Madrid to Santander train with Renfe ALVIA

Wed 03 Dec
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Renfe ALVIA
Renfe
Renfe Intercity
Renfe (13)
Renfe Viajeros
1,000+ travel companies
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe
Renfe Intercity
Renfe (13)
Renfe Viajeros
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Santander

Showing times and prices for 03 Dec

Cheapest price

£46

Average price

£49

Fastest journey

4 h 20 m

Average duration

4 h 22 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

339 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Madrid to Santander will cost around £49 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £46.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Madrid for Santander every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 339 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 20 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 24 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.

Renfe ALVIA
11:404h24
Madrid
16:04Santander
£461One-way
0 changes
Renfe ALVIA
17:084h20
Madrid
21:28Santander
£511One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Madrid to Santander

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. 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 coach costs an average of £30, and a flight costs an average of £55.

Distance: 339 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£52

Average Price

£46

Average Price

Cheapest

£248

Average Price

5h 3m

Average total duration

4h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 28m

Average total duration

7h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 29m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

1.0 - 2.0kg

CO2 emissions

Renfe ALVIA

Most popular train company

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Air Nostrum

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Madrid to Santander train times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Santander trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 22:50
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
RenfeALVIA11:40 Madrid
4h24
16:04 Santander0 changesdirect
RenfeALVIA17:08 Madrid
4h20
21:28 Santander0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Santander by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Wed
03 Dec
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Santander?

The best time to book your train from Madrid to Santander is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Santander route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Santander 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 Madrid to Santander.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Madrid to Santander

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Madrid to Santander run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £21 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 339 km distance in 4h 20m.

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
339 km
Average train duration
4h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
£21
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
4h 20m
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, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13), Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo from Madrid to Santander trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe, Renfe Intercity, Renfe (13), Renfe Viajeros, Ouigo trains will get you between Madrid and Santander from £21. 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 7m
Cheapest Price
£23
Renfe ALVIA frequency
3 a day
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
Learn more about Renfe

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

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 15m
Cheapest Price
£33
Renfe Viajeros frequency
4 a day

Ouigo

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 13m
Cheapest Price
£31
Ouigo frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Madrid to Santander train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.

FAQs
Three to four days in Santander should be sufficient to explore the city's cultural landmarks, enjoy its beaches, and experience the local cuisine.
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.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Santander is by train, costing approximately £21.
The cost of a train ticket from Madrid to Santander can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £21, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train distance from Madrid to Santander is 339 km.
Booking trains from Madrid to Santander in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The last train from Madrid to Santander departs at 19:08.
Yes, there is a direct train between Madrid and Santander. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros.
There is no night train service from Madrid to Santander.
The train journey from Madrid to Santander covers a distance of 339 km and takes approximately 4h 20m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Santander is Madrid Chamartín, and it arrives at Santander station.
The first train from Madrid to Santander leaves at 6:36.
Trains from Madrid to Santander run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Madrid to Santander.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Santander.
To get from Madrid to Santander, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
The train journey from Madrid to Santander offers scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of Castilla y León and the Cantabrian Mountains, providing a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Madrid to Santander is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 20m. There are 3 trains per day.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and Santander

Madrid
Santander
The major train station for departures in Madrid is Madrid Chamartín. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Chamartín for your trip from Madrid to Santander.
Madrid ChamartínParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
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
28036 Madrid, Spain
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km

More options for your journey from Madrid to Santander

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