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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$53
Average price
$89
Fastest journey
4 h 20 m
Average duration
4 h 48 m
Trains per day
44
Distance
339 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Santander will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast trains
Of the 44 trains that leave Madrid for Santander on Wed, Jul 15, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 339 km distance in an average of 4 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 20 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 5 h 13 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.
05817+
181052:23 PM8h06Madrid Chamartín10:29 PMSantander station$531One-way1 transfer
040736:48 AM5h01Madrid Chamartín11:49 AMSantander station$551One-way0 transfers
05763+181059:25 AM13h04Madrid Chamartín10:29 PMSantander station$591One-way1 transfer
18063+1810512:25 PM10h04Madrid Príncipe Pío10:29 PMSantander station$601One-way1 transfer- 18001+181016:40 AM8h56Madrid Príncipe Pío3:36 PMSantander station$601One-way1 transfer
- 041937:08 PM4h20Madrid Chamartín11:28 PMSantander station$1041One-way0 transfers
- 04181 · 041936:51 PM4h37Madrid Chamartín11:28 PMSantander station$1391One-way1 transfer
08189+041936:40 PM4h48Madrid Chamartín11:28 PMSantander station$971One-way1 transfer- 040736:48 AM5h01Madrid Chamartín11:49 AMSantander station$551One-way0 transfers
- 08069+040736:36 AM5h13Madrid Chamartín11:49 AMSantander station$721One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Santander
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. 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 $21, and a flight costs an average of $43.
Distance: 210 miles (339 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$48 Average price Cheapest | $52 Average price | $282 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg 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 Santander is a train with an average price of $48 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Santander:
A train is $4 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Santander costing on average $52 (€43).
A train is $234 (€193) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Santander costing on average $282 (€233).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Santander is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 15m.
Bus takes on average 5h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Santander including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 19m faster (4h 15m by train vs 4h 34m by car) and roughly $31 (€26) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($48 (€40) vs $79 (€65)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Madrid to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Santander trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04073 | On time 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h01 | 11:49 AM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04073 · 04143 | Delayed 6:48 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h16 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04187 · 04143 | Delayed 6:55 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h09 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04087 · 04143 | Delayed 6:55 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h09 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04261 · 04143 | Delayed 7:04 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h00 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08079+04143 | Delayed 7:51 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h13 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
 04687+04143 | Delayed 8:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h24 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18061+18105 | On time 9:06 AM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 13h23 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18061+04143 | Delayed 9:06 AM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 8h58 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04091 · 04143 | Delayed 9:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h49 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05763+18105 | Delayed 7:25 AM 9:25 AMMadrid Chamartín | 13h04 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05763+04143 | Delayed 7:25 AM 9:25 AMMadrid Chamartín | 8h39 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+04143 | Delayed 7:56 AM 9:56 AMMadrid Chamartín | 8h08 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05071+18105 | Delayed 7:56 AM 9:56 AMMadrid Chamartín | 12h33 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08109+18105 | On time 10:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 12h14 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08109+04143 | Delayed 10:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h49 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+18105 | On time 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h06 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+04143 | Delayed 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 6h41 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04121+37193 | On time 11:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 12h05 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+18105 | On time 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 10h24 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+04143 | Delayed 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h59 | 4:04 PM 4:04 PMSantander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08129+37193 | On time 12:05 PM Madrid Chamartín | 11h23 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18063+18105 | On time 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 10h04 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18063 · 37193 | On time 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 11h03 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18063+04193 | On time 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 11h03 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143+18105 | Delayed 11:40 AM 1:40 PMMadrid Chamartín | 8h49 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143+37193 | Delayed 11:40 AM 1:40 PMMadrid Chamartín | 9h48 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04143 · 04193 | Delayed 11:40 AM 1:40 PMMadrid Chamartín | 9h48 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04149+18105 | On time 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h36 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04149+37193 | On time 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 9h35 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 34101+18105 | 1:53 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h36 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+18105 | On time 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h06 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+37193 | On time 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 9h05 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 05817+04193 | On time 2:23 PM Madrid Chamartín | 9h05 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04257+18105 | On time 2:50 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h39 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04257+37193 | On time 2:50 PM Madrid Chamartín | 8h38 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04151+18105 | On time 2:59 PM Madrid Chamartín | 7h30 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18003 · 37193 | On time 4:26 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 7h02 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18003+04193 | On time 4:26 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 7h02 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+18105 | On time 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h52 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+04193 | On time 