How Long Is the Train Ride From Madrid to Lisbon?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a trip to Spain and Portugal? One of the most popular routes to travel between these two countries is Madrid to Lisbon by train.

This scenic journey takes you through the heart of Spain and along the coast of Portugal, offering stunning views of the countryside and coastline. But how long does this train ride take? Let’s find out.

Madrid to Lisbon Train Schedule

The Madrid-Lisbon route is served by several trains daily, operated by Renfe and Comboios de Portugal (CP). The journey takes approximately 10 hours on average, with some trains taking slightly longer or shorter depending on the route and stops.

Renfe Train Schedule

Renfe offers high-speed AVE trains that run from Madrid to Lisbon daily, with departures throughout the day. The journey time is usually around 10 hours, but some faster services can take as little as 8 hours. You can choose from several ticket classes, including Turista (standard class), Preferente (first class), and Club (premium class).

Comboios de Portugal (CP) Train Schedule

CP operates a night train service from Madrid to Lisbon called Lusitania Trenhotel. This train departs from Madrid Chamartin station in the evening and arrives at Lisbon Santa Apolonia station early in the morning, taking around 10-11 hours for the journey. The Lusitania Trenhotel offers sleeping compartments for a comfortable overnight journey.

What to Expect During Your Train Journey?

The train ride from Madrid to Lisbon takes you through some of Spain’s most picturesque regions, including Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura. You’ll also cross over into Portugal and travel along its stunning coastline towards Lisbon.

You can expect comfortable seating arrangements on both Renfe and CP trains, with ample legroom and luggage space. Renfe’s AVE trains offer onboard services like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a cafe-bar serving snacks and drinks. The Lusitania Trenhotel provides sleeping compartments with pillows, blankets, and towels.

How to Book Your Train Tickets?

Booking your Madrid-Lisbon train tickets is easy and can be done online through the official websites of Renfe or CP. You can also book through third-party travel agencies or at the train station ticket counters.

Top Tips for Your Train Journey

– Book your tickets in advance to get the best deals and ensure availability. – Pack some snacks and drinks for the journey, especially if you’re traveling overnight on the Lusitania Trenhotel.

– Bring a book or download some movies to keep yourself entertained during the journey. – Don’t forget to take in the beautiful scenery along the way.

Conclusion

The Madrid-Lisbon train journey is a wonderful way to explore Spain and Portugal while enjoying stunning views of their countryside. With several trains running daily, you have plenty of options to choose from and can easily book your tickets online. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!