Paris to Madrid Train

10/12/2024
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Paris to Madrid by train

The journey from Paris to Madrid by train is 654.69 mi and takes 12 hr 1 min. There are 11 connections per day, with the first departure at 6:03 AM and the last at 9:42 AM. It is possible to travel from Paris to Madrid by train for as little as $129.10 or as much as $418.75. The best price for this journey is $129.10.

Lowest Price$129.10
Journey Duration12 hr 1 min
Connection per Day11
Lowest Price$129.10
Highest Price$418.75
First Departure6:03 AM
Last Departure9:42 AM
Distance654.69 mi
DepartureParis
ArrivalMadrid
CarriersOUIGO, IryoMore

Paris to Madrid Train Times

Departure date
Saturday, Oct 12, 2024

Traveling from Paris to Madrid by Train

Experience an unforgettable journey by train from the romantic city of Paris to Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain. This scenic route covers an estimated distance of 654.69 mi, and the average travel time is around 12 hr 1 min. With approximately 11 trains running daily on this route, travelers have a wide array of departure times. The journey also caters to those on a budget, with the lowest fares typically starting at $129.10.

The trip begins at Gare de Lyon or Gare d'Austerlitz in Paris and concludes at Madrid's Puerta de Atocha or Chamartín station. While some direct services exist, most journeys will require at least one transfer, typically in Barcelona. For a seamless boarding process, arriving at the station at least 30 minutes before departure is recommended.

The primary train services on this route include the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) and Renfe's high-speed AVE trains. These trains are known for their high speed, comfort, and amenities. Both services provide spacious seating, ample legroom, and a selection of onboard amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and dining options. Despite the lengthy journey, the scenic views and comfortable train facilities ensure a pleasant travel experience.

Stopover in Barcelona

A popular choice for many travelers on this route is a stopover in Barcelona. This vibrant city offers many sights and attractions, such as the stunning Sagrada Familia, lively Las Ramblas, and the beautiful Park Güell. Barcelona also offers a unique culinary experience with famous tapas, seafood paella, and Catalan wines.

Arriving in Madrid: Spain's Dynamic Capital

Arriving at either Madrid Puerta de Atocha or Chamartín station, you'll find yourself right in the heart of Madrid. Both stations offer feature restrooms, a variety of shops, diverse eateries, and secure luggage lockers for storage.  The Madrid Metro services both stations, with Puerta de Atocha serviced by Line 1 and Chamartín by Lines 1 and 10. Bus stops and taxi ranks are also readily accessible just outside the stations, providing easy and convenient onward travel throughout the city.

Madrid, known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and gastronomic delights, invites exploration. From the splendid Royal Palace and the world-renowned Prado Museum to the bustling Gran Vía and the lively squares of Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, there's plenty to see and do in Madrid.

Things to do/see in Madrid

  1. Explore the Royal Palace, a symbol of grandeur and power.
  2. Visit the Prado Museum, home to one of the finest collections of European art.
  3. Stroll along Gran Vía, Madrid's bustling shopping street.
  4. Take a relaxing break in El Retiro Park, an oasis of calm in the city center.
  5. Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods.
  6. Discover the Rastro Market, the city's most famous open-air flea market.
  7. Watch a traditional Flamenco show at one of the city's many tablaos.

Local delicacies in Madrid:

  1. Savor Cocido Madrileño, a traditional chickpea-based stew.
  2. Enjoy Churros con Chocolate, a popular breakfast or snack.
  3. Try Tapas, a variety of small dishes often served free with drinks in local bars.
  4. Indulge in a Bocadillo de Calamares, a squid sandwich that's a Madrid specialty.

Day Trips from Madrid

Madrid's central location is an excellent base for exploring other Spanish towns and cities. Take a trip to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and unique blend of cultures. Visit Segovia, famous for its Roman aqueduct and fairytale-like Alcázar. Or explore El Escorial, a monumental historical residence boasting a monastery, royal palace, museum, and school.

