1st Class
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Food available
- Extra legroom
- Newspapers and magazines
- Air-conditioned
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept
Cheapest price on 05 Sept
£74
Average ticket price on 05 Sept
£78
Fastest journey on 05 Sept
12 h 3 m
Average journey duration on 05 Sept
16 h 14 m
Trains on 05 Sept
2
Distance
536 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around £78 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £74.
Fast trains
To travel from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian you need to make at least one change.
16:2620h24Santiago de Compostela12:50Donostia-San Sebastian£741One-way1 change- 10:4912h03Santiago de Compostela22:52Donostia-San Sebastian£831One-way1 change
- 10:4912h03Santiago de Compostela22:52Donostia-San Sebastian£831One-way1 change
- 16:2620h24Santiago de Compostela12:50Donostia-San Sebastian£741One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £86 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 8m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the coach is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.5 - 1.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £86, while a flight costs an average of £255.
Distance: 536 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£88 Average Price | £86 Average Price Cheapest | £255 Average Price | £100 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 44m Average total duration 10h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 8m Average total duration 10h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 2h 8m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is a coach with an average price of £86.
This is compared to other travel options from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A coach is £2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average £88.
A coach is £169 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average £255.
The fastest way to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 8m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 14m.
Coach takes on average 10h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santiago de Compostela and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £88 compared to roughly £100 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £12. The journey takes 10h 14m versus 6h 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:49 Santiago de Compostela | 8h57 | 19:46 Donostia-San Sebastian | 1 change | |
 | 11:48 Santiago de Compostela | 11h04 | 22:52 Donostia-San Sebastian | 1 change | |
| 20:05 Santiago de Compostela | 16h45 | 12:50 Donostia-San Sebastian | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian 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.
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Why should you book Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, AVE, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
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 MD, AVE or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
- 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 Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian
SpainSpain
Trains from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 2 times per day, taking around 10h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £74 but you can travel from only £65 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 11:30. The fastest train covers the 536 km distance in 8h 57m.
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 £65
Distance 536 km |
Average train duration 10h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price £74 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 8h 57m |
First train 4:45 |
Last train 11:30 |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 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 £65
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, AVE, Renfe Viajeros from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe MD, AVE, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Santiago de Compostela and Donostia-San Sebastian from £65. 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
0
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
What's included in each class
Compare Renfe ALVIA classes and the amenities included in each one.
2nd Class
- Power plugs
- Food available
- Air-conditioned
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
What's included in each class
Compare Renfe INTERCITY classes and the amenities included in each one.
1st Class
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Newspapers and magazines
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
2nd Class
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
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
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average AVE Duration
11h 4m
Cheapest AVE Price
£93
AVE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
What's included in each class
Compare AVE classes and the amenities included in each one.
1st Class
Renfe AVE
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Food available
- Extra legroom
- Cabin luggage
2nd Class
Renfe AVE
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Food available
- Cabin luggage
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe Viajeros Duration
8h 57m
Cheapest Renfe Viajeros Price
£74
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian
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.
- 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.
- Must visit
Chillida Leku
Museum dedicated to sculptor Eduardo Chillida, set in a large garden with monumental works. Combines art, landscape and a quieter side of the area.
- Recommended
Tabakalera
Contemporary art centre focused on Basque and international work. It is worth visiting for exhibitions, architecture and a calmer cultural stop in the city.
- Must visit
La Concha
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.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
Historic quarter with narrow streets, churches and lively public spaces. Go for architecture, atmosphere and easy access to several major sights.
- Must visit
Monte Igueldo
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.
Bacalao a la Donostiarra
Battered cod fried with green peppers and onion. A classic Basque pintxo tied to local salt cod cooking traditions.
Txangurro a la Donostiarra
Whole spider crab dressed with its own juices, egg and breadcrumbs. A prized festive shellfish dish on the Basque coast.
- Vegetarian
Tarta de queso vasca
Basque-style cheesecake from San Sebastián, baked until deeply caramelised outside with a creamy centre. Now iconic city-wide.
Arzak
Elegant dining room known for creative Basque cooking with strong local produce and polished service.
La Viña
Historic old-town spot celebrated for Basque cheesecake and classic dishes in a bustling tavern setting.
Bar Ganbara
Busy traditional pintxos bar famed for mushroom pintxos and a lively old-town atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and coffee are reasonable, but central hotels and popular dining can cost more than in many comparable Spanish cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for a casual meal or pintxos.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
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.
MUGI
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.85
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
San Sebastián Airport -> Donostia Geltokia, Donostia-San Sebastián
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Use a MUGI card for integrated fares across Dbus and other Gipuzkoa operators; paying cash on Dbus is €1.85 for a single ticket.
- Aena confirms airport buses to San Sebastián run under Lurraldebus. Buy according to the operator’s current fare rules, as airport fare varies by zones.
+ 
FAQs: Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santiago de Compostela 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £74, while the average price tends to be around £88.
The train journey from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian covers a distance of 536 km and takes approximately 8h 57m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is 536 km.
The first train from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian departs at 11:30.
Trains from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
To get from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The cheapest way to get from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is by coach, costing approximately £65.
Booking trains from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is indeed scenic, offering views of the lush Galician countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque coastlines as it travels through the northern part of Spain. Passengers can enjoy the ever-changing landscape, especially as the route passes through regions known for their natural beauty.
A day trip from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible, as the journey takes 8h 57m. Trains operate 3 times per day over a distance of 536 km.
In Donostia-San Sebastian, visitors can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, embark on a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, and ride the funicular to Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views and amusement park excitement. Exploring the Aquarium with its diverse marine life and ocean tunnel is a must, as is attending a concert or event at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Notable sights include the scenic La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town with its Basque architecture, Monte Igueldo, San Telmo Museoa focused on Basque culture, and the Miramar Palace with its beautiful gardens.
Three to four days is ideal to explore Donostia-San Sebastian, allowing time to enjoy its beaches, savour the famous pintxos, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Mount Urgull.
Yes, you can take the train from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Most popular train connections from Santiago de Compostela
More options for your journey from Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San Sebastian Santiago de Compostela to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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