- Must visit
Centro Botín
Leading modern and contemporary art center by Renzo Piano, renowned for exhibitions, architecture, and exceptional bay views.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Alicante to Santander
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$93
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$123
Fastest journey on Sep 20
7 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 38 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
634 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Alicante to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Alicante to Santander will cost around $123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Alicante to Santander, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 7 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 38 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 38 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.
8:26 AM7h38Alicante4:04 PMSantander$931One-way0 transfers- 9:26 AM7h38Alicante5:04 PMSantander$1541One-way0 transfers
- 9:26 AM7h38Alicante5:04 PMSantander$1541One-way0 transfers
- 8:26 AM7h38Alicante4:04 PMSantander$931One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Alicante to Santander
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Alicante to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $53 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 28m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, while a flight costs an average of $333.
Distance: 393 miles (634 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$55 Average price | $53 Average price Cheapest | $333 Average price | $168 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 35m Average total duration 7h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 13m Average total duration 12h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 2h 28m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 1.9 - 3.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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 Alicante to Santander is a bus with an average price of $53.
This is compared to other travel options from Alicante to Santander:
A bus is $2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Alicante to Santander costing on average $55.
A bus is $280 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Alicante to Santander costing on average $333.
The fastest way to travel from Alicante to Santander is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 28m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 5m.
Bus takes on average 12h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Alicante and Santander including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alicante to Santander among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 39m faster (7h 5m by train vs 7h 44m by car) and roughly $114 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($55 vs $168). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Alicante to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for Alicante to Santander trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 05083+04193 | On time 8:35 AM Alicante-Terminal | 14h37 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05093+04193 | On time 9:40 AM Alicante-Terminal | 13h32 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143 · 04193 | 10:26 AM Alicante-Terminal | 12h46 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
 05817+04193 | 11:36 AM Alicante-Terminal | 11h36 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05113+04193 | On time 12:45 PM Alicante-Terminal | 10h27 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05143+04193 | 2:35 PM Alicante-Terminal | 8h37 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04181 · 04193 | 3:26 PM Alicante-Terminal | 7h46 | 11:12 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Alicante 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27
Sep 27
Mon
Sep 28
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29
Sep 29
Wed
Sep 30
Sep 30
Thu
Oct 01
Oct 01
Fri
Oct 02
Oct 02
Sat
Oct 03
Oct 03
Sun
Oct 04
Oct 04
Mon
Oct 05
Oct 05
Tue
Oct 06
Oct 06
Wed
Oct 07
Oct 07
Thu
Oct 08
Oct 08
Fri
Oct 09
Oct 09
Sat
Oct 10
Oct 10
Why should you book Alicante to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, AVE, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Alicante to Santander.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe INTERCITY, AVE or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Alicante 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 Renfe ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Alicante to Santander.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Alicante to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Alicante to Santander run on average 9 times per day, taking around 7h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 16:05. The fastest train covers the 393 miles (634 km) distance in 6h 30m.
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
Bus from $9
Distance 393 miles (634 km) |
Average train duration 7h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 30m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 4:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Bus from $9
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from Alicante to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Alicante and Santander from $18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$18
Renfe ALVIA frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe INTERCITY Duration
6h 41m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$22
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
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
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Excellent maritime museum covering Cantabrian seafaring, ecology, fishing, and naval history with aquariums and family-friendly displays.
- Recommended
MAS | Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo de Santander y Cantabria
Art museum focused on Cantabrian and Spanish painting, offering a compact but rewarding overview in a central historic setting.
- Must visit
Península de La Magdalena
Iconic peninsula park with palace grounds, beaches, mini-zoo area, and scenic walking routes. One of Santander’s essential outings.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Elegant seafront promenade linking gardens, monuments, and bay views. Ideal for a first walk through central Santander.
- Must visit
Cabo Mayor
Dramatic headland viewpoint with cliffs, lighthouse scenery, and walking trails. A favorite for sunsets and Atlantic panoramas.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas De Cantabria
Cantabrian anchovies cured in salt or olive oil. Santander is famous for high-quality bocarte landed on this coast and served as a prized tapa.
