What is the fastest way to get from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid?
If you are looking for a fast way to reach Madrid, opt for a high-speed train. You will reach the capital in just 3 to 3.5 hours.
What is the driving distance from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid?
The driving distance from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid is 375 miles (603 km).
How long should I stay in Madrid?
As Madrid is a big city with lots to explore, it is recommended to spend at least four days there but even one week wonât be enough!
What is the cheapest way to get from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid?
The most budget-friendly option to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid is by bus, with the lowest ticket prices starting from $28 (âŹ26).
Is Madrid safe?
Madrid is considered safe but it is recommended to always stay vigilant of pickpockets, especially on public transport.
What is the easiest way to get from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid?
The easiest and most convenient way to drive from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid is by a private car service like Daytrip. As Daytrip offers a door-to-door service, you wonât have to worry about getting to the station or airport, nor will you have to deal with possible delays. Simply put, Daytrip is an easy and efficient way to travel.
Overview: car trip from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid
Once you finish your Camino de Santiago, you are probably searching for a way to get to Madrid, be it an extended trip to explore the capital of Spain or to travel back home. The cosmopolitan city of Madrid is definitely worth a few-day stop, as it has endless options for every taste. It is also a great base for any other trips you may have planned. As you are most likely tired after your camino, we suggest choosing comfort for your trip from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid.
By choosing comfort we mean a private car service, such as Daytrip. You wonât have to worry about dealing with delays or figuring out the public transport. And if you want to explore more of other parts of Spain, make sure you take advantage of the flexibility we offer by adding any sightseeing stops along the way. Keep on reading to explore all the options!
About Madrid
Located in the heart of Spain, Madrid is not the most visited capital city in Europe. It often takes a back seat to cities like Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and other cities closer to the eastern or southern coast.
However, that does not mean that Madrid is not worth visiting, it just shows how unique each part of Spain is, and Madrid is definitely not an exception. Madrid is a blend of different cultures while still maintaining its Spanish roots. From its incredible architecture to top-notch dishes and famous museums, there is something in store for you.
Madrid was founded back in the 9th century when the Moorish ruled the city. It was declared the capital of Spain in 1561 and has been maintaining this title ever since. The city endured several events over the centuries, such as the Spanish Civil War which affected the city not only during the conflict, it also left a footprint in the way Madrid is shaped today.
The Madrid we know today is famous for its stunning architecture that reflects different styles, its numerous parks, especially the famous Buen Retiro Park, the Royal Palace where the Spanish royal family lives, diverse nightlife, and, of course, football. The worldwide-known football club Real Madrid FC is almost like the cityâs identity, as it is recognized as one of the most famous clubs in the world.
Madrid is a city where you will never get bored, making it the perfect destination for anyone. As you walk through its streets, you will immediately be charmed by the city's dynamic and welcoming atmosphere.
From Santiago de Compostela to Madrid: travel tips
Give peace of mind to your trip from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid by checking out these travel tips that will ensure a smooth trip:
Get the Madrid City Card
By purchasing the Madrid City Card, you will get discounts and other benefits when visiting the main city's attractions. Some of the benefits include a skip-the-line entrance. The card also includes a Tourist Travel Pass which allows you to use public transport without any extra cost. You can purchase the card for 1 to 5 consecutive days: the 1-day card costs almost $11 (âŹ10), and the 5-day card costs around $35 (âŹ32.50)
### Avoid the rush hours
As Madrid is a big city, it is recommended to plan your main activities outside the rush hours which, give or take, are usually from 7:30 to 9:30 AM and 6 to 8 PM.
How to get from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid
There are several Santiago de Compostela to Madrid transfer options, so make sure you check them all out and find what suits your preferences and fits your schedule.
From Santiago de Compostela to Madrid by bus
The most affordable way to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid is by bus. And while taking a bus is a relatively cheap way to move between the cities, it is also the one that takes the longest. You can opt for the Spanish bus company Alsa which offers direct routes from around $28 (âŹ26). The ride takes around 8.5 to 9.5 hours.
### From Santiago de Compostela to Madrid by train
If time is an important factor, choose the high-speed train operated by Renfe. These fast trains will take you to Madrid in just 3 to 3.5 hours. By booking in advance, you can find tickets for as little as $53 (âŹ49).
### From Santiago de Compostela to Madrid by plane
Another relatively quick way to reach Madrid is by flight. Such airlines as Ryanair offer very cheap prices for direct flights from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid: from just $16 (âŹ15). And while it might sound cheap, thatâs not all you will spend, as you also need to get to and from the airport.
The flight duration is just 1 hour and 15 minutes but you have to factor in the possible delays, 2 hours of wait time, and getting to the airport and then leaving it to reach your accommodation. In the end, you will spend around 4 to 5 hours traveling by air.
