- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $45
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $50
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 5 h 5 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 5 h 46 m
- Trains on Nov 02
- 5
- Distance
- 352 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast trains
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 5 trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid, including 5 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct trains cover the 352 km distance in an average of 5 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 5 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest trains will take 7 h 47 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.
3:47 PM 5h26 Donostia-San Sebastian 9:13 PM Madrid $45 1 One-way 0 transfers2:47 PM 5h26 Donostia-San Sebastian 8:13 PM Madrid $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
3:55 AM 5h05 Donostia-San Sebastian 9:00 AM Madrid $47 1 One-way 0 transfers2:55 AM 5h05 Donostia-San Sebastian 8:00 AM Madrid $52 1 One-way 0 transfers
11:55 AM 7h47 Donostia-San Sebastian 7:42 PM Madrid $59 1 One-way 0 transfers
3:55 AM 5h05 Donostia-San Sebastian 9:00 AM Madrid $47 1 One-way 0 transfers2:55 AM 5h05 Donostia-San Sebastian 8:00 AM Madrid $52 1 One-way 0 transfers3:47 PM 5h26 Donostia-San Sebastian 9:13 PM Madrid $45 1 One-way 0 transfers2:47 PM 5h26 Donostia-San Sebastian 8:13 PM Madrid $45 1 One-way 0 transfers11:55 AM 7h47 Donostia-San Sebastian 7:42 PM Madrid $59 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 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 4h 44m.
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 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 4h 44m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 5:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
Train ticket prices from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9, while the average price is around $38.
The train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid takes 4h 44m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid is 218 miles (352 km).
The first train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid leaves at 5:37 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe.
Live departures
Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM Donostia-San Sebastian | 7h55 | 5:55 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:55 AM Donostia-San Sebastian | 7h47 | 7:42 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:55 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 7h47 | 8:42 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 5h34 | 6:34 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:10 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 5h24 | 6:34 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:47 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 5h26 | 8:13 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:35 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 5h38 | 9:13 PM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe and more offer trains services from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
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 or Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
- 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
Trains
from $9Buses
from $37Flights
from $32Train companies: Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe trains will get you between Donostia-San Sebastian and Madrid from $9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Renfe MD Duration
5h 50m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$11
Renfe MD frequency
8 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 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 Renfe ALVIA Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$9
Renfe ALVIA frequency
6 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 Renfe INTERCITY Duration
4h 44m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$9
Renfe INTERCITY frequency
4 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
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
Average Renfe Duration
5h 10m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$9
Renfe frequency
4 a day
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Donostia-San Sebastian and Madrid
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
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.
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes -> Puerta del Sol, Madrid
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Madrid buses allow contactless bank card payment onboard, but Metro tickets are usually bought from station machines with card or cash.
- A 10-trip ticket can cost less per ride than single tickets if you plan several Metro or bus journeys.
Plan your visit to Madrid
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Madrid.
The train journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid offers scenic views, especially through the Basque Country and parts of Castile and León, featuring rolling hills, lush landscapes, and charming villages.
Popular day trips by train from Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
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 Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps minimize risks.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
Most Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid trains use the Donostia-San Sebastián to Madrid Chamartín station pair, with some services arriving at Madrid Príncipe Pío. Use this guide to compare Donostia-San Sebastian and Madrid train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Arrival train stations in Madrid
Which Donostia-San Sebastian station do trains to Madrid leave from?
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid leave from Donostia-San Sebastián. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre at De Francia Ibilbidea, 22, 20012 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain.
Donostia-San SebastiánDe Francia Ibilbidea, 22, 20012 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Donostia-San Sebastián from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre
Bus9, 37, B3, 42 · 6m · $3 · every ~14 min
Donostia-San Sebastián train station facilities and services
Donostia-San Sebastián has practical services for this route, including Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Donostia-San Sebastián. Information desks are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.
Which Madrid station do trains from Donostia-San Sebastian arrive at?
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid most often arrive at Madrid Chamartín. Some services arrive at Madrid Príncipe Pío, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Madrid arrival station.
Madrid Chamartín28036 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Chamartín from Madrid city centre
Madrid Chamartín is 6 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · $2 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min
Subway1 · 19m · $3 · every ~24 min
Madrid Chamartín train station facilities and services
Madrid Chamartín has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid Chamartín. Information desks are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid Chamartín: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Chamartín.
Madrid Príncipe PíoPaseo de la Florida, s/n, 28008 Madrid, Spain+34 902 320 320
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Príncipe Pío from Madrid city centre
Madrid Príncipe Pío is 1 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
BusN18, N19, N20 · 6m · $2 · every ~34 min
N18, N20, N19 · 7m · $2 · every ~34 min
Madrid Príncipe Pío train station facilities and services
Madrid Príncipe Pío has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Casa Mingo, Café de Oriente, Noodles King
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madrid Príncipe Pío. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Madrid Príncipe Pío. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Príncipe Pío: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Príncipe Pío, Acta Madfor Hotel, Hotel Exe Moncloa.
Train stations for Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
Check train stations information for Donostia-San Sebastian and Madrid, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Donostia-San Sebastian that goes to Madrid is Donostia-San Sebastián, which connects to Madrid Chamartín.
Most popular train connections from Donostia-San Sebastian
More options for your journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Donostia-San Sebastian
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