Buses in Spain

ALSA is Spain's largest long-distance bus operator, covering routes across most of the country. Avanza and Socibus also run major intercity services, in central and southern Spain. You can book tickets on each company's website or app. Compare options in the booking widget above for current availability on your route.

Buses are generally the budget option compared to Spain's AVE high-speed trains, sometimes significantly so on popular routes like Madrid to Seville or Barcelona to Valencia. The trade-off is longer travel time. For shorter distances or routes not covered by high-speed rail, the price gap narrows. Check both options in the booking widget to compare current fares for your dates.

Madrid's primary long-distance bus station is Estación Sur de Autobuses, located in the Méndez Álvaro area and connected to the metro system via Méndez Álvaro station. Some operators also depart from Avenida de América interchange, for northern and eastern destinations. Confirm your departure point when booking, as using the wrong station is a common mistake.

Most Spanish bus operators allow one large suitcase in the hold and one carry-on bag in the cabin at no extra charge. Oversized items like bicycles or surfboards typically require advance notice and may incur a fee. Policies vary by company, so check your operator's baggage rules when booking. Label your hold luggage clearly, as bags are loaded together at each stop.

Yes, tickets are sold at bus station counters throughout Spain. However, popular routes during holidays, summer weekends, and festival periods can sell out, so booking online in advance is strongly recommended for those times. ALSA and most other operators offer mobile tickets you can show on your phone, which avoids printing. Station counters typically accept both cash and cards.

Overnight bus services run on some longer routes, such as Madrid to destinations in Andalucían or Galicia. They save on a night's accommodation but are less common than daytime departures. Comfort varies, though most long-distance coaches in Spain have reclining seats, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms. Check route options in the booking widget to see if a night service is available for your trip.

Most major Spanish airports have direct bus connections to their city centers. Madrid-Barajas is served by the Exprés Aeropuerto shuttle running to Atocha and Cibeles, and Barcelona El Prat has the Aerobús service to Plaça Catalunya. Smaller airports like Málaga and Alicante also offer regular bus links. Services typically run frequently throughout the day, with reduced frequency late at night.