Spain Travel Information
Planning Your International Trip
Traveling to San Sebastián
We’re so grateful you’ll be joining us in the beautiful Basque Country for our wedding celebration! To make your travel planning as smooth as possible, we’ve compiled this guide with everything you need to know. From required documents to navigating Spain’s efficient train system and finding the best routes to San Sebastián, you’ll find everything here to prepare you for an unforgettable journey. For our favorite local recommendations and places to stay, please visit our page on San Sebastián.
Required Documents
Passports
To enter Spain, all travelers must have a valid passport that has at least six months remaining before an expiration date. Double-check your passport’s validity before your trip, as processing times can be lengthy. If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you will need a passport book.
Visas
Starting in 2025, visitors from certain non-European countries, including the United States, must complete a new electronic travel authorization (ETIAS) before arriving in Spain or other Schengen countries. The fee is €7 to apply, and the form must be completed online before arrival.
Getting Around
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Renfe Trains
Spain’s national railway, Renfe, offers a comfortable, efficient, and scenic way to travel between major cities. With high-speed AVE trains, Renfe connects key destinations like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Bilbao, making it an excellent option for reaching San Sebastián. The AVE trains are known for their speed and scenic routes, and tickets can be purchased online in advance for the best prices and an assigned seat.
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Rail Passes
The Spain Rail Pass or Eurail Global Pass can offer flexibility and cost savings, but consider your travel needs and destinations before purchasing. These passes allow unlimited travel on certain routes, but most Spanish trains require paid seat reservations in advance, so planning is needed. Some regions in Spain are less accessible by train, so buses or flights may be faster and more convenient alternatives.
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Bus Travel
Spain’s comprehensive bus network offers a flexible, affordable way to explore the country. Buses are especially valuable for reaching areas not served by trains, making them ideal for venturing off the beaten path. Major companies like ALSA operate long-distance routes connecting cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and San Sebastián. These routes often have amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms.
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FlixBus
FlixBus is a popular choice for affordable, eco-friendly travel within Spain and across Europe. Known for low-cost fares, it connects Spanish cities with each other and with destinations beyond Spain. FlixBus is ideal for travelers looking for flexibility, as it often offers more scheduling options and competitive prices. With amenities like Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and spacious seating, FlixBus ensures a comfortable journey.
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Car Rental
Renting a car could be convenient for those wanting to explore Spain at their own pace, especially for visiting rural areas or coastal villages that may be harder to reach by train or bus. Be sure to consider Spain’s toll roads, parking rules, and fuel prices as well. Most rental agencies accept U.S. driver’s licenses. However, you may need to apply for an International Driver’s Permit, as some rental companies may require it.
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Domestic Flights
For longer distances or quick transfers, Europe’s budget airlines offer a fast and affordable way to travel. Popular carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling connect major cities across Spain and Europe, often at lower prices than trains. While these airlines can be a cost-effective choice, keep in mind they typically charge additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services, so check each airline’s policies to avoid surprises.
Planning Your Route
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Train
The Renfe train from Bilbao to San Sebastián takes about 3 hours and winds through scenic countryside and smaller towns. While slower than other methods, this is a peaceful and picturesque option for those with extra time.Bus
ALSA operates frequent, direct, buses from Bilbao to San Sebastián take about 1.5 hours. This is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to travel between the cities, with multiple daily departures and comfortable amenities.Car
Driving from Bilbao to San Sebastián takes about 1 hour along the AP-8 highway, which offers stunning coastal and mountainous views. Rental cars are available at Bilbao’s airport and train station, and this is a great option for those looking to explore at their own pace. -
Train
The AVE train from Madrid to San Sebastián takes about 5 hours and offers a scenic route. Departing from Madrid’s Chamartín Station, trains arrive at San Sebastián’s central station, conveniently located near Old Town. Booking in advance is recommended for the best fares.Flight
Direct flights from Madrid to San Sebastián are available and take approximately 1 hour. While flights are shorter, you’ll also need to account for travel time to and from airports.Bus
ALSA offers direct buses from Madrid to San Sebastián, which takes about 6-7 hours. This budget-friendly option is comfortable and scenic, with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning on board. -
Train
The Renfe train from Barcelona to San Sebastián takes about 6 hours. This route allows you to take in the Spanish countryside and arrive directly in San Sebastián.Flight
Direct flights from Barcelona to San Sebastián take about 1 hour. Alternatively, you can fly into Bilbao and take a scenic 1-hour bus or car ride along the coast to San Sebastián.Bus
ALSA also operates direct buses from Barcelona to San Sebastián, with travel times around 7-8 hours. This route provides a relaxing and affordable way to enjoy the scenery across Spain. -
Flight
The fastest way to reach San Sebastián from London is by air. Direct flights aren’t typically available, but you can fly to nearby cities like Bilbao or Biarritz. From Bilbao, San Sebastián is about an hour away by bus, car, or train, and from Biarritz, it’s around 45 minutes by car, bus, or train.Train
For a scenic journey, take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2.5 hours), then transfer to a TGV train to Biaritz (5 hours). From Biaritz, you can take a final train to San Sebastián, which takes around 45 minutes. Although this route is longer, it offers beautiful views of the French and Spanish countryside. -
Train to Bordeaux
Take the TGV from Paris to Bordeaux, which takes about 2 hours. Bordeaux is renowned for its wine, and an overnight stop here is ideal for wine tastings at one of the many vineyards or wine bars. Consider booking a full or half-day winery tour to maximize your time here.Continuing to San Sebastián
From Bordeaux, you can take a train or bus or drive along the beautiful Basque coast to reach San Sebastián.Bus
FlixBus and ALSA offer buses from Bordeaux to San Sebastián, which take approximately 3.5-4 hours. It’s an affordable, comfortable option for crossing into Spain. -
Flight
For travel from Rome, the quickest option is to fly to Bilbao via a connecting flight, which takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the layover. Once in Bilbao, San Sebastián is a scenic 1-hour journey by bus or car.Train & Ferry
For a unique (and much longer), scenic route, take the train or ferry from Rome to Barcelona, followed by another train transfer to San Sebastián. This multi-step trip takes longer but offers a memorable travel experience across Italy, France, and Spain.Bus
FlixBus offers routes from Rome to San Sebastián with transfers, typically in major cities like Barcelona. While this is a longer route, it’s affordable for those who want to experience multiple stops along the way.
Travel Tips
Currency
Spain uses the Euro (€). For smaller establishments, having some cash on hand is a good idea, though credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Language
Spanish is the primary language, but many people in San Sebastián also speak Basque. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, though knowing a few basic phrases in Spanish can be helpful.
Packing Tips
San Sebastián’s coastal autumn weather can vary, so pack layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets and coastal paths. Early October weather can be rainy and chilly, much like the PNW.
Using Your U.S. Phone in Europe
Check with your phone provider to see if they offer an international plan that fits your needs. Many major carriers have daily or monthly options for Europe. Free Wi-Fi is also widely available in many public areas, restaurants, and hotels.
Book Flights and Accommodations Early
Booking in advance can help secure the best rates and availability, especially for popular destinations like San Sebastián. Aim for 3-6 months ahead for flights and accommodations.
Use Trusted Websites
Stick to reputable sites or direct airline and hotel websites when booking travel online. Be cautious of third-party websites offering unusually low prices, always check reviews and verify site authenticity before entering any payment information.
Stay Organized
Keep digital copies of your passport, tickets, and itinerary if you can access them quickly while traveling. Apps like Google Drive or Apple Wallet are useful for storing travel documents.