- Must visit
Centro Botín
Contemporary art center on the waterfront, designed by Renzo Piano. It is one of Santander’s signature cultural attractions and hosts major exhibitions and rooftop views.
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Popular departures
Train tickets to Santander
Select departure
Showing the fastest and cheapest results for May 30
Results include alternative arrival locations to Santander
041937:08 PM4h20Madrid Chamartín11:28 PMSantander station$421One-way0 transfers- 040737:45 AM4h21Madrid Chamartín12:06 PMSantander station$501One-way0 transfers
05817+
181052:23 PM8h06Madrid Chamartín10:29 PMSantander station$541One-way1 transfer
About trains to Santander
Find the most affordable train tickets to Santander on our easy-to-use platform, guaranteeing the best deals on trains to Santander. In Santander, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay, the historic Palacio de la Magdalena, and the beautiful beaches of El Sardinero. The average temperature in Santander is a comfortable 21°C (70°F), making it a great destination for a summer vacation. Travelers enjoy the city's lively atmosphere, delicious seafood, and rich cultural heritage, including its history as a hub of trade and commerce. The main arrival place for travelers to Santander is the Estación del Norte, a modern train station that offers easy connections to other parts of the city. For those looking for cheap train tickets to Santander, there are many options available, including discount fares for students and seniors, as well as advance purchase discounts and special promotions. So why wait? Book your train tickets to Santander today and experience all the city has to offer!
How to get cheap trains to Santander
If you're looking for ways to save money when buying train tickets to Santander, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, take advantage of any discounts that may be available to you. This could include student discounts, senior discounts, or group discounts. Secondly, booking in advance can save you a significant amount of money. By purchasing your tickets well ahead of time, you'll be able to take advantage of lower prices. Additionally, try to avoid peak times for trains, such as early morning or late evening rush hours. If you're flexible with your travel times, you may find that traveling during the week can also save you money. Finally, keep an eye out for special deals and promotions, such as seasonal sales or last-minute discounts. With these options in mind, you can explore Santander and its many attractions while spending as little as possible on transportation. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, cheap train tickets to Santander are a great way to save money and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Popular trains to and from Santander
Popular trains to Santander
Bilbao to Santander train
from $8
Direct trains available
3h16 average duration
3trains per day
Served by
- Renfe
Madrid to Santander train
from $21
Direct trains available
4h20 average duration
3trains per day
Served by
- Renfe
- Renfe MD
- Renfe ALVIA
- Renfe INTERCITY
Madrid Barajas Airport to Santander train
from $46
Direct trains available
4h43 average duration
2trains per day
Served by
- Renfe MD
- Renfe ALVIA
- Renfe
Alicante to Santander train
from $47
Direct trains available
7h38 average duration
1train per day
Served by
- Renfe INTERCITY
- Renfe ALVIA
- AVE
Valencia to Santander train
from $85
Direct trains available
6h53 average duration
4trains per day
Served by
- Renfe ALVIA
- Renfe INTERCITY
- iryo
- AVE
Popular trains from Santander
Santander to Barcelona train
Direct trains available
15trains per day
Served by
- Renfe ALVIA
Santander to Bilbao train
from $8
Direct trains available
3h10 average duration
3trains per day
Served by
- Renfe
Santander to Madrid train
from $20
Direct trains available
4h16 average duration
3trains per day
Served by
- Renfe
- Renfe INTERCITY
- Renfe MD
- Renfe ALVIA
Santander to Valencia train
from $80
Direct trains available
7h28 average duration
2trains per day
Served by
- Renfe ALVIA
Santander to Seville train
from $129
Direct trains available
7h46 average duration
16trains per day
Served by
- Renfe ALVIA
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo to Santander trainsTravel to Santander on Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains with Omio. When comparing schedules and tickets, we will also show you other options with multiple connections or other travel modes if they’re available.
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
$64 (€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
$43 (€35)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
5 a day
Ouigo
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 11m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€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.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
A leading maritime museum focused on the Bay of Biscay, marine life, navigation, and Cantabrian fishing heritage. Good choice for families and local history fans.
- Recommended
MAS | Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo de Santander y Cantabria
Santander’s main fine arts museum, with collections spanning historic to contemporary works. Central, manageable, and a strong local cultural stop.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Scenic peninsula combining sea views, palace grounds, beaches, and walking paths. One of the best overall areas to explore in Santander.
- Must visit
Jardines de Pereda
Central waterfront gardens beside the bay and Centro Botín. A classic promenade area and one of the city’s most pleasant urban spaces.
- Must visit
Cabo Mayor
Dramatic coastal headland with cliffs, walking routes, and sweeping Atlantic views. Highly popular for photos, sunsets, and open-air walks.
Rabas
Lightly battered fried squid rings, a classic Santander tapa especially popular for aperitivo near the seafront.
- Vegetarian
Sobaos Pasiegos
Rich buttery sponge cakes from nearby Valles Pasiegos, one of Cantabria's best-known traditional sweets.
- Vegetarian
Quesada Pasiega
A dense baked dessert made with fresh cheese or curd, eggs, sugar, and lemon, traditional across Cantabria.
El Serbal
Established fine-dining restaurant known for modern Cantabrian cuisine, tasting menus, and polished service.
Cañadío
Well-known central Santander restaurant and bar, famous for refined Cantabrian dishes, seafood, and a lively upscale atmosphere.
Bodega del Riojano
Historic traditional restaurant with classic regional cooking, strong wine list, and old-Santander character.
Euro
Generally moderate by Spanish standards: good value for set lunches and coffee, while seaside dining and summer stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-80 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change is fine in cafes; taxis are usually rounded up.
ElBus Santander
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.30 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Santander Airport -> Santander Railway Station
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can buy TUS bus tickets on board, but card payment availability depends on the vehicle, so carry some cash as backup.
- Use the official city bus app to check real-time arrivals and route changes before traveling.
station information and services
Train stations in Santander
Santander
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Valdecilla La Marga
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Nueva Montaña - Feve
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityBike Parking
Trains to Santander: related information
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Trains to Santander
Top train destinations
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