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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times and prices for May 01
Cheapest price
$67
Average price
$113
Fastest journey
5 h 15 m
Average duration
5 h 50 m
Trains per day
23
Distance
352 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around $113 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.
Fast trains
Of the 23 trains that leave Madrid for Donostia-San Sebastian on Fri, May 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 01 the direct trains cover the 352 km distance in an average of 5 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 15 m .
On Fri, May 01 the slowest trains will take 6 h 15 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.
041675:37 PM5h15Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$671One-way0 transfers
1806312:25 PM7h58Madrid Príncipe Pío8:23 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$701One-way0 transfers
05817+041672:23 PM8h29Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$981One-way1 transfer
04687+180638:40 AM11h43Madrid Chamartín8:23 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1001One-way1 transfer- 04687+180618:40 AM8h06Madrid Chamartín4:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1001One-way1 transfer
- 041675:37 PM5h15Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$671One-way0 transfers
- 04261 · 040877:04 AM5h46Madrid Chamartín12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1421One-way1 transfer
08179+041675:00 PM5h52Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1071One-way1 transfer- 04073 · 040876:48 AM6h02Madrid Chamartín12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1321One-way1 transfer
04161+041674:37 PM6h15Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1161One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $47.
Distance: 218 miles (352 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price | $269 Average price |
6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration 6h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Thursday, April 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:37 PM Madrid | 5h15 | 9:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, May 1 | |||||
| 04073+18061 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h58 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04073 · 04087 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h02 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04073+18063 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h35 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04261 · 04087 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h46 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04261+18061 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h42 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04261+18063 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h19 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04187+18063 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h03 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04087+18061 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h26 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04187+18061 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h26 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04687+18063 | On time 8:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h43 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04687+18061 | On time 8:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h06 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04091+18061 | On time 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h31 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+04167 | Delayed 7:56 AM 9:56 AMMadrid Chamartín | 12h56 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+18061 | Delayed 7:56 AM 9:56 AMMadrid Chamartín | 6h50 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+18063 | Delayed 7:56 AM 9:56 AMMadrid Chamartín | 10h27 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 18063 | 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 7h58 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04143 · 04167 | 2:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h47 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+04167 | 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h29 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05721+04167 | 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h53 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08359+04167 | 3:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h12 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+04167 | 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h15 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08179+04167 | 5:00 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h52 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo and more offer trains services from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
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, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros or Ouigo to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
- 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Trains
from $47Buses
from $54Flights
from $109Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:50, the last at 17:37. The fastest train covers the 218 miles (352 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 218 miles (352 km) |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 5h 0m |
First train 4:50 AM |
Last train 5:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains will get you between Madrid and Donostia-San Sebastian from $20 (€16). 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
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€21)
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 Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
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
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
Average Duration
7h 39m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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 Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 9m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Ouigo frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $56 (€45).
The train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian takes 5h 0m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is 218 miles (352 km).
The first train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:50 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 5:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Donostia-San Sebastian is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Donostia-San Sebastián.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is quite scenic, offering views of diverse Spanish landscapes, including the picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, as the route passes through regions like Castilla y León and the Basque Country.
A day trip from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 0m. However, there are 4 train connections per day, making it possible to plan a longer stay. The distance between the two cities is 218 miles (352 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Since both Madrid 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid 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.
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 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Madrid
Donostia-San Sebastian
The major train station for departures in Madrid is Madrid Chamartín. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Chamartín for your trip from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Madrid Príncipe Pío
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, with special rates arranged by nearby hotels.
Dining
- Restaurant Casa Mingo
- Café de Oriente
- Noodles King
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.60
Hotel
- Hotel Príncipe Pío
- Acta Madfor Hotel
- Hotel Exe Moncloa
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for regional and Cercanías trains
- Hall 2: Metro connections
Public transit options for Madrid Príncipe Pío
- Metro: Line 6, Line 10
- Bus: Several lines available
- Cercanías: Lines C1, C7, C10
The major train station for arrivals in Donostia-San Sebastian is Donostia-San Sebastián. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Donostia-San Sebastián for your journey to Donostia-San Sebastian from Madrid.
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
More options for your journey from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San SebastianMadrid to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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