 changesdirect
04181	18:51 Madrid Chamartín	2h20	21:11 León station	0 changesdirect
05183	20:30 Madrid Chamartín	2h00	22:30 León station	0 changesdirect
Tuesday 20 October
04261	7:04 Madrid Chamartín	2h21	9:25 León station	0 changesdirect
04091	9:15 Madrid Chamartín	2h21	11:36 León station	0 changesdirect
05071	9:56 Madrid Chamartín	2h05	12:01 León station	0 changesdirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Madrid to León trains with Omio?

AVE as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD and more offer trains services from Madrid to León.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to León.

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 ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to León.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to León.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to León.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to León.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to León?

The best time to book your train from Madrid to León is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to León route.

Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to León 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 Madrid to León.

Trains

from £17

Coaches

from £12

Train companies: AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe from Madrid to León trainsAVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe trains will get you between Madrid and León from £11. 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 AVE Duration

2h 0m

Cheapest AVE Price

£13

AVE frequency

4 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

Learn more about AVE

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

2h 9m

Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price

£11

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 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

Average Renfe MD Duration

4h 32m

Cheapest Renfe MD Price

£35

Renfe MD frequency

2 a day

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 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

2h 17m

Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price

£16

Renfe INTERCITY frequency

1 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

Renfe

About

Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Renfe Duration

2h 17m

Cheapest Renfe Price

£26

Renfe frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled trains

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service

Seat reservation

Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free

Quiet zone

Learn more about Renfe

Renfe AVLO

About

Renfe Avlo is Spain’s low-cost high-speed rail service operated by the national rail company Renfe. Serving routes between major cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, Girona, and Figueres, Avlo trains reach speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All tickets are for Economy Class (“Básica”) with assigned seating and include onboard services such as free Wi-Fi, entertainment via the PlayRenfe app, power sockets, and vending machines. Child tickets are available for ages 0–13, while passengers aged 14 and over require an adult ticket. Each fare includes a backpack and hand luggage (55x35x25 cm, no weight limit), with the option to upgrade for extra baggage. Prices start from as low as €7, making Avlo a budget-friendly way to travel between Spain’s most popular destinations.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Renfe AVLO Duration

2h 8m

Cheapest Renfe AVLO Price

£14

Renfe AVLO frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and 1 personal item (35x30x20cm)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and spaces between seats

Cancellation Policy

According to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is canceled

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and assistance available

Pets

Small pets in carriers under 10kg allowed free. Service animals allowed

Learn more about Renfe AVLO

Complete guide to León

Things to do in León

Discover the best of León — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect León trip today.

Must visit

MUSAC

Contemporary art museum known for its colourful glass façade and changing exhibitions. Best for modern culture and current creative trends in León.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museo de San Isidoro

Museum inside San Isidoro with sacred art, manuscripts and royal tombs. A rich introduction to León's medieval culture and religion.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museo Casa Botines Gaudí

Museum devoted to Gaudí's Casa Botines, with restored rooms, art and interpretation of the building's design and history.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Spain: León is usually cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona for hotels, meals and local buses, while tourist-centre prices rise slightly in peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for a budget meal.
Mid-range: €18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining: €45+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee: €1.50-2.50 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafés; taxis are usually rounded up, not tipped heavily.

Best day trips from León by train

The most popular day trips by train from León are Astorga, Ponferrada, Palencia, Valladolid and Segovia. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from León on Omio.

Day trip from León to Astorga by train

Why visit Astorga for the day?

Astorga is known for Roman history, chocolate and its long link to the Camino de Santiago. The city blends a compact old quarter with the Gaudí-designed Palacio Episcopal and a calm Castilian character.

How to get from León to Astorga by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:05, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 43 km distance in 35m.

Find tickets to Astorga

Day trip from León to Ponferrada by train

Why visit Ponferrada for the day?

Ponferrada is known for its Templar castle and its role on the Camino de Santiago. The city pairs a medieval core with a modern everyday feel in the heart of El Bierzo.

How to get from León to Ponferrada by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 85 km distance in 1h 23m.

Find tickets to Ponferrada

Day trip from León to Palencia by train

Why visit Palencia for the day?

Palencia is a calm Castilian city known for its Gothic cathedral, Romanesque churches and spacious streets. Set on the Carrión River, it feels historic yet lived-in, with traditional squares and an unhurried local rhythm.

How to get from León to Palencia by train?

There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:16, the last at 22:25. The fastest train covers the 107 km distance in 35m.

Find tickets to Palencia

Day trip from León 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 León to Valladolid by train?

There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:16, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 126 km distance in 58m.

Find tickets to Valladolid

Day trip from León 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 León to Segovia by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 219 km distance in 1h 41m.

Find tickets to Segovia

Renfe trains from Madrid to Leon

Renfe is Spain's national train operator and connects the country's main points of interest. In addition, Renfe has the largest high-speed network in Europe with AVE and Alvia trains. Other Renfe train types are Altaria, Euromed and Talgo. All Renfe trains are equipped with an on-board bistro, toilets, air conditioning and many of them with Wi-Fi.

At Omio you can easily check the Renfe timetable for your trip and book cheap Renfe tickets from Madrid to Leon. When booking, you can choose different classes (Tourist, Tourist Plus, Preferred and Club), the seat and the type of ticket you want (Promo, Promo+, Flexible or Round Trip). If you have a Renfe discount card, you can specify it when you buy your ticket at Omio and take advantage of many offers. For information on ticket cancellation, please visit our Help centre.

Renfe

More information

More information:	Trains in Spain
More information:	Renfe
More information:	Book your trains in Europe
More information:	Cheap train tickets
More information:	High speed trains in Europe

FAQs: Madrid to León train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to León 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 León, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to León can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £39.

The train journey from Madrid to León covers a distance of 288 km and takes approximately 2h 0m. Trains run 10 per day.

The train distance from Madrid to León is 288 km.

The first train from Madrid to León leaves at 5:16.

The last train from Madrid to León departs at 21:13.

Trains from Madrid to León run approximately 10 times per day.

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Madrid to León.

Yes, there is a direct train between Madrid and León. The service operates 10 times per day, provided by AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe.

There is no night train service from Madrid to León.

The train station in Madrid that goes to León is Madrid Chamartín, and it arrives at León station.

Booking trains from Madrid to León 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 León offers a mix of scenic views, including rolling countryside, mountains, and charming villages, providing a pleasant visual experience for travellers.

Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to León.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and León

Most Madrid to León trains use the Madrid Chamartín to León station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and León train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Madrid

Arrival train stations in León

Which Madrid station do trains to León leave from?

Trains from Madrid to León leave from Madrid Chamartín. The station is 6 km from Madrid city centre at 28036 Madrid, Spain.

Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain Parking

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 · £1 · every ~15 min

Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · £1 · 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.

More about Madrid Chamartín

Madrid Príncipe PíoPaseo de la Florida, s/n, 28008 Madrid, Spain+34 902 320 320 Wifi

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 · £1 · every ~34 min

N18, N20, N19 · 7m · £1 · 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.