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Taking the train from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb in 17 hours 21 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb? We’ve got you covered.
It usually takes around 23 hours 15 minutes to travel the 775 miles (1247 km) from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb by train, although you can get there in as little as 17 hours 21 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 7 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. You can travel on this route with either TGV, AVE or Avlo. As the main train operators on this route, all offer comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage as standard.
Train tickets from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb start from £136.20 when you book in advance, which can be cheaper than buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.
Keen to book your train tickets to Zurich Hb? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.
Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb by train
It takes an average of 23h 15m to travel from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb by train, over a distance of around 775 miles (1247 km). There are normally 7 trains per day travelling from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb and tickets for this journey start from £136.20 when you book in advance.
| First train | 06:40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 19:25 | |
| Departure station | Madrid Atocha | |
| Arrival station | Zurich Hb | |
| Journey time | From 17h 21m | |
| Distance | 775 miles (1247 km) | |
| Frequency | 7 trains per day | |
| Changes | 2 changes | |
| Price | From £136.20 | |
| Train and bus operators | TGV Lyria, SNCF, Renfe, ALSA, OUIGO, SBB CFF FFS, iryo, Flixbus, BlaBlaCar Bus |
FAQs about the train journey from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb
Want to know more about your journey from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How fast can trains travel from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
Are there any direct trains from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
How far is the train ride from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
Who operates the trains from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
Can I take a flight-free trip from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
What is the best way to travel to Zurich Hb from Madrid Atocha?
What time does the first train run from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
How late does the train from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb run?
How many trains go from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb per day?
When do tickets from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb go on sale?
Planning a round trip from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb?
AVE, OUIGO, iryo and Renfe trains from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb
AVE
OUIGO
iryo
Renfe
AVE is Renfe's flagship high-speed service, with trains capable of reaching up to 193 mph (310 km/h). It’s one of the fastest trains in Europe and connects the main cities of Spain. Most AVE trains offer two comfort classes – Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class equivalent, with 1-1 configuration, ultra-wide seats, gourmet food and drink and lounge access). All AVE trains have air conditioning, power sockets, free WiFi and a buffet carriage serving a selection of food and drinks. There are three fares for AVE services: the cheapest but least flexible Básico fare, the Elige fare (slightly pricier but more flexible), and the Premium fare for seats in Confort Class.
More information
OUIGO is the low-cost brand of French rail company SNCF, who operate trains in France and Spain. In France, all seats on OUIGO are Second Class and tickets can only be purchased online. You can also pay for additional extras, such as reserving a seat in the ‘quiet area’, at-seat power sockets and extra luggage. OUIGO has been operating in Spain since May 2021, and their trains include an onboard bar and a premium class of service called OUIGO Plus.
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Operating since the end of 2022, iryo is a new high-speed train company in Spain. It’s a consortium between the Spanish airline Air Norstrum and the train company Trenitalia, one of the greatest leaders in European rail transport. The first private Spanish high-speed company to operate, iryo runs high-speed services on the Madrid – Zaragoza – Barcelona route and connects Madrid – Cuenca – Valencia/Alicante and Madrid – Cordoba – Seville/Malaga. They are doing this all with a fleet of ETR1000 model trains that offer the highest level of comfort in Spain, with a combination of advanced propulsion and highest quality onboard services, including WiFi connection and catering service. 98% of the parts of the trains are 100% recyclable, making this trip sustainable as well!
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Renfe is the national train operator in Spain. It operates trains on the longest high-speed railway network in Europe, and the second-longest in the world. The country's major cities are linked up by the high-speed AVE and Avlo trains, while other long-distance routes are served by Altaria, Talgo, Alvia and Euromed trains. Renfe also operates cross-border services into neighbouring Portugal and France. Depending on which service you are travelling on, you'll usually find two classes on Renfe trains - Estándard (Standard Class) and Confort (First Class). Fare types range from the cheapest (but least flexible) Básico fare, to the more flexible Elige fares, to the Premium fare for seats in Confort carriages.
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TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and iryo classes from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb
Compare the different travel classes offered by TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and iryo when travelling from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb.
TGV INOUI
TGV Lyria
Intercity
iryo
Second Class
In Second Class, TGV INOUI allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the onboard services, such as free WiFi, power sockets and more.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Want to travel in style? Upgrade to First Class and you’ll enjoy all the benefits of Second Class as well as some additional perks.
