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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.
What customers say about Trainline
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Take the train from London to Madrid
Embark on a true railway adventure and take the train from London to Madrid – a journey that’s sure to leave you with a few stories to tell! This particular route may not be the fastest compared to flying, but what it does offer is incredibly scenic views from your window and a chance to mingle with the locals. What could be better?
Starting at London St Pancras, your journey will involve at least two changes (one in Paris, one in Barcelona) and a minimum journey time of 13 hours, so we’d recommend bringing plenty to entertain yourself with along the way. Alternatively, split your journey up by spending a day or two in Paris or Barcelona. If you’re worried about comfort, opt for First Class tickets and kick back in your large leather seats, with meal service at your seat. Read on for lots of useful information on the journey, including prices and FAQs.
London to Madrid by train
It takes an average of 19h 36m to travel from London to Madrid by train, over a distance of around 785 miles (1264 km). There are normally 7 trains per day traveling from London to Madrid and tickets for this journey start from $148.80 when you book in advance.
| First train | 7:04 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 8:01 pm | |
| Departure station | London | |
| Arrival station | Madrid | |
| Journey time | From 14h 11m | |
| Distance | 785 miles (1264 km) | |
| Frequency | 7 trains per day | |
| Changes | 2 changes | |
| Price | From $148.80 | |
| Train and bus operators | BlaBlaCar Bus |
Cheap train tickets from London 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 London 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 London to Madrid
Want to know more about your journey from London 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 London to Madrid take?
The average journey time by train between London and Madrid is 19 hours and 36 minutes, with around 7 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 London and Madrid by train?
The fastest journey time by train from London to Madrid is 14 hours and 11 minutes.
How much does the train from London to Madrid cost?
Train tickets from London to Madrid can start from as little as $148.80 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from London to Madrid?
No, there are no direct train services from London to Madrid. Travelling from London to Madrid by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.
What time does the first train from London to Madrid leave?
The first train from London to Madrid leaves at 07:04. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from London to Madrid leave?
The last train from London to Madrid leaves at 20:01. 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 London and Madrid by train?
Trains travelling from London to Madrid cover a distance of around 785 miles (1264 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Madrid to London.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.