How Much Is Train Fare From Madrid to San Sebastián?

By Anna Duncan

Travelling by train from Madrid to San Sebastián is a convenient and affordable way to explore the scenic beauty of Spain. The journey covers a distance of approximately 450 kilometers and takes around 5 hours, depending on the train you choose to travel on. In this article, we will discuss how much the train fare costs for this route.

Types of Trains

There are two types of trains that operate between Madrid and San Sebastián – Renfe and Euskotren. Renfe is a national railway company that offers high-speed trains, while Euskotren operates regional trains within the Basque Country.

Renfe

Renfe trains are faster and more comfortable than Euskotren trains. They offer various classes of travel, such as Preferente (First Class), Turista (Second Class), Turista Plus (Premium Economy), and Promo (Economy). The fare for each class varies depending on the time of booking, demand, and availability.

  • Preferente: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from €75 to €110.
  • Turista: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from €35 to €55.
  • Turista Plus: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from €50 to €75.
  • Promo: The cost of a one-way ticket ranges from €20 to €40.

Euskotren

Euskotren operates regional trains within the Basque Country. These trains are slower than Renfe but offer affordable fares for budget travellers. There is only one class of travel available on Euskotren trains.

  • General: The cost of a one-way ticket is €19.45.

Booking Tickets

You can book your train tickets online from the official websites of Renfe and Euskotren. The earlier you book, the better chances you have of getting cheaper fares. It is recommended to book your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance to get the best deals.

Tips for Saving Money

  • Book in Advance: As mentioned earlier, booking your tickets in advance can help you save money.
  • Travel Off-Peak: Travelling during off-peak hours can also help you get cheaper fares.
  • Use Discount Cards: If you are a frequent traveller, consider purchasing discount cards offered by Renfe or Euskotren to get discounted fares on your train journeys.

In Conclusion

The train fare from Madrid to San Sebastián varies depending on the type of train and class of travel you choose. Renfe offers high-speed trains with various classes of travel, while Euskotren operates regional trains with only one class available.

Booking your tickets in advance and travelling during off-peak hours can help you save money on train fare. We hope this article has been informative and helps you plan your journey efficiently!