El Transcantábrico
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El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastian
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El Transcantábrico
El Transcantábrico
Lounge
Lounge
Bar Lounge
Suite (double)
Suite (twin)
Spain

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo: Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastian (Tour code: 13896)

Starts and Ends
Santiago de Compostela to
San Sebastian
Travel Periods
10 Oct 26 - 16 Oct 27
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
Discover Spain’s rich culture, spectacular landscapes and renowned cuisine aboard El Transcantábrico, an exceptional luxury rail journey through northern Spain.

Highlights

Explore a 3D replica of Altamira Cave, showcasing ancient art and life

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

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

8 days
From
AUD 19,439
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable luxury rail journey from Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián aboard El Transcantábrico. Over 8-days, explore northern Spain’s historic cities, medieval villages, stunning coastal landscapes, and natural wonders like the Picos de Europa and Las Catedrales Beach. Enjoy guided tours, gourmet dining, and the comfort of a moving five-star hotel as you discover the cultural treasures and breathtaking beauty of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country.

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

Day 1 Santiago de Compostela Ferrol Viveiro

Meet in Santiago de Compostela and begin with a visit to the magnificent historic centre, where centuries-old stone architecture, tradition and the enduring Jacobean atmosphere set the scene for the journey ahead. After lunch, transfer to Ferrol, where the train awaits. Board the train and settle into your suite as the rail journey to Viveiro begins. Enjoy dinner on board before spending the night on the train.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Viveiro Ribadeo Luarca Oviedo

After breakfast onboard, continue along the coast of Lugo, passing estuaries, dramatic cliffs and charming fishing villages. Discover Ribadeo and some of the most scenic landscapes of the Atlantic coast before continuing into Asturias to Oviedo, the elegant capital of the Principality of Asturias. Enjoy free time to explore the historic centre and soak up the city’s welcoming atmosphere before dinner and an overnight stay in Oviedo.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Oviedo Gijón Llanes

After breakfast, explore the Asturian coast with a stop in Gijón, a vibrant seaside city known for its rich cultural heritage and gastronomic scene. In the afternoon, continue along the scenic Cantabrian coast to Llanes, an elegant fishing town overlooking the sea. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Llanes.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Llanes Picos de Europa Llanes

Spend the day exploring the spectacular natural surroundings of the Picos de Europa, where dramatic mountains, valleys and charming villages create some of northern Spain’s most distinctive landscapes. After lunch, return to Llanes and enjoy free time by the sea before dinner and an overnight stay in Llanes.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Llanes Potes Cabezón de la Sal

Continue through the Cantabrian interior, travelling through dramatic gorges, historic villages and scenic mountain landscapes. Discover the region’s rich heritage, traditions and natural beauty before returning to the train for dinner. Overnight in Cabezón de la Sal.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Cabezón de la Sal Santillana del Mar Santander

Begin the day with a visit to Santillana del Mar and its remarkable medieval historic centre. After lunch, continue to Santander, an elegant city overlooking the bay and Cantabrian Sea. Enjoy free time to explore the city at leisure before returning to the train for dinner. Overnight in Santander.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Santander Bilbao Carranza

After breakfast onboard, continue to Bilbao, where a city tour reveals the fascinating blend of tradition, contemporary architecture and urban transformation that characterises the capital of Biscay. In the afternoon, continue by rail to Carranza, travelling through the lush landscapes of northern Spain. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay onboard.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Carranza Bilbao San Sebastián

After the final breakfast onboard, return to Bilbao and bid farewell to the train and crew. Continue to San Sebastián, an elegant coastal city overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. Enjoy a visit and free time to explore the city’s atmosphere and renowned gastronomy before concluding the journey.

Overnight stay aboard El Transcantábrico. 

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

Official language
Spanish
Local currency
Euro

*2026 Departure dates:

  • 10 & 24 October

2027 Departure dates:

  • 03 & 17 April
  • 01, 15 & 29 May
  • 12 & 26 June
  • 10 & 24 July
  • 07 August
  • 04 & 18 September
  • 02 & 16 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 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.

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