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El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo

Seven nights through Green Spain, from the Basque Coast to Santiago de Compostela

About the Train

El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo traverses the Atlantic-facing part of Northern Spain known as España Verde — Green Spain — and its verdant hinterland. Passengers dine on exceptional regional specialities, visit celebrated local monuments and explore some of the most unspoiled countryside on the Iberian Peninsula, all from the comfort of a five-star train hotel.

Every suite features a private bathroom considered among the finest on any European train. The saloon cars are jewels of railway heritage: four of them are original 1923 Pullman carriages, all meticulously renovated. The route from Galicia to the Bay of Biscay spans Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country and Castile and León — regions rich in art, architecture and prehistoric cave paintings.

The train runs on a narrow-gauge railway, giving each suite a characterful, intimate feel. Each Gran Lujo suite occupies half a carriage, elegantly divided into bedroom, lounge and private bathroom. Overnight, the train rests in station, offering a quiet night's sleep and the option to explore nearby towns after dinner.

Gallery

Accommodation

Deluxe Suite — Double Bed: Most suites feature a double bed measuring 150 cm wide by 200 cm long (5 ft × 6 ft 7 in), set within hardwood-panelled walls and large windows. The suite is divided into three distinct areas: bedroom, lounge and bathroom. The separate lounge includes a sofa that converts into a comfortable additional bed.

Twin-Bed Suites: Four suites offer twin beds, each 85 cm wide by 200 cm long (3 ft × 6 ft 7 in), ideal for travelling companions who prefer separate beds.

Suite fittings include wardrobe, luggage rack, desk, in-room safe, music with tuner, individual climate control, multimedia computer with complimentary internet access, and a minibar. The bathroom features a hydro-sauna shower with turbo massage and steam functions, plus hair dryer, premium toiletry amenities and bath robes.

Saloon Cars: El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo boasts four saloon cars dating from the 1920s, each radiating the elegance of a more unhurried era. The Dining Car serves à la carte and buffet breakfasts each morning, alongside chef-prepared lunches and dinners on board. The Bar Car is open throughout the journey. Additional carriages include the Tea Saloon, the Panorama Coach and the Entertainment Saloon — a lively venue offering live music and dancing into the early hours.

Itineraries

Choose the journey that calls to you. Each itinerary may be reserved through our concierge.

San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela
7 nights · 8 days · San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela
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Travelling westward from the elegant Basque city of San Sebastián to the magnificent Cathedral city of Santiago de Compostela, this route partly shadows the ancient Camino de Santiago, visiting Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, the medieval streets of Santillana del Mar and the rugged Asturian coast along the way.

Day 1 — San Sebastián to Carranza

Check-in at 13:00 at Hotel Costa Vasca; the train departs San Sebastián at 14:00. Evening spent in the green hills of Carranza. Overnight in Carranza.

Day 2 — Carranza, Bilbao, Santander

A visit to Bilbao, where the Guggenheim Museum is a spectacular highlight. Onward to the port city of Santander. Overnight in Santander.

Day 3 — Santander, Potes, Cabezón de la Sal

Journey into the Cantabrian interior, pausing at Potes in the Picos de Europa before continuing to Cabezón de la Sal. Overnight in Cabezón de la Sal.

Day 4 — Cabezón de la Sal, Santillana del Mar, Llanes

Morning in the perfectly preserved medieval village of Santillana del Mar, then along the Asturian coast to the charming fishing town of Llanes. Overnight in Llanes.

Day 5 — Llanes, Oviedo

Arrive in Oviedo, the refined capital of Asturias, renowned for its Romanesque architecture and vibrant café culture. Overnight in Oviedo.

Day 6 — Oviedo, Gijón, Luarca

A morning in Gijón before the train winds west along the clifftop coast to the picturesque fishing village of Luarca. Overnight in Luarca.

Day 7 — Luarca, Ribadeo, Viveiro

Cross into Galicia via the estuary town of Ribadeo, continuing to the enchanting port of Viveiro. Overnight in Viveiro.

Day 8 — Viveiro to Santiago de Compostela

The journey reaches its magnificent climax with arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. End of journey at the Parador Reyes Católicos at 13:00.

from €9,900 per person

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Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián
7 nights · 8 days · Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián
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Beginning beneath the soaring towers of Santiago de Compostela's Cathedral, this eastward journey follows the Galician and Asturian coastline through Oviedo, Llanes and Santander before arriving in the graceful Basque city of San Sebastián — a city of elegant beauty and world-class cuisine.

Day 1 — Santiago de Compostela to Viveiro

Check-in at 12:00 at the Parador Reyes Católicos; the train departs Santiago de Compostela at 13:00 in the shadow of the impressive Cathedral. Travel east to overnight in the port of Viveiro.

Day 2 — Viveiro, Ribadeo, Luarca, Oviedo

Cross back into Asturias via Ribadeo and Luarca before arriving in Oviedo. Overnight in Oviedo.

