- Must visit
Centro Botín
Contemporary art center on the waterfront, known for major exhibitions, architecture by Renzo Piano, and bay views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jul 01
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$160
Fastest journey
8 h 38 m
Average duration
11 h
Trains per day
8
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 $160 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Barcelona to Santander without transferring at least once.
17501+
Normal9:03 AM16h12Barcelona Sants1:15 AMSantander, Estación de Autobuses$761One-way1 transfer
06110+
0419310:45 AM12h43Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1591One-way1 transfer- 06020+0419311:18 AM12h10Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1641One-way1 transfer
- 06320+0419312:14 PM11h14Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1641One-way1 transfer
- 06012+041938:45 AM14h43Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1671One-way1 transfer
- 06150+041932:50 PM8h38Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1991One-way1 transfer
- 06014+041931:13 PM10h15Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1791One-way1 transfer
- 06320+0419312:14 PM11h14Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1641One-way1 transfer
- 06020+0419311:18 AM12h10Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1641One-way1 transfer
- 06110+0419310:45 AM12h43Barcelona Sants11:28 PMSantander station$1591One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Barcelona to Santander
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a flight costs an average of $43.
Distance: 336 miles (541 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$128 Average price | $195 Average price | $109 Average price Cheapest | $136 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 41m Average total duration 7h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 27m Average total duration 10h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Barcelona to Santander is a bus with an average price of $109 (€90).
This is compared to other travel options from Barcelona to Santander:
A bus is $19 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Barcelona to Santander costing on average $128 (€105).
A bus is $86 (€71) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Barcelona to Santander costing on average $195 (€161).
The fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Santander is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 11m.
Bus takes on average 10h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Barcelona and Santander including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona to Santander among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $128 (€105) compared to roughly $136 (€112) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $8 (€7). The journey takes 7h 11m versus 6h 52m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Barcelona to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Santander trains for today, Tuesday, June 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06150+04193 | On time 2:50 PM Barcelona Sants | 8h38 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, July 1 | |||||
| 06080+04193 | 7:50 AM Barcelona Sants | 15h38 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 06012+04193 | 8:45 AM Barcelona Sants | 14h43 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 17501+Normal | 9:03 AM Barcelona Sants | 16h12 | 1:15 AM Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1 transfer | |
| 06110+04193 | 10:45 AM Barcelona Sants | 12h43 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 06020+04193 | 11:18 AM Barcelona Sants | 12h10 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 06320+04193 | 12:14 PM Barcelona Sants | 11h14 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 06014+04193 | 1:13 PM Barcelona Sants | 10h15 | 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 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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Why should you book Barcelona to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as AVE or iryo offer trains services from Barcelona 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 AVE or iryo to find the best option for your trip from Barcelona 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 Barcelona to Santander.
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 84 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.
Trains
from $21Buses
from $71Flights
from $91Journey information
Overview: Train from Barcelona to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Barcelona to Santander run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $123 (€101) but you can travel from only $43 (€36) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 336 miles (541 km) distance in 8h 3m.
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 $43 (€36)
Distance 336 miles (541 km) |
Average train duration 7h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $123 (€101) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 8h 3m |
First train 2:30 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $43 (€36)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, AVE, iryo from Barcelona to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, AVE, iryo trains will get you between Barcelona and Santander from $43 (€36). 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
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
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
8h 3m
Cheapest Price
$123 (€101)
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
iryo
About
iryo is a new brand from railway operator ILSA operating in Spain since 2022. iryo uses Frecciarossa 1000 trains which are modern, can travel at up to 360km/h and have a minimal environmental impact. iryo’s Frecciarossa trains have different classes, all of which come with free unlimited WiFi, power sockets, toilets and an onboard entertainment portal where you can watch films and TV series. The main classes are: Infinita Class, Singular Café Class, Singular Class, Inicial Class. These new trains take 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Madrid and Barcelona. They depart from Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants stations, and stop in Zaragoza along the way. iryo services also cover Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Córdoba, Seville and Málaga.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 44m
Cheapest Price
$136 (€112)
iryo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (36x56x26cm) and 1 handbag (36x30x10cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead compartments and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with Mediterranean cuisine, at-seat service in both classes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Large dogs need 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 de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria
Excellent archaeological museum with finds from prehistoric cave culture to Roman and medieval Cantabria.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Leading maritime museum covering Cantabrian Sea ecology, fishing, naval heritage, and aquariums.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Signature scenic area with coastal walks, palace grounds, small beaches, and classic Santander views.
- Must visit
Jardines de Pereda
Central waterfront gardens beside the bay, popular for strolling and relaxing near major attractions.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Elegant seafront promenade lined with historic buildings, ideal for a first walk through Santander.
Rabas
Lightly battered and fried squid rings, the classic Santander snack, especially popular as an aperitif by the bay.
- Vegetarian
Sobaos Pasiegos
Rich buttery sponge cakes from Cantabria, traditionally made in the Pas valleys and widely eaten for breakfast or with coffee.
- Vegetarian
Quesada Pasiega
A dense baked cheesecake-like dessert made with fresh cheese, eggs, sugar, and lemon, one of Cantabria’s signature sweets.
El Serbal
Santander’s landmark fine-dining restaurant, celebrated for modern tasting menus rooted in Cantabrian ingredients and technique.
Cañadío
One of Santander’s best-known dining rooms, serving refined Cantabrian cuisine and polished tapas in a lively central setting.
Bodega del Riojano
Historic and atmospheric restaurant famous for traditional Cantabrian dishes, seafood, and classic regional hospitality.
Euro
Generally moderate for Spain: meals and coffee are reasonable, while summer hotels and seafront dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale places.
- Coffee
- EUR 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; taxis usually rounded up.
El Transporte Urbano de Santander
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 pay by contactless card on TUS city buses, which is useful for occasional trips. Cash payment is also accepted, but fares may be higher than with transport cards on some services.
- Santander Airport is linked to the center by the A2 bus, which stops near the main rail and bus stations. Check current timetables before late-night arrivals because frequency is lower outside peak时间.
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.
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Santander can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $123 (€101), while the average price is around $128 (€105).
The train from Barcelona to Santander takes 8h 3m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Barcelona to Santander leaves at 2:30 AM.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Santander is 336 miles (541 km).
The last train from Barcelona to Santander leaves at 9:07 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train 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 cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Santander is by flight, with a cost of around $43 (€36).
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.
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 Barcelona to Santander.
Since both Barcelona 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Barcelona 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.
More options for your journey from Barcelona to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and Barcelona
Most popular train connections to Santander
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