What’s the cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Barcelona?

The most affordable option for this trip is the train. The cheapest train ticket costs US$15, and the average price is US$57. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on when you book, with last-minute departures typically costing more.

What is the fastest way to travel between Madrid and Barcelona?

If you're pressed for time, the train reigns supreme, taking you from Madrid to Barcelona in roughly 2h 45m.

How do I travel from Madrid to Barcelona without a car?

You can take a bus, train or carpool for this route. If you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, than we recommend train.

How long is the bus ride from Madrid to Barcelona?

The average travel time between Madrid and Barcelona is around 7h 50m, although the fastest bus will take about 7h 20m.This is the time it takes to travel the 500 km that separates the two cities.

Which bus companies travel from Madrid to Barcelona?

When taking the bus from Madrid to Barcelona, you can travel comfortably and safely with ALSA, FlixBus, Infobus.

How many daily bus connections are there between Madrid and Barcelona?

The number of buses from Madrid to Barcelona can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 1 on this route. Some buses run direct routes, while others have layovers. Simplify your bus trip from Madrid to Barcelona by comparing and selecting the bus that fits you travel style and budget on Busbud.

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Madrid to Barcelona?

Buses travelling between Madrid and Barcelona leave from Estación Sur or Madrid-Barajas Airport and arrive at Estació del Nord de Barcelona, Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Sants.

How long is the trip from Madrid to Barcelona?

A train trip between Madrid and Barcelona is around 2h 45m, although the fastest train will take about 2h 30m. This is the time it takes to travel the 500 km that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Madrid and Barcelona?

The number of trains from Madrid to Barcelona can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 1. Some trains are direct while others include transferring trains. Simplify your train trip from Madrid to Barcelona by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

What are the departure and arrival stations for a train from Madrid to Barcelona?

Trains travelling between Madrid and Barcelona leave from Estación Sur or Madrid-Barajas Airport and arrive at Estació del Nord de Barcelona, Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Sants.

How to get to Barcelona from Madrid

3 ways to go from Madrid to Barcelona

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions
Bus	Average PriceUS$46 - US$222	Average Duration7h 50m	CO₂ emissions 12kg CO₂e5 out of 5 stars	Most eco-friendly
Train	Average PriceUS$15 - US$224	Average Duration2h 45m	CO₂ emissions 12kg CO₂e5 out of 5 stars	Cheapest Fastest
Carpool	Average PriceUS$21 - US$104	Average Duration6h 20m	CO₂ emissions 21kg CO₂e4 out of 5 stars

Busbud recommends taking the train from Madrid to Barcelona

Among the sustainable travel choices, the train stands out as a good way to reach Barcelona. The journey takes about 2 hours 45 minutes, and with fares starting at just US$15, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1train per day

2h 45mAverage Duration

US$15Cheapest ticket

12kgCO₂ emissions

TodayJan 22

from US$44

TomorrowJan 23

from US$28

FriJan 24

from US$29

SatJan 25

from US$26

SunJan 26

from US$21

MonJan 27

from US$21

TueJan 28

from US$21

WedJan 29

from US$13

Next departures to Barcelona

One passenger / one way

This trip is recommended because it is the: Cheapest
Departure time: January 23 at 7:00pm
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Madrid
Arrival time: January 24 at 1:00am
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona
Operated by: BlaBlaCar
Vehicle: BusDuration: 6h
This trip is recommended because it is the: Fastest
Departure time: January 23 at 6:40am
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Atocha
Arrival time: January 23 at 9:10am
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona-Sants
Operated by: iryo
Vehicle: BusDuration: 2h 30m
Departure time: January 23 at 12:20pm
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Madrid
Arrival time: January 23 at 7:20pm
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona
Operated by: BlaBlaCar
Vehicle: BusDuration: 7h
Departure time: January 23 at 2:00pm
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Avenida de América
Arrival time: January 23 at 9:50pm
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona Sants
Operated by: ALSA
Vehicle: BusDuration: 7h 50m
Departure time: January 23 at 7:24am
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Madrid-Chamartin
Arrival time: January 23 at 5:10pm
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona-Sants
Operated by: RENFE Regional Express
Vehicle: BusDuration: 9h 46m
Departure time: January 23 at 6:40am
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Atocha
Arrival time: January 23 at 9:10am
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Barcelona-Sants
Operated by: iryo
Vehicle: BusDuration: 2h 30m
Departure time: January 23 at 2:00pm
Departure city: Madrid
Departure location: Avenida de América
Arrival time: January 23 at 10:05pm
Destination city: Barcelona
Destination location: Estació del Nord de Barcelona
Operated by: ALSA
Vehicle: BusDuration: 8h 5m

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 4:29 PM CET.

