Ready to make the journey from Seville to Madrid by train? This guide will give you all the tools and tips you need to make the adventure from Andalucia to the capital of Spain maravillosa! Whether you're taking the fast train from Seville to Madrid or looking for a convenient connection like the Seville to Madrid airport train, this overview will help you plan.

Overview of train services

The two major train operators offering service between Seville and Madrid are Renfe and iryo. Both provide options for travellers, whether you're searching for luxury, speed or affordability.

Renfe (AVE, Alvia, or Intercity)

Operator details

Renfe is Spain's national railway operator, offering various train services, including the high-speed AVE train from Seville to Madrid. Alvia is Renfe’s hybrid service—somewhat slower at high speeds, but still operable at low speeds. Renfe Intercity services are regional standard services, operating at lower speeds. With routes snaking across the Iberian Peninsula, Renfe serves up a diverse array of Spanish towns and cities.

Route

Renfe's AVE trains run directly between Sevilla Santa Justa and Madrid Atocha stations, making it an excellent option for travellers seeking a train from Seville to Madrid, Spain. Some Alvia and Intercity routes may include stops at intermediate stations, increasing travel time depending on the final destination.

Train Features

Top-of-the-line contemporary AVE trains offer comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and a café-bar. Business Class, First Class and economy options cater to different budgets. Alvia and Intercity trains tend to be a little older with fewer amenities, but Renfe has still put in effort to make them comfortable.

Benefits

Renfe AVE and other services offer convenience, with ample daily departures and a variety of classes. Prices typically accommodate various travel budgets, and direct routes save time. The stations are located in city centres, saving you a commute from remote airports, and the security and ticketing process is simpler and quicker than air travel. Train cars, especially modern high-speed trains from Seville to Madrid, are more spacious, with more amenities and more freedom to move around, even at lower price points.

Renfe trains are much more convenient than renting a car, avoiding hassles like pickup, return, parking and traffic. Buses, while affordable, still face traffic delays. Finally, train travel is the most eco-friendly transit option compared to plane, bus or rental car, so eco-conscious travellers strongly prefer them.

iryo

Operator details

iryo is a private, high-speed train operator collaborating with Trenitalia, Italy's main train operator. In recent years, iryo began operating in Spain, providing competition for Renfe AVE on the Seville to Madrid train route.

Route

Like Renfe AVE, iryo's Frecciarossa trains mainly run directly between Sevilla Santa Justa and Madrid Atocha, sometimes with occasional brief stops. Whether you're looking for a Seville to Madrid train schedule or a luxurious experience, iryo offers a compelling alternative.

Train features

iryo trains emphasize a modern, comfortable experience with ergonomic seating, onboard Wi-Fi and catering services. Travellers on the iryo train from Seville to Madrid enjoy amenities designed for both Business and Economy classes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Benefits

iryo boasts a modern fleet and customer-centric approach. Travellers prioritizing comfort and seamless connectivity may prefer this option. In addition to the extra attention to luxury, the high-speed iryo train from Seville to Madrid offers the same convenience, eco-friendliness and relative affordability as Renfe trains.

Schedule details

Quickest journey time and total distance

The fastest Seville to Madrid train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes, covering about 390 kilometres. This direct route considerably reduces travel time compared to road travel, making the fast train from Seville to Madrid an ideal option for speed-conscious travellers.

Earliest and latest departure times

Weekday trains from Seville to Madrid typically start around 06:00, with the last departure from Seville around 21:00. Over the weekend, journeys start at 06:00 with the last train leaving at about 21:15.

Average number of daily trains

About 83 trains from Seville to Madrid depart daily, providing frequent options for travellers. Checking a real-time schedule before your trip ensures access to the most current information.

Frequency of departures

Trains depart approximately every 6 minutes, making it easy to find a train from Seville to Madrid Spain that suits your schedule.

Ticket information

Ticket prices

Prices depend on factors such as the travel date, time of day and class of service. Booking last minute, travelling during peak times or choosing premium classes will increase costs. Our most up-to-date estimates of the current pricing of train tickets from Seville to Madrid are as follows:

  • Cheapest ticket on the route: €5.57

  • Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 30 days in advance: €44

  • Average cost of a ticket on this route if you book 7 days in advance: €26

Importance of booking in advance

Booking ahead often guarantees the lowest fares, especially during peak seasons. With this, you get the flexibility of picking from a bigger pool of departure times. Last-minute tickets are significantly more expensive, so booking in advance is recommended. You can book a Seville to Madrid train with advanced notice of up to 12 months.

