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How to get from Cordoba to Madrid
The high-speed train from Córdoba to Madrid takes about 1 h 45 and is the quickest and easiest way to travel. Driving takes about 4 hours for roughly 400 km on the A-4, which has no tolls.
Best option: Train. High-speed trains are fast, frequent and arrive in central Madrid at Atocha.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train High-speed trains from Córdoba Central to Madrid Puerta de Atocha (Renfe AVE/Avlo and private operators such as Iryo) | about 1 h 45 | very frequent through the day | about €15–70 depending on how early you book | Book early for the cheapest fares. |
| car A-4 motorway (Autovía del Sur) | about 4 h | fuel; no tolls on the A-4 | Madrid has low-emission zones; check rules for your car. | |
| bus Intercity buses from Córdoba bus station to Madrid | about 4 h 30–5 h | several a day | about €20–35 | Cheaper than the train if not booked early. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Cheaper fares on Avlo and Iryo sell out early; book ahead.
- Madrid Atocha is central and connects to the metro.
- Allow time for the security check at the station.
- If driving into Madrid, check low-emission zone rules.
Common questions
How long is the train?
About 1 h 45 on high-speed trains. Renfe, Iryo and others run frequent services between Córdoba and Madrid Atocha. The trains are comfortable and the stations are central. Arrive about 15 to 20 minutes early for the baggage security check.
Can I do it as a day trip?
Yes. With about 1 h 45 each way and frequent trains, it is easy to visit Córdoba from Madrid for a day, or Madrid from Córdoba. Visit the Mezquita in the morning before crowds and return in the evening. Avlo and Iryo fares rise as seats sell.
What is the cheapest way?
Book high-speed trains early for fares that can be as low as about €15 to €25. Buses are also cheap but take more than twice as long. Prices rise close to the date and at peak times. Weekend and holiday fares are the highest.
Is driving worth it?
Only if you want to stop on the way, for example at Almagro or in La Mancha. The drive is about 4 hours on the toll-free A-4. Parking and low-emission zones in central Madrid make a car less useful once you arrive.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.