- 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 San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$83
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$103
Fastest journey on Sep 20
6 h 29 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
6 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 20
13
Distance
363 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid without transferring at least once.
18014+
082081:54 PM7h46Donostia-San Sebastián9:40 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer- 18014+081981:54 PM6h52Donostia-San Sebastián8:46 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer
- 18012+0816810:58 AM6h51Donostia-San Sebastián5:49 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer
- 18012+0817810:58 AM7h57Donostia-San Sebastián6:55 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer
- 18012+
0579210:58 AM8h02Donostia-San Sebastián7:00 PMMadrid Chamartín$861One-way1 transfer
- 18014+
047861:54 PM6h29Donostia-San Sebastián8:23 PMMadrid Chamartín$971One-way1 transfer - 18014+041621:54 PM6h37Donostia-San Sebastián8:31 PMMadrid Chamartín$921One-way1 transfer
- 18012+0816810:58 AM6h51Donostia-San Sebastián5:49 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer
- 18014+081981:54 PM6h52Donostia-San Sebastián8:46 PMMadrid Chamartín$831One-way1 transfer
04176 · 041924:25 PM6h55Donostia-San Sebastián11:20 PMMadrid Chamartín$1671One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $76 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, while a flight costs an average of $262.
Distance: 225 miles (363 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$262 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $119 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 29m Average total duration 8h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is a train with an average price of $36.
This is compared to other travel options from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid:
A train is $40 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid costing on average $76.
A train is $227 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid costing on average $262.
The fastest way to travel from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 39m.
Bus takes on average 8h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Sebastián Airport and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid 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 $36 compared to roughly $119 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $84. The journey takes 5h 39m versus 5h 11m 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 MD, Renfe INTERCITY.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
San Sebastián Airport to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for San Sebastián Airport to Madrid trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
04086+ 05178 | 8:20 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 8h24 | 4:44 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04086+08158 | 8:20 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 8h10 | 4:30 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04086+08148 | 8:20 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 6h55 | 3:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18012+04142 | 10:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 6h56 | 5:55 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18012+08178 | 10:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 7h56 | 6:55 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18012+08198 | 10:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 9h47 | 8:46 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18014+04176 | 1:54 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 8h26 | 10:20 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18014+08208 | 1:54 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 7h46 | 9:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18014+08198 | 1:54 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 6h52 | 8:46 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Sebastián Airport to Madrid by bus or flight
Compare 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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Sep 20
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Why should you book San Sebastián Airport to Madrid trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe MD or Renfe INTERCITY offer trains services from San Sebastián Airport 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 MD or Renfe INTERCITY to find the best option for your trip from San Sebastián Airport 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 bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid.
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid run on average 11 times per day, taking around 5h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 if you book in advance.
The fastest train covers the 225 miles (363 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 225 miles (363 km) |
Average train duration 5h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 4h 44m |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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 MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between San Sebastián Airport and Madrid from $31. 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 54m
Cheapest Renfe MD Price
$21
Renfe MD frequency
6 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
4 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
3 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
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.
FAQs: Trains from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Sebastián Airport 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.
Train ticket prices from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9, while the average price is around $36.
The train from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid takes 4h 44m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is 225 miles (363 km).
There is no high speed train available from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid.
The cheapest way to get from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is by flight, with a cost of around $31.
The train journey from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid offers scenic views of the Basque Country's lush greenery and rolling hills, transitioning to the expansive landscapes of Castilla y León before reaching the urban environment of Madrid.
A day trip from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 44m and covers 225 miles (363 km). There are 3 trips per day available for trains.
In Madrid, you can explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere, and savor gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel. Discover the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, enjoy a traditional flamenco show, or visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. For cultural sights, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and Retiro Park. Don't miss Plaza Mayor and the lively Gran Vía for shopping and theaters.
For a well-rounded experience in Madrid, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid.
Since both San Sebastián Airport and Madrid 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 Madrid include Toledo, Segovia, Valladolid, Ávila, Cuenca.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid 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 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
Most San Sebastián Airport 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 San Sebastián Airport 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
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 · $1 · every ~15 min
Ic, Alv, 17041, Re, 18031, 18033, 18035, 18037, 18041, 18043, 18049, 18171, 37091, 37093, 37095, 37097, 37099 · 13m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusN24 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min
Subway1 · 19m · $2 · 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 · $1 · every ~34 min
N18, N20, N19 · 7m · $1 · 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.
Most popular train connections from San Sebastián Airport
More options for your journey from San Sebastián Airport to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Madrid and San Sebastián Airport
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