High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Book early and save: Yes

Online bookings open: up to 6  months ahead of the travel date - depending on the time of year.
The online booking window can be shorter between late July and early October.

This is a journey on which it can pay off to book in advance - you can usually save more than €30 on 'Promo' tickets if you can book more than around  month ahead of your travel date.

Also book in advance if you want to travel on a specific train, on this route tickets for the most popular departures, can sell out completely a couple of days ahead.
These trains are usually scheduled to depart from Madrid-Chamartin at:

  • 08:43 daily
  • 14:50 not Saturdays
  • 17:38 daily

Seat Reservations:

Seats will automatically be assigned when booking tickets for this journey.

Rail Pass Users:

Rail pass users will need to be pay a reservation fee prior to boarding, but these reservations cannot be booked on the ticket agent's websites.

They are also not available on the Eurail/Interrail reservation service for journeys within Spain.
The only option, other than booking them at a station in Spain, is to pre-reserve seats by calling Renfe phone sales: +34 91 232 03 20.

Pre-reserving a seat is possible up to 24 hours before a train's departure. You will receive a PNR code which you must use to pick up and pay for your reservation at a local station ticket office, making sure to show your Interrail Pass. You must collect your reservation within 72 hours. After this time the pre-reservation will expire.
Please note that a pre-reservation is not the same as a reservation. It only holds a seat for you for 72 hours.

Or if you're happy to put up with a longer journey or want to save, cheaper last minute reservations are more likely to still be available on the much slower alternative MD train.

How to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián

Find Transport to Donostia / San Sebastián

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There are 9 ways to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián by train, bus, rideshare, car or plane

Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner.

Cheapest

Bus

  1. Take the bus from Madrid Mendez Alvaro Estacion Sur to San Sebastian Central Bus Station

Train

  1. Take the train from Madrid-Principe Pio to San Sebastian/Donostia

Rideshare

  1. Take the rideshare from Madrid to Saint-Sébastien

Drive

  1. Drive from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián

Fly to Bilbao, bus

  1. Fly from Madrid (MAD) to Bilbao (BIO)
  2. Take the bus from Aeropuerto Bilbao to Donostiako Autobus Geltokia

Fly to Pamplona, bus

  1. Fly from Madrid (MAD) to Pamplona (PNA)
  2. Take the bus from Pamplona to San Sebastián / Donostia

Fly to Santander, bus

  1. Fly from Madrid (MAD) to Santander (SDR)
  2. Take the bus from Aeropuerto Santander-S.Ballest to San Sebastian

Travel safe during COVID-19

Rules to follow in Spain

Travel within Spain

Observe COVID-19 safety rules

Frequently Asked Questions


Am I allowed to travel from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

Yes, travel within Spain is currently allowed.

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What are the travel restrictions in Donostia / San Sebastián?

Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply

  • Face masks are mandatory
  • There is a social distancing requirement of 1.5 metres
  • Observe COVID-19 safety rules

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What is the national COVID-19 helpline number in Donostia / San Sebastián?

The national COVID-19 helpline number in Donostia / San Sebastián is 112.

Do I have to wear a face mask on public transport in Donostia / San Sebastián?

Wearing a face mask on public transport in Donostia / San Sebastián is mandatory.

What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in Donostia / San Sebastián?

Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 112.

Last updated: 26 Sep 2022
Exceptions may apply, for full details: European Union.

We're working around the clock to bring you the latest COVID-19 travel updates.
This information is compiled from official sources. To the best of our knowledge, it is correct as of the last update.
Visit Rome2rio travel advice for general help.

Questions & Answers

What is the cheapest way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

The most affordable way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián is to rideshare, which costs ₹1,992 and takes 5h 26m.

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What is the fastest way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

The quickest way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián is to fly which costs ₹3,400 - ₹17,000 and takes 3h 47m.

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Is there a direct bus between Madrid and Donostia / San Sebastián?

Yes, there is a direct bus departing from Madrid Mendez Alvaro Estacion Sur and arriving at San Sebastian Central Bus Station station. Services depart once daily, and operate Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The journey takes approximately 8h 30m.

