Barcelona to Santander train with Renfe ALVIA

Tue, Sep 29
+ Add return
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe ALVIA
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe ALVIA
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Santander

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 29

Cheapest price on Sep 29

$93

Average ticket price on Sep 29

$127

Fastest journey on Sep 29

8 h 22 m

Average journey duration on Sep 29

9 h 36 m

Trains on Sep 29

12

Distance

541 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Barcelona to Santander will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Barcelona to Santander without transferring at least once.

  • iryo06080+Renfe ALVIA04143
    7:50 AM9h57
    Barcelona Sants
    5:47 PMSantander station
    $931One-way
    1 transfer
  • iryo06080+Renfe ALVIA04193
    7:50 AM15h22
    Barcelona Sants
    11:12 PMSantander station
    $931One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA00438+Renfe71874
    8:50 AM13h50
    Barcelona Sants
    10:40 PMSantander station
    $991One-way
    1 transfer
  • iryo06110+Renfe ALVIA04193
    10:45 AM12h27
    Barcelona Sants
    11:12 PMSantander station
    $1051One-way
    1 transfer
  • iryo06150+Renfe ALVIA04193
    2:50 PM8h22
    Barcelona Sants
    11:12 PMSantander station
    $1181One-way
    1 transfer

Live departures

Barcelona to Santander train times

The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Santander trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
iryo06060+Renfe ALVIA041435:45 AM Barcelona Sants
12h02
5:47 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06070+Renfe ALVIA041437:05 AM Barcelona Sants
10h42
5:47 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06080+Renfe ALVIA041437:50 AM Barcelona Sants
9h57
5:47 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06080+Renfe ALVIA041937:50 AM Barcelona Sants
15h22
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06012+Renfe ALVIA041438:45 AM Barcelona Sants
9h02
5:47 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06012+Renfe ALVIA041938:45 AM Barcelona Sants
14h27
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
Renfe ALVIA00438+Renfe71874
On time
8:50 AM Barcelona Sants
13h50
10:40 PM Santander station
1 transfer
iryo06110+Renfe ALVIA0419310:45 AM Barcelona Sants
12h27
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06020+Renfe ALVIA0419311:18 AM Barcelona Sants
11h54
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06320+Renfe ALVIA0419312:14 PM Barcelona Sants
10h58
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06014+Renfe ALVIA041931:13 PM Barcelona Sants
9h59
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer
iryo06150+Renfe ALVIA041932:50 PM Barcelona Sants
8h22
11:12 PM Santander station1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Barcelona 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Barcelona to Santander?

The best time to book your train from Barcelona to Santander is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Barcelona to Santander route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Barcelona 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 Barcelona to Santander.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Barcelona to Santander

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Barcelona to Santander run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 336 miles (541 km) distance in 6h 57m.

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
Distance
336 miles (541 km)
Average train duration
7h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
11
Fastest train
6h 57m
First train
2:30 AM
Last train
9:07 PM
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
63 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

Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from Barcelona to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Barcelona and Santander from $11 (€9). 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 57m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$11 (€9)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
10 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
7h 30m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$21 (€17)
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
5 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

Centro Botín

Leading modern and contemporary art center by Renzo Piano, renowned for exhibitions, architecture, and exceptional bay views.

  • 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.

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 Barcelona to Santander

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Santander can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $52 (€43).
The train from Barcelona to Santander takes 6h 57m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Santander is 336 miles (541 km).
The first train from Barcelona to Santander leaves at 2:30 AM.
The last train from Barcelona to Santander leaves at 9:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barcelona to Santander.
There is no direct train service currently available from Barcelona to Santander.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barcelona to Santander.
The train station in Barcelona that goes to Santander is Barcelona Sants, which connects to Santander station.
The train journey from Barcelona to Santander offers a scenic experience with views of diverse landscapes, including the lush greenery of the Basque Country, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Cantabrian coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Barcelona to Santander.
Popular day trips by train from Santander include Reinosa, Cabezon de la Sal, Torrelavega, Aguilar de Campoo, Renedo de Piélagos.
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 Barcelona to Santander

Most Barcelona to Santander trains use the Barcelona Sants to Santander station pair. Use this guide to compare Barcelona and Santander train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Barcelona
Arrival train stations in Santander

Which Barcelona station do trains to Santander leave from?

Trains from Barcelona to Santander leave from Barcelona Sants. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Barcelona city centre at Plaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain.
Barcelona SantsPlaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain+34 934956020WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Barcelona Sants from Barcelona city centre

Barcelona Sants is 1 km from Barcelona city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainR1, R4 · 4m · $1 · every ~15 min
Re, 15254, 15710, 15760, 15762, 15770, 15772, 15774, 15778, 15780, 15782, 15784, 15786, 15788, 15792, 15850, 15860, 15868, 15874, 15878, 15886 · 5m · $1
BusN28 · 20m · every ~3 min
D20 · 21m · $4 · every ~12 min
SubwayL3 · 16m · $4 · every ~26 min

Barcelona Sants train station facilities and services

Barcelona Sants 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: McDonald’s, Caffe di Fiore, Ars Café, Café de l'Estació, Café de l’Estació Deli, Lavazza, Como, Peter's, Tutti Frutti, Enrique Tomás, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Hotspots in and near restaurants. ATMs are in the central part of the station.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located in various locations inside the station.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Barcelona Sants: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Barcelona Sants: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Barcelona Sants: All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Apartments Eixample, Apartment Guell, Sweet Inn Callao.

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