Day 3 — Oviedo, Gijón, Llanes

Morning in Gijón, Asturias's largest city, then along the dramatic coast to the seafront town of Llanes. Overnight in Llanes.

Day 4 — Llanes

A full day to explore Llanes and its beautiful coastline at leisure. Overnight in Llanes.

Day 5 — Llanes, Potes, Cabezón de la Sal

Head inland to the Picos de Europa mountain town of Potes before descending to Cabezón de la Sal. Overnight in Cabezón de la Sal.

Day 6 — Cabezón de la Sal, Santander

A morning's travel to the elegant port city of Santander, set on a beautiful bay. Overnight in Santander.

Day 7 — Santander, Bilbao, Carranza

Visit Bilbao and its iconic Guggenheim Museum before the train continues to Carranza for the final overnight.

Day 8 — Carranza to San Sebastián

Arrive in the city of elegant beauty that is San Sebastián. End of journey at 13:00, Hotel Costa Vasca.

from €9,900 per person

Enquire about this itinerary

Departure Dates

DateDirection / RouteFromStatus
Tue, 30 Jun 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 4 Jul 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 11 Jul 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 18 Jul 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 25 Jul 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 15 Aug 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 22 Aug 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 29 Aug 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 5 Sep 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 12 Sep 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 19 Sep 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 26 Sep 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 3 Oct 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 10 Oct 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 17 Oct 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 24 Oct 2026 Santiago de Compostela → San Sebastián €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 31 Oct 2026 San Sebastián → Santiago de Compostela €9,900 Available Reserve →
Sat, 27 Mar 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 3 Apr 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 10 Apr 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 17 Apr 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 24 Apr 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 1 May 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 8 May 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 15 May 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 22 May 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 29 May 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 5 Jun 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 12 Jun 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 19 Jun 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 26 Jun 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 3 Jul 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 10 Jul 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 17 Jul 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 24 Jul 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 31 Jul 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 7 Aug 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 14 Aug 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 4 Sep 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 11 Sep 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 18 Sep 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 25 Sep 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 2 Oct 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 9 Oct 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 16 Oct 2027 Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →
Sat, 23 Oct 2027 San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela EUR 10,800 pp dbl Available Reserve →

Cabins & Prices

Cabin / SuiteBasisPrice
Deluxe Suiteper person, double€ 9,900
Deluxe Suite — Single Supplementper person, single€ 7,200
Deluxe Suite — Triple Supplementper person, triple€ 4,800

Prices are indicative and subject to change and availability. Contact us for the latest rates and offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo and where does it travel?+
El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo is a five-star luxury train hotel operated by Renfe that traverses the Atlantic-facing north of Spain — a verdant region known as España Verde, or Green Spain. The route connects San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela, passing through the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, Castile and León, and Galicia, with guided excursions to celebrated cultural monuments along the way.
What journeys are available and how long do they take?+
Two itineraries are offered, both spanning 7 nights / 8 days: one travelling westward from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela, and a mirror journey in the opposite direction from Santiago de Compostela to San Sebastián. Both routes visit the same highlights — including Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, the Picos de Europa, the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, Oviedo, and the Galician coastline — with the experience differing only in the order of discovery.
How much does El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo cost?+
Fares start from €9,900 per person for a Deluxe Suite on a double-occupancy basis. A single-supplement rate and a triple-supplement rate are also available. Final pricing varies by cabin configuration, season and party size — please contact Palace Trains to confirm the exact fare for your chosen departure: toll-free 1-800-724-5120, international/WhatsApp +1-786-408-0610, or travel@palacetours.com.
What types of accommodation are available on board?+
All guests travel in private Gran Lujo suites, each occupying half a carriage and divided into three distinct areas: bedroom, lounge and bathroom. Most suites feature a double bed (150 cm × 200 cm); four suites offer twin beds (85 cm × 200 cm each), ideal for travelling companions who prefer separate beds. The lounge sofa converts to a comfortable additional bed, and every suite includes a wardrobe, in-room safe, minibar, individual climate control and a multimedia computer with complimentary internet access.
What is included in the fare?+
The train's fares cover accommodation in a private suite and access to all on-board public spaces — including the Dining Car, Bar Car, Tea Saloon, Panorama Coach and Entertainment Saloon. The Dining Car serves à la carte and buffet breakfasts, as well as chef-prepared lunches and dinners on board showcasing the finest regional cuisine of Green Spain. Guided excursions are a key feature of the journey; exact inclusions by departure should be confirmed with Palace Trains, as these can vary — contact us at travel@palacetours.com or call 1-800-724-5120.
When does El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo operate and when can I travel?+
The train operates from March through October, with departures running on both itineraries throughout that season. There are currently 48 upcoming departures on the schedule, with availability from late June 2026 through to October 2027. To see the full departure calendar or to check specific availability, visit the train's page on the Palace Trains website or call us toll-free on 1-800-724-5120.

All you want to know about El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo →