- Must visit
Museu Picasso
One of the world’s leading Picasso collections, especially strong on his formative years in Barcelona and early artistic development.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santander to Barcelona
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$97
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$154
Fastest journey on Oct 13
11 h 49 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
13 h 19 m
Trains on Oct 13
4
Distance
541 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santander to Barcelona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to Barcelona will cost around $154 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santander to Barcelona without transferring at least once.
71851+
004377:58 AM14h15Santander station10:13 PMBarcelona Sants$971One-way1 transfer- 04072+
061817:05 AM14h39Santander station9:44 PMBarcelona Sants$1611One-way1 transfer - 04072+061617:05 AM12h34Santander station7:39 PMBarcelona Sants$1771One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061517:05 AM11h49Santander station6:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1791One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061517:05 AM11h49Santander station6:54 PMBarcelona Sants$1791One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061617:05 AM12h34Santander station7:39 PMBarcelona Sants$1771One-way1 transfer
- 71851+004377:58 AM14h15Santander station10:13 PMBarcelona Sants$971One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061817:05 AM14h39Santander station9:44 PMBarcelona Sants$1611One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Barcelona
SpainSpain
Trains from Santander to Barcelona run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 16:58. The fastest train covers the 336 miles (541 km) distance in 6h 53m.
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 336 miles (541 km) |
Average train duration 7h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 6h 53m |
First train 2:30 AM |
Last train 4:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 49 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
Live departures
Santander to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Barcelona trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04072+06151 | 7:05 AM Santander station | 11h49 | 6:54 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+06161 | 7:05 AM Santander station | 12h34 | 7:39 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+06181 | 7:05 AM Santander station | 14h39 | 9:44 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 71851+00437 | 7:58 AM Santander station | 14h15 | 10:13 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY from Santander to Barcelona trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between Santander and Barcelona from $11. 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 Renfe ALVIA Duration
6h 53m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$11
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
7h 16m
Cheapest Renfe INTERCITY Price
$37
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
Complete guide to Barcelona
Things to do in Barcelona
Discover the best of Barcelona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barcelona trip today.
- Must visit
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
This national art museum is essential for Romanesque murals, Gothic masterpieces, and one of the city’s grandest palace settings.
- Recommended
Fundació Joan Miró
Europe’s largest museum dedicated to Miró, combining bold paintings, sculpture, and a superb hilltop setting on Montjuïc.
- Must visit
La Rambla
Barcelona’s most famous boulevard connects Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront, lined with performers, kiosks, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Barri Gòtic
This medieval district rewards slow wandering with narrow lanes, hidden squares, Roman traces, and some of the city’s richest atmosphere.
- Must visit
Passeig de Gràcia
Barcelona’s grand modernist avenue is ideal for architecture lovers, showcasing luxury facades, major Gaudí works, and elegant urban design.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pa Amb Tomàquet
A Catalan tomato-rubbed bread with olive oil and salt. Simple, iconic, and served almost everywhere as a staple of Barcelona meals.
- Gluten-free
Arròs Negre
Mixed seafood and rice cooked in a rich broth, often finished in the pan. A beloved coastal dish tied to Catalonia’s Mediterranean fishing tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Crema Catalana
A Catalan custard dessert with citrus and cinnamon, topped with a caramelized sugar crust. It is one of the region’s most classic sweets.
Cinc Sentits
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant serving inventive Catalan tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
La Cova Fumada
Traditional tavern celebrated for vermouth, bombas, and classic tapas in a busy, authentic Barceloneta atmosphere.
Bar Pinotxo
Historic market bar famed for seafood tapas, fried fish, and a lively counter atmosphere inside Mercat de La Boqueria.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; lodging in central areas is costly, but tapas, menu del día, and public transport are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good service; small change for cafes; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
TMB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2,55 €
- Day pass
- 11,20 €
To the city center
Barcelona Sants -> Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Use T-mobilitat or TMB App to buy and store tickets digitally for metro and bus.
- Metro ticket machines accept bank cards. On buses, card or contactless payment availability can vary, so keep a valid ticket ready before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Santander to Barcelona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santander to Barcelona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11, while the average price is around $51.
The train from Santander to Barcelona takes 6h 53m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Santander to Barcelona is 336 miles (541 km).
The first train from Santander to Barcelona leaves at 2:30 AM.
The last train from Santander to Barcelona leaves at 4:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santander to Barcelona.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santander to Barcelona.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santander to Barcelona.
The train station in Santander that goes to Barcelona is Santander station, which connects to Barcelona Sants.
The train journey from Santander to Barcelona is moderately scenic, offering views of the Cantabrian Mountains, lush landscapes, and picturesque villages, especially in the initial segments before transitioning to more urban and industrial areas as it approaches Barcelona.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to Barcelona.
Popular day trips by train from Barcelona include Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Lleida, Port Aventura.
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 Barcelona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques, fake petitions, and overpriced taxi rides without meters. It's advisable to keep valuables secure, avoid unlicensed taxis, and remain vigilant in busy spots to 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santander to Barcelona
Most Santander to Barcelona trains use the Santander to Barcelona Sants station pair. Use this guide to compare Santander and Barcelona train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santander
Arrival train stations in Barcelona
Which Santander station do trains to Barcelona leave from?
Trains from Santander to Barcelona leave from Santander. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santander city centre at 39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.
Santander39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Santander train station facilities and services
Santander 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 Santander.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santander.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santander. Information desks are available at Santander.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santander.
Which Barcelona station do trains from Santander arrive at?
Trains from Santander to Barcelona arrive at Barcelona Sants. Barcelona Sants is 1 miles (2 km) from Barcelona city centre.
Barcelona SantsPlaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain+34 934956020
City-centre transport
Getting to Barcelona Sants from Barcelona city centre
Barcelona Sants is 1 km from Barcelona city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR1, R4 · 4m · $1 · every ~15 min
Re, 15254, 15710, 15760, 15762, 15770, 15772, 15774, 15778, 15780, 15782, 15784, 15786, 15788, 15792, 15850, 15860, 15868, 15874, 15878, 15886 · 5m · $1
BusN28 · 20m · every ~3 min
D20 · 21m · $4 · every ~12 min
SubwayL3 · 16m · $4 · every ~26 min
Barcelona Sants train station facilities and services
Barcelona Sants 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, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald’s, Caffe di Fiore, Ars Café, Café de l'Estació, Café de l’Estació Deli, Lavazza, Como, Peter's, Tutti Frutti, Enrique Tomás, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Hotspots in and near restaurants. ATMs are in the central part of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located in various locations inside the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barcelona Sants: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barcelona Sants: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barcelona Sants: All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Apartments Eixample, Apartment Guell, Sweet Inn Callao.
More options for your journey from Santander to Barcelona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barcelona and Santander
Most popular train connections to Barcelona
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