Getting to the Camino del Norte

So you’ve booked your adventure on the Camino del Norte. Here’s how to get to and from the trail!

The information below about times and frequency was correct at the time of publishing. Please be aware that this may vary according to season. For accurate information at the time of travel check the websites given for the appropriate journey. This list is not exhaustive. For more intricate travel itineraries, we advise seeking assistance from a travel specialist.

International flights

Starting in…

• San Sebastian or Bilbao: Best international airports are Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), Paris (CDG / ORY) or Bordeaux (BOD)
• Santander or Gijon: Best international airports are Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN)
• Ribadeo: Best international airports are Madrid (MAD), A Coruna (LCG) or Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ)
• Ending in Santiago de Compostela: Best departure international airports are Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ), A Coruna (LCG) or Madrid (MAD)

Local transport

You can easily make local train bookings through the Spanish Railways RENFE website, the French Railways SNCF website (usually opening about 6 weeks before the travel date), or the Rail Europe website. Additionally, for bus travel, you may consider companies like ALSA, FlixBus and Express Bouricott. Trains can generally be booked 60 to 90 days in advance online. Buses can generally be booked a month in advance online.

Travel to San Sebastian / Donostia

There are many ways you can travel to San Sebastian / Donostia to begin your full-length Camino adventure. Below, you’ll find the key details about the airport, train station, and bus station in the city, along with a list of recommended routes for your journey to this destination.

AIRPORT: San Sebastian / Donostia Airport (EAS) is located 20km from the city centre. Flights from Madrid and Barcelona arrive here regularly. Upon arrival, you have the option to reach the city centre using the airport shuttle bus or a taxi.

TRAIN STATION: The main train station in San Sebastian is called “Estación de San Sebastián” or “Donostia Geltokia” in Basque. It is also sometimes referred to as “San Sebastián-Donostia” station.

BUS STATION: The main bus station in San Sebastian is called “Estación de Autobuses de San Sebastián” or “San Sebastián Bus Station” in English.

Recommended routes

MADRID TO SAN SEBASTIAN: 458km

• FLY: From Madrid Airport (MAD) guests can fly direct to San Sebastian / Donostia Airport (EAS).
• TRAIN: From Madrid, guests have the option to take the train to San Sebastian. Trains from Madrid to San Sebastian have multiple daily departures during the day, with high-speed AVE services offering more frequent options. The train journey typically takes around 6-7 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Madrid to San Sebastian, Spain. The journey by bus typically takes several hours, and there are various bus companies that operate on this route.

BARCELONA TO SAN SEBASTIAN: 568km

• FLY: From Barcelona Airport (BCN) guests can fly direct to San Sebastian / Donostia Airport (EAS).
• TRAIN: From Barcelona-Sants, guests have the option to take the train to San Sebastian. Trains from Barcelona to San Sebastian have multiple daily departures. The train journey typically takes around 6-7 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Barcelona to San Sebastian, Spain. The journey by bus typically takes 7-8 hours, and there are various bus companies that operate on this route.

PARIS TO SAN SEBASTIAN: 822km

• FLY: Guests flying from Paris have the option of taking a direct flight to Biarritz Airport (BIQ). Upon arriving at Biarritz Airport, they can use the airport shuttle service that connects Biarritz Airport to San Sebastian. The bus journey takes around 1 hour.
• TRAIN: Guests travelling from Paris have the option to take a direct train to Bayonne, with multiple daily departures available throughout the day. The train journey from Paris to Bayonne typically takes around 3-4 hours. Upon reaching Bayonne, guests can easily transfer to a bus service heading to San Sebastian, which takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• BUS: Direct bus services are available from Paris to San Sebastian, Spain, with a typical travel duration of 12-13 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, providing transportation options between the two cities.

BORDEAUX TO SAN SEBASTIAN: 240km

• TRAIN: There are multiple daily departures, and the time takes around 3 to 4 hours. Guests can book tickets on the official website of SNCF, the French national railway company.
• BUS: There are bus services operating between Bordeaux and San Sebastian. The bus journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on the route and stops. Companies like FlixBus and ALSA offer this route, and you can check their websites for schedules and ticket bookings.

