From Madrid to Salamanca
Your Student Transport Guide
Getting to Salamanca is straightforward, with several well-connected options from Madrid-Barajas Airport. Whether you choose the direct bus, the fast train, a private transfer, or a rental car, the journey is smooth and convenient.
Once in Salamanca, everyday life is even easier — the city is compact, walkable, and affordable, with buses, bikes, and taxis for when you need them. This guide gives you everything you need to travel from Madrid to Salamanca and navigate the city like a student who already knows their way around.
🚌 Direct Bus (Most Convenient)
Operator: Avanza / ALSA
Departure: Terminals T1 and T4 at Madrid-Barajas
Duration: ~2.5–3 hours, direct to Salamanca Bus Station (Avenida Filiberto Villalobos)
Cost: €15–25. ISIC card: 15% discount
Tickets: Online (Avanza, ALSA, Omio, Busbud) or at airport counters
On board: Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, luggage included
Tip: Runs ~10 times daily. Book ahead for weekends and holidays.
🚆 Train (Fastest Option)
Step 1: From T4, take Cercanías (C1 or C10) → Madrid Chamartín (~20 min, €2.60)
Step 2: Train to Salamanca
- Alvia: 1h 40m, modern, reserved seats
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Media Distancia: 2.5–3h, slower but cheaper
Cost: €20–40 (lower with early booking)
Tickets: Renfe.com, Renfe app, Trainline, Omio
Arrival: Salamanca Railway Station (15–20 min walk or 5 min taxi to center)
Tip: Last train ~21:30. If your flight is late, take the bus instead.
🚖 Taxi or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door)
Duration: ~2–2.5 hours
Cost: €180–250 (fixed price if pre-booked)
Options: Airport taxis or private services (Solhop, Welcome Pickups, Chofix)
Best for: Groups, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals
🚗 Car Rental
Agencies: Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, Enterprise (all at Barajas)
Duration: ~2h 15m drive via A-50 (scenic route through Ávila)
Cost: €30–50/day + ~€30 fuel + possible tolls (€7–12)
Note: Parking in Salamanca’s old town is limited; better for short stays or trips outside the city
