How to Get to Avila from Madrid

Where is Ávila located?

Medieval walls surrounding the historical city of Avila, Spain.

Address: Ávila, Castilla y León, Spain

Just 110 km northwest of Madrid, Ávila rises dramatically on a plateau, encircled by some of the best-preserved medieval walls in all of Europe. From a distance, its turreted ramparts look like something out of a storybook, majestic, golden-stoned, and almost too perfect to be real.

Getting to Ávila by public transport

Not in the mood to fuss over timetables? Day trips from Madrid to Ávila take all the stress away. With round-trip transport, a guide, and entry tickets often bundled in, you get to simply lean back, watch the scenery change, and focus on soaking in those medieval vibes.

Man boarding a train at a sunny platform with a backpack.

Travel time: 1 hour 30 mins

Start station in Madrid: Chamartín-Clara Campoamor or Príncipe Pío

Destination station: Ávila Station (15 mins from the city walls by foot or short taxi ride)

Timings: Frequent departures daily, roughly every hour

Spain’s Renfe trains glide you from the bustle of Madrid into the Castilian highlands with ease. Picture this: wide windows framing rolling plains, the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains in the distance, and before you know it, Ávila’s famous walls rising into view. Comfortable seats, space to stretch, and even Wi-Fi onboard make the ride as enjoyable as the destination.

Bus interior with passengers traveling from Madrid to Puy du Fou España.

Travel time: 1 hr 45 mins

Start station in Madrid: Estación Sur de Autobuses or Moncloa Station

Destination station: Ávila Bus Station (10-minute walk to the city walls)

Timings: Services run throughout the day

Buses take a little longer than trains but win on price and flexibility. They also roll you right into town, so you’ll step off practically within sight of Ávila’s walls. Think of it as the slower, scenic route where you can press your forehead to the glass and let the golden landscapes ease you into medieval Spain.

Getting to Ávila by car

Family in car driving to travel destination, smiling and pointing ahead.

Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins (depending on traffic)

Distance: 110 km

Routes:

Fastest: A-6 highway, then AP-51 toll road straight into Ávila
Scenic: Take the N-110 via the Sierra de Guadarrama—rolling hills, pine forests, and vistas that beg for photo stops

Driving is the most flexible way to reach Ávila. The walled city is pedestrian-only, so you’ll need to park outside the walls and stroll in (a much more romantic way to enter, anyway).

Ávila parking facilities

Parking isn’t allowed inside the medieval core, but plenty of lots sit just outside the walls.

Parking El Grande: 6-minute walk away from the Walls of Avila**** (Map)
Parking El Rastro: 12-minute walk away from the Walls of Avila (Map)
Parking Coche: 12-minute walk away from the Walls of Avila (Map)
Parking Ávila: 14-minute walk away from the Walls of Avila (Map)

Accessibility

Cars parked in a row under a clear sky in Langkawi.

Ávila is famously “the city of stones and saints,” and yes those cobbled streets can be tricky. Still, the city has worked hard on accessibility.

Public transport: Local buses and taxis from the station are wheelchair-friendly.
Inside the walls: Several gates, like Puerta del Alcázar, offer step-free entry. The accessible stretch of the city walls lets everyone enjoy the iconic views.
Parking: Dedicated spaces available near El Grande and Mercado Chico.

Book Ávila day trips from Madrid

From Madrid: Segovia & Ávila‎ Full-Day Trip

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From Madrid: Ávila & Salamanca Full Day Trip

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From Madrid: Toledo, Segovia & Ávila Full-Day Trip

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Getting to Ávila from nearby hubs

Segovia to Ávila

Travel time: 52 mins by car; 2 hr 20 mins by bus

The drive along the N-110 is as straight and stunning as they come, crossing Castilian countryside that feels untouched for centuries. Buses run, though less frequently than from Madrid.

Valladolid to Ávila

Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins by car; 2 hrs by train

A smooth drive along the A-601 and AP-6 gets you there quickly. Regional trains also connect the two cities with ease.

Toledo to Ávila

Travel time: 2 hrs by car; 3 hrs by bus (via Madrid)

No direct train connects Toledo and Ávila. Driving is the simplest way to link these two medieval marvels, though public transport routes backtrack through Madrid.

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Madrid to Avila

What’s the fastest way to get from Madrid to Ávila?

The train from Madrid Chamartín or Príncipe Pío is the fastest option. Just about 1.5 hours, and you’re there.

Is the bus a good option for Ávila?

Yes! It’s cheaper than the train and drops you closer to the city center.

Can Ávila be visited as a half-day trip?

Yes, though you’ll need to stick to the main sights like the walls, cathedral, and Basilica of San Vicente. For a leisurely lunch of chuletón de Ávila (famous steak) and a sunset stroll, plan for a full day.

Are taxis or ride-hailing apps available in Ávila?

Local taxis are easy to find at the train and bus stations. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are rare.

What’s the most scenic time of day to arrive in Ávila?

Late afternoon. The city’s walls turn amber in the setting sun, and as the lanterns flicker on, Ávila looks like it has slipped straight out of a medieval tale.