Madrid Travel Tips

Make the most of your Madrid visit with these tips. Start with purchasing a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited travel on public transport. Try the local cuisine to experience Madrid's rich culinary heritage. Opt for guided tours to discover the city's rich history and cultural landmarks. Exploring the city on foot allows you to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and pace.

We're here to assist you if you plan to travel from Paris to Madrid by train. We check thousands of routes by train, bus, and flight to provide the best options. Use our price calendar below to find the best fares for all modes of transportation between Paris and Madrid. Choose the option that best suits your needs and embark on your journey.

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Compare prices and tickets from Paris to Madrid

Cheap train tickets from Paris to Madrid
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Paris to Madrid.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Paris to Madrid, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Paris to Madrid.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book Paris to Madrid travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $108.38 to $331.51 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 67% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Paris to Madrid

The cheapest Paris - Madrid train tickets can be found for as low as $82.13 if you’re lucky, or $176.21 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $265.21.

Find the best day to travel to Madrid by train

When travelling to Madrid by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Avlo trains were introduced in 2020 as a high-speed train service operated by Renfe, Spain's national railway company, as a more affordable alternative to the high-speed train service AVE. Avlo trains, unlike the AVE, offer a single class of seating and have fewer onboard services to offer more passenger capacity. The main stations are Barcelona Sants, Madrid Atocha, and Zaragoza-Delicias.

Iryo is a Spanish high-speed train operator, founded in 2019 and serving Spain's major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville, Valencia and Zaragoza. iryo operates on the national rail network in Spain, using the latest AVE high-speed trains to transport passengers at speeds of up to 310 km/h.

In 2013, the French national railway company SNCF introduced OUIGO to offer budget-friendly TGV travel options. Choose between the lightning-fast OUIGO Grande Vitesse, reaching speeds of 300 km/h, or the more leisurely OUIGO Classique, which offers a nostalgic train ride experience.

TGV inOui, which replaces traditional TGV services by offering a contemporary upgrade, is a high-speed train service operated by the French National Railways, SNCF that make it easy to explore around 50 destinations in neighboring countries such as Belgium, Germany, and Spain. TGV inOUI is designed to offer more comfort and flexibility to travelers, with features such as spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and catering services. It connects major cities in France and provides a fast, convenient, and comfortable mode of travel.

Ticket types and facilities from Paris to Madrid

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by AVLO, Iryo and OUIGO when traveling from Paris to Madrid.

Economy Class

You can travel with the standard "economy class" ticket on Avlo trains, which refers to the standard, basic level of seating available on the train. With this ticket you have access to basic amenities such as overhead luggage racks, reading lights, restrooms.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Singular

The "Singular fare" offers flexibility for entrepreneurs and companies with personalized customer service from iryo assistants.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Inicial

iryo's Inicial fare provides affordable travel without compromising on comfort or service.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Singular ONLY YOU

The "Singular Only YOU" fare is designed for entrepreneurs and companies, providing the best conditions for changes and cancellations in the ticket.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Infinita

Infinita is iryo's all-inclusive fare that offers the best travel options with flexibility and comfort.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Standard Class / TGV

OUIGO Grande Vitesse offers a single class, akin to second-class travel, which accounts for its affordable ticket prices. Adult fares start at €10, depending on the destination, while children can travel for €5. Tickets for OUIGO can only be purchased online.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Standard Class / Classical

OUIGO Train Classique only have one class, which is equivalent to second class travel, which is why ticket prices are cheap. Tickets are available from €10 for adults (depending on destination) and €5 for children, and OUIGO train tickets are only available online.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Second Class (The essentials)

For a practical and affordable journey, TGV INOUI has two fares for second class tickets: The Prems Second, an affordable option, and The Second, the classic second class. Both of them can be exchanged and refunded, subject to certain conditions. The Prem's fare tickets are perfect if you're looking for the lowest prices, starting at just 15€ and available for booking up to 4 months in advance.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class (The comfort)

