Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian train with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Mon, May 18
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian

Showing times and prices for May 18

Cheapest price

$468

Average price

$468

Fastest journey

23 h 7 m

Average duration

23 h 7 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

1532 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around $468 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $468.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    7:06 AM23h07
    Berlin
    6:13 AMDonostia-San Sebastian
    $4681One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $70. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, and a flight costs an average of $120.

Distance: 951 miles (1532 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$516

Average price

$127

Average price

Cheapest

$522

Average price

$501

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

14h 5m

Average total duration

13h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

27h 58m

Average total duration

27h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 15m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

18h 56m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is a bus with an average price of $127 (€102).

This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian:

A bus is $390 (€315) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $516 (€417).

A bus is $395 (€319) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $522 (€422).

The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 15m.

Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:

Train takes on average 13h 35m.

Bus takes on average 27h 28m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 5h 21m sooner (13h 35m by train vs 18h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $516 (€417) compared to roughly $501 (€405) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian train times

The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for tomorrow, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:06 AM Berlin
23h07
6:13 AM Donostia-San Sebastian3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian 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
May 17
Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20
Thu
May 21
Fri
May 22
Sat
May 23

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian

GermanyGermany
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 7 times per day, taking around 13h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $516 (€417) but you can travel from only $70 (€57) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 951 miles (1532 km) distance in 13h 35m.

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 $70 (€57)
Distance
951 miles (1532 km)
Average train duration
13h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
$516 (€417)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
13h 35m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
3 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 $70 (€57)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin and Donostia-San Sebastian from $70 (€57). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 7m
Cheapest Price
$468 (€378)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian

Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian

Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.

  • Must visit

Chillida Leku Museum

An open-air museum showcasing the works of the sculptor Eduardo Chillida, integrating art with the natural surroundings.

  • Must visit

Aquarium Donostia

Marine museum and aquarium displaying a variety of sea life, including interactive exhibits and a 360-degree tunnel.

  • Recommended

San Telmo Museoa

A museum dedicated to Basque society and citizenship, engaging visitors with its extensive collection of art, history, and cultural displays.

Euro

Compared to other Spanish cities, Donostia-San Sebastián is relatively expensive, especially for dining and accommodation.

Average meal costs

Budget
€10-15 for pintxos or fast food.
Mid-range
€25-40 per person for a three-course meal.
Fine dining
€80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2-3.5 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is not mandatory, but leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated. In upscale restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary.

FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $516 (€417), while the average price is around $516 (€417).
The train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian takes 13h 35m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is 951 miles (1532 km).
The first train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian.
There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The train station in Berlin that goes to Donostia-San Sebastian is Berlin Hbf, which connects to Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure.
The cheapest way to get from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is by bus, with a cost of around $70 (€57).
The train journey from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian offers scenic views, particularly as you traverse through the picturesque landscapes of Germany and France, passing through regions known for their charming countryside, historical towns, and the Pyrenees mountains before reaching the Basque Country in Spain.
A day trip from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible as the journey duration is 13h 35m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this route. The distance covered is 951 miles (1532 km).
In Donostia-San Sebastian, you can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, join a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, take a funicular to Monte Igueldo for stunning views and amusement park fun, explore marine life at the Aquarium, or attend events at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Don't miss visiting La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town, and the San Telmo Museoa. For panoramic views, head to Monte Igueldo, and visit Miramar Palace for beautiful gardens and bay views.
Three days in Donostia-San Sebastian is ideal to explore the city's beautiful beaches, indulge in its renowned culinary scene, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Monte Igueldo.
Yes, you can take the train from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Since both Berlin and Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian include Vitoria-Gasteiz, Pamplona, Tolosa, Irun, Alsasua – Altsasu.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian 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.
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 Donostia-San Sebastian, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as La Concha Beach and the Old Town. Common scams include distraction techniques used near popular attractions and public transportation. It is advisable to keep belongings secure and stay vigilant in busy spots, particularly during festivals or large events. Overall, the city is considered safe, but standard precautions against petty theft are recommended.
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 Berlin to Donostia-San Sebastian

Berlin
Donostia-San Sebastian
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
  • Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Dining
Dining
  • backWERK
  • Burger King
  • Costa Coffee
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • Einstein Kaffee
  • Le Crobag
  • McDonald's
  • Hans im Glück
  • Pret A Manger
  • Starbucks
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
Dining
Dining
  • Biertempel 2
  • McDonald's
  • Eis Bär
  • Cafe Mon Cherie
Hotel
Hotel
  • Appartements Eisemann
Berlin SpandauWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Friday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
  • Sunday: 10:00 - 17:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
14 km
Dining
Dining
  • Unvernunft
  • Taverna Teloneio
  • Burger King
  • Hasir
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Benn
  • Hotel Herbst
  • Hotel Lindenufer
  • Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau

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