We are traveling from Bordeaux to San Sebastian where we will be picking up a car to continue on our trip through Portugal and Spain for 2 weeks. I am renting our car this way to avoid the sizable fee to pick up in France and returning in Spain at the end of our travel. I am looking for information on transportation options. I cannot find a train schedule for this even though it appears there should be something that changes in Hendaye. We would be happy to have a driver take us down as well. Any suggestions would be appreciated!
Posted by
la rioja
570 posts
Hi Redotter,
the train you want is the Topo. You can board it there at the Hendaye station and it will take you to San Sebastian. It is running no problems, but it seems that until the borders are "reopened" you can't book a cross border ticket.
My son studies in Paris, and he has taken the train from San Sebastian to Hendaye several times, but we haven't been able to buy a ticket online.
Posted by
Sweden
6850 posts
Take the train from Bordeaux to Hendaye, there are several to choose from and there are both TGVs and TERs. Then in Hendaye, change to a local train to San Sebastian/Donostia. Really simple. When are you planning to travel? Train schedules are usually only posted a few months in advance.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you for the information. We are leaving Bordeaux on July 26 headed for San Sebastian. I will dig a little deeper and see if I can find the schedule. Is there generally tickets available if we wait until we arrive in Bordeaux or should we definitely book ahead of time? We arrive in Bordeaux July 23.
Posted by
11500 posts
Train sounds like the best answer for you. Going from Porto Portugal into Galicia Spain, we had to hire a driver to take us but it still was a huge savings over drop fee for a different country.
Posted by
Sweden
6850 posts
Yes, the TERs are regional trains. Their tickets don't sell out and there are no reserved seats, just buy a ticket at the station before you board the train.
But if you prefer TGVs, you should probably book the tickets in advance.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you for all the replies. Having access to information from people who have traveled these routes is invaluable. I really appreciate the help and look forward to visiting this beautiful area!