BILBAO TO SAN SEBASTIAN: 105km

• BUS or TRAIN: The most efficient option to travel from Bilbao to San Sebastián is by bus, which takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the train, which takes around 2-3 hours.
• TAXI: Guests have the option to arrange for a private taxi service from Bilbao to San Sebastian, with an approximate travel time of 1.5 hours. However, it is advisable to agree upon the fare and mode of payment before accepting the services to ensure a smooth experience.

Travel to Bilbao

There are many ways you can travel to Bilbao to begin your Camino Norte adventure. Below, you’ll find the key details about the airport, train station, and bus station in the city, along with a list of recommended routes for your journey.

AIRPORT: Bilbao Airport (BIO), also known as Bilbao International Airport, is 12km north of the city centre of Bilbao, Spain. The journey from the airport to the city centre typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic conditions. There are also public transportation options, such as buses that can take you to the city centre from the airport.

TRAIN STATION: Bilbao’s main train station, Bilbao–Abando is conveniently located in the heart of the city by the west bank of the Ria Del Nerion. It is the central hub for regional and long-distance services connecting Bilbao with various cities and towns in Spain and even some international destinations.

BUS STATION: Bilbao Intermodal, previously known as Termibus, is the main bus station of Bilbao and serves as a hub for regional and long-distance bus services. It is located near the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers arriving or departing by bus.

Recommended routes

MADRID TO BILBAO: 400KM

• FLY: From Madrid Airport (MAD) guests can fly direct to Bilbao Airport (BIO).
• TRAIN: Trains from Madrid to Bilbao have multiple daily departures during the day, with high-speed AVE services offering more frequent options. The train journey typically takes around 5-6 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Madrid to Bilbao, Spain. The journey by bus typically takes several hours, and there are various bus companies that operate on this route.

BARCELONA TO BILBAO: 600KM

• FLY: From Barcelona Airport (BCN) guests can fly direct to Bilbao Airport (BIO).
• TRAIN: From Barcelona-Sants, you have the option to take the train to San Sebastian. Trains from Barcelona to San Sebastian have multiple daily departures during the day. The train journey typically takes around 7 to 9 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Barcelona to San Sebastian, Spain. The journey by bus typically takes 7 to 8 hours, and there are various bus companies that operate on this route.

PARIS TO BILBAO: 920KM

• FLY: If flying from Paris, you have the option of taking a direct flight to Bilbao Airport (BIO).
• TRAIN: If travelling from Paris you have the option to take a direct train to Bayonne, with multiple daily departures available throughout the day. The train journey from Paris to Bayonne typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Upon reaching Bayonne, guests can easily transfer to a bus service heading to Bilbao, which takes around 2 hours.
• BUS: Direct bus services are available from Paris to Bilbao, Spain, with a typical travel duration of 12 to 13 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, providing transportation options between the two cities.

Travel to Santander

There are many ways you can travel to Santander to begin your Camino Norte adventure. Below, you’ll find the key details about the airport, train station, and bus station in the city, along with a list of recommended routes for your journey.

AIRPORT: Santander Airport (SDR), officially Seve Ballesteros–Santander Airport is located in Camargo, 5km away from the city. Frequent bus transfer services operate between Santander and the airport, with buses departing every 30 minutes. Additionally, taxi services are readily available at the airport for your convenience.

TRAIN STATION: Santander’s railway station is called Estación de tren de Santander and is located in the city centre, opposite the bus and coach station. The station offers direct train services that run regularly to various destinations within Spain.

BUS STATION: Santander’s bus and coach station is in the city centre, offering regular bus services, with numerous national coach connections and some international ones. It is located opposite Santander’s railway station.

Recommended routes

MADRID TO SANTANDER: 450KM

• FLY: From Madrid Airport (MAD) you can fly direct to Santander Airport (SDR).
• TRAIN: From Madrid, you have the option to take the train to Santander’s railway station. Trains from Madrid to Santander have multiple daily departures during the day, with high-speed AVE services offering more frequent options. The train journey typically takes around 4-5 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Madrid to Santander. The journey by bus typically takes 5-6 hours and there are various bus companies that operate on this route.

