- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier art museum houses Velázquez, Goya and El Greco masterpieces, making it essential for understanding European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Madrid
Showing times and prices for 20 Aug
Cheapest price
£291
Average price
£291
Fastest journey
1 d 44 m
Average duration
1 d 44 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1247 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Madrid will cost around £291 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £291.
Fast trains
To travel from Zurich to Madrid you need to make at least 2 changes.
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15:3424h44Zurich16:18Madrid£2911One-way2 changes
- 15:3424h44Zurich16:18Madrid£2911One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Zurich to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £62, and a train costs an average of £291.
Distance: 1247 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£291 Average Price | £136 Average Price | £103 Average Price Cheapest |
12h 53m Average total duration 12h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 10m Average total duration 26h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.7 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Zurich to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Madrid trains for today, Wednesday 19 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15:34 Zurich | 24h44 | 16:18 Madrid | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Madrid by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Zurich to Madrid trains with Omio?
AVE as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Madrid.
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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Madrid.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare AVE with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Madrid.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Raileurope or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Zurich to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Zurich to Madrid is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich to Madrid 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 Zurich to Madrid.
Trains
from £14Coaches
from £76Flights
from £158Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Madrid
Switzerland
Spain
Trains from Zurich to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 12h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £291 but you can travel from only £62 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 06:59, the last at 07:34. The fastest train covers the 1247 km distance in 24h 44m.
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 £62
Distance 1247 km |
Average train duration 12h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £291 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 24h 44m |
First train 6:59 |
Last train 7:34 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £62
Train companies: AVE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Madrid trainsAVE, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Madrid from £62. 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
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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 44m
Cheapest Price
£291
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Madrid’s leading modern art museum is famed for Picasso’s Guernica and strong collections of Dalí, Miró and 20th-century works.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
This refined museum features major works by Titian, Rubens and Caravaggio in a manageable collection inside a grand palace.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers lakes, gardens, sculptures and broad promenades, perfect for walking, rowing and people-watching.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
This grand boulevard links major museums and historic fountains, making it one of the city’s most elegant and culture-rich walks.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
A busy central avenue known for theatres, shops and illuminated façades, ideal for architecture, nightlife and classic city views.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables and soup, long associated with Madrid taverns and traditional lunchtime dining.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Deep-fried squid rings served in a crusty bread roll, a classic fast bite around Plaza Mayor and one of Madrid’s best-known snacks.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Madrid-style tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla, rich and slow-cooked, traditionally eaten in colder months.
Casa Dani
Traditional bar celebrated for excellent tortilla española and honest Madrid-style tapas in a lively, no-frills atmosphere.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic tavern famed for roast suckling pig and classic Castilian dishes in an old-fashioned, atmospheric setting near Plaza Mayor.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Iconic churrería serving Madrid’s classic chocolate con churros around the clock in a bustling, traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe. Rooms, meals and Metro fares are usually cheaper than Paris or London, but central hotels and popular dining areas raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or menú del día.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, leaving small change is enough.
Mi Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city centre
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is being introduced in Metro turnstiles for single tickets; buses and other modes may still require a transport card or other ticket.
- For the widest urban coverage, use CRTM fares and check your loaded ticket before entering Metro gates or boarding buses.
FAQs: Zurich to Madrid train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Zurich to Madrid can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £291, while the average price tends to be around £291.
The train from Zurich to Madrid takes 24h 44m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Zurich to Madrid is 1247 km.
The first train from Zurich to Madrid leaves at 6:59.
The last train from Zurich to Madrid departs at 7:34.
Trains from Zurich to Madrid run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Zurich to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Madrid.
To get from Zurich to Madrid, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Zurich to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Madrid is by coach, costing approximately £62.
Booking trains from Zurich to Madrid in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Zurich to Madrid offers scenic views, particularly through the picturesque Swiss landscapes and parts of the French countryside, providing a mix of alpine vistas and charming rural settings.
A day trip from Zurich to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 44m, and the distance is 1247 km. Additionally, there is only 1 trip per day for trains.
In Madrid, visit the bustling Puerta del Sol for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a variety of gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel and explore the lively nightlife in the Malasaña district. Experience traditional Spanish culture by attending a flamenco show. Sports enthusiasts can visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for a tour or a football match. Discover artistic masterpieces at the Prado Museum and explore the opulent Royal Palace of Madrid. Relax in Retiro Park, admire the Plaza Mayor, and enjoy shopping or entertainment along Gran Vía.
To fully experience Madrid, 3 to 4 days are recommended, allowing time to explore its cultural landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods, and rich culinary scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Madrid.
Most popular train connections from Zurich
More options for your journey from Zurich to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Zurich
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