- Free WiFi
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- Fold-down table
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Standard
TGV Lyria’s Standard Class offers comfortable seats and access to the dining car, perfect for an economical trip in comfort.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- More legroom
- Full ticket flexibility
- Welcome service
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Quiet area
- Unlimited drinks
Standard Première
When travelling in Standard Première with TGV Lyria, you will have additional legroom, the comfort of a first-class seat, as well as a hot meal served at your seat.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- More legroom
- Full ticket flexibility
- Welcome service
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Quiet area
- Unlimited drinks
Business Première
If you prefer to travel in style, upgrade to Business Première class and enjoy a welcome drink, a meal on board and much more.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Power sockets
- More legroom
- Full ticket flexibility (1)
- Welcome service
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Quiet area
- Unlimited drinks
- (1) Check conditions when selecting the ticket.
Economy
Take advantage of the restaurant carriage which offers a menu made of high-quality produce. Travelling with kids? Choose your seats in the dedicated Family Zone.
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
First Class
In First Class, you'll get to travel in comfortable seats, enjoy free WiFi, as well as more space for your luggage and individual plug sockets (German + Swiss).
- Free WiFi
- Power sockets
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Family area
- Power sockets at each seat
- Extra luggage
- Fold-down table
- Quiet area
Inicial
If you're looking for a reasonably-priced experience without compromising on the best service and comfort, Inicial Class is ideal for you!
- Luggage storage
- Entertainment portal
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Fold-down table
- Power sockets at each seat
- Free WiFi
- Trolley service
- Single seat options
- Only YOU Hotel access
- Catering at your seat
Singular
Singular Class is ideal for business travellers looking for flexibility and comfort. If you need to, you can adapt your ticket to your needs at the time.
- Luggage storage
- Entertainment portal
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Fold-down table
- Power sockets at each seat
- Free WiFi
- Trolley service
- Single seat options
- Only YOU Hotel access
- Catering at your seat
Singular Only YOU
If you're looking for added comfort and full flexibility, Singular Only YOU class is a fantastic choice, with access to select hotels too.
- Luggage storage
- Entertainment portal
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Fold-down table
- Power sockets at each seat
- Free WiFi
- Trolley service
- Single seat options
- Only YOU Hotel access
- Catering at your seat
Infinita Bistró
iryo's Infinita Bistró Class offers plenty of amenities on board, including wider leather reclining seats, free WiFi and at-seat meal service offering a complimentary gourmet meal. You'll need to book your meal 24 hours in advance.
- Luggage storage
- Entertainment portal
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- Fold-down table
- Power sockets at each seat
- Free WiFi
- Trolley service
- Single seat options
- Only YOU Hotel access
- Catering at your seat
Onboard services on TGV INOUI, TGV Lyria, Intercity and iryo
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb.
TGV INOUI
TGV Lyria
Intercity
iryo
On board TGV INOUI trains, you can take up to 2 pieces of luggage measuring no more than 70 x 90 x 50 cm, plus one hand luggage measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 15 cm. If you are bringing an XL baggage (maximum 90 x 130 cm), it will replace one of the two 70 x 90 x 50 cm pieces of luggage authorised.
All your luggage must be labelled before entering the train.
All TGV INOUI trains are equipped with a café-bar carriage offering a range of food and drink to suit you at any time of day. The Bar is always situated in carriage 4 or 14 of the train. There's a range of local and responsibly sourced products on offer to whet your appetite.
TGV INOUI trains have free WiFi on board for you to use throughout your journey, allowing you to stay connected, reply to emails or even relax and enjoy what's offered on the TGV INOUI entertainment portal.
Children under 12 can get a half price ticket on TGV INOUI trains. Children under 4 travel free when they travel on your lap.
If you've got a foldable bicycle, you can take it on the train as hand luggage, so long as it's no larger than 130 x 90 cm once folded. Or, if you can dismantle your bike, you can transport it in a cover or case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. You can still travel with a bike that cannot be folded or dismantled - you'll need to reserve a bike space on the train when you buy your ticket. Bike tickets cost €10 per bike, per journey.
Small pets are allowed on board TGV INOUI trains provided they weigh less than 10kg. They must travel in a carrier no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Tickets for small pets cost €7. Larger dogs can also travel on TGV INOUI services, provided they are wearing a muzzle and are kept on a lead. Tickets for larger dogs cost €20. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel free of charge on all SNCF trains.
For disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility, you can request assistance through 'Accès Plus'. With this service, a member of staff will meet you at the station and help you get to your seat on the train. To book assistance, contact Accès Plus after you book your tickets (and no later than 48 hours before your train is due to depart).
You can take luggage on board TGV Lyria trains without worrying about weight restrictions, so long as you're able to carry it yourself.