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Is there a direct train between Madrid and Donostia / San Sebastián?

Yes, there is a direct train departing from Madrid-Principe Pio and arriving at San Sebastian/Donostia. Services depart twice daily, and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 7h 27m.

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How far is it from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

The distance between Madrid and Donostia / San Sebastián is 353 km. The road distance is 450.2 km.

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How do I travel from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián without a car?

The best way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián without a car is to train via Chamartín which takes 6h 4m and costs ₹3,100 - ₹4,000.

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How long does it take to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

It takes approximately 6h 4m to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián, including transfers.

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Where do I catch the Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián bus from?

Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián bus services, operated by Union Ivkoni, depart from Madrid Mendez Alvaro Estacion Sur station.

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Where do I catch the Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián train from?

Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián train services, operated by Renfe Viajeros, depart from Madrid-Chamartin station.

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Train, bus or fly from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

The best way to get from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián is to train via Chamartín which takes 6h 4m and costs ₹3,100 - ₹4,000. Alternatively, you can bus, which costs ₹1,400 - ₹2,800 and takes 8h 30m, you could also fly, which costs ₹3,400 - ₹17,000 and takes 3h 47m.

Mode details

What companies run services between Madrid, Spain and Donostia / San Sebastián, Spain?

Renfe Viajeros operates a train from Madrid-Chamartin to San Sebastian/Donostia 3 times a day. Tickets cost ₹2,700 - ₹3,400 and the journey takes 4h 54m. Alternatively, Union Ivkoni operates a bus from Madrid Mendez Alvaro Estacion Sur to San Sebastian Central Bus Station 5 times a week. Tickets cost ₹1,400 - ₹2,000 and the journey takes 8h 30m. Two other operators also service this route.

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Iberia

Websiteiberia.comAve. Duration1h 5mWhenEvery dayEstimated price₹3,400 - ₹20,000Ave. Duration1h 3mWhenEvery dayEstimated price₹3,100 - ₹14,000Ave. Duration1hWhenEvery dayEstimated price₹2,500 - ₹22,000Ave. Duration1h 10mWhenEvery dayEstimated price₹4,600 - ₹21,000

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Air Europa

Websiteaireuropa.comAve. Duration1hWhen Every dayEstimated price₹1,800 - ₹12,000

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Renfe Viajeros

Spain's excellent and extensive rail system connects cities across Spain and into neighbouring countries. Renfe's high-speed AVE trains can reach speeds of up to 350km/h, making travel between major cities very efficient. All medium- and long-distance trains require a seat reservation; ticket sales for these trains usually open 30-60 days before travel. Most Renfe trains have two classes: Turista (2nd class) and Preferente (1st class), although some AVE trains offer Turista Plus. There is free WiFi for Preferente passengers and for those with a +Renfe loyalty card.

Phone +34 91 232 03 20EmailWebsiterenfe.comAve. Duration4h 54mFrequency3 times a dayEstimated price₹2,700 - ₹3,400WebsiteRenfe ViajerosAve. Duration7h 27mFrequencyTwice dailyEstimated price₹3,100 - ₹3,900WebsiteRenfe Viajeros

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Union Ivkoni

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Blablabus

As the bus subsidiary of French railway SNCF, Ouibus offers eco-friendly coaches serving 35 French cities and 10 European cities at affordable fares. Ouibus journeys are safe and comfortable, with the four-star coaches offering power outlets, restrooms and WiFi. All Ouibus stations are located close to town centres for easy access to public transport. Getting on one of the 130 daily journeys is easy - electronic travel documents include your ticket and a personalised mini-guide with handy information.

Phone+33 1 71 53 01 80Websiteblablacar.frAve. Duration5h 55mFrequency4 times a weekEstimated price₹1,400 - ₹1,800WebsiteBlablabus

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

FlixBus

One of Europe’s leading bus companies, Flixbus serves 2000+ destinations in 29 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Austria, the Netherlands and Croatia and into Scandinavia and eastern Europe, as well as some US cities. Coaches have toilets, free WiFi and power outlets, plus snacks and drinks for purchase on board. Flixbus is a good choice for the budget-conscious traveller; purchase tickets in advance for the cheapest fares (note: there is no option to reserve a seat in advance).

