Madrid to Alicante by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €7
Route Overview: Madrid to Alicante
The Madrid to Alicante high-speed rail route connects Spain's capital with the Mediterranean coast in just over two hours. This is one of Spain's most competitive routes, with three operators — Renfe AVE, iryo, and OUIGO — offering frequent departures and fares starting from as little as €7. The journey takes you from Madrid's magnificent Puerta de Atocha station through the plains of La Mancha to the sun-drenched Costa Blanca. Whether you are heading to the beach, visiting family, or connecting to a cruise port, the train is faster and more convenient than flying when you factor in airport transfer times.
How Long Is the Madrid to Alicante Train?
The direct Renfe AVE from Madrid to Alicante takes approximately 2h 20min, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Madrid to Alicante Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €7 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Madrid to Alicante?
Up to 16/day trains operate daily on the Madrid to Alicante route.
Train Operator
Which Stations Serve the Madrid to Alicante Route?
Madrid Puerta de Atocha
- Main high-speed station in Madrid with a famous tropical garden in the old hall
- Connected to metro lines 1 and 3, and Cercanias commuter rail
Alicante Terminal
- Located near the city centre, about 15 minutes walk to Explanada de Espana
- TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante connects the station to beaches and nearby towns
What Classes Are Available on Madrid to Alicante Trains?
Turista (Standard)
- Comfortable reclining seats
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power sockets
- Cafeteria car access
Turista Plus
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- Free Wi-Fi and power sockets
- Enhanced onboard service
- Welcome drink
Preferente (First Class)
- Spacious leather seats
- Complimentary meal service
- Lounge access at Atocha
- Free Wi-Fi and newspapers
How to Book the Madrid to Alicante Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in Turista (Standard) class. From €7 with Avlo/OUIGO low-cost services. Standard AVE fares start higher. Advance booking recommended.
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 Alicante Trains?
Low-Cost Options Available
Avlo (Renfe) and OUIGO offer budget high-speed tickets from €7-9. These are no-frills services with fewer amenities but the same speed. iryo offers a mid-range premium alternative.
Onboard Amenities
AVE trains offer free Wi-Fi, power sockets, a cafeteria car, and generous seat pitch. iryo trains feature 5G Wi-Fi. OUIGO has paid Wi-Fi and a simpler onboard experience.
Luggage Allowance
AVE allows 3 pieces of luggage (max 25 kg each). OUIGO has a stricter policy: 1 cabin bag + 1 hand luggage included, additional bags for a fee. iryo includes generous luggage.
Competition Keeps Prices Low
Spain's high-speed rail market is fully liberalized. Renfe, iryo, and OUIGO compete on this route, keeping prices among the lowest for high-speed rail in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions: Madrid to Alicante
The fastest AVE and iryo services take approximately 2 hours 20 minutes. OUIGO services take around 2 hours 30 minutes. All are high-speed trains covering the 359 km route.
Budget fares start from €7 with Avlo (Renfe low-cost) and from €9 with OUIGO when booked well in advance. Standard AVE tickets typically start from €20-30.
Around 16 trains operate daily between Madrid and Alicante, served by Renfe AVE, Avlo, iryo, and OUIGO. Services run from early morning to late evening.
High-speed trains to Alicante depart from Madrid Puerta de Atocha, the city's main AVE station. It is connected to metro lines 1 and 3.
AVE (Renfe) is the established operator with full-service classes. iryo offers a premium experience with 5G Wi-Fi and modern trains. OUIGO is the budget option with lower fares but fewer amenities.