Is There a High-Speed Train From San Sebastian to Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, you might be wondering if there is a high-speed train from San Sebastian to Madrid. The answer is yes! In fact, there are several options for traveling between these two cities.

Renfe

Renfe is the national railway company in Spain and operates many of the high-speed trains between major cities. The journey from San Sebastian to Madrid takes around 5 hours on a high-speed train.

Types of Trains

Renfe offers two types of high-speed trains: the AVE and the Alvia. The AVE is the fastest option, with speeds reaching up to 300 km/h (186 mph).

The Alvia is slightly slower, but still reaches speeds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph). Both trains offer comfortable seating and amenities such as Wi-Fi and food service.

Ticket Prices

Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. On average, expect to pay around €60-80 ($72-96 USD) for a one-way ticket.

Other Options

If you prefer not to take a high-speed train, there are other options available for traveling between San Sebastian and Madrid. You could take a regional train, which takes longer but is often cheaper than the high-speed options. Alternatively, you could drive or take a bus.

Driving

The drive from San Sebastian to Madrid takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes on average, depending on traffic conditions. However, parking in Madrid can be difficult and expensive, so this may not be the best option if you plan on spending time in the city.

Bus

There are several bus companies that offer services between San Sebastian and Madrid. The journey takes around 6-7 hours and ticket prices are generally cheaper than the high-speed train options. However, buses can be less comfortable than trains and may not offer amenities such as Wi-Fi or food service.

Conclusion

In summary, there is a high-speed train from San Sebastian to Madrid operated by Renfe. The journey takes around 5 hours and ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

If you prefer not to take the train, there are other options available such as driving or taking a bus. Whatever your preference, there are plenty of ways to travel between these two beautiful cities.