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Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
Search. Book. Travel.
Say hello to Your Account
All your tickets and travel info, all in one place. Easy as that.
Got a question? Our support team are on hand 24/7.
Search. Book. Travel.
No more fumbling in your pockets
Digital tickets live neatly in our app, so you can just tap, scan and go.
All your tickets, all in the palm of your hand.
Search. Book. Travel.
Looking for a cheap price?
Look no further. Compare tickets easily with our price calendar.
We’ll find you the cheapest day to travel.
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Travelling from Lisbon to Madrid by train
Considering a trip to the Spanish capital and looking for more information on how to take the train from Lisbon to Madrid? You’ve come to the right place!
Generally, the journey from Lisbon to Madrid by train takes around 15h 26m but can take 10h 24m on the fastest services. As there are no direct services available, you will need to make at least one change along the way. Separated by more than 300 miles, Lisbon and Madrid are two great European capitals. When travelling on this route, you’ll board a train at Lisboa Santa Apolonia station and arrive at Madrid Chamartin-Clara station or Madrid Atocha Cercanias station.
Located in the heart of Spain, Madrid is the country’s capital and a fantastic destination for a city break. Once you’ve departed the station, you’re well positioned to start exploring the city. Not sure what see and do in Madrid? You can’t go wrong with Museo Nacional del Prado – a vast collection of European art. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Madrid, including El Retiro Park and Plaza Mayor. If you'd like to experience the nightlife (or la marcha as locals say), check out our guide to the best places to watch flamenco in Madrid.
If you'd like to explore more of Spain, check out our guide to the best day trips from Madrid.
Eager to start? Begin your search for cheap train tickets from Lisbon to Madrid today. Just head to our Journey Planner at the top of the page and we’ll highlight the cheapest fares. If you’d like to read a bit more information before booking, continue reading for FAQs, ticket prices and tips on how to book cheaper train tickets.
Cheap train tickets from Lisbon to Madrid
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Lisbon to Madrid by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for Lisbon to Madrid
Want to know more about your journey from Lisbon to Madrid? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Lisbon to Madrid take?
The average journey time by train between Lisbon and Madrid is 18 hours and 35 minutes, with around 2 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Lisbon and Madrid by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Lisbon to Madrid is 18 hours and 34 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Lisbon to Madrid?
No, there are no direct train services from Lisbon to Madrid. Travelling from Lisbon to Madrid by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.
What time does the first train from Lisbon to Madrid leave?
The first train from Lisbon to Madrid leaves at 16:00. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Lisbon to Madrid leave?
The last train from Lisbon to Madrid leaves at 22:00. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Lisbon and Madrid by train?
Trains travelling from Lisbon to Madrid cover a distance of around 312 miles (501 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Madrid to Lisbon.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.