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London to Bilbao from $96: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Bilbao, Spain

How to Get from London to Bilbao: 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.

$96 by busBest price
945.3 kmDistance
5h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from London to Bilbao 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
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$54-278
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar Bus
Bus
Average Duration
23h 
Estimated price
$96-141
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 945.3 km
Duration: 5h 8m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
12h  56m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  9m
Estimated price
$117-302
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  12m
Estimated price
$144-367
Company
various
Train
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
36h  30m
Estimated price
$152-583
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
25h  36m
Estimated price
$175-501
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
18h  44m
Estimated price
$187-466
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  59m
Estimated price
$264-594

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $54 $54 $52 $57 $56 $55 $60
Fly $45 $52 $37 $55 $79 $49 $48
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From London to Bilbao

Flying from London to Bilbao offers you a chance to transition from the bustling urban vibe of one of Europe's largest cities to the charming Basque culture and picturesque landscapes of northern Spain.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bilbao

Bilbao offers diverse neighborhoods, each showcasing its own unique charm and culture.

Casco Viejo
• Historic streets filled with local cafes and boutiques.
• Home to the iconic Santiago Cathedral.
Abando
• Features the famous Guggenheim Museum nearby.
• Bustling shopping district with modern architecture.
Nervión
• Beautiful riverside promenades for leisurely walks.
• Great dining options with stunning river views.

Best Times To Visit Bilbao's Attractions

Maximize your Bilbao experience by timing your visits to popular attractions well.

Guggenheim Museum
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and more time to appreciate the art.
Casco Viejo
Explore during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere in the charming streets.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Arrive right after opening or on late afternoons to enjoy a more relaxed viewing experience.

Bilbao Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bilbao boasts a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. Spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the city without the interference of rain.

Dining in Bilbao: A Culinary Delight

Try the famous Basque dish, 'Bacalao al Pil-Pil,' at Restaurante El Globo, where the captivating flavors of salt cod come to life through a unique emulsification of olive oil and garlic. This dining experience contrasts with London’s culinary scene by emphasizing intense local ingredients and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere that encourages leisurely meals and conversation.

London - Bilbao operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+44 3451 27 29 20
Website
https://www.southernrailway.com/

Train from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$12-18
Contact phone
+44 345 850 1530
Website
https://www.gatwickexpress.com/

Train from London Victoria to Gatwick Airport

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$19-27
Contact phone
+44 343 218 6186
Website
https://www.eurostar.com/rw-en

Train from London St Pancras Intl to Paris Nord

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
$130-380

Train from London St Pancras Intl to Lille Europe

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$95-340
Contact phone
+33 1 84 94 36 35
Website
https://www.sncf.com/en

Train from Massy Tgv to Bayonne

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$120-200
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$40-95
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from London Gatwick to Bilbao

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$55-300
Website
https://www.vueling.com

Plane from London Gatwick to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$40-320
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Bus from London Victoria to Paris - Roissy Charles De Gaulle Airport

Average Duration
8h 30m
Estimated price
$35-55

Bus from Paris - Roissy Charles De Gaulle Airport to Bilbao

Average Duration
13h 30m
Estimated price
$60-90
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Lille to Bilbao

Average Duration
16h 20m
Estimated price
$90-130

Bus from Santander to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$11-16
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home

Bus from Santander E.A. to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$8-13
Ferry
Contact phone
0330 159 7000
Website
https://www.brittany-ferries.co.uk

Ferry from Plymouth to Santander

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
$85-370

Ferry from Portsmouth International Port to Santander

Average Duration
31h 30m
Estimated price
$100-450
all-pages.transport_eurotunnel
Website
https://www.eurotunnel.com/

all-pages.transport_eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais-Fréthun

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between London and Bilbao 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from London to Bilbao, you'll likely take Eurostar to Paris, followed by a connection to a Spanish train operator, such as Renfe. While Eurostar offers a range of catering services, including snacks and meal options in Standard Premier and Business Premier, the Spanish train services (such as AVE) may provide a dining car or the option to pre-order meals. Check Eurostar's catering options here and Renfe's services here.
• Seating Options: Eurostar offers Economy and Standard Premier seats, with Standard Premier featuring more legroom and complimentary light meals. In Spain, Renfe's AVE trains have Turista (Economy), Preferente (First Class), and Business Class options, providing a comfortable travel experience with varying amenities. Tour Renfe's seating arrangements here.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Bilbao's Abando Station, expect diverse transport options readily available. There is a luggage storage service located inside the station where you can leave your bags during your exploration. Restrooms are available, but showers are not, so be prepared to freshen up before your journey. Get familiar with the station layout here for a smoother transition.
🛫 Flying from London Gatwick Airport to Bilbao Airport is a convenient option with a direct flight time of just 1 hour and 50 minutes, making it a quick journey to reach Spain from the UK. 💸 Depending on the airline and time of booking, the prices for a flight between Bilbao and London can range from £92 to £239, giving travelers flexibility in finding a fare that fits their budget for this 7-hour and 9-minute journey.
Departure Point
London Gatwick Airport
Arrival Point
Bilbao Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with EasyJet or Vueling Airlines from London Gatwick, as both airlines offer direct flights averaging around 1h 50m, maximizing your travel efficiency.
• Upon arrival at Bilbao Airport, take advantage of the clearly marked signs for the taxi stand just outside the arrivals area; expect to pay around €30-€35 for a 15-20 minute ride to the city center.
• Check the EasyJet (easyjet.com) and Vueling (vueling.com) websites for any dining options available on your flight, and remember to arrive early to navigate security at Gatwick due to potential waits.
🚌 The journey from London to Bilbao by bus takes approximately 23 hours, with transfers along the way. 🛤️ Route options include stops in cities like Paris and Bordeaux, with a total distance of around 1,254 km to 1,383 km depending on the route chosen. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between London and Bilbao can range from £76 to £111, providing travelers with affordable and scenic transportation options.
Departure Point
London Victoria station
Arrival Point
Bilbao station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from London to Bilbao.

Or choose the category:
The distance between London and Bilbao is approximately 946.3 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By taking a train to London Gatwick and then flying, it takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes to reach Bilbao. If traveling by plane directly, the typical travel time is around 6 hours and 33 minutes. Lastly, if opting for a bus, it takes approximately 20 hours and 30 minutes to reach Bilbao from London.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from London to Bilbao is by train and fly. This option typically costs between £39 and £220 and takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes.
The prices for traveling from London to Bilbao vary depending on the mode of transportation. For example, a bus ticket can cost between £157 and £243.
The most convenient way to travel from London to Bilbao without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 35 minutes and costs between £196 and £471.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between London and Bilbao. The bus service operated by ALSA departs twice daily from Londres Victoria Coach Station in London and arrives at Bilbao station. The journey takes approximately 20 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight between London and Bilbao usually takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between £91 and £244, depending on factors such as the time of booking and airline choice.
There are 1287+ hotels available in Bilbao where you can stay. Prices for accommodation start at £40. Some popular hotel options near Bilbao include the Hotel Ercilla, Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao, and Hotel Carlton.

Trips from London