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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santander to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Mar 20
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$69
Fastest journey
4 h 16 m
Average duration
4 h 34 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
339 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santander to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to Madrid will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Santander for Madrid on Fri, Mar 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Mar 20 the direct trains cover the 339 km distance in an average of 4 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 16 m .
On Fri, Mar 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 57 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
0419207:00PM4h24
Santander station11:24PMMadrid Chamartín
$281One-way
0 transfers
0407206:48AM4h35
Santander station11:23AMMadrid Chamartín
$431One-way
0 transfers
04072+
1801006:48AM6h37
Santander station01:25PMMadrid Príncipe Pío
$521One-way
1 transfer
04072+
0811806:48AM5h47
Santander station12:35PMMadrid Chamartín
$591One-way
1 transfer
18102+1800409:20AM8h09
Santander station05:29PMMadrid Príncipe Pío
$611One-way
1 transfer
0414201:58PM4h16
Santander station06:14PMMadrid Chamartín
$991One-way
0 transfers
0419207:00PM4h24
Santander station11:24PMMadrid Chamartín
$281One-way
0 transfers
0407206:48AM4h35
Santander station11:23AMMadrid Chamartín
$431One-way
0 transfers
04072 · 0418606:48AM4h40
Santander station11:28AMMadrid Chamartín
$771One-way
1 transfer
04142+0817801:58PM4h57
Santander station06:55PMMadrid Chamartín
$1001One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santander to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santander to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $34.
Distance: 210 miles (339 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price | $293 Average price |
4h 48m Average total duration 4h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 48m Average total duration 6h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Santander to Madrid train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Madrid trains for today, Thursday, March 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:00 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04142 · 04170 | On time 12:58 PM Santander station | 7h14 | 8:12 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
04142+ 04786 | On time 12:58 PM Santander station | 6h17 | 7:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
04142+ 05792 | On time 12:58 PM Santander station | 5h02 | 6:00 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04142 | On time 12:58 PM Santander station | 4h16 | 5:14 PM Madrid Chamartín | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 18104+04176 | On time 3:27 PM Santander station | 5h46 | 9:13 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18104+08208 | On time 3:27 PM Santander station | 5h13 | 8:40 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18104+04192 | On time 3:27 PM Santander station | 6h57 | 10:24 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04192 | On time 6:00 PM Santander station | 4h24 | 10:24 PM Madrid Chamartín | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, March 20 | |||||
| 04072 | On time 5:48 AM Santander station | 4h35 | 10:23 AM Madrid Chamartín | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04072 · 04186 | On time 5:48 AM Santander station | 4h40 | 10:28 AM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+08118 | On time 5:48 AM Santander station | 5h47 | 11:35 AM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 04072+18010 | On time 5:48 AM Santander station | 6h37 | 12:25 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 1 transfer | |
| 18102+08148 | On time 8:20 AM Santander station | 5h55 | 2:15 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
18102+ 05178 | On time 8:20 AM Santander station | 7h24 | 3:44 PM Madrid Chamartín | 1 transfer | |
| 18102+18004 | On time 8:20 AM Santander station | 8h09 | 4:29 PM Madrid Príncipe Pío | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santander to Madrid by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Santander to Madrid trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe Intercity, Renfe, Renfe (13), Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Santander to Madrid.
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 Intercity, Renfe, Renfe (13) or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Santander to Madrid.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Renfe ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santander to Madrid.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Santander to Madrid?
The best time to book your train from Santander to Madrid is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santander to Madrid route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santander to Madrid 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 Madrid.
Trains
from $42Buses
from $47Flights
from $83Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Madrid
SpainSpain
Trains from Santander to Madrid run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:36, the last at 19:08. The fastest train covers the 210 miles (339 km) distance in 4h 16m.
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 210 miles (339 km) |
Average train duration 4h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 16m |
First train 06:36 |
Last train 19:08 |
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
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Intercity, Renfe, Renfe (13), Renfe Viajeros from Santander to Madrid trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe Intercity, Renfe, Renfe (13), Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Santander and Madrid from $28 (€23). 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 Duration
4h 16m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
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 Duration
4h 22m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
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
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 (13)
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 16m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 a day
FAQs: Trains from Santander to Madrid
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander to Madrid 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 Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santander to Madrid can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $47 (€39).
The train from Santander to Madrid takes 4h 16m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Santander to Madrid is 210 miles (339 km).
The first train from Santander to Madrid leaves at 6:36 AM.
The last train from Santander to Madrid leaves at 7:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santander to Madrid.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santander to Madrid. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Intercity, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santander to Madrid.
The train station in Santander that goes to Madrid is Santander station, which connects to Madrid Chamartín.
The cheapest way to get from Santander to Madrid is by train, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The train journey from Santander to Madrid offers scenic views of the Cantabrian landscape, featuring rolling hills, green valleys, and glimpses of the picturesque Spanish countryside, particularly as you travel through regions like the Cantabrian Mountains.
A day trip from Santander to Madrid is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 16m. There are 3 train trips per day, covering a distance of 210 miles (339 km).
In Madrid, you can explore Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere, and savor gourmet foods at Mercado de San Miguel. Discover the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, enjoy a traditional flamenco show, or visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid. For cultural sights, visit the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and Retiro Park. Don't miss Plaza Mayor and the lively Gran Vía for shopping and theaters.
For a well-rounded experience in Madrid, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to Madrid.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santander to Madrid
Santander
Madrid
The major train station for departures in Santander is Santander. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander for your trip from Santander to Madrid.
Santander
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
The major train station for arrivals in Madrid is Madrid Chamartín. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Chamartín for your journey to Madrid from Santander.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Most popular train connections from Santander
More options for your journey from Santander to Madrid
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Most popular trains to and from Madrid and Santander
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