- Must visit
Museo Nacional del Prado
Spain’s premier fine art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A top priority for first-time visitors and art lovers.
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.5 - 3.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a train costs an average of $501.
Distance: 920 miles (1481 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$501 Average price | $337 Average price | $166 Average price Cheapest | $538 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
29h 51m Average total duration 29h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 24h 38m Average total duration 24h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 4.4 - 8.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Amsterdam to Madrid:
A bus is $172 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam to Madrid costing on average $337 (€279).
A bus is $336 (€278) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam to Madrid costing on average $501 (€415).
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 24h 8m.
Train takes on average 29h 21m.
Tickets start at around $501 (€415) compared to roughly $538 (€445) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $37 (€30). The journey takes 29h 21m versus 18h 12m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Amsterdam to Madrid run on average 1 times per day, taking around 29h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $501 (€415) but you can travel from only $74 (€61) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:10, the last at 09:10. The fastest train covers the 920 miles (1481 km) distance in 28h 41m.
Distance 920 miles (1481 km) |
Average train duration 29h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $501 (€415) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 28h 41m |
First train 8:10 AM |
Last train 9:10 AM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
Spain’s premier fine art museum, famed for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch. A top priority for first-time visitors and art lovers.
Madrid’s leading modern art museum, best known for Picasso’s Guernica alongside major works by Dalí and Miró. Essential for 20th-century art.
A major collection spanning medieval to modern art, completing Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art. Strong for European painting and accessible curation.
Madrid’s historic main square, surrounded by arcaded buildings and linked to the city’s Habsburg past. A classic stop for architecture and atmosphere.
Madrid’s central square and symbolic heart, home to the Kilometer Zero marker and the famous Bear and Strawberry Tree statue.
Madrid’s iconic boulevard lined with historic architecture, shops, and theaters. It is one of the city’s busiest and most recognizable streets.
Madrid’s signature chickpea stew, traditionally served in stages with broth, vegetables, chickpeas, and assorted meats. It is one of the city’s most emblematic comfort dishes.
A classic Madrid sandwich of fried squid rings in crusty bread, especially associated with bars around Plaza Mayor. It is one of the city’s most iconic quick bites.
A rich traditional stew made with tripe, chorizo, and morcilla in a paprika-forward sauce. It is a historic Madrid tavern specialty.
Classic casual bar famed for fried cod and old-school tapas, popular for a quick authentic stop in central Madrid.
Celebrated traditional restaurant known for huevos rotos and classic Spanish cooking in a refined but lively setting.
Historic tavern especially known for cocido madrileño cooked in individual clay pots, with a classic old-Madrid feel.
Moderate for Western Europe: museums and transit are fair, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; small change in cafes, bars, and taxis is appreciated, not required.
Official public transport app
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Sol, Madrid
Traveling between Amsterdam and Madrid offers a seamless experience thanks to the efficient train connection provided by Renfe AVE. While there is no direct high-speed train linking these two cities, travelers can enjoy scenic routes with connections through major hubs like Paris or Barcelona. The journey typically involves taking an international service from Amsterdam to one of these connecting cities before boarding a Renfe AVE train that whisks you directly into the heart of Madrid. This combination allows for comfortable travel while soaking in the beautiful landscapes along the way!
The train journey from Amsterdam to Madrid takes approximately 23 hours and 30 minutes, with a total of 1 connection required. There are typically up to 2 connections per day available for this route. Please note that the trains on this route are not direct, requiring at least one transfer during the trip.
The first daily train journey from Amsterdam to Madrid departs at 15:15, while the last departure is scheduled for 16:15. This allows travelers a convenient window of time to embark on their journey between these two cities.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Amsterdam and Madrid is €49. The average ticket price tends to be around €99, providing travelers with a range of options depending on their booking time and flexibility.
The Prado Museum, established in 1819, is one of the world's premier art galleries and a cornerstone of Spanish culture. It houses an extensive collection of European masterpieces from renowned artists like Velázquez and Goya, making it not just a museum but a treasure trove that tells the story of Spain's artistic heritage. Unique features include its stunning neoclassical architecture and the opportunity to view works that span over eight centuries.
The Royal Palace of Madrid serves as both an official residence for the Spanish royal family and a magnificent symbol of Spain’s rich history dating back to the 18th century. With over 3,000 rooms adorned with exquisite tapestries, frescoes by famous artists such as Tiepolo, and opulent furnishings reflecting various historical periods, this palace offers visitors insight into royal life through time. One standout feature is its grand staircase designed by Sabatini—an architectural marvel that sets the tone for your journey through regal splendor.
Plaza Mayor has been at the heart of Madrid since its construction in 1617; it's where locals gather to celebrate festivals or enjoy leisurely afternoons at outdoor cafés. This iconic square showcases beautiful uniformity in architecture with striking red-brick buildings surrounding it while also serving as a vibrant hub filled with shops offering traditional crafts and delicious tapas bars nearby. A unique aspect is its impressive statue dedicated to King Philip III right at center stage—a perfect spot for capturing memories against this historic backdrop.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Amsterdam to Madrid by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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