BARCELONA TO SANTANDER: 700KM

• FLY: From Barcelona Airport (BCN) guests can fly direct to Santander Airport (SDR).
• TRAIN: The journey between Barcelona and Santander usually involves one change of train. Trains from Barcelona to Santander have multiple daily departures. The train journey typically takes around 7-8 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Barcelona to Santander. Various services provide direct routes with an average travel time of approximately 10 hours, while some other services entail transfers during the journey.

Travel to Gijón

There are many ways you can travel to Gijón to begin your Camino Norte adventure. Below, you’ll find the key details about the airport, train station, and bus station in the city, along with a list of recommended routes for your journey.

AIRPORT: Asturias Airport (OVD), situated in Castrillón, is only a 25-minute drive from Gijón. It offers air connections to major Spanish cities, making it the closest airport to Gijón and the sole international airport in Asturias, Spain. Airport shuttle buses are available daily, with a frequency of approximately one bus per hour. Additionally, convenient taxi services are also accessible at the airport.

TRAIN STATION: The main train station in Gijón is called “Estación de Gijón” or “Gijón Railway Station.” It serves as the central hub for train travel in the city, connecting Gijón to various destinations within Spain. The train station is situated near the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers arriving or departing by train.

BUS STATION: An alternative way to reach Gijón is by bus. There are direct and scheduled bus routes connecting the city with various destinations, including Madrid, Barcelona, Santander, A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela and more. Moreover, several companies provide routes between Gijón and numerous towns within Asturias.

Recommended routes

MADRID TO GIJÓN: 460KM

• FLY: From Madrid Airport (MAD) guests can fly direct to Asturias Airport (OVD).
• TRAIN: From Madrid, guests have the option to take the train to Gijón railway station. Trains from Madrid to Gijón have multiple daily departures during the day, with high-speed AVE services offering more frequent options. The train journey typically takes around 5-6 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Madrid to Gijón. The journey by bus typically takes 5-6 hours and there are various bus companies that operate on this route. Most services provide direct routes, while some other services entail transfers during the journey.

BARCELONA TO GIJÓN: 860KM

• FLY: Our top suggestion for travelling to Gijón from Barcelona is by taking a direct flight. Guests can fly directly from Barcelona Airport (BCN) to Asturias Airport (OVD), making the journey more convenient and time-efficient.
• TRAIN: The journey between Barcelona and Gijón usually involves one change of train. Trains from Barcelona to Gijón have multiple daily departures during the day. The train journey typically takes around 8-11 hours.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Barcelona to Gijón. Most services require at least one transfer en route to Gijón. The travel time is around 15-17 hours.

Travel to Ribadeo

There are many ways you can travel to Ribadeo to begin your Camino Norte adventure. Below, you’ll find the key details about the airport, train station, and bus station in the city, along with a list of recommended routes for your journey.

AIRPORT: Ribadeo does not have its own airport. Instead, the nearest airports are Asturias Airport (OVD), A Coruña Airport (LCG) and Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ). From these three airports, you have the option to take a bus, train or hire a private taxi to reach Ribadeo.

TRAIN STATION: Ribadeo’s train station is called “Estación de Ribadeo” or “Ribadeo Railway Station.” It serves as the main train station in the town, providing connections to other cities and destinations within Spain. However, train connections might not be as frequent as other major cities.

BUS STATION: An alternative way to reach Ribadeo is by bus. There are direct and scheduled bus routes connecting the city with various destinations, including Madrid, Barcelona, Gijón, A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela and more.

Recommended routes

MADRID TO RIBADEO: 580KM

• FLY: Travellers departing from Madrid Airport (MAD) can opt for direct flights to one of the three airports that serve Ribadeo: Asturias Airport (OVD), A Coruña Airport (LCG), and Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ). From any of these three airports, guests have the flexibility to choose between various transportation options, including buses, trains, or private taxis, to conveniently reach Ribadeo.
• TRAIN: The trip between Madrid and Ribadeo involves at least one train change, and the frequency of trains may not be as high as some other routes. The train journey usually takes around 9-10 hours to reach Ribadeo from Madrid.
• BUS: There are several bus services that connect Madrid to Ribadeo. The journey by bus typically takes 9-10 hours and there are various bus companies that operate on this route. Most services will have bus transfers during the journey.

