Getting from Barcelona to San Sebastián (and return)

Tucked in the Basque Country, close to the French border, the charming city of Donostia-San Sebastián (official name) is made up of a series of beaches linked together by well-designed boulevards as well as an ecclectic city center. With easy access between Barcelona and San Sebastián, you can easily explore the Northern part of Spain swinging from one city to the next. Relax on the beaches of San Sebastian, climb its surrounding mountains or tuck into its world-renown pintxos – San Sebastian will not disappoint.
Depending on how far in advance you are planning the trip, you can choose either the train, bus, airplane or driving yourself to cover the 550km between Barcelona and San Sebastián.

By plane

Airfares from Barcelona to San Sebastián are surprisingly expensive considering the proximity and substantial demand. Iberia flies the route regularly, with airfares starting from €140. Weekend airfares are more expensive. The San Sebastian Airport is located 22km from the city centre.
Start searching for flights from Barcelona to San Sebastian here:

By train

The Spanish national rail, Renfe, operates the Barcelona-San Sebastián route. It takes approximately 5hours 30minutes, and there are regular trains departing Barcelona Sants Station everyday. Ticket prices start from 79euros. Check the Renfe website for tickets.

By bus

The buses from Barcelona to San Sebastián are run by Vibasa. The journey takes approximately the same time as the train. There are several departures per day. Check Vibasa website to book the tickets in advance.
Return tickets cost approximately €53 per person. They are cheaper than the trains and are rather comfortable.

By car

If you prefer the independence of driving, renting a car in Spain is a convenient and fast way to travel. The 550km between Bilbao and San Sebastian can be covered in 5hours 20minutes via several AP motorways (toll roads).
Here’s a map (with the shortest route marked) to help with directions:

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Note:
* search the route on Google Maps exactly as mentioned above, otherwise you’ll get the directions to a different city.

Other related information: