How Long Is the Train Ride From Lisbon to Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Europe and wondering how long it takes to travel by train from Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, to Madrid, Spain’s bustling city? Well, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

Firstly, it’s important to note that there is no direct train connection between Lisbon and Madrid. You will need to take a connecting train from either Porto or Coimbra in Portugal to reach Madrid. The duration of your journey will depend on the route you choose and the number of transfers involved.

If you take a direct train from Porto to Madrid, your journey will take approximately 10 hours. However, if you opt for a more scenic route via Coimbra and Salamanca, your journey can take up to 13 hours. It’s worth noting that some trains require a change at Vilar Formoso station on the Portuguese-Spanish border.

Now let’s break down the journey into more detail:

Porto – Madrid:

  • Direct trains run daily between Porto and Madrid.
  • The journey takes around 10 hours.
  • Trains depart from Campanhã Station in Porto and arrive at Chamartín Station in Madrid.

Coimbra – Salamanca – Madrid:

  • To travel this route, you need to change trains in Salamanca.
  • The journey takes around 13 hours.
  • Trains depart from Coimbra-B Station in Coimbra and arrive at Chamartín Station in Madrid.

It’s recommended that you book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season (June-August) when prices tend to be higher. You can purchase tickets online or at the train station ticket offices.

In conclusion, while there is no direct train connection between Lisbon and Madrid, you can easily travel to Madrid from either Porto or Coimbra. Plan accordingly and enjoy the scenic views along the way!