- Must visit
Centro Botín
Major contemporary art center on Santander’s waterfront, known for international exhibitions, cultural programming, and its striking Renzo Piano design.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Alicante to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$160
Average price
$198
Fastest journey
7 h 23 m
Average duration
8 h 17 m
Trains per day
11
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 $198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $160.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Alicante for Santander on Sun, Jun 21, 1 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 trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 8 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 23 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 8 h 53 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.
0414310:26 AM8h33Alicante-Terminal6:59 PMSantander station$1601One-way0 transfers
05093+041939:40 AM13h48Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$1851One-way1 transfer- 05093+041439:40 AM9h19Alicante-Terminal6:59 PMSantander station$1851One-way1 transfer
- 05153+041934:05 PM7h23Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$1961One-way1 transfer
- 05143+041932:35 PM8h53Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$1961One-way1 transfer
- 05153+041934:05 PM7h23Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$1961One-way1 transfer
- 04181 · 041933:26 PM8h02Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$2051One-way1 transfer
- 0414310:26 AM8h33Alicante-Terminal6:59 PMSantander station$1601One-way0 transfers
- 04143 · 0414310:26 AM8h33Alicante-Terminal6:59 PMSantander station$2011One-way1 transfer
- 05143+041932:35 PM8h53Alicante-Terminal11:28 PMSantander station$1961One-way1 transfer
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 prices starting from $75. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $75, and a flight costs an average of $38.
Distance: 393 miles (634 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $81 Average price Cheapest | $265 Average price | $166 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 52m Average total duration 7h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 30m Average total duration 11h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 1m Onboard + 3h 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 $81 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Alicante to Santander:
A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Alicante to Santander costing on average $94 (€77).
A bus is $184 (€151) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Alicante to Santander costing on average $265 (€217).
The fastest way to travel from Alicante to Santander is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 1m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 22m.
Bus takes on average 11h 0m.
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 22m faster (7h 22m by train vs 7h 44m by car) and roughly $72 (€59) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($94 (€77) vs $166 (€135)). 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 ALVIA, 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 tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05273+04143 | On time 7:24 AM Alicante-Terminal | 11h35 | 6:59 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05093+04193 | On time 9:40 AM Alicante-Terminal | 13h48 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05093+04143 | On time 9:40 AM Alicante-Terminal | 9h19 | 6:59 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143 | 10:26 AM Alicante-Terminal | 8h33 | 6:59 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04143 · 04193 | 10:26 AM Alicante-Terminal | 13h02 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143 · 04143 | 10:26 AM Alicante-Terminal | 8h33 | 6:59 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
 05817+04193 | On time 11:36 AM Alicante-Terminal | 11h52 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05113+04193 | On time 12:45 PM Alicante-Terminal | 10h43 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05143+04193 | On time 2:35 PM Alicante-Terminal | 8h53 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04181 · 04193 | 3:26 PM Alicante-Terminal | 8h02 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05153+04193 | 4:05 PM Alicante-Terminal | 7h23 | 11:28 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.
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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.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Alicante to Santander?
The best time to book your train from Alicante to Santander is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Alicante to Santander route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Alicante to Santander per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Alicante to Santander.
Trains
from $66Buses
from $70Flights
from $87Journey information
Overview: Train from Alicante to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Alicante to Santander run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by flight.
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 7h 38m.
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
Flight from $38 (€31)
Distance 393 miles (634 km) |
Average train duration 7h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€38) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 7h 38m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 4:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 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
Flight from $38 (€31)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Alicante to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, AVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Alicante and Santander from $38 (€31). 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 Duration
7h 38m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
1 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
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
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 23m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€87)
AVE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 38m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€70)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 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
Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria
Important archaeological museum presenting prehistoric cave culture, Roman material, and key finds from across Cantabria.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Leading maritime museum covering Cantabrian Sea ecology, fishing, naval history, and aquariums; a strong family-friendly cultural stop.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Scenic headland combining gardens, sea views, beaches, and the palace grounds; ideal for walking and one of the city’s top experiences.
- Must visit
Playa del Sardinero
Santander’s best-known beach area, famous for its elegant promenade, broad sands, and lively atmosphere in good weather.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Grand waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings, sculptures, and access to the bay; essential for a first walk through Santander.
Rabas
Lightly battered and fried squid rings, one of Santander’s most iconic tapas, especially popular for aperitif time by the bay.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas de Santoña
High-quality Cantabrian anchovies, usually served in olive oil on bread or as a tapa; a flagship product of the region.
- Gluten-free
Bonito del Norte
White tuna from the Cantabrian Sea, prized for its delicate texture and often served grilled, stewed, or preserved in olive oil.
El Serbal
Michelin-starred restaurant known for contemporary tasting menus rooted in Cantabrian products, with polished service and elegant ambiance.
Cañadío
Well-known Santander restaurant and tapas bar, famous for refined Cantabrian cuisine, seafood, and a lively central atmosphere.
Bodega del Riojano
Historic and established dining room serving classic Cantabrian dishes in a traditional setting with strong local character.
Euro
Moderate by Spanish standards: tapas and set lunches are affordable, while waterfront dining and summer stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
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.
Santander City
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.30 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Santander Airport, Santander -> Santander Railway Station, Santander
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay by contactless card on TUS Santander city buses, but carry some cash as a backup.
- For airport transfers, the Alsa airport bus is usually the fastest and most economical option to the city center.
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 $46 (€38), while the average price is around $94 (€77).
The train from Alicante to Santander runs once a day and takes approximately 7h 38m.
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 ALVIA, 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 flight, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
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 7h 38m 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
Alicante
Santander
The major train station for departures in Alicante is Alicante-Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Alicante-Terminal for your trip from Alicante to Santander.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 05:15 - 24:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free WiFi.
Lockers
- Offered through an independent company.
Dining
- Cafestore
- Candy & go
- Gambrinus
- Máquinas Vending
- Upper Crust
Accessibility
- Adapted for deaf persons
Hotel
- Eurostar Centrum Alicante
- Old Town Alicante B&B
- Casa Alberola Alicante, Curio Collection by Hilton
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 05:15 - 24:00
Information Desk
- Look for the "i" symbol
Public transit options for Alicante-Terminal
- Bus lines: C1, C6, 06, 09
- Train lines: L1, L2, C1, C3
The major train station for arrivals in Santander is Santander. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander for your journey to Santander from Alicante.
Santander
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
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