Costa Verde Express
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Costa Verde Express: Bilbao to Santiago
Thumbnails
Costa Verde Express
Exterior of Costa Verde Express
Common Lounges
Exterior of Costa Verde Express
Dining Area
Dining onboard
Grand Class Suite
Suite ensuite
Spain

Costa Verde Express: Bilbao to Santiago (Tour code: 13822)

Starts and Ends
Bilbao to
Santiago de Compostela
Travel Periods
10 Oct 26 - 02 Oct 27
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
Embark on a culinary and cultural adventure through Spain, exploring the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia aboard the Costa Verde Express.

Highlights

Experience Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, blending striking architecture with world-class contemporary art

Discover Cabrales traditions amid stunning Picos de Europa mountain scenery and cheese-making heritage

Wander through the historic streets of Santiago de Compostela, the celebrated endpoint of the Camino

6 days
From
AUD 9,280
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Embark on a six-day luxury rail journey through the heart of Northern Spain, where rich history, breathtaking landscapes and exceptional cuisine await. From the cultural treasures of Bilbao and Santander to the natural wonders of the Picos de Europa and the charm of Santiago de Compostela, each day offers unique experiences. Travel in comfort aboard a scenic train, enjoying guided visits, local delicacies and unforgettable coastal and mountain panoramas.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation in Grand Class Suites onboard the train
Each guest will be provided with a toiletry bag containing amenities and slippers
Complimentary standard Renfe train travel both before and after your tour. Please be aware that this service is not a private transfer & seat reservations are allocated automatically
Every day, enjoy a buffet-style breakfasts served on the train
Exceptional dining experiences for all dinners and lunches, whether served on board the train or in esteemed restaurants, complete with inclusive offerings of wine, soft drinks and coffee
Onboard the train, enjoy a welcome beverage and snack to commence your journey
All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and shows, as well as scheduled excursions and guided visits
Engage in a variety of onboard activities such as live music, performances, bar car parties and dancing
A memorable dinner and an end-of-trip celebration

Day 1 Bilbao Santander

Begin the journey at Bilbao’s historic Concordia Station, where the railway experience begins. Discover Bilbao and its fascinating blend of tradition, contemporary architecture and urban transformation. After lunch, continue to Santander, travelling through the scenic landscapes of the Cantabrian coast. Enjoy free time to explore the elegant Cantabrian capital before dinner and an overnight stay in Santander.

Overnight stay aboard Costa Verde Express. 

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Santander Santillana del Mar Llanes

Enjoy breakfast on board as the train makes its way to Cabezón de la Sal. From here, a coach takes you to the beautifully preserved medieval village of Santillana del Mar, one of Spain's cultural treasures.

After the visits and lunch, continue towards Asturias, following the scenic Cantabrian coast to a charming fishing village overlooking the sea. Enjoy dinner before an overnight stay at the destination.

Overnight stay aboard Costa Verde Express. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Llanes Arenas de Cabrales Oviedo

After breakfast, explore the spectacular natural surroundings of the Picos de Europa and Arenas de Cabrales, where dramatic mountains, traditional culture and stunning landscapes create one of the most evocative stages of the journey. After lunch, continue to Oviedo, the elegant capital of the Principality of Asturias. Discover the city’s historic centre before returning to the train for dinner and an overnight stay in Oviedo.

Overnight stay aboard Costa Verde Express. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Oviedo Gijón Luarca

Continue along the Asturian coast, passing maritime landscapes, charming towns and panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea. Stop in Gijón, a vibrant seaside city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and gastronomic character. In the afternoon, continue by rail towards Luarca, known as the White Villa of the Costa Verde. Enjoy free time to explore and soak up the town’s atmosphere before dinner and an overnight stay onboard.

Overnight stay aboard Costa Verde Express. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Luarca Ribadeo Taramundi Viveiro

Enjoy breakfast onboard as the journey continues into Galicia, travelling through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Atlantic coast. Discover Ribadeo and Taramundi, where traditional culture, natural beauty and rich ethnographic heritage offer an insight into the character of northern Spain. Continue to Viveiro, where dinner and an overnight stay await.

Overnight stay aboard Costa Verde Express. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Viveiro Ferrol Santiago de Compostela

On the final morning, breakfast is served as the train arrives in Ferrol. Say farewell to the crew before transferring by coach to the spiritual and cultural heart of Galicia—Santiago de Compostela. Explore the historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided tour, culminating in a farewell lunch to celebrate the journey. 

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

Costa Verde Express

GRAND CLASS DOUBLE SUITE:
The 24 Suites on the Costa Verde Express are meticulously designed to ensure a comfortable and luxurious onboard experience. The Grand-Class Suite, adorned with exquisite wood panelling, exudes a cosy and inviting ambiance. It boasts adjustable air-conditioning, a double bed, and additional amenities for your enhanced comfort, including a writing desk, wardrobe, luggage closet, minibar, and a safe. Each suite comes with a private, well-appointed bathroom featuring a shower, hairdryer, and a selection of welcome items and toiletries. Large windows allow you to immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery and the train's internal connectivity enables seamless movement throughout its length.

Grand Class Double Suite
Ensuite

Additional information

Official language
Spanish
Local currency
Euro

2026 Departure dates*:

  • 10 & 24 October

2027 Departure dates:

  • 15 & 29 May
  • 12 June
  • 18 September
  • 02 October

* Please note: The itinerary may differ slightly from that shown on our website, as the website itinerary reflects the 2027 departure. Minor changes apply to the 2026 departure.

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

What is the dress code onboard the train?

The atmosphere on board is one of relaxed nature. During the day dress for relaxed comfort for onboard the train and when embarking on excursions. We suggest wearing durable shoes for excursions, and please be prepared for change of weather. In the evening, guests have the option to choose a more formal outfit.

Which drinks are available aboard the train?

Complimentary wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, and coffee are provided during mealtimes. Outside of mealtimes, the lounge cars offer guests various options to purchase soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and water. Additionally, a thoughtfully curated menu of alcoholic beverages is available for purchase, encompassing wines, beers, and spirits, ensuring passengers can enjoy a delightful and refreshing experience while traveling onboard.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard the train?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi connectivity in all rooms and lounges. Each suite is equipped with a computer, and there is also a communal computer available in the Train Lounges (availability subject to carrier coverage).

Can special dietary preferences be requested?

Provided a detailed request has been made at time of booking – special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian and adhering to religious requirements, may be arranged.

Will I need to tip the train staff?

Gratuities for staff and guides are at the passenger’s discretion.

Is there air conditioning on board?

Onboard air-conditioning is provided, with individual control available for cabin air conditioning.

What is the luggage allowance for travelling guests onboard the train?

For ease while on board the train, it is recommended to utilise a travel bag or soft suitcase. Nevertheless, two large suitcases per room can be accommodated in the Suites, with staff onboard to help with loading the luggage.

Is it possible for individuals with mobility limitations to participate in the journey?

While the train has been renovated and features state-of-the-art technologies, it remains a historic and vintage train, lacking interior adaptations for wheelchair or walking frame access. Consequently, these trains are not considered accessible. However, individuals with reduced mobility who rely solely on wheelchair support outside the train can embark on the journey, provided they are accompanied by a companion to help.

Is smoking permitted onboard?

In Spain, smoking is not allowed in enclosed public spaces, including public transport or collective transport vehicles. Consequently, in compliance with existing regulations, travellers are prohibited from smoking while on board. It's important to note that train journeys typically do not exceed 3-4 hours.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

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