First-class tickets take your journey to the next level, offering enhanced comfort and exclusive benefits, including the option to choose seats in the Quiet Area. Additionally, this ticket offers flexibility for your booking and provides added benefits to Second Class features.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Business Première (The flexibility)

Business Première offers premium advantages like no-cost exchanges or refunds and exclusive amenities including advanced Wi-Fi and access to Grand Voyageur lounges, all while ensuring flexibility in your booking.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Stay connected on Avlo with free WiFi via PlayRenfe. Enjoy movies, TV shows, and various reads at your fingertips.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Every seat on Avlo is equipped with a power outlet for your convenience.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
You can bring a piece of hand luggage with no weight limit, such as a bag, backpack, or similar item, with dimensions up to 27x36x25 cm, and a piece of checked luggage with no weight limit, such as a suitcase, with dimensions up to 55x35x25 cm, without paying an additional fee on top of the ticket price you pay under the Basic fare.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Avlo provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Reach out to Avlo for more details.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
While Avlo doesn't offer a dining service, you can find vending machines stocked with a range of drinks and snacks. Keep in mind, these machines only accept card payments.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Travel comfortably as Avlo trains are air-conditioned.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
You may bring folding bicycles and scooters on board, as long as they adhere to the maximum dimensions for luggage: 55x35x25 cm (as a carry-on bag with no weight limit, included in the price of the Basic Fare), or 85x60x35 cm, or a maximum of 180 cm overall (as additional luggage for an extra fee). To comply with regulations, all bicycles and scooters must be folded and stored in their respective carrying cases.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Connect to free WiFi on iryo trains in any class. Enjoy movies, TV shows, live news, and Spotify for entertainment.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Every seat on iryo trains comes with power sockets, and those in the Infinita and Singular Cafe class boast additional USB ports.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On iryo trains, flexible baggage policy lets you travel comfortably with up to 3 pieces of luggage, including a piece of hand luggage. Maximum size for 2 larger pieces is 85x55x35cm, while hand luggage must be 36x27x15cm. Total weight limit is 25kg.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
iryo trains are designed for inclusivity, offering designated seats for passengers with reduced mobility and ensuring step-free access during both boarding and disembarking.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
iryo offers quality menus for all classes. Find the onboard restaurant/bar usually close to coach 2. For Infinita Class passengers, meals are served at your seat, but remember to book 24 hours in advance.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Enjoy fresh and comfortable air on the ETR1000 train; its cutting-edge air-conditioning system refreshes the entire carriage's air in just 3 minutes, ensuring a generous 35 m3/h of fresh outside air for every passenger.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
On Iryo trains, you can bring along one disassembled bicycle or electric scooter per coach, as long as it's tucked into a bag and stays within 90x120x40cm. It's free to transport! Just keep in mind that you'll handle the loading, safekeeping, and unloading. Also, be considerate of other passengers' comfort and safety, and remember any damages caused are on you.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
You have access WiFi (OUIFI) and delve into the OUIFUN entertainment portal for an added fee.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
On Ouigo trains, only top deck seats in select coaches come with power sockets. Note that these seats come at an additional charge, and the bottom deck lacks sockets altogether.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
OUIGO lets you bring two small hand luggage items or one piece measuring 36 x 27 x 15 cm for free, along with cabin baggage at 55x35x25cm with no weight restrictions. For larger items, a fee of €5 applies for online bookings made in advance, and it goes up to €20 if you pay in-person at the station.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
For travelers with mobility concerns, TGV INOUI offers the 'Accès Plus' service. This provides dedicated assistance from the station directly to the train seat. It is advisable for passengers to contact 'Accès Plus' after securing their tickets and ensure arrangements are made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
In France, OUIGO's Train classique services provide an at-seat snack service, though this isn't available on the high-speed trains. For those traveling in Spain, a visit to the OUIBAR in coach 4 serves up a variety of beverages and snacks.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Travel in comfort with all coaches being air-conditioned.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Planning to bring along bigger items like a bike, scooter, skis, or a musical instrument? If you book online in advance, it's just a €5 fee. But, if you decide to pay at the station, the fee goes up to €20.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
On TGV INOUI trains, enjoy complimentary WiFi access throughout your journey. Whether you're working, replying to emails, or diving into the TGV INOUI entertainment hub, we've got you covered.
quiet_zone Quiet zone open icon close icon
With a Business Première ticket, step into an exclusive coach designed for comfort. It's your silent sanctuary, ideal for both work and relaxation.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Every seat on TGV inOUI is power-packed! With an outlet at your disposal, you're always charged and ready.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On TGV INOUI trains, you can bring as much luggage as your arms and legs can carry, but remember to properly label your own luggage. Handbags and small items are best stored either at feet-level or under the seat; heavier pieces should be placed in an available corner of the car or along its central aisle.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
For travelers with mobility concerns, TGV INOUI offers the 'Accès Plus' service. This provides dedicated assistance from the station directly to the train seat. It is advisable for passengers to contact 'Accès Plus' after securing their tickets and ensure arrangements are made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
Travelers on TGV INOUI can look forward to an assortment of food and beverages. The train service presents a curated selection that promises to cater to diverse palates.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Stay cool and comfortable. All TGV inOUI trains are air-conditioned, ensuring a pleasant journey, irrespective of the weather outside.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Booking required for non-foldable bikes (€10) on select TGV INOUI trains, foldable bikes under 130x90cm can travel as hand luggage on any TGV INOUI train, disassembled bikes can be taken without booking if stored in a bike bag under 130x90cm. Aquatic or snowboards, folded scooters, and musical instruments can be taken as hand luggage if they are in a carrying case under 130 x 90 cm.
Services on board OUIGO, Iryo and TGV inOui from Paris to Madrid
Compare services on board when travelling from Paris to Madrid by train.
Facilities OUIGO Iryo TGV inOui AVLO AVE
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luggage Luggage check check check check check
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quiet_zone Quiet zone cross cross check check check
accessibility Accessibility cross cross check check check
air_con Air conditioning cross cross check check check
bicycle Bicycle cross cross check check check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper cross cross check cross cross

