Would you like to start your Camino de Santiago adventure from Sarria, but you’re in Madrid or have just arrived on an international flight and not sure how to get there? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place! Sarria is one of the most popular starting points on the French Way, especially for those who want to walk the last 100 km and earn the Compostela certificate.
In this post, we’ll explain all the ways to travel from Madrid to Sarria —by train, plane, bus, or private transfer— so you can choose the best option for your time, budget, and comfort.
Get ready to begin your pilgrimage from the heart of Spain!
Where is Sarria?
Sarria is a charming town located in Lugo province (Galicia), about 115 km from Santiago de Compostela. It’s one of the most emblematic starting points for pilgrims from all over the world, thanks to its perfect location on the French Way.
From Madrid, the distance is approximately 500 km, and depending on the transport you choose, the trip can take from 4 to 8 hours.
How to get from Madrid to Sarria: all transport options
🚆By train: the most comfortable option
If you prefer comfort and scenic views, the train is one of the best ways to reach Sarria. Renfe operates direct trains from Madrid-Chamartín to Sarria every day.
- Duration: around 4 to 5 hours
- Frequency: daily (morning and afternoon options)
- Arrival station: Sarria Train Station (10 min walk to the town centre)
💡Tip: Book your tickets early on Renfe’s website, prices vary depending on demand and advance purchase.
✈️ By plane: fly and continue by train or bus
Sarria doesn’t have an airport, but you can fly from Madrid to Santiago de Compostela (around 1h 15min) and then take a train or bus to Sarria.
- Plane Madrid → Santiago: Iberia, Air Europa
- Train Santiago → Sarria: about 3 hours
- Bus Santiago → Sarria: around 3 hours (Monbus)
This is a great choice if you prefer to split the journey and visit Santiago before starting your walk.
🚌 By bus: budget-friendly
You can also travel by bus with ALSA from Madrid to Lugo, and then continue with Monbus to Sarria.
- Madrid → Lugo: around 7 hours
- Lugo → Sarria: 45 minutes
It’s the most economical option, though not the fastest.
🚗 By car or private transfer
If you prefer flexibility and comfort, renting a car or booking a private transfer is ideal —especially if you’re travelling with others or carrying luggage.
- Driving time: around 5 hours
- Distance: approximately 500 km
- Recommended route: A-6 highway (Madrid–Lugo)
💡Tip: Many pilgrims choose to book their transfer directly with Galiwonders. We can arrange pick-up in Madrid and drop-off at your accommodation in Sarria —no waiting, no transfers, no stress.
💤 Overnight train: an alternative for adventurers
Renfe occasionally offers night train services (Trenhotel) between Madrid and Galicia, stopping in Lugo. From Lugo, you can continue by local train or taxi to Sarria. It’s a nostalgic, comfortable option that saves one night of accommodation.
So… what’s the best way to get to Sarria from Madrid?
| Type of traveller | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort lover | 🚆 Train | Fast, direct and comfortable |
| Budget traveller | 🚌 Bus | Cheapest option |
| Adventurer | 💤 Night train | Romantic and practical |
| Convenience seeker | 🚗 Private transfer | Door-to-door service |
| Explorer | ✈️ Flight + train | Combine with a visit to Santiago |
Bonus tip
Whether you’re taking the train, the bus, or a transfer, remember: your Camino starts long before you reach Sarria. Every step you plan now is part of your journey. Take it easy, travel lightwith just the essentials in your backpack, and keep an open heart —the Camino always gives backmore than you expect.
If you’re still unsure about which route to choose, check our guide to the different Camino routes and find the one that suits your pace and interests.
✨ “There is no path to follow, you make the path by walking.”
6 Responses
I am interested in doing the Camino starting in Sarria starting February 24th. Can you please tell me how is the weather that time of year and how much will it cost me.
The weather on the Camino at the end of February is usually cold and wet (2 °C to 12 °C), so it’s best to be prepared! We have several blog articles where we talk more about this.
To receive a personalized quote, we need to know which services you would like to include. We can arrange a video call if you prefer, or you can write to us at [email protected]. Thank you!
Hola Sonia quiero hacer el camino,
No quiero hotel quiero albergue que me recomiendas?
Hola Luz! Gracias por tu mensaje! Si prefieres alojarte en albergues, es importante que tengas en cuenta la época del año en la que vas a viajar. En temporadas de alta demanda como Semana Santa, verano o puentes, los albergues suelen llenarse con bastante antelación, por lo que es muy recomendable reservar cuanto antes para asegurarte plaza.
En nuestro caso, estamos especializados en organizar el Camino con alojamiento en habitación y baño privado, ofreciendo una experiencia más cómoda. Si en algún momento te apetece valorar esta opción, estaremos encantadas de prepararte un itinerario y un presupuesto sin compromiso para que puedas comparar y decidir con tranquilidad.
Quedamos a tu disposición para cualquier duda e [email protected]😊
Is there a direct flight to Santiago , Spain from New York,USA and how much by private service from Santiago to Sarria ?
Hi!!! Yes, there are direct seasonal flights from New York (JFK) to Santiago de Compostela, typically operated during the summer. Outside the seasonal period, you would usually need to connect via cities such as Madrid or other European hubs.
A private transfer from Santiago de Compostela to Sarria typically costs from €100 to €250 per vehicle, depending on the number of passengers and the type of vehicle. You can find more information here: https://galiwonders.com/en/services/transfer-service-on-the-camino-de-santiago/