Madrid to Valencia by Train
The AVE links the capital to the Mediterranean in well under two hours, dropping you a short walk from Valencia's old town, the City of Arts and the beaches.
The journey, stop by stop
From Madrid Puerta de Atocha the AVE races east across the plains of Castilla-La Mancha and Cuenca, descending to the coast at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla.
How long does it take?
The fastest direct trains cover the route in around 1h 40m, with frequent departures. Check the live schedule for your date.
Who runs the route?
The route is served by Renfe AVE, with low-cost Ouigo and Iryo on some departures. Comparing them in one search finds the best time and fare.
Madrid to Valencia train price (2026)
Advance fares start from around €20 with Renfe, and less on Ouigo or Iryo, rising closer to departure.
| Operator | From | Journey time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renfe AVE | ~€20 | 1h 40m | Frequent |
| Ouigo / Iryo | ~€12 | 1h 50m | Several daily |
Prices are indicative advance fares. Check live availability for your exact date.
How to get the best fare
- Book early. The cheapest saver fares sell out first — booking ahead can be dramatically cheaper than buying on the day.
- Travel off-peak. Mid-morning and mid-week departures tend to be quieter and cheaper.
- Consider first class — on many routes the upgrade is modest and very comfortable.
- Compare in one place to see every departure at a glance.
Ready to go? Check live Madrid → Valencia times and fares and book your seat on Trainline — secure checkout, mobile tickets, every operator in one search.
Prefer to compare every rail operator? Check schedules & book →
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