Options compared
| Option | Time | Price seen (one way) | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alvia train (Renfe) | about 4 h 55 to 5 h+ | typical fare around 62 EUR, advance fares from about 13 EUR | leaves from Chamartín; comfortable, scenic |
| Bus (Alsa) | about 5 h 40 | about 31 EUR on average | cheapest, several departures a day |
| Flight | about 1 h 10 | one example at 66 EUR; varies a lot | add airport transfers and check-in |
| Car | about 4 h 30 to 5 h, 470 km via the A-1 | fuel and tolls; parking in Donostia is expensive | useful to continue to the Basque coast and La Rioja |
For most travellers the train and the bus end up close in total time. The train is more comfortable and arrives in the centre; the bus is cheaper. The flight is only worth it if the fare is low and you travel with hand luggage.
Practical tips
The Alvia leaves from Madrid Chamartín, not Atocha: see our Madrid train stations guide and the page on hotels near Chamartín station if you have an early departure. Allow time to reach the station: public transport in Madrid explains the metro.
Where to sleep in San Sebastián
The Parte Vieja is the lively choice for food, while the Centro and Gros are quieter. Hotels are pricey in summer and during the film festival in September. Search hotels in San Sebastián on Booking.com and check free cancellation.
Planning tips
- Plan at least two nights: one long day each way is tiring.
- Book the train early for weekends and August.
- For other trips from the capital, see excursions from Madrid.
Times and fares: Trainline and Omio, read on 30 October 2026. La rédaction Madrid Authority.