Merluza En Salsa Verde
Fresh hake with green sauce, usually with garlic, parsley, fish stock, peas and clams. A classic northern coastal dish tied to local fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Montañés
Mountain stew from Cantabria with white beans, collard greens and pork products. Hearty inland cooking that is iconic across the region.
Cenador De Amos
Refined Michelin-starred dining focused on seasonal Cantabrian products. Elegant setting and creative tasting menus with strong local identity.
El Serbal
Well-known dining room specializing in grilled fish and Cantabrian seafood. Smart but relaxed atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Casa Lita
Established seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Santander cooking. Traditional atmosphere near the seafront.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, small change in cafes, and round up taxi fares.
FAQs: Trains from Alicante to Santander
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Alicante to Santander by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Alicante to Santander can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18, while the average price is around $55.
The train from Alicante to Santander takes 6h 30m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Alicante to Santander is 393 miles (634 km).
The first train from Alicante to Santander leaves at 5:50 AM.
The last train from Alicante to Santander leaves at 4:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Alicante to Santander.
Yes, there is a direct train from Alicante to Santander. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Alicante to Santander.
The train station in Alicante that goes to Santander is Alicante-Terminal, which connects to Santander station.
The cheapest way to get from Alicante to Santander is by train, with a cost of around $18.
The train journey from Alicante to Santander offers scenic views of diverse Spanish landscapes, including coastal vistas, charming villages, and mountainous regions, especially as it traverses through parts of the stunning Cantabrian Mountains.
A day trip from Alicante to Santander is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 30m and covers 393 miles (634 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Santander, you can explore the Santander Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture, and enjoy nature at Parque de Mataleñas. Experience local culture at Mercado de la Esperanza and take a leisurely stroll along Paseo de Pereda. Visit the Gran Casino del Sardinero for entertainment and a touch of history. Don't miss the Palacio de la Magdalena for stunning views, Centro Botín for modern art, and Playa del Sardinero for a beach day. Discover marine life at Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico and relax in the Jardines de Piquío.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Santander is ideal to explore its beaches, cultural attractions like the Magdalena Palace, and local cuisine, while allowing some time for leisure activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Alicante to Santander.
Since both Alicante 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.
Popular day trips by train from Santander include Reinosa, Cabezon de la Sal, Torrelavega, Aguilar de Campoo, Renedo de Piélagos.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alicante to Santander among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Alicante to Santander
Most Alicante to Santander trains use the Alicante-Terminal to Santander station pair. Use this guide to compare Alicante and Santander train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Alicante
Arrival train stations in Santander
Which Alicante station do trains to Santander leave from?
Trains from Alicante to Santander leave from Alicante-Terminal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Alicante city centre at Avda. Salamanca, 1, 03005 Alicante, Spain.
Alicante-TerminalAvda. Salamanca, 1, 03005 Alicante, Spain+34 912320320
City-centre transport
Getting to Alicante-Terminal from Alicante city centre
Alicante-Terminal is 1 km from Alicante city centre. Public transport options include:
BusTuri, 06 · 10m · $12 · every ~18 min
Alicante-Terminal train station facilities and services
Alicante-Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafestore, Candy & go, Gambrinus, Máquinas Vending, Upper Crust
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. . ATMs are aTM machine is in the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:15 - 24:00. Information desks are look for the "i" symbol.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is offered through an independent company. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Alicante-Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Alicante-Terminal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Alicante-Terminal: Adapted for deaf persons.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Eurostar Centrum Alicante, Old Town Alicante B&B, Casa Alberola Alicante, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Which Santander station do trains from Alicante arrive at?
Trains from Alicante to Santander arrive at Santander. Santander is 0 miles (1 km) from Santander city centre.
Santander39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Santander train station facilities and services
Santander has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Santander.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santander.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santander. Information desks are available at Santander.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santander.
Most popular train connections from Alicante
More options for your journey from Alicante to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and Alicante
Most popular train connections to Santander
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