Prices and availability are subject to change.

Accepted payments

From Madrid to Barcelona: Trip Overview

Travel the 310 miles (500 km) from Madrid to Barcelona by Bus, Train, Carpool or Carpool. The average cost for a trip from Madrid to Barcelona is US$46. This route is served by top travel providers like FlixBus, Renfe, OUIGO, Iryo, BlaBlaCar, ALSA, among others.

Average ticket priceUS$46

Average bus trip duration5h 38m

Number of daily departures1

Number of daily train departures1

Number of daily carpool departures1

Earliest departure12:00am

Distance310 miles (500 km)

Latest departure11:59pm

Cheapest mode of travelTrain - US$15

Fastest mode of travelTrain - 2h 30m

Popular travel companiesFlixBus, Renfe, OUIGO, Iryo, BlaBlaCar, ALSA

Helpful information to go from Madrid to Barcelona

Whether you're a budget traveller or seeking a swift and comfortable journey, planning your trip from Madrid to Barcelona is a breeze. Discover the transportation options that suit you and embark on your next adventure!

Travel Modes

Bus

Travel by bus from Madrid to Barcelona for an average of US$49 and a travel time of 8 hours 56 minutes. ALSA, FlixBus, Infobus offer tickets starting at US$46.

Train

Opt for a sustainable train journey from Madrid to Barcelona. The trip typically takes 2 hours 48 minutes, with ticket prices starting at US$15. Renfe operates trains between these cities, stopping at major stations like Madrid Puerta De Atocha, Madrid-Chamartin, etc.

Carpool

Share the ride and the cost with carpooling! This social option is often the most affordable, with fares starting at US$21. Keep in mind that carpool schedules and pick-up locations might be less flexible, and you depend on the driver's reliability.

Flight

While Busbud promotes sustainable travel, flying from Madrid to Barcelona is sometimes an option travellers can consider. However, be aware of the higher carbon footprint and, in most cases, higher costs compared to other travel options. No matter your chosen travel mode, with Busbud we are here to simplify your decision-making. Find the best way to travel from Madrid to Barcelona and the best travel option that perfectly matches your needs and budget, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

Official partners operating from Madrid

Bus

ALSA

4.5/558,458 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness4.3

Cleanliness4.7

Wifi3.5

ALSA is appreciated for its reliable service, as noted by several users who have had positive experiences and plan to use it again. However, some travelers mentioned discomfort due to issues like non-functioning seat screens during night travel and uncomfortable seating arrangements.

ALSA Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews

My experience was uncomfortable. There were cockroaches on the bus and my seat recliner was broken. Other than that, the lights were dimmed and it was overnight, but it just wasn’t pleasant. The WiFi also wasn’t functioning.

Kaela M.

May 25, 2024

Bien. Sin embargo, la pantalla de la silla no se apago lo cual fue bastante molesto para viajar toda la noche. No podia dormir de lo que dependia para poder estar despierto para el dia siguiente.

Paul S.

June 4, 2023

Not a night bus, just normal bus at night time. No comfort at all, no legroom, staff unfriendly.

Quentin G.

May 22, 2022

FlixBus

3.5/57,391 reviews

Staff4.1

Timeliness3.7

Cleanliness4.1

Wifi2.6

Train

Renfe

4/5772 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness4.1

Cleanliness4.6

Wifi3.1

According to 14 reviews, Renfe received a 4.5-star rating for this journey. Travellers were especially satisfied with the seats and the temperature, but some complained about the value for money. Renfe ticket prices on this trip start at US$23.00

RENFE AVE Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews

The company Renfe didn't send me a pdf ticket and I lost my ticket and I have to buy another ticket. Waste of time and bad customer service.

Jonatas S.

September 4, 2023

Iryo

4.5/5341 reviews

Staff4.9

Timeliness4.7

Cleanliness5

Wifi3.9

Customers have praised the Iryo train for its amazing, comfortable, and luxurious experience. They appreciate the fast and clean service provided. The spacious and comfortable seats in a clean environment are also highlighted positively by customers. Overall, they find the service easy, simple, on time with great assistance from workers even during busy holiday seasons.

iryo Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews

Great assistance from all workers. They made the experience be as efficient and easy as possible. They were very kind, even during the holiday season. I recommend them to everyone

Kristina J.

