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Madrid, Community of Madrid to San Sebastián, Basque Country from $28: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
San Sebastián, Spain

How to Get from Madrid to San Sebastián: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$28 RideshareBest price
453 kmDistance
3h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid to San Sebastián with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Alsa
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$35-61
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
5h  26m
Estimated price
$28-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 453 km
Duration: 3h 23m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  35m
Estimated price
$32-54
Company
Renfe Viajeros
Train
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$48-69
Company
Iberia
Plane
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$48-369
Company
Renfe Viajeros
Train
Average Duration
7h  28m
Estimated price
$56-76
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$350-351
Company
Iberia
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$359-360
Company
Iberia
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
$360-361

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 03/03Tu 04/03We 05/03Th 06/03Fr 07/03Sa 08/03Su 09/03
Bus $37 $36 $34 $39 $47 $41 $47
Train $27 $18 $24 $32 $48 $32 $36
Fly $102 $66 $76 $100 $99 $90 $91

Traveling From Madrid to San Sebastian

The journey from Madrid to San Sebastian offers a striking contrast between the vibrant, bustling energy of Spain's capital and the serene, picturesque charm of the Basque coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Sebastian

San Sebastian boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Old Town (Parte Vieja)
• Known for its vibrant tapas bars.
• Bustling atmosphere with local markets.
La Concha
• Famous for its stunning beach and promenade.
• Elegant architecture and upscale dining options.
Gros
• Popular among surfers and young crowds.
• Offers trendy shops and local boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Sebastian's Attractions

Maximize your visit to San Sebastian by timing your adventures right.

La Concha Beach
Visit early in the morning for quieter sands and breathtaking sunrises.
Old Town (Parte Vieja)
Explore in the late afternoon to enjoy tapas and avoid peak lunchtime crowds.
Monte Igueldo
Go at sunset for stunning panoramic views and a magical atmosphere.

San Sebastian Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Sebastian enjoys a mild oceanic climate with comfortable summers and cool winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during late spring or early fall often offers the best weather, enhancing your travel experience while still avoiding the busiest tourist crowds.

Dining Recommendation in San Sebastian

In San Sebastian, trying pintxos at La Cuchara de San Telmo is a must, as these small, flavorful bites provide a snapshot of local ingredients and culinary creativity that sets them apart from Madrid’s traditional tapas scene. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce create a dining experience that feels distinctly Basque.

Madrid - San Sebastián operators

Explore transport companies operating between Madrid and San Sebastián, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano to San Sebastian

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
34-58

Bus from Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano to Estella

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
586-34
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Madrid-Chamartin to San Sebastian/Donostia

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
45-64

Train from Madrid-Principe Pio to San Sebastian/Donostia

Average Duration
7h 28m
Estimated price
53-72
Plane
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to San Sebastian (EAS)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
348-582

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Pamplona (PNA)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
348-583

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Bilbao (BIO)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
34-584
Rideshare
Website
blablacar.com

Rideshare from Madrid to Saint-Sébastien

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
26-26

Madrid to San Sebastián: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Madrid and San Sebastián offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Madrid to San Sebastian route typically include a selection of catering options. You can expect a trolley service that offers snacks, meals, and drinks. The trains, especially those operated by Renfe, may feature a café car where you can purchase refreshments. Ensure to check the menu available on the Renfe website before your trip for specific meal options.
• There are primarily two seating options on this route: First Class (Preferente) and Second Class (Turista). First Class seats are more spacious and offer more comfortable reclining options, along with complimentary services like snacks and priority boarding. Second Class seats are still comfortable but more basic. If you want a more luxurious experience, consider upgrading to First Class for added privacy and comfort.
• Multiple train operators service the Madrid to San Sebastian route, including Renfe and Euskotren. You can visit their websites at Renfe and Euskotren for schedules, ticket prices, and booking options. For transport schedules in San Sebastian, the local transport website Dbus can be very useful.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus ticket from Madrid to San Sebastian with ALSA, consider reserving a window seat to enjoy the scenic views of the Basque countryside during the journey, especially as you approach San Sebastian.
• Prepare an itinerary that includes a stopover for lunch or coffee in Burgos, which is a popular transfer point; the 'Estación de Autobuses de Burgos' has dining options, including cafes and bakeries, perfect for a quick bite while waiting for your connecting bus to San Sebastian.
• Upon arriving at 'Estación de Autobuses de San Sebastian', head to the information desk on the ground floor to gather local transport schedules or maps for navigating the city; San Sebastian's public transport, including buses and trams, can help you easily reach your accommodation.

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