- 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 and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$96
Fastest journey
8 h 51 m
Average duration
10 h 46 m
Trains per day
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 $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santander to Barcelona without transferring at least once.
04072+
061716:48 AM13h54Santander station8:42 PMBarcelona Sants$861One-way1 transfer- 04072+060216:48 AM11h25Santander station6:13 PMBarcelona Sants$951One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061216:48 AM8h51Santander station3:39 PMBarcelona Sants$1001One-way1 transfer
- 04142+060151:58 PM8h52Santander station10:50 PMBarcelona Sants$1041One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061216:48 AM8h51Santander station3:39 PMBarcelona Sants$1001One-way1 transfer
- 04142+060151:58 PM8h52Santander station10:50 PMBarcelona Sants$1041One-way1 transfer
- 04072+060216:48 AM11h25Santander station6:13 PMBarcelona Sants$951One-way1 transfer
- 04072+061716:48 AM13h54Santander station8:42 PMBarcelona Sants$861One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Santander to Barcelona
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Santander to Barcelona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a flight costs an average of $58.
Distance: 336 miles (541 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$197 Average price | $87 Average price Cheapest | $136 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 39m Average total duration 8h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Santander to Barcelona is a bus with an average price of $87 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Santander to Barcelona:
A bus is $110 (€91) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santander to Barcelona costing on average $197 (€163).
The fastest way to travel from Santander to Barcelona is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 36m.
Other travel options to Barcelona take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 22m.
Bus takes on average 8h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Barcelona including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Santander to Barcelona among Omio's users.
Live departures
Santander to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Barcelona trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04072+06121 | 6:48 AM Santander station | 8h51 | 3:39 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+06171 | 6:48 AM Santander station | 13h54 | 8:42 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+06021 | 6:48 AM Santander station | 11h25 | 6:13 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santander to Barcelona 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Santander to Barcelona?
The best time to book your train from Santander to Barcelona is 2 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santander to Barcelona route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santander to Barcelona 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 Santander to Barcelona.
Trains
from $27Buses
from $77Flights
from $46Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Barcelona
SpainSpain
Take a train from Santander to Barcelona and enjoy the approximately 336 miles (541 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 16:58.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $58 (€48)
Distance 336 miles (541 km) |
Average train duration 7h 22m |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 15 |
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 Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $58 (€48)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Santander to Barcelona trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Santander and Barcelona from $58 (€48). 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
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
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
- €2.65
- Day pass
- €11.55
To the city center
Barcelona Sants -> Plaça de Catalunya
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available at metro and bus ticket machines, but not for simply tapping in on TMB metro or bus.
- A Hola Barcelona 24 h pass covers metro, bus, tram, and FGC urban lines. Buy before your first trip to avoid paying for single tickets.
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.
The first train from Santander to Barcelona leaves at 2:30 AM.
The distance by train from Santander to Barcelona is 336 miles (541 km).
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 Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes, which connects to Barcelona Sants.
The cheapest way to get from Santander to Barcelona is by flight, with a cost of around $58 (€48).
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.
In Barcelona, you can explore Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona, which offers tours and a museum. Visit Montjuïc for stunning city views, the Magic Fountain, and Montjuïc Castle. Relax at Barceloneta Beach, known for sunbathing and seaside dining. Discover El Raval's eclectic culture and nightlife, and enjoy rides and views at Tibidabo Amusement Park. Must-see sights include the iconic Sagrada Família, vibrant Park Güell, bustling La Rambla, the historic Gothic Quarter, and the uniquely designed Casa Batlló by Gaudí.
Three to four days in Barcelona is ideal to explore its main attractions, including La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter, while also enjoying its vibrant culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to Barcelona.
Since both Santander and Barcelona 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 Barcelona include Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Lleida, Port Aventura.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Santander to Barcelona 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 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.
Most popular train connections from Santander
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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