- Must visit
San Telmo Museoa
The city’s main museum, set in a former convent with a modern extension. It focuses on Basque society, history, and art and is one of the best cultural introductions to Donostia.



Cheapest price
$416
Average price
$421
Fastest journey
1h 10m
Average duration
1h 10m
Flights per day
3
Distance
353 km
Flights from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian depart on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $53 (€44) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by train.
There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 07:30, the last at 21:30. The fastest flight covers the 218 miles (352 km) distance in 1h 10m. June is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 218 miles (352 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€44) |
Flights per day 3 |
Direct flights 3 |
Fastest flight 1h 10m |
First flight 7:30 AM |
Last flight 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 days |
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 7m. 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 $23, and a flight costs an average of $53.
Distance: 218 miles (352 km)
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$359 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price | $91 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 41m Average total duration 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 51m Average total duration 6h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A train is $25 (€21) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $81 (€67).
A train is $303 (€249) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $359 (€295).
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 11m.
Bus takes on average 6h 21m.
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian flights for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IB443 | 7:30 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 8:40 AM San Sebastián Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
IB445 | 11:50 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 1:00 PM San Sebastián Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
IB449 | 7:40 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 8:50 PM San Sebastián Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
The city’s main museum, set in a former convent with a modern extension. It focuses on Basque society, history, and art and is one of the best cultural introductions to Donostia.
A major sculpture museum dedicated to Eduardo Chillida, combining monumental outdoor works with a restored farmhouse gallery. It is one of the Basque Country’s standout art destinations.
This museum in nearby Getaria presents the life and work of Cristobal Balenciaga through elegant fashion displays. A strong choice for design and couture lovers visiting the area.
The historic old quarter is packed with lively streets, traditional architecture, and a strong local atmosphere. It is essential for understanding the social and cultural heart of the city.
A classic waterfront walk running along the city’s most famous beach. It is one of the best places for views, people-watching, and the postcard image of Donostia.
A green hill with paths, fortifications, and excellent viewpoints over the bay and Old Town. It is a favorite for travelers who want both nature and history close to the center.
Basque bar snacks served on bread or as small bites, central to the city’s food culture and best enjoyed while hopping between bars in the Old Town.
Spider crab baked San Sebastian style with onion, tomato, and brandy, a classic festive seafood dish closely associated with local cooking.
Salt cod gently cooked so its gelatin emulsifies with olive oil, creating a silky sauce; one of the most emblematic Basque dishes.
Legendary fine-dining restaurant known for creative Basque cuisine, polished service, and one of the city’s most celebrated gastronomic experiences.
Iconic destination restaurant with contemporary high-end Basque cuisine, sea views, and a refined tasting-menu experience.
Well-known traditional restaurant and pintxos bar in the Old Town, respected for seasonal Basque dishes and excellent grilled seafood.
Prices are high by Spanish standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though pintxos bars can be better value.
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change in bars and taxis is enough.
Official public transport app
San Sebastián Airport, Hondarribia, Donostia-San Sebastián -> Donostia Bus Station, Donostia-San Sebastián
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian flights use the Madrid Barajas Airport to San Sebastián Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Donostia-San Sebastian airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Madrid Barajas Airport is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
Madrid Barajas Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Ramps, assistance.
San Sebastián Airport is 1 km from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre. Public transport options include:
San Sebastián Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the terminal.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at San Sebastián Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Sebastián Airport.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need