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Centro Botín
A modern art and cultural center with exhibitions and events in an iconic building on the seafront.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madrid to Santander
Showing times and prices for May 19
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$54
Fastest journey
5 h 15 m
Average duration
5 h 21 m
Buses per day
15
Distance
339 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madrid to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Santander will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast buses
Of the 15 buses that leave Madrid for Santander on Tue, May 19, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 19 the direct buses cover the 339 km distance in an average of 5 h 21 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 15 m .
On Tue, May 19 the slowest buses will take 5 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Normal8:00 AM5h50Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América1:50 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$491One-way0 transfers- Normal8:15 AM5h35Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)1:50 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$491One-way0 transfers
- Normal6:30 PM5h30Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América12:00 AMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
- Normal4:30 PM5h45Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América10:15 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
- Normal1:00 PM5h30Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América6:30 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
- Supra Economy3:15 PM5h15Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)8:30 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$551One-way0 transfers
- Normal6:45 PM5h15Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)12:00 AMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
- Normal1:15 PM5h15Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)6:30 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
- Supra Economy3:00 PM5h30Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América8:30 PMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$541One-way0 transfers
- Normal6:30 PM5h30Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América12:00 AMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$511One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Santander
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $44.
Distance: 210 miles (339 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$53 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Santander is a train with an average price of $49 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Santander:
A train is $4 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Santander costing on average $53 (€43).
A train is $240 (€193) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Santander costing on average $289 (€233).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Santander is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 15m.
Bus takes on average 5h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Santander including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $53 (€43) compared to roughly $81 (€65) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 5h 53m versus 4h 34m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Madrid to Santander Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 12:45AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 16h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 02:50AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $25 |
Live departures
Madrid to Santander bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Santander buses for today, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 1:15 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h15 | 6:30 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Supra Economy | 3:00 PM Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América | 5h30 | 8:30 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Supra Economy | 3:15 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h15 | 8:30 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 4:30 PM Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América | 5h45 | 10:15 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
 FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:40 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 16h40 | 9:20 AM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1 transfer | |
| Normal | 4:45 PM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h30 | 10:15 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 19 | |||||
| Supra Economy | 12:30 AM Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América | 6h00 | 6:30 AM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Supra Economy | 12:45 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h45 | 6:30 AM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 8:00 AM Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América | 5h50 | 1:50 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 8:15 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h35 | 1:50 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 10:30 AM Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América | 5h45 | 4:15 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Normal | 10:45 AM Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) | 5h30 | 4:15 PM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Santander by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Madrid to Santander buses with Omio?
Alsa as well as Alsa Supra or FlixBus offer buses services from Madrid to Santander.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Santander.
Why book with Omio vs Alsa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alsa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Santander.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Alsa with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Santander.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Santander.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Santander.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madrid to Santander
SpainSpain
Buses from Madrid to Santander run on average 15 times per day, taking around 5h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 (€33) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by train.
There are 14 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 210 miles (339 km) distance in 5h 15m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $21 (€17)
Distance 210 miles (339 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€33) |
Buses per day 15 |
Direct buses 14 |
Fastest bus 5h 15m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $21 (€17)
Bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar, FlixBus from Madrid to SantanderYou can travel by bus between Madrid to Santander with Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar, FlixBus for as low as $21 (€17). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Alsa
About
Alsa is the main provider of bus travel in Spain and a subsidiary of the UK’s National Express. It operates an extensive network of regional, national, and international routes, transporting more than 300 million passengers annually. Alsa’s modern fleet offers varying levels of comfort and amenities. The standard Alsa Normal buses include free Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, footrests, and entertainment. For a more premium experience, Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus, and Alsa Premium services provide enhanced comfort and luxury features.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€33)
Alsa frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for an additional fee; must be packed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must travel in the hold.
Alsa Supra
About
Alsa Supra is a premium service offered by Alsa, a leading Spanish bus company. It provides a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers, aiming to make each journey a unique experience. Key features of Alsa Supra buses include reclining leather seats with footrests, individual seating rows, high-speed Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and an "Ociobus" on-board entertainment system with films, documentaries, and music. Passengers can also enjoy daily newspapers and a food and drink service, with a special menu available in the Premium class. Alsa Supra also offers services for people with reduced mobility, including reserved seating and wheelchair spaces. These services are available on various national and international routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€64)
Alsa Supra frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; prior reservation required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; guide dogs travel for free.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
16h 40m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€85)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Santander
Things to do in Santander
Discover the best of Santander — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santander trip today.
- Must visit
Palacio de La Magdalena
A royal palace located on the Magdalena Peninsula with stunning views of the sea.
- Must visit
Centro Botín
A modern architectural landmark that hosts cultural and artistic exhibitions.
- Must visit
Sardinero Beach
One of Santander’s most famous beaches, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
- Must visit
Sardinero Beach
One of Santander’s most famous beaches, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
- Recommended
Peninsula de La Magdalena
A picturesque park offering hiking trails, beaches, and scenic views.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Montañés
A hearty stew made with beans, cabbage, and assorted meats like pork ribs and blood sausage. It's a traditional dish from the Cantabria region, perfect for warming up on cold days.
Rabas
Fried squid rings, often enjoyed as a tapa. Known for their tenderness and light, crispy coating, rabas are a staple in Santander.
- Vegetarian
Sobaos Pasiegos
A traditional butter cake from the Cantabrian Pas valley, known for its rich flavor and soft texture. Usually enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Euro
Compared to other Spanish cities, Santander is moderately priced, with affordable accommodation and dining options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or casual dining.
- Mid-range
- €25-40 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving small change in restaurants and cafes is appreciated.
