- Must visit
Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria
Museum in a historic market building covering Santander’s prehistory, Roman past and medieval development through well-presented local finds.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from León to Santander
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Sept
Cheapest price on 13 Sept
£28
Average ticket price on 13 Sept
£53
Fastest journey on 13 Sept
4 h 12 m
Average journey duration on 13 Sept
4 h 38 m
Trains on 13 Sept
23
Distance
172 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from León to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from León to Santander will cost around £53 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.
Fast trains
To travel from León to Santander you need to make at least one change.
18214 · 1810514:367h49León station22:25Santander station£281One-way1 change
18006+1810515:187h07León station22:25Santander station£301One-way1 change- 18002+181016:278h26León station14:53Santander station£301One-way1 change
00621+1810513:358h50León station22:25Santander station£361One-way1 change- 18214+0419314:368h36León station23:12Santander station£381One-way1 change
- 00621 · 0414313:354h12León station17:47Santander station£561One-way1 change
- 04170 · 0419318:534h19León station23:12Santander station£711One-way1 change
05200+1810517:514h34León station22:25Santander station£381One-way1 change- 04110+0414312:465h01León station17:47Santander station£881One-way1 change
- 05312+181019:485h05León station14:53Santander station£421One-way1 change
Live departures
León to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for León to Santander trains for today, Saturday 12 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00621 · 04143 | Delayed 11:45 13:35León station | 4h12 | 17:47 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 00621+18105 | Delayed 11:45 13:35León station | 8h50 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 00621 · 04193 | Delayed 11:45 13:35León station | 9h37 | 21:12 21:12Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18214 · 18105 | On time 14:36 León station | 7h49 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18214+37193 | On time 14:36 León station | 8h36 | 23:12 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18214+04193 | Delayed 14:36 León station | 8h36 | 21:12 21:12Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18006 · 37193 | 15:18 León station | 7h54 | 23:12 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18006+18105 | 15:18 León station | 7h07 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18006+04193 | Delayed 15:18 León station | 7h54 | 21:12 21:12Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04140+37193 | On time 17:09 León station | 6h03 | 23:12 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04140+18105 | On time 17:09 León station | 5h16 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04140 · 04193 | Delayed 17:09 León station | 6h03 | 21:12 21:12Santander station | 1 change | |
| 12100+37193 | 17:43 León station | 5h29 | 23:12 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 12100+04193 | Delayed 17:43 León station | 5h29 | 21:12 21:12Santander station | 1 change | |
| Sunday 13 September | |||||
| 18002+04143 | 6:27 León station | 11h20 | 17:47 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 18002+18101 | 6:27 León station | 8h26 | 14:53 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 05312+18101 | 9:48 León station | 5h05 | 14:53 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 05312+04143 | 9:48 León station | 7h59 | 17:47 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04080 · 04143 | 10:31 León station | 7h16 | 17:47 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04080+18105 | 10:31 León station | 11h54 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04110+18105 | 12:46 León station | 9h39 | 22:25 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04110+04143 | 12:46 León station | 5h01 | 17:47 Santander station | 1 change | |
| 04110+04193 | 12:46 León station | 10h26 | 23:12 Santander station | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets León to Santander by coach
Compare coach 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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Why should you book León to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY and more offer trains services from León to Santander.
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, Renfe MD or Renfe INTERCITY to find the best option for your trip from León to Santander.
- 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 León to Santander
SpainSpain
Take a train from León to Santander and enjoy the approximately 172 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:27, 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
Coach from £16
Distance 172 km |
Average train duration 3h 44m |
First train 6:27 |
Last train 19:00 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Coach from £16
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY from León to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY trains will get you between León and Santander from £16. 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
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
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
Complete guide to Santander
Things to do in Santander
Discover the best of Santander — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santander trip today.
- Must visit
Centro Botín
Large art centre on the waterfront with modern and contemporary exhibitions, a striking building and broad views over the bay.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Museum dedicated to Cantabrian maritime history, fishing and oceanography, with aquariums and displays suited to adults and children.
- Must visit
Jardines de Pereda
Historic gardens by the bay and Centro Botín, ideal for a gentle walk among monuments, flowerbeds and harbour views.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Headland park with the palace, coastal paths, beaches and sea views; one of Santander’s classic places for walking and photography.
- Recommended
Parque de Mataleñas
Clifftop viewpoint and green space above the sea, popular for sunsets, dramatic waves and broad views of the Cantabrian coast.
- Gluten-free
Cocido montañés
Hearty Cantabrian bean stew with white beans, chorizo, morcilla and pork. A regional cold-weather classic closely tied to Santander and wider Cantabria.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas de Cantabria
Fresh anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea, often salted or preserved in olive oil. Santander is especially known for high-quality bocarte and anchovy traditions.
- Gluten-free
Marmita de bonito
Bonito tuna cooked with onions, peppers and tomato. A beloved summer dish across Cantabria, showcasing local fishing and seasonal produce.
El Serbal
Established dining room specialising in fish and seafood rice dishes, offering polished service and a classic Santander feel.
Casa Lita
Traditional seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Cantabrian cooking in a smart but approachable setting.
Bodega del Riojano
Popular traditional venue for rabas, seafood tapas and casual local eating, especially good for sampling classic Santander flavours.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: hotels and dining are fair, while local buses and casual meals stay reasonably priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for cafés; round up taxi fares.
TUS Santander
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport -> Estación de Autobuses de Santander
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- The airport bus links Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport with Estación de Autobuses de Santander in under 20 min according to flight schedules.
- Card or contactless payment information was not clearly confirmed from the official sources reviewed, so check before boarding.
FAQs: León to Santander train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from León to Santander 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 Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train distance from León to Santander is 172 km.
The first train from León to Santander leaves at 6:27.
The last train from León to Santander departs at 19:00.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from León to Santander.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from León to Santander.
To travel from León to Santander, you can take a coach.
There is no night train service from León to Santander.
The cheapest way to get from León to Santander is by coach, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from León to Santander in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from León to Santander offers scenic views, as it passes through picturesque landscapes, including the Cantabrian Mountains and verdant valleys, providing travellers with a charming backdrop along the way.
In Santander, you can explore the Santander Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture and historical significance. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Parque de Mataleñas, ideal for hiking. Visit Mercado de la Esperanza to experience local culture and cuisine. Stroll along Paseo de Pereda, a picturesque waterfront promenade. Discover the Gran Casino del Sardinero for entertainment and a glimpse into the city's past. Don't miss Palacio de la Magdalena for stunning views and guided tours, Centro Botín for modern art, Playa del Sardinero's golden sands, the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico for maritime history, and Jardines de Piquío for a peaceful retreat.
Three to four days in Santander should be sufficient to explore the city's cultural landmarks, enjoy its beaches, and experience the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from León to Santander.
Most popular train connections from León
More options for your journey from León to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and León
Most popular train connections to Santander
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