- 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 León to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jun 26
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
4 h 29 m
Average duration
4 h 34 m
Trains per day
36
Distance
172 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from León to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from León to Santander will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from León to Santander without transferring at least once.
18214 · 181052:36 PM7h53León station10:29 PMSantander station$301One-way1 transfer
37088+181018:14 AM7h22León station3:36 PMSantander station$311One-way1 transfer- 12100+371935:43 PM5h45León station11:28 PMSantander station$321One-way1 transfer
- 18006+181053:42 PM6h47León station10:29 PMSantander station$321One-way1 transfer
- 37092+
040736:43 AM5h06León station11:49 AMSantander station$331One-way1 transfer
- 00621 · 041431:35 PM4h29León station6:04 PMSantander station$571One-way1 transfer
- 18006+
041533:42 PM4h31León station8:13 PMSantander station$621One-way1 transfer - 04170 · 041936:53 PM4h35León station11:28 PMSantander station$801One-way1 transfer
- 04170+371936:53 PM4h35León station11:28 PMSantander station$541One-way1 transfer
05200+181055:51 PM4h38León station10:29 PMSantander station$451One-way1 transfer
Live departures
León to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for León to Santander trains for today, Thursday, June 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18002+04073 | On time 6:40 AM León station | 5h09 | 11:49 AM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 37092+04073 | On time 6:43 AM León station | 5h06 | 11:49 AM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05092+04073 | On time 6:43 AM León station | 5h06 | 11:49 AM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 37088+04143 | 8:14 AM León station | 9h50 | 6:04 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04088+18101 | Delayed 6:14 AM 8:14 AMLeón station | 7h22 | 3:36 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 37088+18101 | 8:14 AM León station | 7h22 | 3:36 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04080 · 04143 | 10:33 AM León station | 7h31 | 6:04 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04080+18105 | 10:33 AM León station | 11h56 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04110+37193 | On time 12:46 PM León station | 10h42 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04110+18105 | On time 12:46 PM León station | 9h43 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04110+04143 | On time 12:46 PM León station | 5h18 | 6:04 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 00621+18105 | 1:35 PM León station | 8h54 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 00621 · 04143 | 1:35 PM León station | 4h29 | 6:04 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 00621+37193 | 1:35 PM León station | 9h53 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18214 · 18105 | On time 2:36 PM León station | 7h53 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18214+04193 | On time 2:36 PM León station | 8h52 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18214+37193 | On time 2:36 PM León station | 8h52 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05170+04193 | On time 3:13 PM León station | 8h15 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05170+18105 | On time 3:13 PM León station | 7h16 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05170+37193 | On time 3:13 PM León station | 8h15 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18006+18105 | On time 3:42 PM León station | 6h47 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18006 · 37193 | On time 3:42 PM León station | 7h46 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18006+04193 | On time 3:42 PM León station | 7h46 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04140 · 04193 | Delayed 3:09 PM 5:09 PMLeón station | 6h19 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04140+18105 | Delayed 3:09 PM 5:09 PMLeón station | 5h20 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04140+37193 | Delayed 3:09 PM 5:09 PMLeón station | 6h19 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 12100+04193 | Delayed 3:43 PM 5:43 PMLeón station | 5h45 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 12100+37193 | Delayed 3:43 PM 5:43 PMLeón station | 5h45 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05200+37193 | On time 5:51 PM León station | 5h37 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05200+04193 | On time 5:51 PM León station | 5h37 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05200+18105 | On time 5:51 PM León station | 4h38 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04170 · 04193 | On time 6:53 PM León station | 4h35 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04170+37193 | On time 6:53 PM León station | 4h35 | 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 León to Santander by bus
Compare bus 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 León to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY and more offer trains services from León 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, Renfe MD or Renfe INTERCITY to find the best option for your trip from León 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from León to Santander
SpainSpain
Take a train from León to Santander and enjoy the approximately 106 miles (172 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:27, the last at 19:00.
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 $21 (€18)
Distance 106 miles (172 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
First train 6:27 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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 $21 (€18)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY from León to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between León and Santander from $21 (€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
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
About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, 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
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, 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
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 León to Santander
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from León 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.
The first train from León to Santander leaves at 6:27 AM.
The distance by train from León to Santander is 106 miles (172 km).
The last train from León to Santander leaves at 7:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from León to Santander.
There is no direct train service currently available from León to Santander.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from León to Santander.
The cheapest way to get from León to Santander is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€18).
The León to Santander train journey is considered scenic, offering views of the Cantabrian Mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque countryside.
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 León to Santander.
Since both León 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 León 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.
Most popular train connections from León
More options for your journey from León to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and León
Most popular train connections to Santander
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