Paris to Madrid CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
73.75kg
Bus
79.02kg
Flight
210.73kg
Car
168.58kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Paris to Madrid by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Paris and Madrid are 73.75kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Paris and Madrid? By taking the train between Paris and Madrid you will save 136.98kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 5.27kg compared to a bus and 94.83kg compared to a car.

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Paris to Madrid?
A train ticket from Paris to Madrid is $235.76. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $129.10.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Paris to Madrid?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Paris to Madrid is $129.10. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Paris and Madrid by train?
Paris to Madrid is 654.69 mi.
How long does the train between Paris and Madrid take?
Paris to Madrid is on average 12 hr 1 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 10 hr 3 min.
Which companies operate from Paris to Madrid?
The train journey from Paris to Madrid is covered by 5 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: OUIGO, Iryo, Renfe, TGV inOui, AVLO and AVE.
How many train connections per day go from Paris to Madrid?
Paris to Madrid has 11 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Paris to Madrid leave?
The earliest train from Paris to Madrid departs at 6:03 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Paris to Madrid depart?
The latest train from Paris to Madrid departs at 9:42 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Paris to Madrid in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $129.10 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
What's the fastest journey time between Paris to Madrid by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Paris and Madrid is 10 hr 3 min.
Is there a direct train from Paris to Madrid?
Yes, there is a direct train between Paris and Madrid.
What are the CO2 emissions for Paris to Madrid by train?
The train journey from Paris to Madrid creates 73.75kg of CO2 emissions.

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