Train or flight
| Option | Duration | Indicative price | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct train (Renfe AVE and Avlo) | from 3 h 02 | from about 19 euros, average about 46 euros | Madrid-Chamartín to Santiago; about 7 direct trains a day, first at 6:30 on weekdays and last at 20:23 |
| Flight (Madrid-Santiago) | 1 h 15 to 1 h 20 in the air | from about 30 to 40 euros | Iberia consistently appears as direct; sources disagree on other airlines |
Distance: 486 km. Saturdays have fewer trains (4) and on Sundays the first leaves at 10:04.
How to choose
- Train: centre to centre with no airport checks.
- Flight: only if your flight leaves Barajas at a convenient time; allow for the transfer from Santiago airport.
- Booking: cheap fares go first, compare Renfe and the airlines for your date.
- More trips from Madrid: see excursions from Madrid.
What to do in Santiago
The cathedral, the old town and the food market fit in one day. The guided cathedral, museum and old town tour is the most complete. If you only want the cathedral, take the guided cathedral and museum tour. For food and local legends, the three-tour package: history, cuisine and mysteries.
FAQ
How long is the train from Madrid to Santiago? From 3 h 02 on the fastest direct train (Kombo, 3 November 2026).
Is the flight cheaper? Sometimes: from about 30 to 40 euros, but not always against train fares from about 19 euros.
Can I do it in a day? It is long, about 6 hours of train in total: better to stay a night.
