Every year in July, the lavender fields of Brihuega attract tourists keen to witness the bloom that transforms the region. To make the visit easier, Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, organises the Lavender Train.
The day trip departs from Madrid and includes transport to Brihuega, a guided tour of the historic centre, a stop at an essential oil distillery, and time to explore the lavender fields during the bloom. In this article, you’ll find information on dates, times, prices, the itinerary, how to buy tickets, and tips to help you plan your visit.
What is the Lavender Train?
Despite the name, the Lavender Train doesn’t go directly to the lavender fields. The trip includes a train journey to Guadalajara, and from there, the transfer to Brihuega is by coach, following an organised itinerary that covers the main spots related to the lavender bloom.
What to expect from the Lavender Train tour
The Lavender Train itinerary includes several stages throughout the day. After arriving in Guadalajara, the group continues by coach to Brihuega, starting with a guided tour of the historic centre, showcasing the town’s history and main landmarks, known for their connection to lavender. During this time, the Lavender Festival also takes place in Brihuega, when the streets in the centre are lined with stalls selling handmade products, cosmetics, and traditional foods made with lavender.
After the tour, there’s free time for lunch, a great opportunity to try typical regional dishes. Next, visitors are taken to an essential oil distillery, where they learn how lavender-based products are made.
The highlight of the day is the visit to the blooming lavender fields, where you can walk among the rows of flowers, take photos, and enjoy the purple-hued summer Brihuegan landscape. In the late afternoon, the group returns to the station to catch the train back to Madrid.
Tour schedule
9:42
Board the tourist train at Atocha Cercanías station
9:58
Stop at Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor station
10:35
Arrival at Guadalajara station and transfer by coach to Brihuega
Guided tour of Brihuega’s historic centre
Free time for lunch in the town (not included in the tour price)
Visit to the essential oil distillery “Jardín de la Alcarria”
Walk through the blooming lavender fields
Return by coach to Guadalajara station
21:50
Train departs back to Madrid
22:27
Arrival at Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor station
22:43
Arrival at Atocha Cercanías station, ending the tour
How to buy tickets for the Lavender Train
Tickets are sold exclusively on Renfe’s official website (in Spanish). Sales open a few weeks before the tour and usually sell out quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on the launch date.
When purchasing, you select your seat and pay online. The ticket includes the full experience: return train travel, coach transfers, guided tours, and entry fees. Prices for 2025 are €50 for adults, €20 for children up to 13 years old, and free for children under 4 without a seat.
If you need to cancel, Renfe refunds 85% of the ticket price up to 24 hours before departure. After that, no refunds are given. Always check the terms and conditions on the website before completing your purchase.
It’s recommended to buy your ticket as early as possible and keep the confirmation to present at boarding. During peak demand, the website may run slowly, so try to log in as soon as sales open.
Ready to hop on board?
Top tips for your visit
Wear light-coloured clothing (especially white): Almost everyone opts for white outfits when taking photos in the lavender fields, as the contrast with the purple flowers looks stunning.
Be mindful of bees: Lavender fields attract plenty of bees, especially during the blooming season. While I haven’t heard of anyone being stung, if you have a serious allergy, it’s wise to bring appropriate medication, just in case.
If you’re allergic to pollen, bring your medication: Pollen levels are high in the fields during July.
Opt for closed shoes with thick soles: The paths through the fields are full of loose stones and dirt. Avoid sandals, heels, or open footwear to protect your feet.
Bring a hat or cap: There’s no shade in the fields, so sun protection makes a big difference. Plus, a stylish hat looks great in photos!
Take water with you: Even though there’s free time in Brihuega, drinks may not be available during the field visit. There’s usually a stall at the entrance, but water tends to sell out quickly.
Carry some cash: For more flexibility when shopping at the market or in the lavender fields, as some stalls don’t accept cards.
The Lavender Train connects Madrid to Brihuega during the month of July, when the lavender fields are in full bloom. The tour includes train and coach transport, guided visits through the historic centre, a stop at an essential oil distillery, and free time to explore the local festival and stroll through the fields. To secure a place, it’s essential to book tickets in advance on the Renfe website, as demand is usually high. By following the organised itinerary, visitors can enjoy the event without worrying about travel logistics, schedules, or parking, making the most of their visit to the Guadalajara region during one of the most popular times of the year.
Want to know more about Brihuega?
Have a look at our complete guide with tips on the best time to visit, routes, festivals, and suggestions to make the most of the region.