- Recommended
Museo del Bierzo
Museum inside the castle complex showing local history, archaeology and the Templar story. A strong companion visit to the fortress.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Ponferrada
Showing times and prices for 29 Aug
Cheapest price
£85
Average price
£85
Fastest journey
11 h 42 m
Average duration
11 h 42 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
338 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Ponferrada is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Ponferrada will cost around £85 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £85.
Fast trains
To travel from Madrid to Ponferrada you need to make at least one change.
04087 · 006226:5511h42Madrid Chamartín18:37Ponferrada station£851One-way1 change
- 04087 · 006226:5511h42Madrid Chamartín18:37Ponferrada station£851One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Madrid to Ponferrada
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Ponferrada among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £27. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 4h 28m. 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 £27, and a train costs an average of £19.
Distance: 338 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£63 Average Price | £33 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration Fastest 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Madrid to Ponferrada train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Ponferrada trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 15:30 Madrid | 4h12 | 19:42 Ponferrada | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:30 Madrid | 4h12 | 20:42 Ponferrada | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 29 August | |||||
| 04087 · 00622 | 6:55 Madrid Chamartín | 11h42 | 18:37 Ponferrada station | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Ponferrada by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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 Ponferrada trains with Omio?
Renfe INTERCITY as well as AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe MD and more offer trains services from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe INTERCITY tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe INTERCITY?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe INTERCITY, but also compare tickets for the likes of AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Ponferrada.
- 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 INTERCITY with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Ponferrada.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Ponferrada?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Ponferrada is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Ponferrada route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada.
Trains
from £11Coaches
from £32Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Ponferrada
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 17:30. The fastest train covers the 338 km distance in 4h 12m.
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 338 km |
Average train duration 4h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 12m |
First train 6:08 |
Last train 17:30 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 INTERCITY, AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Ponferrada trainsRenfe INTERCITY, AVE, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe AVLO, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Ponferrada from £19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
£19
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
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
4h 38m
Cheapest Price
£51
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 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
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
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 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
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
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
£31
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Ponferrada
Things to do in Ponferrada
Discover the best of Ponferrada — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ponferrada trip today.
- Recommended
La Fábrica de Luz. Museo de la Energía
Museum dedicated to rail history in a former power station area, with locomotives and industrial heritage linked to El Bierzo.
Museo de la Radio Luis del Olmo
Art centre focused on radio history and the work of Luis del Olmo, with devices, recordings and displays in a restored old-town building.
- Recommended
Plaza de la Encina
Main square beside the basilica and castle, lined with arcades and civic buildings. It is a lively base for exploring the historic centre.
- Recommended
Calle del Reloj
Historic street on the Camino de Santiago with traditional buildings, shops and old-town atmosphere. Ideal for a short heritage walk.
Parque del Temple
Riverside park with paths, lawns and open views, popular for walks and relaxed breaks near the centre of Ponferrada.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pimientos Asados del Bierzo
Roasted red peppers from El Bierzo, prized for their sweet flesh and smoky flavour. A protected local speciality, often served as a tapa or side dish.
- Gluten-free
Botillo del Bierzo
Traditional pork stew from Bierzo with assorted cured and fresh pork cuts, potatoes and vegetables. A hearty winter dish tied to local pig-slaughter customs.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pera Conferencia del Bierzo
Sweet roasted or conference pears grown in El Bierzo. They are valued locally for their delicate texture and are a classic seasonal dessert or accompaniment.
Restaurante Muna
Upscale restaurant in a historic setting focused on contemporary regional cuisine, with careful presentation and a strong Bierzo wine selection.
Casa Noval
Established dining room known for refined Leonese and Bierzo cooking in a smart, calm setting. Good choice for seasonal local produce and wine.
Hostal Nogar
Popular traditional restaurant serving hearty Bierzo specialities such as botillo and roast meats. Warm, classic atmosphere suited to local cuisine.
Euro (€)
Ponferrada is cheaper than larger Spanish cities, with modest hotel rates, affordable dining and low local transport costs for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €35-60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-2.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. In cafés and taxis, small change or rounding up is normal, not expected.
PonfeMobi
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Estación de Ponferrada -> Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Ponferrada
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- PonfeMobi is the official app for live bus information and stop alerts.
- The official sources found confirm the standard single bus ticket, but no reliable current day pass was confirmed from official operator or city sources.
+ 
FAQs: Madrid to Ponferrada train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Ponferrada can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £64.
The train from Madrid to Ponferrada takes 4h 12m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Madrid to Ponferrada is 338 km.
The first train from Madrid to Ponferrada leaves at 6:08.
The last train from Madrid to Ponferrada departs at 17:30.
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Madrid to Ponferrada.
Yes, there is a direct train between Madrid and Ponferrada. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe Viajeros.
To get from Madrid to Ponferrada, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Ponferrada.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Ponferrada is Madrid Chamartín, and it arrives at Ponferrada station.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Ponferrada is by train, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Madrid to Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada is considered scenic, featuring views of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque villages as the route passes through the Castile and León region.
A day trip from Madrid to Ponferrada is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 12m, covering 338 km. There is a frequency of 1 trip per day for trains.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore Ponferrada, allowing time to visit the Templar Castle, the Basilica de la Encina, and enjoy the local gastronomy and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Ponferrada.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and Ponferrada
Most Madrid to Ponferrada trains use the Madrid Chamartín to Ponferrada station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Ponferrada 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 Ponferrada
Which Madrid station do trains to Ponferrada leave from?
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada leave from Madrid Chamartín. The station is 6 km from Madrid city centre at 28036 Madrid, Spain.
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.
Which Ponferrada station do trains from Madrid arrive at?
Trains from Madrid to Ponferrada arrive at Ponferrada. Ponferrada is 1 km from Ponferrada city centre.
PonferradaEstación de Ponferrada, Avenida de la Libertad, 24400 Ponferrada, León, Spain+34 987 410 000
City-centre transport
Getting to Ponferrada from Ponferrada city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TaxiAvailable outside the station
Ponferrada train station facilities and services
Ponferrada 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, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Perla, Restaurante Mencía
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ponferrada. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ponferrada. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ponferrada: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ponferrada: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ponferrada: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include AC Hotel Ponferrada, Hotel Temple Ponferrada, Hotel Aroi Ponferrada.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Ponferrada
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ponferrada and Madrid
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