Point-to-point tickets vs. rail passes

Choosing the right ticket type ensures either greater flexibility or cost savings. Carefully assess your needs before your trip.

Point-to-point tickets

Point-to-point tickets cover a specific journey between two stations at a designated time. They are simple and straightforward for direct trips, in addition to being more cost-conscious for those travelling directly between Seville and Madrid by train.

Rail passes you can use from Seville to Madrid

Rail passes, like the Eurail or Interrail pass, provide extensive travel within a specific region for a set period. While pricier, frequent travellers stand to gain the most from these perks, as can travellers on an epic and undirected European journey. For those using one of these rail passes, the AVE train Seville to Madrid is typically covered.

Eurail passes are available to non-European residents, while Interrail passes are available to European residents. Both entitle the holder to designate a certain number of travel days over a specified period of months. On a travel day, you can board as many trains as you want, allowing you to make stops along your journey. For the Seville to Madrid train journey, you can choose from the following passes:

Whether you're taking the fast train from Seville to Madrid or exploring other parts of the Iberian Peninsula, these passes provide great flexibility.

Train stations served

Sevilla Santa Justa station

Sevilla Santa Justa station, near Seville’s city centre, combines modern functionality with architectural beauty. As if conjured from a 19th-century etching, the station's historic facades subtly intersect with touches of Gothic drama, creating a refreshingly authentic ambiance for the 10 million passengers who pass through its terminals every year.

Facilities and services available

  • Information desk

  • Ticket offices and machines

  • Luggage storage facilities

  • Public restrooms

  • Shops and newsstands

  • Restaurants and cafes

  • ATMs

  • Car rental services

  • Free Wi-Fi

  • Waiting areas

  • Taxi rank

  • Bus stops for local and airport routes

  • Accessibility services for passengers with reduced mobility

The Seville to Madrid train schedule includes frequent departures from this centrally located station, offering convenience for both locals and tourists.

Madrid Atocha station

Located in the heart of Madrid, Atocha Station blends historical charm with modern convenience. Its key interior architectural feature is the soothing indoor garden, framed by dramatic iron arches. As one of the busiest transport hubs, it's no surprise that over 100 million passengers stream through its gates every year.

Facilities and services available

  • Information desk

  • Luggage storage (consigna)

  • Public toilets and showers

  • Shops

  • Restaurants and cafes

  • Cash machines (ATMs)

  • Police office

  • Post office

  • Parking facilities

  • Club lounges for first-class ticket holders

  • Tropical garden with turtle pool

  • Tourist information desk

  • Left luggage lockers

  • Sala Club lounge

  • Free Wi-Fi

Whether you’re arriving on the AVE train from Seville to Madrid or departing to another destination, Madrid Atocha offers everything you need for a seamless journey.

Travelling with Renfe (AVE, Alvia or Intercity) and iryo (Frecciarossa) – boarding process

Security and boarding procedures

Boarding involves standard rail safety procedures. Before boarding, travellers face a security check — usually a metal detector, ticket verification, and luggage screening. For the train from Seville to Madrid Spain, digital displays on the platform inform you which train is coming next and when. Follow the signage and ask station staff for assistance if needed.

Navigating the stations and boarding

Both stations utilize digital signage to guide passengers. Trains to Madrid usually depart from Sevilla Santa Justa on tracks 1 and 6, but the track will be announced shortly before departure. Watch the departure boards. Can’t find the details? Don’t stress – station staff is at your service, covering everything from the minute details to the big picture of boarding procedures for the Seville to Madrid train.

Train classes and services

Renfe (AVE, Alvia or Intercity)

Depending on the train, Renfe trains from Seville to Madrid will have up to four classes of service. Keep in mind that the most comfortable premium classes will be found on high-speed AVE trains from Seville to Madrid.

Turista Class

Turista Class is Renfe's standard class. It's perfect if you want a comfortable ride at a great price. You'll find comfy seats and access to a café car for snacks and drinks. Those who crave affordable quality will find a lot to love here.

Turista Plus Class

Looking for a bit more space? Then Turista Plus might be for you. Widening the seat landscape, these car seats lean back more generously. It also gives more legroom than the Turista Class. You’ll also enjoy at-seat food and drink service.

