Madrid to Tarragona train with AVE

Sat 29 Aug
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AVE
SNCF OUIGO
iryo
Renfe AVLO
Renfe
2,000+ travel companies
AVE
SNCF OUIGO
iryo
Renfe AVLO
Renfe
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Tarragona

Showing times and prices for 29 Aug

Cheapest price

£28

Average price

£74

Fastest journey

2 h 28 m

Average duration

2 h 38 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

424 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Madrid to Tarragona will cost around £74 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Madrid for Tarragona every day 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 424 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 28 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.

  • AVE03309
    19:343h03
    Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
    22:37Camp de Tarragona
    £281One-way
    0 changes
  • iryo06381
    18:192h41
    Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
    21:00Camp de Tarragona
    £401One-way
    0 changes
  • iryo06015
    19:292h40
    Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
    22:09Camp de Tarragona
    £561One-way
    0 changes
  • iryo06111+Renfe17056
    11:229h02
    Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
    20:24Tarragona station
    £671One-way
    1 change
  • iryo06121+Renfe17056
    12:228h02
    Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
    20:24Tarragona station
    £691One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Madrid to Tarragona

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Tarragona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £10. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £10, and a flight costs an average of £24.

Distance: 424 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£41

Average Price

Cheapest

£47

Average Price

£87

Average Price

4h 21m

Average total duration

3h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 12m

Average total duration

5h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 42m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

AVE

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Iberia

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 Tarragona train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Tarragona trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
iryo06011
Delayed
9:57 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h42
10:39 10:39Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
iryo06011+Renfe17056
On time
9:57 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
10h27
20:24 Tarragona station
1 change
iryo06111+Renfe17056
On time
11:22 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
9h02
20:24 Tarragona station
1 change
iryo06121+Renfe17056
On time
12:22 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
8h02
20:24 Tarragona station
1 change
AVE09725
On time
12:50 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h48
15:38 Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
iryo06021
Delayed
14:42 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h45
15:27 15:27Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
AVE03163
Delayed
16:27 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h42
17:09 17:09Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
AVE0337317:27 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h59
20:26 Camp de Tarragona0 changesdirect
AVE03183
On time
18:27 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h41
21:08 Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
iryo06181
Delayed
18:32 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h28
19:00 19:00Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
iryo06015
Delayed
19:29 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
2h40
20:09 20:09Camp de Tarragona
0 changesdirect
AVE03309
Delayed
19:34 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes
3h03
20:37 20:37Camp de Tarragona
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 Tarragona by coach, train or flight

Compare coach, train 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 Tarragona trains with Omio?

AVE as well as SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe AVLO, Renfe and more offer trains services from Madrid to Tarragona.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Tarragona.

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 SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe AVLO or Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Tarragona.
  • 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Tarragona.

Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?

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

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

The best time to book your train from Madrid to Tarragona is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Tarragona route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Tarragona 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 Tarragona.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Tarragona

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Tarragona run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £10 if you book in advance.

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 424 km distance in 2h 27m.

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
424 km
Average train duration
3h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
£10
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
11
Fastest train
2h 27m
First train
6:08
Last train
21:13
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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: AVE, SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe AVLO, Renfe from Madrid to Tarragona trainsAVE, SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe AVLO, Renfe trains will get you between Madrid and Tarragona from £10. 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
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
£10
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

iryo

About
iryo is a new brand from railway operator ILSA operating in Spain since 2022. iryo uses Frecciarossa 1000 trains which are modern, can travel at up to 360km/h and have a minimal environmental impact. iryo’s Frecciarossa trains have different classes, all of which come with free unlimited WiFi, power sockets, toilets and an onboard entertainment portal where you can watch films and TV series. The main classes are: Infinita Class, Singular Café Class, Singular Class, Inicial Class. These new trains take 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Madrid and Barcelona. They depart from Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants stations, and stop in Zaragoza along the way. iryo services also cover Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Córdoba, Seville and Málaga.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
£13
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (36x56x26cm) and 1 handbag (36x30x10cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead compartments and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with Mediterranean cuisine, at-seat service in both classes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Large dogs need 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 Duration
7h 46m
Cheapest Price
£37
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

