Want to take a trip from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela? Traveling directly is most efficiently done by flying from nearby Bilbao, as other forms of transport take significantly longer with bus and train trips exceeding 11 hours.

Good Places to Stop En Route

The scenic 600km journey between these two cities offers many attractions. Transportation connections are excellent, particularly by bus, making it feasible to explore various stops along the way. Consider two primary routes: the coastal route and the ‘Camino Frances’ route.

Coastal Route

This route boasts picturesque views along the Atlantic coast and includes stops at the following cities:

• Bilbao: Home to the Guggenheim Museum.
• Picos de Europa: Known as Spain’s most beautiful mountain range.
• Oviedo: A chance to enjoy local cider and the region’s unique Asturian cuisine, as well as visit ancient Pre-Romanesque churches.
• Playa de las Catedrales: Often regarded as Spain’s most beautiful beach.
• A Coruña: Famous for the Torre de Hércules Roman lighthouse and a vibrant tapas scene.

Camino Frances Route

This route is named after the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage path and leads you through several significant cities:

• Logroño: The capital of the Rioja wine region and a top destination for tasting tapas.
• Burgos: Home to one of Spain’s most breathtaking cathedrals.
• Leon: Offers complimentary tapas with drinks.

How to Get from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela by Plane

While there are no direct flights from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, flights from nearby Bilbao are available, providing a convenient alternative.

How to Get from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela by Train

A single train option exists, taking roughly 11 hours and costing between 20€ and 65€. This mode is typically quicker and more cost-effective than bus travel, allowing passengers to arrive with less hassle.

How to Get from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela by Bus

The bus journey takes between 11 and 13 hours and costs approximately 60€. An advantage of traveling by bus is the option for overnight travel, which can enhance convenience.

How to Get from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela by Car

For those opting to drive, there are two main routes. The more direct route, albeit slightly slower due to poorer road conditions, covers approximately 730km and takes about eight hours. Alternatively, a longer but quicker route through Vitoria, Burgos, Leon, and Ponferrada spans around 780km and takes roughly seven hours.

For more information on traveling in Spain, consider looking into additional resources about road trips and car rentals in the region.