Preferente Class

Preferente Class kicks things up a notch with large, comfy seats and more personalized service. You’ll get complimentary newspapers and magazines, as well as access to the Renfe lounge at certain stations, plus an in-seat meal.

Club Class

Club Class is Renfe's most luxurious option on the Seville to Madrid route. It gives the highest level of comfort and service, with spacious seats that recline deeply and even more personalised attention. You’ll get a welcome drink, a gourmet meal served at your seat, and access to exclusive station lounges. If you want to travel in style, this is the way to go.

iryo (Frecciarossa)

While Renfe AVE has nice classes of service, iryo tends to be even more luxe. The classes of service available on iryo trains from Seville to Madrid include:

Inicial

Inicial is iryo's standard class. Relax in style without sacrificing your wallet. You get a comfy seat and power outlets, making it easy to work or watch movies. You also get access to the bistro car.

Singular

Singular class gives you extra comfort. It includes wider seats with more legroom. Singular class also has a quiet atmosphere, with free Wi-Fi and newspapers, plus a welcome snack and drink.

Infinita

Infinita class is the most luxurious option. It has the biggest and comfiest seats. You'll also get personalized service. There's a special waiting lounge at the station where you can relax before your train. On board, you'll get in-seat dining and complimentary beverages.

Travel documentation and customs requirements

Documentation required

While this domestic route doesn't currently require customs checks, carry appropriate documentation. Make sure to have your ticket, photo ID and passport with a visa if needed. Whether you're taking the fast train from Seville to Madrid or the Seville to Madrid airport train, having the right paperwork ensures a smooth journey.

Customs requirements

Currently, no customs requirements exist for domestic travel between Seville and Madrid. However, regulations are subject to change based on current events, so carrying proper identification is always advisable. Whether you're travelling on the Seville to Madrid train or connecting through another mode of transport, having your ID or passport ensures smooth transit.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a direct train from Seville to Madrid?

Yes, both Renfe and iryo offer high-speed direct trains from Seville to Madrid. Other services may have stops along the way, making the journey longer but offering more options. Travellers seeking speed and convenience often choose the AVE train from Seville to Madrid or iryo's trains.

Is there a direct train from Seville to Madrid airport?

There is no train that goes directly from Seville to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). If you need to jump on a plane immediately after your train journey from Seville to Madrid, you will need to transfer to the Cercanías C1 local metro, which takes you to MAD Terminal 4.

Is there a direct train from Seville Airport to Madrid?

No, no direct train leaves Seville Airport (SVQ) to go to Madrid. The easiest way to go directly to Madrid by train after landing at SVQ is to take the EA (Especial Aeropuerto) bus or other ground transport to Sevilla Santa Justa station, where you can board a Renfe or iryo train to Madrid Atocha station.

Which train station in Seville goes to Madrid?

In Seville, you can catch a train to Madrid at Sevilla Santa Justa train station. It is the departure point for both fast trains from Seville to Madrid and other slower train services.

How long is the train journey from Seville to Madrid?

The fastest high-speed train journey from Seville to Madrid arrives at Madrid Atocha station in approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes. Routes with stops or on slower trains may take longer. Travellers often ask, "how long is the train from Seville to Madrid?", and the answer depends on the type of train you choose.

How far is Seville to Madrid by train?

The ground distance from Seville to Madrid by train is roughly 390 kilometres. This makes the high-speed train from Seville to Madrid a quick and convenient option for covering the distance.

Is there a night train from Seville to Madrid?

There is currently no night train or sleeper train from Seville to Madrid. Only daytime journeys are available, with frequent departures that cater to various schedules.

Can you take a day trip from Seville to Madrid by train?

Madrid is close enough to Seville by train that a day trip is definitely possible. However, that’s a lot of train time. Even if you take the first train to Madrid and the last train back, you’ll have a good portion of the day to explore Madrid. But Madrid has tons to see. Consider devoting at least a few days to the city to fully appreciate it.

Is the train from Seville to Madrid scenic?

The train route from Seville to Madrid is beautiful but not overwhelmingly scenic. The journey starts in the olive orchards of Andalucia before passing through the more arid terrain of La Mancha. The star attraction of the La Mancha region is the many windmills, made famous by the Man of La Mancha himself, Don Quixote. For those looking for a bit of charm, the Seville to Madrid train journey offers glimpses of Spain’s varied landscapes.