- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept
Cheapest price on 05 Sept
£149
Average ticket price on 05 Sept
£175
Fastest journey on 05 Sept
10 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 05 Sept
11 h 7 m
Trains on 05 Sept
8
Distance
937 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich 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 Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around £175 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £149.
Fast trains
To travel from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian you need to make at least one change.
8557+
921811:3411h17Zurich HB22:51Hendaye station£1491One-way1 change- 8557+921811:3411h02Zurich HB22:36Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure£1491One-way1 change
- 8549+92109:3411h14Zurich HB20:48Hendaye station£1691One-way1 change
- 8549+92109:3410h59Zurich HB20:33Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure£1691One-way1 change
- 8547+92067:3411h17Zurich HB18:51Hendaye station£1781One-way1 change
- 8549+92109:3410h59Zurich HB20:33Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure£1691One-way1 change
- 8557+921811:3411h02Zurich HB22:36Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure£1491One-way1 change
- 8547+92067:3411h02Zurich HB18:36Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure£1781One-way1 change
- 8549+92109:3411h14Zurich HB20:48Hendaye station£1691One-way1 change
- 8557+921811:3411h17Zurich HB22:51Hendaye station£1491One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £101 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 0.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £101, while a train costs an average of £203.
Distance: 937 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£203 Average Price | £139 Average Price | £101 Average Price Cheapest | £313 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 14m Average total duration 10h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 21m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 23h 1m Average total duration 22h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.8 - 5.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is a coach with an average price of £101.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A coach is £38 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average £139.
A coach is £102 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average £203.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 44m.
Coach takes on average 22h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 37m faster (10h 44m by train vs 11h 21m by car) and roughly £110 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£203 vs £313). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9206+8547 | 6:59 Zurich HB | 11h52 | 18:51 Hendaye station | 1 change | |
| 9206+8547 | 6:59 Zurich HB | 11h37 | 18:36 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 1 change | |
9206+8413+ L51 (866429) | 6:59 Zurich HB | 11h12 | 18:11 Hendaye station | 2 changes | |
| 9206+8413+L51 (866429) | 6:59 Zurich HB | 11h08 | 18:07 Les Deux-Jumeaux | 2 changes | |
| 9206+8413+L51 (866429) | 6:59 Zurich HB | 10h58 | 17:57 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 2 changes | |
| 9210+8549 | 9:34 Zurich HB | 11h14 | 20:48 Hendaye station | 1 change | |
| 9210+8549 | 9:34 Zurich HB | 10h59 | 20:33 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 1 change | |
| 9210+8415+L51 (866435) | 9:34 Zurich HB | 10h26 | 20:00 Hendaye station | 2 changes | |
| 9210+8415+L51 (866435) | 9:34 Zurich HB | 10h21 | 19:55 Les Deux-Jumeaux | 2 changes | |
| 9210+8415+L51 (866435) | 9:34 Zurich HB | 10h11 | 19:45 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 2 changes | |
| 9218+12267+L51 (866439) | 11:34 Zurich HB | 10h43 | 22:17 Hendaye station | 2 changes | |
| 9218+12267+L51 (866439) | 11:34 Zurich HB | 10h38 | 22:12 Les Deux-Jumeaux | 2 changes | |
| 9218+12267+L51 (866439) | 11:34 Zurich HB | 10h28 | 22:02 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 2 changes | |
| 9222+8551 | 13:34 Zurich HB | 9h33 | 23:07 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 1 change | |
| 9222+8551 | 13:34 Zurich HB | 9h50 | 23:24 Hendaye station | 1 change | |
9226+ 3731+F51 (866519) | 15:34 Zurich HB | 17h02 | 8:36 Les Deux-Jumeaux | 2 changes | |
| 9226+3731+F51 (866519) | 15:34 Zurich HB | 16h52 | 8:26 Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure | 2 changes | |
| 9226+3731+F51 (866519) | 15:34 Zurich HB | 17h07 | 8:41 Hendaye station | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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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05 Sept
05 Sept
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06 Sept
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian
Switzerland
Spain
Trains from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 6 times per day, taking around 10h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £103 but you can travel from only £57 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 20:18. The fastest train covers the 937 km distance in 9h 49m.
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 £57
Distance 937 km |
Average train duration 10h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £103 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 9h 49m |
First train 4:45 |
Last train 20:18 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 £57
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | Intercités de nuit, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF | TGV Lyria, SNCF | Intercités de nuit, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Donostia-San Sebastian from £57. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a \Bistro TGV INOUI\" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV INOUI Duration
9h 49m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV INOUI Price
£136
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF | TGV Lyria
About
TGV Lyria is a high-speed train service connecting France and Switzerland, a joint venture between SNCF (French National Railway Company) and SBB (Swiss Federal Railways). These trains operate daily, offering up to 17 return journeys between the two countries. Key destinations include Paris, Dijon, Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, and Basel, with seasonal services to Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. TGV Lyria offers three travel classes: Standard, Première, and Première Signature, each with varying levels of comfort and services like Wi-Fi and catering options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | TGV Lyria Duration
10h 47m
Cheapest SNCF | TGV Lyria Price
£138
SNCF | TGV Lyria frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, at-seat service in First Class, Café-bar for snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional, additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | Intercités de nuit
About
SNCF Intercités de nuit is the regular overnight train service offered by France's national railway company, SNCF, since 2012. These trains, primarily using Corail coaches, provide a time-effective way to travel across France, connecting Paris to various destinations in the south, including the Alps, the Côte d'Azur, and the Pyrenees. Passengers can choose from reclining seats, 6-berth couchettes in second class, or 4-berth couchettes in first class, with the option to book an entire compartment for privacy. Services can include Wi-Fi, pre-ordered meals, and even shower access at select stations for first-class travelers. Popular routes include Paris to Nice, Toulouse, Briançon, and Lourdes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | Intercités de nuit Duration
16h 8m
Cheapest SNCF | Intercités de nuit Price
£103
SNCF | Intercités de nuit frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Vending machine with snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Duration
14h 6m
Cheapest Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) Price
£345
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) 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
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: Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £103, while the average price tends to be around £203.
The train journey from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian covers a distance of 937 km and takes approximately 9h 49m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is 937 km.
The first train from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian departs at 20:18.
Trains from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian.
To get from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Donostia-San Sebastian is Zurich HB, and it arrives at Gare de Saint-Jean-de-Luz-Ciboure.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is by coach, costing approximately £57.
Booking trains from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Swiss Alps, charming French countryside, and the beautiful Basque region.
A day trip from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible due to the travel time of 9h 49m and a distance of 937 km. However, there are 6 train services available per day.
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 Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Zurich and Donostia-San Sebastian
Most Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian trains use the Zürich HB to Gare de Saint Jean de Luz-Ciboure station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Donostia-San Sebastian train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Which Zurich station do trains to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from Zürich HB. The station is 2 km from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · £3 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · £0.90 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · £2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · £2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · £2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Zurich
More options for your journey from Zurich 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 Zurich
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San Sebastian Zurich to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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