How to get to Almeria from Madrid

Direct journey with daily departures

Travelling by bus from Madrid to Almeria is a practical alternative, with daily departures and a direct route to the city centre. The route is operated by ALSA (BAM line), offering several time options, including overnight services.

Buses are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi and luggage storage. During peak periods, it’s recommended to book in advance.

• Journey time: Between 6h15 and 7h15, depending on the departure time and location.
• Average price: €34, with stable fares even for night services. The ALSA website occasionally offers discounts for early bookings.
• Departures from Madrid: Estación Sur de Autobuses (Méndez Álvaro), Madrid Airport Terminal T4 (ideal for those arriving by plane)
• Arrival: Almería Bus Station (located near the city centre), some routes arrive at Puerto de Almeria

Comfortable journey with scenic views along the way

Travelling by train is a practical option for getting from Madrid to Almeria, especially for those who value comfort and want to avoid long hours on the road. The route is operated by Renfe, with AVE, Intercity, ALVIA and Media Distancia trains. Most journeys require a connection — usually in Linares-Baeza or Granada.

• Journey time: Between 6h15 and 7h30, depending on the train type and length of the connection.
• Average price: From €19, but can exceed €80 depending on the service and how early you book.
• Departure station: Madrid-Chamartín
• Arrival station: Estación Intermodal de Almeria, near the city centre

Trains are comfortable, with reserved seating, air conditioning, luggage space and, on some services, an onboard café. Departures are spread throughout the day — morning, early afternoon and late afternoon. Tickets can be purchased on the Renfe website or through platforms like Omio, with better prices often available when booked in advance.

The fastest way to get there

For those looking for speed, flying from Madrid to Almeria is the quickest way to make the journey. The direct flight takes around 1h15 and is mainly operated by Air Nostrum, a regional subsidiary of Iberia. There are daily direct flights departing from Madrid-Barajas Airport and arriving at Almeria Airport (LEI).

• Flight time: 1h15, on direct flights
• Average price: From €43, with fares varying depending on time, date and availability. On busy travel dates, prices may exceed €100.
• Airlines: Air Nostrum (Iberia Regional) for direct flights Ryanair, Vueling and others for connecting flights (usually longer and less convenient)
• Departure airport: Madrid-Barajas (MAD)
• Arrival airport: Almeria (LEI), about 10 minutes by car from the city centre

Flying is a great option for travellers short on time or those who want to avoid long overland journeys. Just be aware that checked luggage may not be included in the cheapest fares.

More freedom to explore southern Spain

Driving from Madrid to Almeria is a great option for those who want flexibility along the way and the chance to explore other towns or villages in Andalusia. The distance between the two cities is approximately 550 km, and the drive usually takes between 5h30 and 6h, depending on traffic and stops.

The entire route is along autovías (dual carriageways without tolls), making the trip more economical. The roads are well maintained, clearly signposted and offer plenty of service areas for breaks along the journey.

• Driving time: Around 5h30 to 6h
• Distance: Approximately 550 km
• Fuel costs: On average, between €40 and €60, depending on your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
• Parking in Almeria: The historic centre has narrow streets and limited free parking. Many hotels offer private parking, and there are paid car parks nearby. It’s worth factoring this into your travel budget.