December 24, 2023

It was easy and simple and on time.

Michael Kevin S.

April 16, 2024

Amazing! Comfortable, easy and felt luxurious!

Gail S.

September 2, 2023

OUIGO

4.5/578 reviews

Staff4.5

Timeliness4.7

Cleanliness4.8

Wifi3.1

Based on 78 reviews, the company was rated 4.3 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the temperature and the cleanliness but often complained with the WiFi. OUIGO ticket prices on this trip start at US$15.00

OUIGO Madrid Barcelona recent customer reviews

I am soooo annoyed that they closed the door earlier, we arrived there at 7:01am and they do not allowed us to get in anymore, well there was not even anyone at the door.

Iago F.

August 11, 2023

Overall good experIence

Alona A.

July 18, 2022

Carpool

BlaBlaCar

Frequently asked questions

What’s the cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Barcelona?
The most affordable option for this trip is the train. The cheapest train ticket costs US$15, and the average price is US$57. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on when you book, with last-minute departures typically costing more.
What is the fastest way to travel between Madrid and Barcelona?
If you're pressed for time, the train reigns supreme, taking you from Madrid to Barcelona in roughly 2h 45m.
How do I travel from Madrid to Barcelona without a car?
You can take a bus, train or carpool for this route. If you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, than we recommend train.
How long is the bus ride from Madrid to Barcelona?
The average travel time between Madrid and Barcelona is around 7h 50m, although the fastest bus will take about 7h 20m.This is the time it takes to travel the 500 km that separates the two cities.
Which bus companies travel from Madrid to Barcelona?
When taking the bus from Madrid to Barcelona, you can travel comfortably and safely with ALSA, FlixBus, Infobus.
How many daily bus connections are there between Madrid and Barcelona?
The number of buses from Madrid to Barcelona can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 1 on this route. Some buses run direct routes, while others have layovers. Simplify your bus trip from Madrid to Barcelona by comparing and selecting the bus that fits you travel style and budget on Busbud.
What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Madrid to Barcelona?
Buses travelling between Madrid and Barcelona leave from Estación Sur or Madrid-Barajas Airport and arrive at Estació del Nord de Barcelona, Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Sants.
How long is the trip from Madrid to Barcelona?
A train trip between Madrid and Barcelona is around 2h 45m, although the fastest train will take about 2h 30m. This is the time it takes to travel the 500 km that separates the two cities.
How many daily trains are there between Madrid and Barcelona?
The number of trains from Madrid to Barcelona can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 1. Some trains are direct while others include transferring trains. Simplify your train trip from Madrid to Barcelona by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
What are the departure and arrival stations for a train from Madrid to Barcelona?
Trains travelling between Madrid and Barcelona leave from Estación Sur or Madrid-Barajas Airport and arrive at Estació del Nord de Barcelona, Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Sants.

Popular places around Madrid

Alcorcón

Why choose Busbud?

The Best Way To Book Bus and Train Tickets

Busbud helps you easily search, compare and book intercity bus tickets on a worlwide scale with our comprehensive list of bus routes and schedules. With several language and currency options available, Busbud seeks to cater to international bus travellers no matter where they are in the world. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.

Which way will you travel today?

Go by bus

Buses from Madrid to Barcelona

Buses from Barcelona to Madrid

Go by train

Trains from Madrid to Barcelona

Trains from Barcelona to Madrid

3 ways to go from Madrid to Barcelona

One passenger / one way

Next departures to Barcelona

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

One passenger / one way

From Madrid to Barcelona: Trip Overview

Helpful information to go from Madrid to Barcelona

Travel Modes

Bus

Train

Carpool

Flight

Official partners operating from Madrid

Frequently asked questions

What’s the cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Barcelona?

What is the fastest way to travel between Madrid and Barcelona?

How do I travel from Madrid to Barcelona without a car?

How long is the bus ride from Madrid to Barcelona?

Which bus companies travel from Madrid to Barcelona?

How many daily bus connections are there between Madrid and Barcelona?

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from Madrid to Barcelona?

How long is the trip from Madrid to Barcelona?

How many daily trains are there between Madrid and Barcelona?

What are the departure and arrival stations for a train from Madrid to Barcelona?

Popular places around Madrid

Why choose Busbud?

The Best Way To Book Bus and Train Tickets

Which way will you travel today?

Go by bus

Go by train

Popular routes

Plan your next trip