- Must visit
San Telmo Museoa
The city’s main museum, housed in a former 16th-century convent with a modern extension. It focuses on Basque society, history, and art, and is one of the best cultural introductions to Donostia.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$59
Average price
$96
Fastest journey
5 h
Average duration
5 h 23 m
Trains per day
57
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 $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.
Fast trains
Of the 57 trains that leave Madrid for Donostia-San Sebastian on Fri, Jun 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 352 km distance in an average of 5 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 46 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$591One-way0 transfers- 040877:20 AM5h30Madrid Chamartín12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$591One-way0 transfers
1806312:25 PM7h58Madrid Príncipe Pío8:23 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$611One-way0 transfers- 180619:06 AM7h40Madrid Príncipe Pío4:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$611One-way0 transfers
042572:46 PM5h00Madrid Chamartín7:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$721One-way0 transfers
- 042572:46 PM5h00Madrid Chamartín7:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$721One-way0 transfers
- 041675:37 PM5h15Madrid Chamartín10:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$591One-way0 transfers
05817+042572:23 PM5h23Madrid Chamartín7:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$1011One-way1 transfer- 040877:20 AM5h30Madrid Chamartín12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$591One-way0 transfers
- 04261 · 040877:04 AM5h46Madrid Chamartín12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián$981One-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 3h 7m. 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 $54.
Distance: 218 miles (352 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$57 Average price Cheapest | $83 Average price | $366 Average price | $93 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 41m Average total duration 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 51m Average total duration 6h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is a train with an average price of $57 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A train is $26 (€21) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $83 (€67).
A train is $309 (€249) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $366 (€295).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 7m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 11m.
Bus takes on average 6h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
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, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 04151+04167 | Delayed 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h53 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
 08359+04167 | Delayed 3:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h12 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08169+04167 | Delayed 4:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h37 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+04167 | Delayed 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h15 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08179+04167 | Delayed 5:00 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h52 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04167 | Delayed 5:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h15 | 8:52 PM 8:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| 08069+18063 | On time 6:36 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h47 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08069+18061 | On time 6:36 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h10 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08069+04087 | On time 6:36 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h14 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04073+18061 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h58 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04073+18063 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h35 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04073 · 04087 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h02 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04261+18063 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h19 | 8:23 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 · 04087 | On time 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h46 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04187+18063 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 13h03 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04187+18061 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h26 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04087 | 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h30 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04087+18061 | On time 7:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h26 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08079+18063 | On time 7:51 AM Madrid Chamartín | 12h32 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08079+18061 | On time 7:51 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h55 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08079+04257 | On time 7:51 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h55 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04687+18061 | On time 8:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h06 | 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 · 04257 | On time 8:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h06 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 18061 | 9:06 AM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 7h40 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04091+18061 | On time 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h31 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05763+18063 | Delayed 7:25 AM 9:25 AMMadrid Chamartín | 10h58 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05763+18061 | Delayed 7:25 AM 9:25 AMMadrid Chamartín | 7h21 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+18063 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h27 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+18061 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h50 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+04257 | 9:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h50 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08109+04257 | 10:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h31 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08109+18063 | 10:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h08 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08109+18061 | 10:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h31 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+18063 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h00 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+04257 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h23 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+04167 | 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h29 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+04167 | 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 10h47 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+04257 | 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h41 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+18063 | 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h18 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 18063 | 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 7h58 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 05101+18063 | 1:03 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h20 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 34101+18063 | 1:03 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h20 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 34101+04257 | 1:03 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h43 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04143+18063 | 1:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h43 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04143+04257 | 1:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h06 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04143 · 04167 | 1:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 9h12 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08139+18063 | 1:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h35 | 8:23 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08139+04167 | 1:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 9h04 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 08139+04257 | 1:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h58 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+04257 | 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h23 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+04167 | 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h29 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04257+04167 | 2:46 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h06 | 10:52 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04257 | 2:46 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h00 | 7:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid 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.
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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 $108Journey 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 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, 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
Distance 218 miles (352 km) |
Average train duration 5h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 5h 0m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 5:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
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
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 $24 (€19). 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
$24 (€19)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
2 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 Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
1 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
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 58m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
Renfe MD frequency
2 a day
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
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 8m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
Ouigo frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastián
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastián
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastián — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastián trip today.
- Must visit
Chillida Leku
A major sculpture museum dedicated to Eduardo Chillida, set in expansive gardens just outside the city. It combines large-scale artworks, landscape, and architecture, making it a standout experience.
- Recommended
Eureka! Zientzia Museoa
A science museum with interactive exhibits suited to families and curious visitors. It is a good option for a different kind of museum visit beyond art and history.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
The Old Town is the city’s most atmospheric historic quarter, packed with narrow streets, churches, and classic urban scenery. It is essential for walking and soaking up local character.
- Must visit
La Concha Promenade
The elegant seafront walk along the city’s most famous bay is one of the best urban strolls in Spain. It is especially popular for sunrise, sunset, and scenic photos.
- Must visit
Monte Igueldo
A classic viewpoint overlooking La Concha, the city, and Santa Clara Island. It is highly popular for panoramic photos and remains one of the top places to prioritize.
Pintxos
Small Basque bar bites served on bread or as composed morsels. They are central to Donostia dining culture, with bars specializing in creative and traditional versions.
Txangurro a la Donostiarra
Spider crab baked Donostia-style with its meat, vegetables, and breadcrumbs. It is one of the city’s signature seafood dishes.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
Salt cod gently cooked so its gelatin emulsifies with olive oil, garlic, and chili into a silky sauce. A classic Basque specialty widely associated with the region.
Arzak
World-famous fine dining restaurant serving inventive Basque cuisine in an elegant, established setting. Ideal for a landmark gastronomic experience.
Ganbara
Legendary Old Town bar and restaurant known for exceptional pintxos, wild mushrooms, and seafood, with a lively traditional atmosphere.
La Cuchara de San Telmo
Popular pintxos bar celebrated for modern small plates like seared foie and slow-cooked meats. Casual, busy, and highly regarded.
Euro
Prices are high for Spain, especially in the center. Pintxos, hotels, and summer dining cost more than in many other Spanish cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 12-18 for pintxos or a simple menu.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 80+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service; small change in bars or taxis is enough. Not expected for counter service.
Dbus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.85 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Donostia / San Sebastián Railway Station -> Boulevard, Donostia-San Sebastián
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay contactless by bank card on Dbus buses, which is useful for occasional trips.
- The MUGI card usually offers cheaper fares than single tickets and can be used across Gipuzkoa public transport.
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 $57 (€46).
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 4:45 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 INTERCITY, 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 train, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
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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