Phone+49 30 300 137 300EmailWebsiteflixbus.deAve. Duration7h 45mFrequency3 times a weekEstimated price₹2,200 - ₹2,800Websiteflixbus.co.uk

Is there Wi-Fi on FlixBus?

Yes - FlixBus offers free Wi-Fi

Are there power outlets on FlixBus?

Yes

Does FlixBus offer meals or snacks?

Yes - snacks and drinks may be purchased from the driver. Please note, this is not available on all services.

For more information, please visit this page

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

Lurraldebus Transportes Pesa S.A.

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

HIFE S.A.

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

ALSA

A Spanish subsidiary of National Express, ALSA provides bus and coach services across Spain and neighbouring countries including Portugal, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland and Malta. Founded in 1923, ALSA values service and the customer experience. Buses are equipped with communal TV screens showing movies, individual behind-seat screens, ALSA radio, app for books and music, and free WiFi. ALSA services are accessible to people with disabilities, and guide dogs are welcome on all journeys. There are three types of tickets on offer (Frequent Traveller Pass, Share Pass and ALSA Pass), along with discounts for senior citizens, students and children.

Phone+34 902 42 22 42EmailWebsitealsa.esAve. Duration2h 45mFrequencyOnce dailyEstimated price₹1,300 - ₹1,900WebsiteALSA

High speed train madrid to san sebastian

BlaBlaCar.es

Want to know more about travelling around Spain

Rome2rio's Travel Guide series provide vital information for the global traveller. Filled with useful and timely travel information, the guides answer all the hard questions - such as 'How do I buy a ticket?', 'Should I book online before I travel? ', 'How much should I expect to pay?', 'Do the trains and buses have Wifi?' - to help you get the most out of your next trip.

More Questions & Answers

How long is the flight from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

The quickest flight from Madrid Airport to San Sebastian Airport is the direct flight which takes 1h 5m.

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Where does the Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián bus arrive?

Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián bus services, operated by Union Ivkoni, arrive at San Sebastian Central Bus Station.

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Where does the Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián train arrive?

Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián train services, operated by Renfe Viajeros, arrive at San Sebastian/Donostia station.

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Can I drive from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

Yes, the driving distance between Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián is 450 km. It takes approximately 4h 24m to drive from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián.

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Which airlines fly from Madrid Airport to San Sebastian Airport?

Iberia offers flights from Madrid Airport to San Sebastian Airport.

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How do I get a train ticket from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

Book your Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián train tickets online with Omio.

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How do I get a bus ticket from Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián?

Book your Madrid to Donostia / San Sebastián bus tickets online with Omio and Distribusion.

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Where can I stay near Donostia / San Sebastián?

There are 1540+ hotels available in Donostia / San Sebastián. Prices start at ₹7,500 per night.

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Where to next?

Trips from Madrid

Trips to Donostia / San Sebastián

Is there a high

Renfe and Alvia trains from Bilbao to Madrid It operates trains on the longest high-speed railway network in Europe, and the second-longest in the world.

How far is the train from San Sebastián to Madrid?

It takes an average of 6h 10m to travel from San Sebastián to Madrid by train, over a distance of around 219 miles (353 km). There are normally 5 trains per day traveling from San Sebastián to Madrid and tickets for this journey start from $17.67 when you book in advance.

Is there a high

Take the train to San Sebastian! Several times through the day, high-speed TGV Duplex trains link Paris Gare Montparnasse with Hendaye on the Spanish border in just 4h36 with fares from €25.

Is there a high

Renfe trains from San Sebastian to Barcelona Take the train and the trip from San Sebastian-Donostia station to Barcelona will take under six hours on the high-speed Alvia trains by Renfe. Arrive at the modern Barcelona Sants station and take the bus or the metro to the city centre.