### From Santiago de Compostela to Madrid by private car service
For those who prioritize comfort and flexibility, Daytrip will be the perfect choice. With Daytrip, worries about delayed flights and buses are forgotten, as your local driver will pick you up at your accommodation, saving the time you would otherwise spend commuting.
Our drivers speak English, so it means that even if you only know how to say gracias, you will be able to communicate fluently and even ask for the best recommendations only locals know. Flexibility is our middle name which means that your journey wonât be just a simple transfer.
Although the drive takes approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes, the ride will feel like a breeze, as with Datrip, you can explore any sightseeing stops of your choice. Not far from your take-off point, you can wander around the gorgeous Baroque-style gardens at Pazo de Oca. Then, close to Portugal's border, you can stop by the Iberico Wolf Center which is a wolf sanctuary that takes care of wolves that can no longer survive in the wild.
Not far away from Valladolid, you can visit the Royal Convent of Santa Clara which originally was built as a palace. Before you arrive in Madrid, take a break to admire the imposing Monastery of El Escorial.
Things to do when you get to Madrid
Madrid is an immense city with so many attractions to choose from! While it might be hard to fit all the things in your schedule, here are some of our preferred things to see or do that will make your trip even more special.
Explore the famous Prado Museum
Prado Museum is a must for those who have never visited Madrid. It is not only the most important museum in Spain, it is also recognized worldwide, as it houses one of the largest art collections. It is a paradise for history and art enthusiasts, so if that describes you, make sure to find 2 to 4 hours to immerse yourself in its impressive cultural heritage. Be aware that you should book your tickets in advance. Prado Museum also houses the famous painting âLas Meninasâ by Diego VelĂĄzquez.
### Take a glimpse at the royal life
The Royal Palace is another must-visit place in Madrid. Take a guided tour and wander around the stunning rooms filled with history, royal luxury, art, and decorations. Although the palace is the official residence of the royal family, they no longer live there but it is nevertheless worth visiting. To enter this palace, it is also recommended to purchase the tickets in advance.
### Stroll around the Retiro Park
If you are visiting in summer, Retiro Park is a fantastic place to escape the sun, but it's worth exploring even in winter. In the heart of this huge park, you will find a picturesque lake where you can watch rowboats glide by. One side of the lake is hugged by the impressive Monument to Alfonso XII. The charming 19th-century Crystal Palace, originally built as a greenhouse, is located in the middle of the park and is made of large glass panels. Be sure to visit the lovely rose garden, filled with a wide variety of colors and scents.
### Try the local food
You can find any type of food in Madrid but there is nothing like trying the local delicacies. Here are some of our favorite dishes that you should include in your menu:
Cocido madrileño: a stew made of chickpeas, meat, and vegetables. A true classic you cannot miss!
Huevos rotos: also known as huevos estrellados which translates to âbroken eggsâ. This dish is made of fried eggs with runny yolks. It is served with fried potatoes and topped with slices of jamĂłn or chorizo.
Buñuelos rellenos*: while these sweet, sugar-coated pastries are usually available during Easter and other festivities, you will likely find them in one of the local bakeries.
When is the best time to visit Madrid
When it comes to Spain, it is usually recommended to visit any cities in spring (from March to May) or fall (September and October). Summers are usually unbearably hot, so visiting during the shoulder season will not only save you from the heat but will also help you save some dollars, as the accommodation during the off-season is more affordable.
As it does not rain that often in Madrid, you will most likely wonât experience much rain, making it a perfect time to explore the capital of Spain.
Spring is also a great time to visit Madrid, as the city is in full bloom. All the parks and gardens are filled with colorful flowers and trees are either blooming or showcasing the green leaves. It is also the perfect time to stroll around Retiro Park.
Visitez ces sites en chemin
Pazo de Oca
The sprawling gardens around this archetypal Galician manor are so lush, itâs hard to tear yourself away, even for a tour of the palace interior. Better Out than InÂ
Iberico Wolf Center
Letting visitors come face-to-face with the Iberian Wolf in this park is only part of the work this center does to protect them. Loco for LobosÂ
Royal Convent of Santa Clara
The beautiful Mudejar palace-turned-convent was used to imprison two monarchs. God Save the QueenÂ
Arevalo
Queen Isabella I of Castile was raised, and the Young Man of Arevalo born, in this once fortified medieval village. A Young Man Was HereÂ
Avila
St Teresa was born, and Grand Inquisitor Torquemadaithin buried, within the medieval walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. City of Saints and StonesÂ
El Escorial
This UNESCO-listed monastery influenced Spanish architecture for more than half a century, and became a symbol for the Spanish Golden Age. Palatial Paradigm ShiftÂ
