El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela

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El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela

El Transcantábrico

El Transcantábrico

El Transcantábrico

Lounge

Common Area Lounge

Bar Lounge

Suite (double)

Suite (twin)

Starts and Ends

San Sebastian to
Santiago de Compostela

Travel Periods

03 Oct 26 - 23 Oct 27

Experience

Travel Style

Rail Journeys

Highlights

The Guggenheim Museum, recognised as one of the 20th century's finest architectural achievements, designed by Frank Gehry

A faithful reproduction of the original Altamira cave in Santillana del Mar, created using state-of-the-art technology and scientific knowledge

Discover the dramatic mountains, spectacular gorges and breathtaking landscapes of the Picos de Europa.

8 days

From

AUD 19,439

per person, twin share

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All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Discover the charm of northern Spain aboard El Transcantábrico, a luxury train journey from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela. Explore vibrant cities, medieval towns, coastal treasures, and natural wonders such as the Picos de Europa and Las Catedrales Beach. With guided tours, fine dining, and unmatched comfort, this eight-day experience offers an ideal combination of culture, history, and stunning landscapes — all enjoyed from the elegance of a moving hotel.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation in Grand Luxury Suites onboard the train

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

Onboard the train, enjoy a welcome beverage and snack to commence your journey with a touch of elegance

Every day, enjoy both à la carte and 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

Each guest will be provided with a toiletry bag containing amenities and slippers

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

The onboard team of El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is available around the clock, trained to provide personalised assistance in multiple languages and to assist with luggage collection

A memorable dinner and an end-of-trip celebration

Itinerary

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Day 1 San Sebastian Bilbao Carranza

Reception in San Sebastian at 1:00 p.m., followed by a visit to the city and lunch. Afterwards, continue to Bilbao, where the El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo journey begins. Meet the crew and settle into your suite as the train begins its journey through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain. Enjoy the first dinner on board before an overnight stay in Carranza.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Carranza Bilbao Santander

After breakfast onboard, continue towards Bilbao and discover the city’s transformation, where contemporary architecture, industrial heritage and cultural life meet along the estuary. Following lunch, continue by rail to Santander, travelling through some of the most representative landscapes of the Cantabrian coast. Enjoy free time to explore Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria, before returning for dinner. Overnight in Santander.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Santander Potes Comillas Cabezón de la Sal

After breakfast, venture into the heart of Cantabria to explore the surroundings of the Picos de Europa, where dramatic landscapes, rich heritage and enduring traditions showcase the character of northern Spain. Discover charming mountain villages and places of cultural significance before returning to the train. Enjoy dinner onboard, followed by an overnight stay in Cabezón de la Sal.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Cabezón de la Sal Santillana del Mar Llanes

The morning begins with a visit to Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns. Stroll through its charming cobbled streets and historic centre before returning to the train for lunch. In the afternoon, continue into Asturias along the scenic Cantabrian coast to Llanes, a picturesque fishing town overlooking the sea. Enjoy some free time to explore at leisure before dinner and an overnight stay in Llanes.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Llanes Picos de Europa Oviedo

After breakfast, return to the spectacular surroundings of the Picos de Europa, where dramatic mountains, deep gorges and pristine landscapes create one of the most memorable stages of the journey. Continue to Oviedo, the elegant capital of the Principality of Asturias, and enjoy free time to explore its historic centre and soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere. Return to the train for dinner and an overnight stay onboard.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Oviedo Gijón Luarca

The journey continues along the Asturian coast, with maritime landscapes, charming villages and panoramic views across the Cantabrian Sea. Stop in Gijón, a vibrant coastal city celebrated for its cultural heritage and gastronomic scene. In the afternoon, continue to Luarca, known as the White Village of the Costa Verde. Enjoy free time to explore its picturesque streets and harbour before dinner and an overnight stay in Luarca.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Luarca Ribadeo Viveiro

After breakfast onboard, continue into Galicia along one of northern Spain’s most scenic coastal stretches, passing dramatic cliffs, estuaries and charming Atlantic ports. Visit Ribadeo before continuing to Viveiro, a picturesque fishing town rich in history and surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Viveiro.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Viveiro Ferrol Santiago de Compostela

After the final breakfast onboard, arrive in Ferrol before continuing to Santiago de Compostela, a historic pilgrimage destination and one of Europe’s most remarkable monumental cities. Enjoy a guided tour of the historic centre, followed by free time to explore at leisure and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. This marks the conclusion of the journey through the spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage of northern Spain.

Breakfast

Accommodation

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

GRAND LUXURY SUITE:
The Grand Luxury Suites, adorned with exclusive details, are spacious and designed for rest and privacy. There are only 14 suites in the train's 7 cars - and each suite can be set up to be used as a single, double or triple room.

Each suite is made up of a lounge, bedroom, and private bathroom. The sleeping area features a spacious double bed (1.5m x 2.0m) or two twin beds (0.8m x 2.0m), television and wardrobe while the lounge area has a comfortable sofa, which can be turned into a bed (0.8m x 1.80m), luggage closet, writing desk, safe, minibar, flatscreen TV, music player, adjustable air-conditioning, multimedia computer with free Internet access and internal telephone service. All suites feature their own spacious, comfortable bathroom, with a hydromassage shower and steam sauna, hairdryer, and a varied set of welcome items and toiletries.

Grand Luxury Suite (Double)

Grand Luxury Suite (Twin)

Additional information

2026 Departure dates*:

03, 17 & 31 October

2027 Departure dates:

27 March
10 & 24 April
08 & 22 May
05 & 19 June
03, 17 & 31 July
14 August
11 & 25 September
09 & 23 Ocotober

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

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.

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela

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From AUD 19,439pp

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From AUD 19,439pp

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