How long is the high-speed train from Seville to Madrid?
The high-speed train journey from Seville to Madrid typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to cover the 235-mile (380-kilometer) distance. This high-speed route has existed for about 30 years and is a popular and convenient transportation option between the two cities.
Is it better to fly or take a train from Seville to Madrid?
The train will take 2.5 to 3 hours and is the fastest way to get from Seville to Madrid. Flying sounds good on paper with just 1.5 hours, but after factoring in airport security and luggage claim, and transportation to and from the airport, the actual travel time is more like 4 hours. Trains are also more environmentally friendly and let you enjoy the scenery.
How much is the train ticket from Seville to Madrid?
On average, prices range from 30 EUR to 100 EUR for standard fares from Seville to Madrid. The general rule is that the earlier you book, the lower the cost of the ticket will be. Consider traveling on a non-peak travel day as well.
How do I get from Seville to Madrid?
You can travel quickly and conveniently from Seville to Madrid by high-speed train, bus, or car. A private car is the best option in general, giving you the flexibility to travel door-to-door on your own schedule, see sites along the way, and fully customize your journey. The bus is the cheapest but takes the longest amount of time, and the train is fast but more expensive. Flying generally isn't worth it as it's slower and more expensive than the train.
You have a five-hour car trip from Seville to Madrid ahead of you, which is the perfect amount of driving time for a day trip with a couple of enriching stops. Thanks to Daytrip, you can book your driver and choose from a curated list of the best stops all in one place. Consider visiting these three UNESCO World Heritage cities that are on the corridor to Madrid:
As you head east out of Seville and across Andalusia, go first to Cordoba, where the legacy of Al-Andalus flourishes. Cordoba has a historic Jewish Quarter with a synagogue from the 1300s, a dozen Catholic churches, and several Muslim mosques and important sites. The Great Mosque-Cathedral is a tangible result of conquest, as Catholics took control of the city and renovated the mosque into a cathedral. In between all these sites, be sure to stroll across the iconic Roman Bridge, spanning the Guadalquivir River, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cordoba's bustling plazas.
The next stop en route to Madrid is Ubeda, a hidden gem famed for its Renaissance architecture. You think of Italy when you think of the Renaissance, but this city is filled with elegant palaces and churches, such as the V├бzquez de Molina Palace and the Sacred Chapel of the Savior, in the same style.
In Toledo, marvel at the imposing Alcazar fortress and admire the intricate craftsmanship of the Toledo Cathedral. Like much of this region, Toledo was an important crossroads on the Iberian peninsula for all three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.
The best part of all when teaming up with Daytrip? Not worrying about returning a rental car at the end of your drive. Your driver will get you to your accommodation, help with your bags, and youтАЩll be free to have dinner in one of MadridтАЩs busy squares - dinner time is usually around 9:00 p.m. in Spain!
About Madrid
Now that your drive from Seville to Madrid is complete and youтАЩve checked into your hotel, itтАЩs time to explore Madrid, the artsy capital of Spain.
Madrid is both physically and spiritually at the center of Spain. The roads from Madrid follow ancient routes and connect the coastal cities like spokes from a wheel. With a history dating back to the 9th century, Madrid has evolved from a Moorish fortress to a thriving cosmopolitan hub. However, Madrid was a puzzling choice for a capital.
### An Unlikely Capital
Madrid became SpainтАЩs capital in the 16th century under King Philip II as the epicenter of political, cultural, and economic activity in Spain. This came as a shock to his contemporaries, as there were larger and more developed cities on SpainтАЩs coast that could have been the capital. If King Philip II wanted a city more central to all of Spain, he had Toledo, which was already well-developed and better-equipped than Madrid.
One issue with Toledo was its central role for religious leaders of the Catholic Church. King Philip II wanted a city where he wouldn't be overshadowed by the Church. Another issue was geography. Toledo couldnтАЩt grow outwards as much as Madrid could, due to Toledo being nestled into the Tajo River. Madrid had more flat land to spread out, as well as a stable source of water (very important, especially in Spain).
So why not establish the capital in one of the large, wealthy coastal cities? When you look at a topographical map of Spain, youтАЩll see that the coastal cities are usually sitting on a coastal plain wedged between the sea and a mountain range. This effectively made coastal Spanish cities into islands when you consider the travel technology available at the time. Each coast had a focus on its own territory for colonization and trade (the Americas, Africa, and Europe). How is a king supposed to not show favor when his court is on one coast and not another? For King Philip II, the answer was to put the capital right in the middle of the country and away from the Catholic influence of Toledo.
### Modern Madrid
Today, Madrid is home to about 3.2 million people. It is also a popular study abroad and digital nomad destination for foreign students and workers. Tourism is one of its major industries, and about 5 million people visit Madrid each year- including you!
