Karoline
Traveller
25 comments
Posted 13 years ago
What is the best way to go from San Sebastian to Madrid? I would like trains without supplements, but when I use DB BAHN and choose Only local trains, nothing comes up. Maybe a local train to Irun and then something from there? Thank you!
Flo
Traveller
10724 comments
Hi!
I'd recommend to go with one of the two Alvia :arr: [u]https://rail.cc/en-type-country/alvia/renfe-alvia/30[/u] services with 6,50€ compulsory reservation:
San Sebastian 0842 - 1400 Madrid Chamartin
San Sebastian 1639 - 2200 Madrid Chamartin
There are two connections by regional trains with change of trains in Vitoria/Gasteiz
San Sebastian 0640 - 0848 Vitoria/Gasteiz 1335 - 1909 Madrid Chamartin
San Sebastian 1517 - 1726 Vitoria/Gasteiz 1800 - 2330 Madrid Chamartin
but these are both with MD trains :arr: [u]https://rail.cc/en-type-country/media-distancia/renfe-md/43[/u] so you would need 2x4€ reservation. However, there are reports that on some routes you do not need reservations for travel with MD trains, so it would be nice if you could ask locally if reservations are required on this route and then post the answer here. :)
Flo 8)
Karoline
Traveller
25 comments
Thank you again flow! I could find out if I need the reservation for the MD train - if not, I will take that train at 0640, if you have to have the reservation I will take the Alvia one at 08:42. You know everything! ;)
Flo
Traveller
10724 comments
Well, I'd assume that the MD trains on this route will need a reservation as does the Alvia. If you spend some time in San Sebastian before heading to Madrid, I'd recommend to ask at the station on the day you arrive whether you will need reservations for the MD or not.
If yes, go by the Alvia - it will be cheaper (6,50€) as the two MD reservations (2x4€).
If no, you can decide whether to take the slower but free or the more expensive but faster alternative.
[quote]You know everything! ;) [/quote]
Haha, well there are still some mysteries unsolved - so we are always happy if we get reports from travellers around Europe about train reservations, nice routes etc...
Flo 8)
Karoline
Traveller
25 comments
I will be sure to ask about the MD trains and if you need a reservation or not for future travellers, no matter which of the trains I decide to take. I might decide to do the Alvia train either way, since it's faster.
Well, hopefully I can contribute with some content after my mini-interrail!
Flo
Traveller
10724 comments
Thank you!
We are always happy with train informations, pictures, accomodation tips,...virtually anything that could help other travellers. ;)
nltrainer
Traveller
1405 comments
from what I have seen elsewhere;
MD=Media distancia trains ALL need to be reserved-except in Andalucia region (that is way south, around Sevilla/Malaga)
Flo
Traveller
10724 comments
It would be new to me if MD were free in Andalusia - but maybe it has changed since last year? They are definitely without reservation in Catalunya.