El+Bus+Santander
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.30 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Aeropuerto+De+Santander, Santander -> Estacion+de+Autobuses+de+Santander, Santander
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can pay on TUS Santander buses with contactless bank card, mobile wallet, or transport card on supported vehicles.
- Buy airport bus tickets in advance if possible, and use the official TUS Santander app for routes and real-time information.
Buses Madrid to Santander
Bus trips through Spain are a great way to see as much of the country as possible and travel at very low cost. Especially for travellers with a lot of luggage, the bus option is usually the cheapest way to get from one place to another. Those who want to get from Madrid to the north coast of Spain can use the bus Madrid - Santander. The cities are about 400 kilometres apart, which takes about 5 hours by buses. Several buses travel this route every day, so travellers can travel from the capital to the north at many times.
Which bus companies operate from Madrid to Santander?
For the Madrid - Santander bus connection, the Spanish company ALSA offers all the services. ALSA is by far the largest bus tour operator in Spain. Travellers have been able to travel between cities in the country on ALSA buses for more than 60 years.
How long does the bus ride from Madrid to Santander?
take?The direct journey from Madrid to Santander by buses takes about 5 to 6 hours. For all connections with a stopover, part of the route is covered by train, offered by Renfe or Renfe AVE. In most cases you will first take the train to Palencia and from there take the buses to Santander. Travellers must allow at least 7 hours for this connection.
How often can you travel by bus from Madrid to Santander?
The route between Madrid and Santander is the easiest way to get from the capital to the north coast of Spain. Therefore at least 20 connections between the two cities are offered daily. The first buses in Madrid usually leave very early in the morning. The last buses, on the other hand, run in the evening.
Bus stations on the route Madrid - Santander?
At which bus station does the bus depart from in Madrid? ALSA's buses depart from in Madrid either at the airport or at the bus station Madrid Interc. Av América. The airport is about 12 kilometres from the city centre, while the bus station is in the city centre. Renfe trains also depart from Madrid Chamartín station.
At which bus station does the bus arrive in Santander? In Santander all buses arrive at the bus station at Plaza Estaciones. The bus station is located directly at the harbour and very centrally in the city centre. From here, travellers can either take a taxi or even walk, depending on where their hotel is or where they want to go next.
FAQs: Bus from Madrid to Santander
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Santander by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Madrid to Santander can start from as little as $41 (€33) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madrid to Santander is $53 (€43) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Madrid to Santander is 5h 15m to travel the 210 miles (339 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Madrid to Santander leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madrid to Santander leaves at 11:35 PM.
Yes, there are 14 direct buses a day from Madrid to Santander with Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Madrid to Santander, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra, BlaBlaCar, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Santander. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madrid and Santander and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Madrid , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América, Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid), Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses, Madrid, Calle de la Princesa / Paseo de Moret (Moncloa) . When arriving in Santander , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santander, Estación de Autobuses .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América, which is located around 3 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Santander, Estación de Autobuses, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santander from Madrid is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madrid to Santander is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Santander including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madrid to Santander:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madrid to Santander for bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Santander are:
- Palacio de la Magdalena, a historic royal palace set on a peninsula offering stunning views and guided tours
- Centro Botín, a modern art center designed by Renzo Piano featuring exhibitions and cultural events
- Playa del Sardinero, a popular beach known for its golden sands and vibrant promenade
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico, a maritime museum showcasing marine life and naval history
- Jardines de Piquío, beautifully landscaped gardens offering a peaceful retreat with ocean views.
The best things to do in Santander include:
- Santander Cathedral, a Gothic-style cathedral with impressive architecture and historical significance
- Parque de Mataleñas, a scenic park ideal for hiking and enjoying nature
- Mercado de la Esperanza, a bustling market where you can experience local culture and cuisine
- Paseo de Pereda, a picturesque promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront
- Gran Casino del Sardinero, a historic casino offering entertainment and a glimpse into the city's glamorous past.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madrid to Santander depends on the bus companies:
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Madrid to Santander.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Santander:
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- Alsa Supra
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madrid to Santander:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madrid to Santander. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
- Alsa Supra
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel for free.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madrid to Santander with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madrid to Santander with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madrid to Santander with the following bus company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Since both Madrid and Santander are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Santander, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it's recommended to use licensed taxis and agree on fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves in busy markets or near attractions. Staying alert and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Madrid to Santander
Madrid
Santander
The major bus station for departures in Madrid is Madrid, Avenida de América. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid, Avenida de América for your trip from Madrid to Santander.
Madrid, Avenida de América
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
3 km
Car connection
Avenida de AméricaWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafetería de la estación (in the station)
- Restaurante El Rincón (0.5 km)
- La Vaca Argentina (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Madrid, Avenida de América
- Bus: 200, 114, 115, 122 Metro: 4, 6, 7, 9
Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
Amenities at bus station
DiningATMAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
12 kmCar connection
M-40, M-14Dining
- Rodilla, Mahoudrid
Accessibility
- Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets
WC
- Located inside the terminal, well-signposted, accessible, and generally clean
Shower
- No public showers in the bus station area; showers available in airport lounges (approx. €15-€30 for lounge access)
Public transit options for Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
- Metro Line 8, Aeropuerto T4, 12 km
Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
Calle de Méndez ÁlvaroWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafetería de la estación (in the station)
- Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km)
- La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
- Bus: 8, 102, 148 Metro: L6 Train: C1, C5
The major bus station for arrivals in Santander is Santander, Estación de Autobuses. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander, Estación de Autobuses for your trip to Santander from Madrid.
Santander, Estación de Autobuses
information
More options for your journey from Madrid to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Santander and Madrid
Most popular bus connections to Santander
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