- Must visit
Centro Botín
Major contemporary art center on Santander’s waterfront, known for international exhibitions, cultural programming, and its striking Renzo Piano design.
Flights from Madrid to Santander depart on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by train.
There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 06:30, the last at 21:35. The fastest flight covers the 210 miles (339 km) distance in 1h 5m. May is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 210 miles (339 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Flights per day 3 |
Direct flights 3 |
Fastest flight 1h 5m |
First flight 6:30 AM |
Last flight 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 days |
Cheapest price
$412
Average price
$421
Fastest journey
1 h 5 m
Average duration
1 h 8 m
Flights per day
3
Distance
339 km
The best way to find a cheap flight 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 $421 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $412.
Of the 3 flights that leave Madrid for Santander onSun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct flights cover the 339 km distance in an average of 1 h 8 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the longest flights will take 1 h 10 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.
IB1059
IB1065
IB493
IB1059
IB1065
IB493Omio 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)
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$285 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $53 Average price | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.0 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg 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 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 $236 (€193) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Santander costing on average $285 (€233).
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 15m.
Bus takes on average 5h 53m.
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Santander flights for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IB1059 | 7:40 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 8:45 AM Santander Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
IB493 | 3:50 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 5:00 PM Santander Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
IB1065 | 8:40 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 9:50 PM Santander 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 Santander — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santander trip today.
Major contemporary art center on Santander’s waterfront, known for international exhibitions, cultural programming, and its striking Renzo Piano design.
Important archaeological museum presenting prehistoric cave culture, Roman material, and key finds from across Cantabria.
Leading maritime museum covering Cantabrian Sea ecology, fishing, naval history, and aquariums; a strong family-friendly cultural stop.
Scenic headland combining gardens, sea views, beaches, and the palace grounds; ideal for walking and one of the city’s top experiences.
Santander’s best-known beach area, famous for its elegant promenade, broad sands, and lively atmosphere in good weather.
Grand waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings, sculptures, and access to the bay; essential for a first walk through Santander.
Lightly battered and fried squid rings, one of Santander’s most iconic tapas, especially popular for aperitif time by the bay.
High-quality Cantabrian anchovies, usually served in olive oil on bread or as a tapa; a flagship product of the region.
White tuna from the Cantabrian Sea, prized for its delicate texture and often served grilled, stewed, or preserved in olive oil.
Michelin-starred restaurant known for contemporary tasting menus rooted in Cantabrian products, with polished service and elegant ambiance.
Well-known Santander restaurant and tapas bar, famous for refined Cantabrian cuisine, seafood, and a lively central atmosphere.
Historic and established dining room serving classic Cantabrian dishes in a traditional setting with strong local character.
Moderate by Spanish standards: tapas and set lunches are affordable, while waterfront dining and summer stays cost more.
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change in cafes is enough. Taxis are usually rounded up, and hotel tips are appreciated but not expected.
Official public transport app
Santander Airport -> Santander Bus Station
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Santander 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 Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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