Santander to Barcelona train with Renfe ALVIA

Wed, Apr 15
+ Add return
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe Viajeros
Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe Viajeros
Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santander to Barcelona

Showing times and prices for Apr 16

Cheapest price

$112

Average price

$162

Fastest journey

8 h 48 m

Average duration

10 h 9 m

Trains per day

5

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 $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $112.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Santander to Barcelona without transferring at least once.

  • Renfe ALVIA04072+iryo06121
    6:48 AM8h51
    Santander station
    3:39 PMBarcelona Sants
    $1121One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04072+iryo06021
    6:48 AM11h18
    Santander station
    6:06 PMBarcelona Sants
    $1201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04072+iryo06151
    6:48 AM12h06
    Santander station
    6:54 PMBarcelona Sants
    $1731One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04142+iryo06201
    1:58 PM9h41
    Santander station
    11:39 PMBarcelona Sants
    $1751One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04142+iryo06013
    1:58 PM8h48
    Santander station
    10:46 PMBarcelona Sants
    $2291One-way
    1 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 $58. 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 $58, and a flight costs an average of $40.

Distance: 336 miles (541 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$90

Average price

$146

Average price

$81

Average price

Cheapest

7h 45m

Average total duration

7h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 36m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

9h 17m

Average total duration

8h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

-

CO2 emissions

1.6 - 3.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
Renfe ALVIA

Most popular train company

Vueling Airlines

Most popular airline

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santander to Barcelona

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Santander to Barcelona run on average 15 times per day, taking around 7h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€58) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by flight.

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 17:00. The fastest train covers the 336 miles (541 km) distance in 12h 15m.

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 $40 (€32)
Distance
336 miles (541 km)
Average train duration
7h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€58)
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
15
Fastest train
12h 15m
First train
2:30 AM
Last train
5:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
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 $40 (€32)

Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros, Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve from Santander to Barcelona trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros, Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve trains will get you between Santander and Barcelona from $40 (€32). 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

Renfe Viajeros

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 15m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€78)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day

Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 27m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€58)
Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santander to Barcelona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€58), while the average price is around $90 (€72).
The train from Santander to Barcelona takes 12h 15m and runs 15 per day.
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 5:00 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 $40 (€32).
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.
A day trip from Santander to Barcelona is not feasible as the travel duration is 12h 15m. There are 15 trains per day covering a distance of 336 miles (541 km).
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santander to Barcelona

Santander
Barcelona
Barcelona SantsWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Plaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Hotspots in and near restaurants.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00.
Dining
Dining
  • 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
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Apartments Eixample
  • Apartment Guell
  • Sweet Inn Callao
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in various locations inside the station.
Public transit options for Barcelona Sants
  • Metro lines: L3, L5
  • Bus lines: A1, A2
  • Train lines: AVE, Alvia, Euromed, Talgo, Trenhotel, TGV, Avant, Intercity, R1, R2, R2 Nord, R2 Sud, R3, R4, RG1, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17

More options for your journey from Santander to Barcelona

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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Buses from Santander to Barcelona
Flights from Santander to Barcelona
Compare all journeys between Santander and Barcelona
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Tickets and more information for trains to Barcelona

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