## From Seville to Madrid: Travel tips
Whether youтАЩve been to Spain for the first time or the 100th, a reminder never hurts. Follow these travel tips so your drive from Seville to Madrid is the best it can be.
### Look at a map ahead of time
Anything can happen in Spain, but pre-planning goes a long way. Look at your route in advance to familiarize yourself with the journey and your planned stops. Some excursions may require booking in advance (outside of Daytrip), and certain attractions may have later opening hours. If youтАЩre traveling on or around a Spanish holiday, make sure the excursion will be open that day!
### Talk with your driver
Your driver is a local and has a wealth of knowledge about everyday Spanish life. DonтАЩt be shy to ask about typical foods they enjoy, how holidays are celebrated, and the best parts of Madrid. Daytrip drivers in Spain speak both English and Spanish (and probably other languages too!) and they know the region very well.
### Be mindful of the siesta
In countries like Spain with long, hot days, it is common for shops and attractions to close during the hottest part of the day for a midday break. This is typically after lunch through the mid-afternoon. Factor in siesta times when scheduling your visits to various sites along your route, and verify their opening hours in advance. Carry snacks and water in the car with you in case you encounter closed stores during this period.
On the other hand, businesses in Spain often extend their operating hours later into the evening than you may be used to. Enjoy a later lunch and dinner, and embrace the relaxed rhythm of the day while on your vacation.
### Madrid is loud!
Everything might close in the afternoon for the siesta, but the same cannot be said for nighttime! Dinner in Spain is late - usually around 9:00 p.m. and the activities carry on from there. Pack some earplugs for you and your family while on this trip.
On top of already having a lively, late-night culture, Madrid is also a popular party destination. Odds are that your accommodation is in the center of town and a short distance from popular attractions. While this is very convenient during the day, you may find the streets are more noisy at night when youтАЩre trying to sleep. This is especially true if you sleep with the windows open on warm nights.
How to get from Seville to Madrid
After a great trip to Andalusia in southern Spain, it is time to check out the capital! Traveling north from Seville to Madrid is possible by private driver, bus, train, and plane. We've laid out your options below so you can choose how to get from Seville to Madrid according to your travel needs.
Seville to Madrid by private driver with Daytrip
Hiring a private driver from Seville to Madrid offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore scenic routes and make stops that you would miss on a bus or train! The journey covers approximately 330 miles (530 kilometers) and takes around 5 hours if you donтАЩt add any stops.
With Daytrip, youтАЩll not only have someone to navigate foreign roads, but youтАЩll also have help with your bags thanks to our included door-to-door luggage service.
This service goes beyond just getting you to Madrid - it allows you and your family to explore the lesser-known parts of southern Spain that would otherwise just fly by your train window. And at the end of a long, fun day of sightseeing, there wonтАЩt be any need to return a rental car or fill up the gas tank. YouтАЩll be dropped off at your accommodation to begin exploring Madrid immediately.
### Seville to Madrid by bus
Traveling to Madrid from Seville by bus is the most cost-effective option. Several bus companies operate daily services between the two cities, with journey durations averaging around 6 to 7 hours. Prices for bus tickets typically range from 20 to 40 EUR, and reservations can be made online or at one of SevilleтАЩs two bus terminals (donтАЩt mix them up!). If you are traveling in the peak summer season, there are more options per day, but they sell out sooner.
### Seville to Madrid by train
The high-speed train provides another popular means of transportation from Seville to Madrid. Renfe, Spain's national railway company, operates high-speed AVE trains that connect SevilleтАЩs Santa Justa station to MadridтАЩs Puerta de Atocha station.
The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with ticket prices varying depending on the time of booking and if youтАЩd like to sit in a Basic or Premium seat. Standard fares typically range from 30 to 100 EUR, and there is a luggage limit of 3 pieces of hand luggage per passenger.
### Seville to Madrid by plane
Flying from Seville to Madrid is technically possible, as several airlines operate regular flights between Seville Airport (SVQ) and Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Su├бrez Airport (MAD).
But after factoring in the flight time (1 hour) with the airport security and checking-in process with luggage (2 hours), and getting to and from the airport (1 hour), it's usually better to use ground transportation. On average, ticket prices range from 50 to 150 EUR for a one-way journey.
Things to do when you get to Madrid
From famous museums like the Prado and Reina Sof├нa to the bustling squares of Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, Madrid offers an array of experiences to suit every palate. Once your drive across Andalusia from Seville to Madrid has finished, get ready to see all the capital has to offer. Millions flock to Madrid for its eclectic blend of historical landmarks, contemporary art, and lively atmosphere.
