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Madrid to San Sebastián by train
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Cheapest Price AU$11.68
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30 days in advance AU$72.27
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7 days in advance AU$87.60
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First train07:15
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Last train17:40
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Avg changes0
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Fastest journey4hr 47m
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Distance353 kilometres
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Trains per day15
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Avg. journey time6hr 27m
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Train operators
Madrid to San Sebastián train travel explained
Want to know how to get from Madrid to San Sebastián by train? We have gathered for you all the useful information about this trip!
The fastest trains from Madrid to San Sebastián take around 4 hours and 47 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 353 kilometres.
On weekdays, the first train leaving Madrid is scheduled to depart at around 07:15. The last departure is usually at around 17:40. This is the same as during the weekend. There are frequent services on this particular rail route. On average, there are about 15 trains per day travelling between the two cities. They leave approximately every 10 minutes.
Prices for a single ticket between the two cities start from AU$11.68.
We think any time is a great time to visit San Sebastián, as each season has its own unique charm. Nevertheless, please make sure you check the local weather and average seasonal temperatures at destination before deciding on your holiday.
For more tips to help you plan your journey, check out our help articles, or read our guide to San Sebastián.
Is there a direct train from Madrid to San Sebastián?
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to San Sebastián.
How long does it take to travel from Madrid to San Sebastián?
The Madrid to San Sebastián train travel takes about 4 hours and 47 minutes, no matter when you leave.
What are the Madrid to San Sebastián train times and schedule?
If you're travelling on a weekday, you'll find the earliest train to San Sebastián leaving Madrid at around 07:15 and the last train leaving at around 17:40. This is the same at the weekend.
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Alvia or Media Distancia
It is very easy to travel by train from Madrid to San Sebastián. On most days, there are Alvia trains and slower Media Distancia (MD) services linking the two cities.
The fast Alvia trains cut through the hills north-west of Madrid in a long tunnel. If you are interested in some beautiful Spanish landscape, you might prefer the slower option, for the rail route over the Sierra de Guadarrama is one of the most beautiful in Spain. It’ll add two hours to your journey time but the views are worth it.
Madrid to San Sebastián/Donostia

Choose between a high-speed Alvia train and slower Media Distancia train to travel directly from Madrid Chamartín station to San Sebastián. Fast Alvia trains stop six to seven times along the way, including Burgos. Media Distancia trains stop at least 20 times.