Best Ways to Travel from Barcelona to Madrid

Madrid, as the Capital of Spain, is a big, vibrant city with lots to offer. 

From historical and contemporary architecture and cultural landmarks to sightsee. Madrid not only reflects Spanish culture and its diversity but is also home to a wide range of people and communities, as shown in its variety of cultural events, neighborhoods, and international cuisine. 

With this and more. If you’re interested in travelling from Barcelona to Madrid high-speed trains and planes are faster, whereas by bus and car is cheaper.

Here is all the transportation available: 

• Train (AVE)

• Plane

• Bus

• Car

1. High-Speed Train (AVE)

AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) or Spanish High-Speed train network, is one of Europe's most advanced public transport service networks created to enhance standard train rides. With Ouigo, Iryo and Avant following right after. 

What are some benefits of the high-speed train?

• Efficiency: Fast travel and time-saving.

• Comfort: Spacious seats, quiet rides, power outlets, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, restrooms. 

• City-center stations.

• Punctuality.

• No security hassles.

• Scenic Views.

• Business service.

• Family-Friendly

• Group Discounts.

• Variety of Ticket Classes.

• Flexible Bookings.

• Safety.

• Direct Routes.

• Eco-Friendly.

How fast is the high-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid?

The high-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid reaches 503 km/h (312 mph) for a 2.5h journey. 

High-speed trains are the most efficient way to travel from one city to another. This time-saving, fast mode of transport significantly reduces travel time, from a 7-hour car ride (with stops and traffic) to a 2.5-hour train ride.

How much is the fast train from Madrid to Barcelona?

Barcelona to Madrid high-speed train prices range from €25 to €150 per adult. 

AVE offers a variety of ticket classes, including standard and first class, so travellers can choose according to their needs and budget. As well as children and group discounts. Similarly, AVE offers flexible booking, so you can change or cancel your tickets for any last-minute changes. 

To book cheaper tickets, visit RailEurope.com earlier.

Can you take luggage on the train from Madrid to Barcelona?

Yes, you can take your luggage on the train from Barcelona to Madrid.

Boarding on AVE offers no security hassles. As it's faster than airports, with only 30 min before departure arrival being more than enough. This network offers no strict baggage restrictions.

2. Plane

Josep-Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is Spain’s second largest international airport, after Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in Madrid.

Several airlines operate between Barcelona and Madrid, including Iberia, Vueling Airlines, and Air Europa. Pricing starts from €19 to €54 depending on the route, season, airline, and booking time.

Here are some benefits of choosing plane ride between Barcelona and Madrid airports to keep in mind before choosing your final transportation method : 

• Speed: 1h 15min flight time.

• Convenience: Multiple daily flights and airlines.

• Competitive Pricing: Budget-friendly airlines as Vueling and cheaper tickets if booked in advance.

• Luggage Allowance: Free carry-on baggage depending on the airline.

• Loyalty Programs: Airline miles/loyalty points for frequent travellers.

• Business Class Options: Comfort, priority boarding, lounge access.

• International Connections: Madrid-Barajas airport offers connecting flights.

How far is Madrid from Barcelona by plane?

Madrid from Barcelona is 505 km and 314 mph distance by plane, making it a 1.5h flight.

3. Bus

Several bus companies like Alsa and Avanza operate on routes between Madrid and Barcelona for a comfortable and budget-friendly travel.

Here is a list of all the benefits of travelling from Barcelona to Madrid  by bus:

• Affordable: Prices starting from €10.

• Comfortable: Reclining seats, Wi-Fi, charging ports, air conditioning and Premium options providing extra leg room, entertainment, and snacks.

• No Hidden Fees: No extra standard baggage fees. Or Airport transfers.

• Eco-Friendly: Lower CO₂ emissions than flying.

• Multiple Daily Departure: These buses run day and night and offer 13 daily direct routes to Madrid.

• Central Locations: No long airport commutes by having centrally located stations.

How long does the bus take from Barcelona to Madrid?

The bus from Barcelona to Madrid takes 7h - 8.5h travel time.

4. Car

Driving from Barcelona to Madrid by car offers the convenience of travelling at your own pace and enjoying the road trip with interesting stops along the way. With this 620 km (385 mph) drive, you can enjoy scenic views and flexibility.

Routes & Travel Time

Route AP-2 and A-2 Highways. 6h 20min including traffic. This route is the most direct and quickest by car. And includes tolls pricing around €35.

Recommended Stops

1. Zaragoza: Beautiful historic landmarks. 

2. Lleida: Lovely cathedrals and mountains .

3. Guadalajara: Small city with medieval landmarks.

Route AP-7 and A-3. Travel time 7h 10 min. This route is longer but has no traffic or tolls, making it an affordable travel option. And you get to enjoy the mountain and seaside views!

Recommended Stops

1. Tarragona: Charming small town by the seaside with beautiful old Roman ruins.

2. Valencia: City with a perfect mixture of modern and historical landmarks as well as breathtaking mountains and beaches.

Estimated Costs 

• Fuel: €80 - €150 Depending on car type.

• Tolls: With AP-2/A-2 route €30 to €35.

• Car Rentals: €100 - €150 for a family car and this trajectory.

• Food and Rest Stops: €10 - €30 per adult if stopping for meals. 

Total price: €90 - €400 one way.

Depending on how many tolls you take, if you also are renting a car, how much you spend on food and stops, and average fuel prices, estimate a €400 budget. On the other side, with no tolls and car rental  you would spend an average €90.

Some Tips

For a better travel experience, here are some tips we recommend:

• Plan your route and stops.

• Check for toll-free routes.

• Refuel strategically: Gas stations near cities tend to  be cheaper.

• Beware of speed cameras.

• Avoid peak traffic: Fridays and Sundays are the busiest travel days. 

• Bring snacks and water.

Conclusion

There are many ways to travel between Madrid and  Barcelona, some are much affordable like bus stops and car trips, whereas others might be pricier but more efficient and comfortable like high-speed trains and secondly plane flights. 

Whether you choose travelling in a bus, car, flight, or a high-speed train. Visiting Madrid will be an experience worth having. This big city offers rich history and culture as the Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and the Prado Museum. Or entertainment such as Gran Vía, Mercado de San Miguel, and El Rastro Flea Market. Or many interesting day trips, like Toledo.

Wherever you decide to go, keep in mind you can always find many nice hotel options.

 Madrid is known for having a wide range of options. From many five-star hotels all over the city such as “The Westin Palace” to affordable, easy-to-find, and well-put-together four or three-star hotels, such as “Ibis Madrid Aeropuerto Barajas”, to make your experience even better.

If you're interested in more on what to see and the best tips, visit BarcaTrips.com 

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