Visit MadridтАЩs World-Class Art Galleries and Museums
Art aficionados are drawn to Madrid's prestigious art galleries and museums, including the Prado Museum, home to an extensive collection of European masterpieces spanning centuries. Step into SpainтАЩs artistic legacy as you admire works by renowned artists such as Vel├бzquez, Goya, Bosch, and El Greco.
The Reina Sof├нa Museum showcases modern and contemporary art, featuring iconic works from famous Spanish artists like Dal├н and Mir├│. You can also find Picasso's "Guernica," a poignant portrayal of the Spanish Civil War.
### Mealtime in Madrid
Food and wine are a big deal in Spain. Madrid's culinary scene is a mix of the best that Spain has to offer. Try a traditional tapas bar in order to get a sample of the best foods in bustling neighborhoods like La Latina. Be sure to also savor regional specialties such as cocido madrile├▒o (Madrid-style stew) and churros con chocolate (fried dough with hot chocolate).
Of course, what meal in Spain is complete without a glass of red wine or sangria? All that year-round sunshine goes to good use in the countryside vineyards, and Madrid is known for its local red wines like Tempranillo and Garnacha. If youтАЩd prefer something a little stronger, Sol y Sombra is a popular after-dinner cocktail in Madrid, named тАЬsun and shadeтАЭ for its mix of brandy and anisette.
### No Early Bedtimes in Madrid
Thanks to the midday siestas, people in Madrid have the energy for late nights. The Spanish (and southern Europeans in general) tend to eat dinner later and have a later bedtime than in other countries, so take that into account when making your evening plans. It is common for restaurant meals to only be served during certain hours, so expect a typical dinner time at a restaurant to be around 9:00 p.m. DonтАЩt be surprised if a restaurant only serves drinks in between meal times.
After an excellent dinner of typical Madrid cuisine, like callos a la madrile├▒a (tripe stew) or oreja a la plancha (grilled pork ear), itтАЩs time to go dancing! Experience Madrid's vibrant nightlife scene by dancing to reggaeton and pop music at clubs and discos.
### Catch a Flamenco Show in Madrid
Flamenco is SpainтАЩs national dance and has a long tradition stemming from the Gitano people of Romani origin. Witness the passion and intensity of flamenco at one of Madrid's renowned tablaos (flamenco bars), where skilled dancers, musicians, and singers captivate audiences with their performances.
With so many options for live music at trendy rooftop bars, taverns, and nightclubs, there is sure to be an event space thatтАЩs right for you. As always, make sure to have a firm hold of your wallet and belongings while in crowded places, as petty theft is common.
When is the best time to visit Madrid
Madrid's climate sees hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Each season offers unique cultural events, but the best time to visit Madrid is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are enjoyable. But no matter what time of year you make your trip from Seville to Madrid, youтАЩll find something to see and do on the streets!
Spain is a very devout Catholic country, and many holidays are centered around the Catholic calendar. If you visit around Easter time, the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions are vibrant religious and cultural celebrations, during which you can see elaborate parades of highly decorated religious statues.
On November 1st, Spaniards pay respects to their dead loved ones on D├нa de Todos los Santos (All Saints Day). Florists often run out of flowers on this holiday as people clean and decorate the cemeteries and put flowers on the altars of saints.
Although Madrid is less popular in the winter, try to catch the Cabalgata de Reyes (Three Kings Parade) on January 5th if you are around. Witness the magical spectacle as elaborately decorated floats, costumed characters, and marching bands parade through the streets of Madrid, distributing sweets and gifts to children.
Comparing itself to the shining morning star, the city's rich history is on display, from Roman gates to baroque churches, all crowned by an Arab alcazar.┬аThe Morning Star at Dawn┬а
Cordoba
Having been the Roman and Islamic capital of Spain, this UNESCO-listed cityтАЩs historic landmarks are so magnificent they transcend race and religion.┬аTranscending Beauty┬а
Ubeda
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as the Renaissance Capital of Andalucia for its wealth of historic architecture. ┬аRenaissance Ensemble┬а
Consuegra
Famed for its 16th century windmills, as fought by Don Quixote, this section of Toledo opens up a world of history.┬а30 or so Wild Giants┬а
Toledo
In the Middle Ages, Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities peacefully coexisted in this UNESCO-listed city, which is now a hotbed for historic monuments.┬аThe City of Three Cultures┬а
Aranjuez
Balancing nature, man, and an opulent royal palace, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its harmonious perfection.┬аHail to the King┬а
тАЬOur drive from Seville to Madrid, stopping in Cordoba, was fantastic. Mydaytrip is an excellent service - they are on time, professional, extremely accommodating, helpful, and friendly. I highly recommend them.тАЭ
