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2-week Northern Spain Train Itinerary
Start
Madrid
Duration
2 weeks
Type
One way
Legs
6
Share
Itinerary Overview
Leg 1
From
Madrid
to
Santander
Leg 2
From
Santander
to
Bilbao
Leg 3
From
Bilbao
to
San Sebastian
Leg 4
From
San Sebastian
to
Pamplona
Leg 5
From
Pamplona
to
Barcelona
Leg 6
From
Barcelona
to
Madrid
Leg 1: Madrid to Santander
What to do in Santander?
Scenic Coast
: Stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, beautiful beaches to relax on, waterfront promenades.
Cultural Attractions
: Centro Botin (arts center), Palacio de la Magdalena.
Outdoor Activities
: Sailing, surfing, hiking in the nearby Picos de Europa mountains.
Leg 2: Santander to Bilbao
What to do in Bilbao?
Architectural Marvels
: Iconic Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry.
Culinary Excellence
: Numerous pintxo bars and Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing gourmet dishes.
Cultural Richness
: The Fine Arts Museum, the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and vibrant local festivals.
Leg 3: Bilbao to San Sebastian
What to do in San Sebastian?
Gastronomy
: Pintxos-bars, Michelin-starred restaurants and food markets.
Beautiful Beaches
: La Concha, Zurriola.
Historic and Cultural Sites
: Old town, San Telmo Museum, Miramar Palace.
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Leg 4: San Sebastian to Pamplona
What to do in Pamplona?
Historic and Cultural Landmarks
: Pamplona Cathedral, walk along ancient city walls.
Running of the Bulls
: World-famous San Fermin Festival taking place in July.
Old Town
: Charming plazas, tapas bars and vibrant nightlife.
Leg 5: Pamplona to Barcelona
What to do in Barcelona?
Architectural Wonders
: Gaudi's masterpieces: Sagrada Familia, Park Güel & the Gaudi Houses.
History and Art
: Palau de la Musica, Gothic Quarter, the MACNA, Picasso Museu.
Beaches and Nightlife
: Barceloneta beach, El Raval for bars and nightclubs.
Leg 6: Barcelona to Madrid
What to do in Madrid?
Historic Squares and Royal Palaces
: Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, grand Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral.
Museums and Art
: Home to the "Golden Triangle of Art": Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.
Nightlife and tapas
: Many bars and clubs, decilious tapas in taverns / gastro markets.
Recommended
Train
|
Direct
4h10 to 4h20
Departure:
Madrid Chamartin
Spain
Arrival:
Estación de Santander
Spain
Operator(s):
Renfe
(Alvia)
Additional Information
There are 2-3 trains a day.
Other options exist with a transfer.
Book several days/weeks ahead to benefit from best pricing.
Recommended Duration
2 days in Santander.
Recommended
Bus
|
Direct
1h10-1h30
Departure:
Estación de Santander
Spain
Arrival:
Bilbao Intermodal
Spain
Operator(s):
ALSA
Additional Information
There are multiple buses each hour.
Recommended Duration
1-2 days in Bilbao.
Recommended
Train
|
Direct
2h00
Departure:
San Sebastián - Donostia
Spain
Arrival:
Pamplona - Iruña
Spain
Operator(s):
Renfe
(Alvia)
Additional Information
One daily direct train (at 7AM).
Other options involve transfers and take up to 3:30 (they are also usually more expensive).
Recommended Duration
1 day in Pamplona.
Recommended
Train
|
Direct
4h00
Departure:
Pamplona - Iruña
Spain
Arrival:
Barcelona Sants
Spain
Operator(s):
Renfe
(Alvia or InterCity)
Additional Information
2 to 3 direct trains per day.
Book severald days/weeks ahead as the train can be fully booked.
Note that other options exist (with transfer).
Recommended Duration
3-4 days in Barcelona.
Subscribe
Recommended
Alternative
Bus
|
Direct
1h10 to 1h20
Departure:
Bilbao Intermodal
Spain
Arrival:
San Sebastian Bus Station
Spain
Operator(s):
ALSA
Additional Information
There are numerous buses throughout the day (some tend to sold out, make sure you book ahead if you need a specific timeslot).
The alternative option involves a train but takes significantly longer (around 2h40).
I would also suggest to consult BlaBlaCar for a ride to San Sebastian.
Recommended Duration
2 days in San Sebastian.
Recommended
Alternative
Train
|
Direct
2h30 to 2h45
Departure:
Barcelona Sants
Spain
Arrival:
Madrid Puerta de Atocha
Spain
Operator(s):
Iryo
Additional Information
Frequent trains throughout the day.
Book several weeks ahead to benefit from best price.
Recommended Duration
2-3 days in Madrid.