- Must visit
Aquarium
Major aquarium with a maritime museum section, historic displays and a walk-through tunnel. A strong all-weather visit near the harbour.
Cheapest price
£479
Average price
£496
Fastest journey
13 h 18 m
Average duration
19 h 54 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
1131 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around £496 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £479.
To travel from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian you need to make at least 4 changes.










Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £51, and a train costs an average of £474.
Distance: 1131 km
| Train | Most popular Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£496 Average Price | £137 Average Price | £92 Average Price Cheapest |
20h 48m Average total duration 20h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 32h 11m Average total duration 31h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Wednesday 26 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 13:15 Manchester | 19h28 | 8:43 Donostia-San Sebastian | 5 changes | |
![]() | 17:15 Manchester | 24h58 | 18:13 Donostia-San Sebastian | 4 changes | |
![]() | 17:35 Manchester | 24h38 | 18:13 Donostia-San Sebastian | 5 changes | |
| Thursday 27 August | |||||
![]() | 6:55 Manchester | 13h18 | 20:13 Donostia-San Sebastian | 5 changes | |
![]() | 10:15 Manchester | 19h58 | 6:13 Donostia-San Sebastian | 5 changes | |
![]() | 10:35 Manchester | 22h08 | 8:43 Donostia-San Sebastian | 4 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare coach, train 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.
Trains from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 5 times per day, taking around 20h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £474 but you can travel from only £51 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:40, the last at 08:00. The fastest train covers the 1131 km distance in 12h 28m.
Distance 1131 km |
Average train duration 20h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £474 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 12h 28m |
First train 5:40 |
Last train 8:00 |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
Major aquarium with a maritime museum section, historic displays and a walk-through tunnel. A strong all-weather visit near the harbour.
Museum dedicated to sculptor Eduardo Chillida, set in a large garden with monumental works. Combines art, landscape and a quieter side of the area.
Contemporary art centre focused on Basque and international work. It is worth visiting for exhibitions, architecture and a calmer cultural stop in the city.
Iconic city beach and promenade framed by Belle Époque buildings. It is the classic place for walks, sea views and experiencing San Sebastián’s atmosphere.
Historic quarter with narrow streets, churches and lively public spaces. Go for architecture, atmosphere and easy access to several major sights.
Hilltop viewpoint reached by funicular or on foot, with a small amusement area and sweeping views over the bay and city. Ideal for first-time visitors.
Battered cod fried with green peppers and onion. A classic Basque pintxo tied to local salt cod cooking traditions.
Whole spider crab dressed with its own juices, egg and breadcrumbs. A prized festive shellfish dish on the Basque coast.
Basque-style cheesecake from San Sebastián, baked until deeply caramelised outside with a creamy centre. Now iconic city-wide.
Elegant dining room known for creative Basque cooking with strong local produce and polished service.
Historic old-town spot celebrated for Basque cheesecake and classic dishes in a bustling tavern setting.
Busy traditional pintxos bar famed for mushroom pintxos and a lively old-town atmosphere.
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and coffee are reasonable, but central hotels and popular dining can cost more than in many comparable Spanish cities.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for very good service; small change in cafés; taxi tips are optional, often just rounding up.
Official public transport app
San Sebastián Airport -> Donostia Geltokia, Donostia-San Sebastián
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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