SNCF OUIGO

About
SNCF OUIGO is a low-cost train service launched in 2013 by SNCF, the French national railway company. It offers budget-friendly travel on both high-speed (Ouigo Grande Vitesse) and conventional (Ouigo Vitesse Classique) lines in France, and also to Belgium and Spain. OUIGO trains are characterized by a \no-frills\" approach, featuring a single class of seating and minimal onboard amenities to keep ticket prices low. While the high-speed services utilize specially reconfigured TGV trains, Ouigo Vitesse Classique uses older locomotive-hauled rolling stock for even cheaper fares on slower routes."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest Price
£22
SNCF OUIGO frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (max 36x27x15cm) and 1 small bag included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by OUIGO
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 mandatory and included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers (max 45x30x25cm) for €5. Large dogs not allowed except guide dogs

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 Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
£13
Renfe AVLO frequency
3 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

Complete guide to Tarragona

Things to do in Tarragona

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

  • Must visit

Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona

Main archaeology museum for Roman Tarragona, displaying sculptures, mosaics and finds that give context to the city's ancient monuments.

  • Recommended

Museu Diocesà de Tarragona

Art museum in a historic building with Gothic and modern collections, religious works and temporary exhibitions in the old quarter.

Casa Castellarnau

Local history museum with Roman remains under the square and exhibits on Tarragona's urban development across different periods.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Spain: dining and local transport are reasonable, while summer accommodation near the coast can raise overall trip costs versus smaller inland cities.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple set meal.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€1.50-3 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. In cafés, small change is enough. For taxis, round up the fare rather than tipping heavily.

FAQs: Madrid to Tarragona train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Tarragona can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £10, while the average price tends to be around £41.
The train journey from Madrid to Tarragona covers a distance of 424 km and takes approximately 2h 27m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Madrid to Tarragona is 424 km.
The first train from Madrid to Tarragona leaves at 6:08.
The last train from Madrid to Tarragona departs at 21:13.
Trains from Madrid to Tarragona run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Madrid to Tarragona.
Yes, there is a direct train between Madrid and Tarragona. The service operates 11 times per day, provided by AVE, SNCF OUIGO, iryo, Renfe AVLO, Renfe.
To get from Madrid to Tarragona, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Tarragona.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Tarragona is Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, and it arrives at Camp de Tarragona.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Tarragona is by train, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Madrid to Tarragona 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 Tarragona offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Spanish countryside, including rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns, making it a pleasant and varied route for travellers.
A day trip from Madrid to Tarragona is not feasible due to a journey duration of 2h 27m. However, trains run frequently with 10 trips per day. The distance is 424 km.
In Tarragona, you can explore the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona to learn about its Roman history, or visit the vibrant Mercat Central de Tarragona for local produce and delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Rambla Nova with its shops and cafes, or head to the El Serrallo district for seafood in a charming fishing neighbourhood. Relax on the sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the Tarragona Amphitheatre and Roman Circus for historical sights, and enjoy the views from Balcó del Mediterrani. The impressive Tarragona Cathedral and Pont del Diable are also must-see attractions.
A visit to Tarragona is typically well-suited for a 2 to 3-day trip, allowing ample time to explore the Roman ruins, historic sites, and enjoy the local culture and gastronomy.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Tarragona.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and Tarragona

Most Madrid to Tarragona trains use the Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Camp de Tarragona station pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Tarragona 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 Tarragona

Which Madrid station do trains to Tarragona leave from?

Trains from Madrid to Tarragona leave from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes. The station is 2 km from Madrid city centre at Glorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain.
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena GrandesGlorieta Emperador Carlos V, 28045 Madrid, Spain+34 912432343WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes from Madrid city centre

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 5m · £0.90 · every ~15 min
Bus26, 32 · 6m · £0.90 · every ~60 min
Subway1 · 6m · £2 · every ~24 min

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train station facilities and services

Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes 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 and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Passion Food, La Barrila, Enrique Tomás, Pic Nic, Foodissimo!, PureGusto, Burger King

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi in the station and on all Renfe trains. ATMs are in various points at the station.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 10:00 - 20:00. Information desks are on the ground floor of the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is open daily from 05:30 to 22:00. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes: Wheelchair parking, adapted elevators, adapted platforms, lobby shopping area.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include 60 Balconies Urban Stay, Only YOU Hotel Atocha, SLEEP’N Atocha.

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