- Must visit
MUSAC - Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Castilla y León
León’s leading contemporary art museum, known for its colorful façade and rotating exhibitions of Spanish and international modern art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santander to León
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$50
Fastest journey
3 h 30 m
Average duration
4 h 21 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
172 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santander to León is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to León will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santander to León without transferring at least once.
18102 · 182159:20 AM9h05Santander station6:25 PMLeón station$381One-way1 transfer- 18102+
371019:20 AM5h52Santander station3:12 PMLeón station$391One-way1 transfer - 18104+180054:27 PM6h39Santander station11:06 PMLeón station$411One-way1 transfer
- 18104+180034:27 PM4h31Santander station8:58 PMLeón station$411One-way1 transfer
04072+
041216:48 AM6h53Santander station1:41 PMLeón station$491One-way1 transfer
- 04192+
051837:00 PM3h30Santander station10:30 PMLeón station$621One-way1 transfer - 04192+180057:00 PM4h06Santander station11:06 PMLeón station$501One-way1 transfer
- 04142+182151:58 PM4h27Santander station6:25 PMLeón station$511One-way1 transfer
- 18104+180034:27 PM4h31Santander station8:58 PMLeón station$411One-way1 transfer
- 37072+050716:48 AM5h13Santander station12:01 PMLeón station$571One-way1 transfer
Live departures
Santander to León train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to León trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 37072+05071 | Delayed 6:48 AM Santander station | 5h13 | 10:01 AM 10:01 AMLeón station | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+05071 | Delayed 6:48 AM Santander station | 5h13 | 10:01 AM 10:01 AMLeón station | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+04121 | Delayed 6:48 AM Santander station | 6h53 | 11:41 AM 11:41 AMLeón station | 1 transfer | |
| 18102 · 18215 | On time 9:20 AM Santander station | 9h05 | 6:25 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 18102+05101 | On time 9:20 AM Santander station | 5h52 | 3:12 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 18102+37101 | On time 9:20 AM Santander station | 5h52 | 3:12 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 04142+37179 | On time 1:58 PM Santander station | 5h49 | 7:47 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 04142+18003 | On time 1:58 PM Santander station | 7h00 | 8:58 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 04142+18215 | On time 1:58 PM Santander station | 4h27 | 6:25 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 18104+18005 | 4:27 PM Santander station | 6h39 | 11:06 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 18104+05183 | 4:27 PM Santander station | 6h03 | 10:30 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 18104+18003 | 4:27 PM Santander station | 4h31 | 8:58 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 04192+18005 | 7:00 PM Santander station | 4h06 | 11:06 PM León station | 1 transfer | |
| 04192+05183 | 7:00 PM Santander station | 3h30 | 10:30 PM León station | 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 León by bus
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Why should you book Santander to León trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe or Renfe MD offer trains services from Santander to León.
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 or Renfe MD to find the best option for your trip from Santander to León.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to León
SpainSpain
Take a train from Santander to León and enjoy the approximately 106 miles (172 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:16, the last at 19:00.
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
Bus from $21 (€18)
Distance 106 miles (172 km) |
Average train duration 3h 39m |
First train 5:16 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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
Bus from $21 (€18)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD from Santander to León trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD trains will get you between Santander and León from $21 (€18). 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
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 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
Complete guide to León
Things to do in León
Discover the best of León — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect León trip today.
- Must visit
Casa Botines Museum
Museum inside Gaudí’s neo-Gothic Casa Botines, featuring restored interiors, art, and the history of one of León’s most iconic buildings.
- Recommended
Museo de León
Provincial museum with archaeology, Roman remains, medieval objects, and fine arts that explain the history of León and its wider region.
- Must visit
Barrio Húmedo
León’s best-known old quarter, packed with lively narrow streets, historic buildings, and a classic atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Plaza de la Catedral
Open space framing the cathedral’s spectacular façade, ideal for appreciating one of León’s most iconic views and taking photos.
- Recommended
Plaza Mayor
Historic main square surrounded by arcades, a natural gathering point and one of the most photogenic urban spaces in central León.
- Gluten-free
Cecina De León
Air-cured smoked beef, protected by PGI status, served in thin slices. It is one of León’s most iconic products and a classic tapa.
- Gluten-free
Morcilla De León
León-style black pudding made mainly with blood, onion, and spices, often soft and spreadable. It is a hallmark of local tavern cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Botillo Del Bierzo
A hearty pork sausage stuffed with rib and other cuts, smoked and cured, then cooked slowly. Popular in the province and strongly tied to regional tradition.
Cocinandos
Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative cuisine rooted in León’s products and traditions. Elegant but approachable atmosphere.
Casa Mando
Well-known central restaurant in a historic setting, respected for grilled meats, rice dishes, and refined Castilian cooking.
Camarote Madrid
Classic León bar and restaurant famous for tapas and traditional dishes in a lively, established city-center setting.
Euro
Generally affordable by Spanish city standards. Tapas and casual dining are good value, while hotels and upscale dining cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-14 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
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; hotel tipping is optional.
ALESA Urbanos de León
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
León Railway Station, León -> Santo Domingo, León
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- City buses in León usually require onboard ticket purchase; carry small change because card payment is not consistently available on all buses.
- León city center is compact, so from León Railway Station many central areas are reachable on foot in about 15-20 min.
FAQs: Trains from Santander to León
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander to León 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 León, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Santander to León is 106 miles (172 km).
The first train from Santander to León leaves at 5:16 AM.
The last train from Santander to León leaves at 7:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santander to León.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santander to León.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santander to León.
The cheapest way to get from Santander to León is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€18).
The train journey from Santander to León offers scenic views of the Cantabrian Mountains, lush valleys, and charming villages, providing a picturesque travel experience.
In León, you can explore the lively Barrio Húmedo, known for its tapas bars and vibrant nightlife. Visit the stunning Catedral de León to admire its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, and explore the rooftop for panoramic city views. Discover the Basílica de San Isidoro with its remarkable frescoes, and Casa Botines, a modernist building by Antoni Gaudí. Enjoy cultural events at the historic Teatro Emperador or the avant-garde exhibitions at MUSAC. Stroll along the Bernesga River for scenic views, and explore the Museo de León to learn about the region's history. Lastly, the Convento de San Marcos offers a glimpse into history with its Plateresque façade.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in León is generally ideal to explore its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and enjoy its renowned gastronomy.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to León.
Since both Santander and León 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 León include Oviedo, Valladolid, Palencia, Ponferrada, Astorga.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santander to León 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 León, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for taxi rides or tours to prevent overcharging scams. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in busy tourist spots.
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 León
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from León and Santander
Most popular train connections to León
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