Air
- Companies: Vueling, Iberia, Air France
- Duration: Approximately 10 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 1,180 km
- Costs: R3,500 - R5,500 depending on the booking time and season
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book your flight at least 2-3 months in advance to secure the best fares, and consider flexible dates for potential savings.
Train
- Companies: Renfe (for trains to France), SNCF (French national railway)
- Duration: Approximately 12 hours
- Distance: 1,200 km
- Costs: R1,800 - R3,000 depending on class and time of booking
- Roads/Routes: Route includes the AVE high-speed train from Madrid to Barcelona and then a TGV train to Nice
Pro Tip: Travel during off-peak times (middle of the week) to secure lower ticket prices and enjoy a less crowded journey.
Bus
- Companies: FlixBus, ALSA
- Duration: Approximately 18 hours
- Distance: 1,300 km
- Costs: R950 - R1,500 depending on the booking time and route
- Roads/Routes: A-1 and A-7 highways
Pro Tip: Bring snacks and entertainment for long bus rides; also, reserve your seat in advance for better positioning.
Recommendation
For a balance of comfort and cost, the best option is to fly from San Sebastián de los Reyes to Nice. Use Vueling or Iberia for the most competitive prices, especially by booking in advance. Though the train journey offers a scenic route, it can be time-consuming. The bus is the cheapest but also the longest and least comfortable. Consider your priorities for this trip to choose the best travel mode.