Madrid to Valencia by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €19
Route Overview: Madrid to Valencia
Madrid to Valencia is one of Europe's most competitive high-speed rail corridors. Four operators — Renfe AVE, Avlo, iryo, and OUIGO — battle for passengers, resulting in fares from just €7 and up to 29 daily departures. The fastest trains cover the 303 km in under two hours, making it quicker than flying once you factor in airport transfers. You will arrive at Valencia Joaquin Sorolla station, a short walk from the old town, the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, and the birthplace of paella. The combination of frequency, speed, and affordability makes this route a showcase for liberalized European rail.
How Long Is the Madrid to Valencia Train?
The direct Renfe AVE from Madrid to Valencia takes approximately 1h 50min, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Madrid to Valencia Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €19 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Madrid to Valencia?
Up to 29/day trains operate daily on the Madrid to Valencia route.
Train Operator
Which Stations Serve the Madrid to Valencia Route?
Madrid Puerta de Atocha
- Spain's main high-speed rail station with the famous tropical garden
- Metro lines 1 and 3, plus Cercanias commuter services
Valencia Joaquin Sorolla
- Modern high-speed station adjacent to Valencia Nord (connected by a short covered walkway)
- Metro lines 1, 2, and 5 serve Valencia Nord for onward city connections
What Classes Are Available on Madrid to Valencia Trains?
Turista (Standard)
- Comfortable reclining seats
- Free Wi-Fi (AVE/iryo)
- Power sockets
- Cafeteria car access
Turista Plus
- Extra legroom
- Wider seats
- Welcome drink
- Enhanced onboard service
Preferente (First Class)
- Spacious leather seats
- Complimentary meal service
- Sala Club lounge access at Atocha
- Free newspapers and Wi-Fi
How to Book the Madrid to Valencia Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in Turista (Standard) class. From €7 with Avlo. OUIGO from €9, iryo from €18. Standard AVE from €25.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Madrid to Valencia Trains?
Europe's Most Competitive Route
With four operators (AVE, Avlo, iryo, OUIGO) competing for passengers, Madrid-Valencia has some of the cheapest high-speed fares in Europe. Budget tickets from €7 are regularly available.
Onboard Amenities
AVE trains offer free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a cafeteria car. iryo features 5G connectivity. OUIGO offers a simpler but comfortable experience at a lower price.
Faster Than Flying
At under 2 hours city centre to city centre, the train beats flying once airport transfers, check-in, and security are factored in.
Arrive in the City of Paella
Valencia is the birthplace of paella. The station is within easy reach of the old town, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the Malvarrosa beach.
Frequently Asked Questions: Madrid to Valencia
The fastest AVE service takes just 1 hour 50 minutes. Most services complete the 303 km journey in under 2 hours.
Avlo offers fares from €7, OUIGO from €9, and iryo from €18 when booked well in advance. Standard Renfe AVE tickets start from around €25.
Up to 29 trains daily, combining AVE, Avlo, iryo, and OUIGO services. This is one of Spain's most frequent high-speed routes.
High-speed trains arrive at Valencia Joaquin Sorolla, a modern station adjacent to the historic Valencia Nord station. They are connected by a short covered walkway.
AVE allows 3 bags (max 25 kg each). OUIGO includes 1 cabin bag + 1 hand luggage; extra bags from €5. iryo has a generous luggage policy included in all fare types.