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Bilbao to Madrid from $22: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bilbao, Spain
to
Madrid, Spain

How to Get from Bilbao to Madrid: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$22 - OtherBest price
202 kmDistance
3h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bilbao to Madrid with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
ALSA
Bus
Average Duration
4h  25m
Estimated price
$30-50
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$22-24
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 202 km
Duration: 3h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$33-145
Company
Renfe Viajeros
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$43-61
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  44m
Estimated price
$50-235
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$57-224
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$70-110
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$77-407
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$99-192

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $29 $28 $29 $32 $38 $38 $38
Train $40 $22 $22 $27 $46 $57 $57
Fly $32 $32 $43 $53 $50 $40 $76

Traveling From Bilbao to Madrid

The journey from Bilbao to Madrid showcases a striking contrast: Bilbao’s rich Basque culture vibrates with a modern art scene, while Madrid pulsates with its vibrant nightlife and historical grandeur.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madrid

Madrid boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charms and experiences.

Malasaña
• Known for its bohemian vibe and quirky shops.
• Bustling nightlife with trendy bars and cafes.
Chueca
• A vibrant LGBTQ+ hotspot with lively atmosphere.
• Renowned for its countless restaurants and terraces.
La Latina
• Famous for tapas bars and cozy plazas.
• Historic charm with narrow, winding streets.

Best Times To Visit Madrid's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Madrid experience.

The Prado Museum
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
Retiro Park
Weekdays are ideal for a peaceful stroll, especially in the mornings.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Explore in the late afternoon to enjoy shorter lines and cooler temps.

Madrid Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madrid experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, with scorching summers and mild winters, making spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) ideal for comfortable sightseeing. Knowing the weather can enhance your travel experience, allowing for better planning around outdoor activities, festivals, and local events.

Dining Recommendation

When in Madrid, savor a plate of cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) at Restaurante Botín, reputed to be the oldest restaurant in the world, where the ambiance brims with history and tradition. This culinary experience contrasts with Bilbao's pintxos-centric approach, showcasing Madrid's bold flavors and emphasis on hearty, local ingredients.

Bilbao - Madrid operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bilbao and Madrid, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Bilbao to Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$30-50

Bus from Bilbao to Aeropuerto Santander-S.Ballest

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$8-12

Bus from Bilbao to San Sebastian

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$8-13
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Bilbao-Abando to Madrid-Chamartin

Average Duration
4h 28m
Estimated price
$40-60
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.aireuropa.com

Plane from Bilbao (BIO) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$35-200
Website
http://iberia.com

Plane from Bilbao (BIO) to Madrid (MAD)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$35-280
Rideshare
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Bilbao to Madrid

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
$22-24

Bilbao to Madrid: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bilbao and Madrid offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Bilbao to Madrid spanning a distance of 399.1 km. Enjoy roughly 3 hours and 57 minutes of driving through the beautiful Spanish countryside. 💰 Discover cost-effective travel options with prices ranging from €65 to €101 for a journey by car from Bilbao to Madrid.
Average price
€65 - €101
While there's no direct service, enjoy the journey with transfers that take about 4 hours and 40 minutes. 🌆 The train services from Bilbao-Abando to Madrid-Chamartín are operated by Renfe Viajeros, making the 498 km journey a convenient and scenic route. 💰 Prices for the train ride between Bilbao and Madrid typically range from €40 to €56, offering an affordable and comfortable way to travel between these two vibrant Spanish cities.
Departure Point
Bilbao-Abando station
Arrival Point
Madrid-Chamartin station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Renfe AVE trains include a restaurant car and in-seat catering options. Economy class passengers typically do not have a meal included, but you can purchase snacks and beverages from the onboard trolley service. In First Class, a complimentary meal service is offered with a variety of options, including regional specialties, alongside a selection of wines.
• The Renfe AVE trains offer different seating options: First Class (Preferente), which includes more spacious seats and premium services such as a welcome drink and meals; Business Class (Clase Club), known for its comfort and additional amenities; and Economy Class (Turista), which is budget-friendly but still comfortable. For this route, the AVE is the most popular choice due to its speed and convenience.
• Two main operators run trains from Bilbao to Madrid: Renfe (renfe.com) and Euskotren for regional services. You can book AVE trains from Renfe's website. Make sure to check the schedule in advance to choose your preferred departure time.
🛫 Flying from Bilbao to Madrid is an efficient and quick journey, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Airlines like Air Europa and Iberia regularly operate this route, offering convenience for travelers. ✈️ The total duration of the flight from Bilbao to Madrid is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, providing ample time for a smooth travel experience. 🛬 Prices for flights between Madrid and Bilbao typically range from €30 to €134, making air travel a cost-effective and practical choice for those looking to explore the diverse attractions and opportunities each city has to offer.
Departure Point
Bilbao Airport
Arrival Point
Madrid Airport
🚌 Travel from Bilbao to Madrid by bus is a convenient option with services departing hourly and taking approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the destination. ALSA operates the bus services, making it a reliable choice for travelers. 🛣️ The bus route from Bilbao to Madrid covers a distance of 325 km and offers a comfortable journey with onboard amenities. Passengers can enjoy the scenic views during the 4-hour and 25-minute ride, making it a pleasant travel experience. 💰 Prices for the bus tickets between Madrid and Bilbao range from €28 to €46, providing an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore different cities in Spain. Travelers can contact ALSA for more information and bookings through their website or phone.
Departure Point
Bilbao station
Arrival Point
Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Pre-book your ALSA bus tickets online to secure the best prices, as fares can vary between €27 and €45, and you can also choose your preferred seat via their website: alsa.ma
• During your journey, enjoy the scenic views of the Basque countryside transitioning into the heart of Spain—bring a camera and have your phone ready to capture the picturesque landscapes along the 325 km route.
• Upon arrival at Intercambiador Av América Bus Interurbano in Madrid, follow the signs to the Metro station located just downstairs for easy access to the city; consider purchasing a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited travel on public transport during your stay: crtm.es