ASTURIAS AIRPORT (OVD) | A CORUÑA AIRPORT (LCG) | SANTIAGO AIRPORT (SCQ)

From any of these three airports, you can select from a range of transportation options, including buses, trains, or private taxis, for their journey to Ribadeo. Some airports may offer direct services to Ribadeo, while others provide shuttle services to their respective city centres. From there, guests can choose between direct trains or buses to reach Ribadeo based on their preference for time or convenience.

When available, hiring a private taxi is also an option. However, it is advisable to agree upon the fare and mode of payment before accepting the services to ensure a smooth experience.

• Asturias Airport (OVD) to Ribadeo – 95km
• A Coruña Airport (LCG) to Ribadeo – 140km
• Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) to Ribadeo – 160km

Travel from Santiago de Compostela

Whether you are concluding a long journey or embarking on a new one, we have compiled essential details about the airport, train station, and bus station in Santiago de Compostela for your convenience. Below, you’ll also find a list of recommended routes for arriving, departing, or venturing further on your adventures.

AIRPORT: From Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) you can fly to most major European cities as well as cities in the United Kingdom including London, Manchester, Liverpool and Dublin. There are a range of airlines that offer flights from Santiago de Compostela.

TRAIN STATION: Santiago de Compostela Railway Station is located in the city centre of Santiago de Compostela, making it convenient for travellers to access various parts of the city easily. The station serves both long-distance and regional trains, connecting Santiago de Compostela to major cities in Spain and neighbouring regions.

BUS STATION: The main bus station in Santiago de Compostela is called “Estación de Autobuses de Santiago de Compostela.” The bus station is located near the city centre of Santiago de Compostela, making it easily accessible to travellers. The station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting Santiago de Compostela to various cities and towns within the region and beyond.

Recommended routes

SANTIAGO to A CORUNA Airport (LCG): 65KM

An alternative option for arriving at or departing from Santiago is A Coruña Airport (LCG), also known as Alvedro Airport. This international airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, connecting travellers to various destinations. A Coruña Airport is situated 65 kms away from Santiago de Compostela and can typically be reached by a 1 to 1.5-hour drive. The airport’s convenient location and flight offerings make it a viable choice for those travelling to or from Santiago and the surrounding region.

SANTIAGO TO MADRID: 600KM

• FLY: Direct flights from Santiago to Madrid Airport (MAD) take around 1 to 2 hours.
• TRAINS: There are high-speed AVE trains operated by Renfe that run between Santiago de Compostela and Madrid. These trains offer frequent daily departures, with the journey taking around 5 to 6 hours.
• BUS: Buses operated by various companies provide regular services between Santiago de Compostela and Madrid. The bus journey usually takes around 7 to 8 hours.

SANTIAGO TO BARCELONA: 1100KM

• FLY: The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by taking a direct flight from Santiago Airport (SCQ) to Barcelona Airport (BCN). Airlines such as Vueling, Iberia, and Ryanair offer regular flights on this route, and the flight is around 2-3 hours.
• TRAINS: High-speed AVE trains operated by Renfe connect Santiago de Compostela with Barcelona. The journey takes around 7 to 8 hours, and there are several daily departures. The train journey offers scenic views of the Spanish countryside and can be a comfortable and enjoyable travel option.
• BUS: Long-distance buses also provide a cost-effective way to travel between Santiago and Barcelona. The journey by bus takes approximately 12 to 14 hours, depending on the route and stops. Several bus companies operate services on this route, offering different schedules and amenities.

Journey beyond Santiago

Below are some popular destinations to travel to by bus or train starting from Santiago de Compostela.

Finisterre

Finisterre is approximately 87km from Santiago de Compostela when travelling by road. Finisterre is a popular destination for pilgrims who continue their journey beyond Santiago de Compostela to reach what was historically considered the “end of the world” on the western coast of Spain. There are regular bus services that operate between Santiago and Finisterre; the journey takes around 2 to 3.5 hours. The frequency of departures may vary based on the day of the week and the time of year, but there are usually multiple daily departures.

Porto – Portugal

The distance between Porto, Portugal, and Santiago is approximately 210km when travelling by road. Guests can travel between Porto and Santiago de Compostela by train or bus. The train journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, while the bus journey takes around 4 to 5 hours.