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h51 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04161+37193 | On time 4:37 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h51 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08179+18105 | On time 5:00 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h29 | 10:29 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08179+37193 | On time 5:00 PM Madrid Chamartín | 6h28 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 18065 · 37193 | On time 5:06 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 6h22 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04179+04193 | On time 5:30 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h58 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04179+37193 | On time 5:30 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h58 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04267+37193 | On time 5:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h40 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04267 · 04193 | On time 5:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h40 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04167+37193 | On time 5:48 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h40 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08389+37193 | 6:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h13 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08389+04193 | 6:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 5h13 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08189+37193 | On time 6:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h48 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08189+04193 | On time 6:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h48 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04181 · 04193 | Delayed 4:51 PM 6:51 PMMadrid Chamartín | 4h37 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04181+37193 | Delayed 4:51 PM 6:51 PMMadrid Chamartín | 4h37 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 04193 | 7:08 PM Madrid Chamartín | 4h20 | 11:28 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
| 08069+18101 | 6:36 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h00 | 3:36 PM Santander station | 1 transfer | |
| 08069+04073 | 6:36 AM Madrid Chamartín | 5h13 | 11:49 AM 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 Madrid to Santander by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Madrid to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Madrid 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 INTERCITY, Renfe MD or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid 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 Madrid to Santander.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Santander?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Santander is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Santander route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid 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 Madrid to Santander.
Trains
from $46Buses
from $46Flights
from $69Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Santander run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:36, the last at 19:20. The fastest train covers the 210 miles (339 km) distance in 4h 20m.
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 210 miles (339 km) |
Average train duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 20m |
First train 6:36 AM |
Last train 7:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo from Madrid to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains will get you between Madrid and Santander from $21 (€17). 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
3 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
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 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
4h 53m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€52)
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
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 15m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€35)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
5 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 11m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
Ouigo frequency
1 a day
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 Marítimo del Cantábrico
Excellent maritime museum covering Cantabrian seafaring, ecology, fishing, and naval history with aquariums and family-friendly displays.
- Recommended
MAS | Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo de Santander y Cantabria
Art museum focused on Cantabrian and Spanish painting, offering a compact but rewarding overview in a central historic setting.
- Must visit
Península de La Magdalena
Iconic peninsula park with palace grounds, beaches, mini-zoo area, and scenic walking routes. One of Santander’s essential outings.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Elegant seafront promenade linking gardens, monuments, and bay views. Ideal for a first walk through central Santander.
- Must visit
Cabo Mayor
Dramatic headland viewpoint with cliffs, lighthouse scenery, and walking trails. A favorite for sunsets and Atlantic panoramas.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas De Cantabria
Cantabrian anchovies cured in salt or olive oil. Santander is famous for high-quality bocarte landed on this coast and served as a prized tapa.
Merluza En Salsa Verde
Fresh hake with green sauce, usually with garlic, parsley, fish stock, peas and clams. A classic northern coastal dish tied to local fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Montañés
Mountain stew from Cantabria with white beans, collard greens and pork products. Hearty inland cooking that is iconic across the region.
Cenador De Amos
Refined Michelin-starred dining focused on seasonal Cantabrian products. Elegant setting and creative tasting menus with strong local identity.
El Serbal
Well-known dining room specializing in grilled fish and Cantabrian seafood. Smart but relaxed atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Casa Lita
Established seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Santander cooking. Traditional atmosphere near the seafront.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €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, and round up taxi fares.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Santander
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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 Madrid to Santander can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $48 (€40).
The train from Madrid to Santander takes 4h 20m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Santander is 210 miles (339 km).
The first train from Madrid to Santander leaves at 6:36 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Santander leaves at 7:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Santander.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Santander. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Santander.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Santander is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Santander station.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Santander is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Madrid to Santander offers scenic views as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Meseta Central and the lush greenery of Cantabria, providing passengers with picturesque countryside vistas.
A day trip from Madrid to Santander is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 20m. There are 3 trains per day, covering a distance of 210 miles (339 km).
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 Madrid to Santander.
Since both Madrid 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 Madrid 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 Madrid to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Santander
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