There are two refreshment options on board TGV Lyria trains:
Le Deli: Available in the café-bar carriage or at your seat, with a STANDARD or STANDARD 1ÈRE TGV Lyria ticket.
La Table: A French-Swiss dining experience available with a BUSINESS 1ÈRE TGV Lyria ticket.
Free WiFi is available on board. To get online, connect to the network _WIFI_LYRIA when you're on the train and go to the TGV Lyria Portal in your browser.
Families can reserve two different areas on the train:
The Family Square, located in carriages 6, 16, 7 or 17 in STANDARD (Second Class). This is a set of four seats facing one another, with space for a pushchair.
Club 4, which is also a set of 4 seats facing one another around a table.
You will also find baby changing facilities, including a baby changing table and bottle-warming station, on the upper deck of carriages 7 and 17, close to the Family Space.
Bikes are allowed on board, so long as they're folded or their wheels are detached. Bikes must also be placed in suitable storage cases (no larger than 130 x 90 cm).
Small pets may travel with TGV Lyria, as long as they are carried in a carrier or container no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm. Pets must be placed on your lap or by your feet and must travel with their own ticket at a flat rate of €7.
Dogs on a lead may travel on TGV Lyria trains, but they must be muzzled throughout the journey and placed by your feet. Passengers must pay a flat-rate ticket fee of €20.
2 seats in carriages 1 or 11 in First Class are reserved for passengers with reduced mobility. You can request one of these seats when making your booking. If these spaces are no longer available, you can reserve a standard seat. You can also reserve assistance at the train station for help folding and storing your wheelchair.
You can travel with musical instruments if they're stored in a case no larger than 130 x 90 cm. If you're going skiing, snowboards and skis are allowed on board (one pair of skis or one snowboard per person). They must be stored in their covers.
You can take as much luggage as you want on SBB Intercity trains, provided that it fits in the luggage racks provided.
Many SBB Intercity trains will have a restaurant or bistro carriage so you can buy food and drink throughout your journey. You may be able to sit at a table in the restaurant carriage or take your meal back to your seat.
There are plug sockets on SBB trains. You can also enjoy free WiFi on Intercity trains via the SBB FreeSurf portal.
There is pushchair storage available on the train, as well as a baby changing toilet onboard. On Intercity trains, there is also a dedicated family carriage.
You can take your bicycle onboard SBB Intercity trains. Between 21st March and 31st October, it's compulsory to reserve a bike space on some Intercity trains. You must also buy a ticket for your bike at a ticket office, ticket machine or online.
Dogs under 30cm in height can travel for free if they're in a carrier and placed under your seat. Larger dogs can travel with you if you buy a Dog Day Pass for CHF 25, which can be purchased at a ticket office, at a ticket machine, online or on the SBB app. The pass is valid for a day on trains, ships, trams and buses in most Swiss cities.
SBB Intercity trains have priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as a wheelchair-accessible toilet.
There is a Business Zone and a Quiet Zone in First Class on SBB Intercity trains.
You can carry up to 3 pieces of luggage on iryo trains, as long as they do not exceed 25kg in total. These 3 pieces can be 2 suitcases with a maximum size of 85 x 55 x 35cm and a backpack or handbag that does not exceed the dimensions of 36 x 27 x 15cm.
iryo offers different menus with high-quality products in all classes. You can buy your favourite meal from their onboard restaurant/bar carriage, which is usually near coach 2.
If you’re travelling in the Infinita Bistró Class, you can enjoy the Infinita Bistró food service – your meal will be served straight to your seat. Please note that you’ll need to book your meal at least 24 hours in advance.
You can enjoy free WiFi in all classes on iryo trains, as well as an onboard entertainment platform providing a wide selection of movies, TV series, live news and Spotify.
Children aged 0-3 travel for free on all iryo trains. Children aged 4-13 get a discounted ticket while those aged 14-18 need to pay the full price. Please note that children aged under 18 need to be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians.
You can take your bike on board iryo trains for free if it’s folded and does not exceed 90 x 120 x 40cm. Also, your bike must travel without the pedals and with the handlebar rotated 90 degrees.
iryo allows pets that do not exceed 10kg in weight, as long as they travel inside a carrier with a maximum size of 60 x 35 x 35cm. You'll need to buy a ticket for your pet in advance. In addition, guide dogs can travel at no additional cost.
There are seats for people with reduced mobility on iryo trains. Step-free access is also available both when boarding and when getting off the train.
Cheap train tickets from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Madrid Atocha to Zurich Hb by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.