Bilbao, Basque Country to Santander, Cantabria from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Bilbao to Santander: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$6 RideshareBest price
76.4 kmDistance
1h 10m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bilbao to Santander 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.
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| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 | $8 |
Traveling From Bilbao to Santander
The journey from Bilbao to Santander offers a fascinating contrast between Bilbao's vibrant urban scene and Santander's laid-back coastal charm.
Best Neighbourhoods in Santander
Santander features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own character and charm.
Centro
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Close to major attractions like the Cathedral.
El Sardinero
• Renowned for its stunning beaches and seafront promenade.
• Home to the famous Gran Hotel Sardinero.
Castilla-Hermida
• Offers a local atmosphere with authentic eateries.
• Known for its vibrant street art and culture.
Best Times To Visit Santander's Attractions
Discover optimal times to enjoy Santander's highlights without the crowds.
Palacio de la Magdalena
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for serene views and fewer visitors.
Playa del Sardinero
Early morning or sunset hours provide a quieter beach experience and stunning scenery.
Centro Botín
Midweek visits, especially on Tuesdays, tend to be less crowded and more enjoyable.
Santander Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Santander experiences a maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it pleasant for visitors year-round. The best times to explore are during late spring and early fall, when the weather is generally warmer and drier, enhancing your travel experience.
Dining Recommendation in Santander
Try the anchovies at Restaurante La Mar, where the fresh coastal seafood shines through in every bite, contrasting with Bilbao's more eclectic culinary scene. The inviting seaside atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients create a dining experience that feels distinctly reflective of Santander's maritime culture.
Bilbao - Santander operators
Explore transport companies operating between Bilbao and Santander, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007Website
https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home
Bus from Bilbao to Santander E.A.
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$8-13Contact phone
+33 1 71 53 01 80Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk
Bus from Bilbao to Santander
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
$13-19Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Bilbao to Santander
Average Duration
1h 35mEstimated price
$11-16Contact phone
+34 912 320 320Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en/suburban/cercanias-am
Train from Bilbao to Santander
Average Duration
3h 11mEstimated price
$9-11Website
https://www.blablacar.com
Other from Bilbao to Santander
Average Duration
1h 29mEstimated price
$6-6Bilbao to Santander: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Bilbao and Santander 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 picturesque journey from Bilbao to Santander by car, covering a distance of 63 miles. Enjoy the scenic views as you drive for about 1 hour and 10 minutes between these two charming Spanish cities.
💰 Explore the flexible price range of €17 to €25 for a convenient car ride from Bilbao to Santander. Whether you're looking for affordability or comfort, there are options available to suit your travel preferences and budget.
Average price
€17 - €25
🚂 Travel from Bilbao to Santander by train is a convenient and efficient option. There are direct trains that depart three times a day, making it easy to fit into your schedule. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes.
🎫 The train services between Bilbao and Santander are operated by Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve. Departing from Bilbao station and arriving at Santander station, the trains offer a comfortable and scenic ride through northern Spain. The ticket prices range from €8 to €10, providing an affordable transportation option.
Departure Point
Bilbao station
Arrival Point
Santander station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Bilbao to Santander generally include light catering options such as sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. Make sure to check the specific train you're taking, as some may offer a cafe car or a trolley service that comes around. Always consider pre-purchasing snacks at the station to ensure you have everything you like.
• The main operators for this route are Renfe and Feve. Renfe offers different seating classes: Standard Class (Economy), which is comfortable for most travelers, as well as a First Class option, which provides more spacious seating and additional amenities. Visit Renfe at renfe.com and Feve at feve.es for details and pricing.
• Upon arriving in Santander, expect a well-organized station where you can leave your luggage at a left-luggage service, allowing you to explore the city unencumbered. Restrooms are available, although showers may not be. Keep an eye on the departure monitors for bus schedules or taxi stands to facilitate your transition to the city.
🚌 The direct bus from Bilbao to Santander departs hourly every day, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. ALSA operates the bus services, departing from Bilbao station and arriving at Santander E.A. station.
💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Santander and Bilbao range from €7 to €18, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant Spanish cities.
Departure Point
Bilbao station
Arrival Point
Santander E.A. station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets through ALSA's website (ALSA) for the best prices and to ensure your preferred departure time; prices typically range from €7.20 to €17.
• As the bus departs from Bilbao Intermodal Station, allow some extra time for navigation, as it's a large station; checking the station map beforehand can help you find your bus platform easily. You can find the station map here: Bilbao Intermodal Station Map.
• Upon arrival at Santander E.A. station, take some time to visit the nearby Plaza de Cañadio for various dining options and a vibrant atmosphere; it’s only about a 15-minute walk from the station and offers great local tapas bars.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Bilbao to Santander.
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The distance between Bilbao and Santander is approximately 47 miles. If you choose to drive, it should take around 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach Santander from Bilbao. Alternatively, taking the train is an option, which would take around 3 hours and 11 minutes. Lastly, taking the bus is another option, with a travel time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bilbao to Santander would be to rideshare, with a cost of €5 and a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes. This could be a good choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time is of the essence, taking a taxi would be the quickest option, with a travel time of 1 hour and 10 minutes. Though it is more expensive, costing €100-€127, it would allow for a shorter journey.
The price of a train ticket between Bilbao and Santander ranges from €7 to €10. On the other hand, the price of a bus ticket between Santander and Bilbao ranges from €5 to €21. Please note that these prices may vary depending on the specific time and date of travel, as well as any promotions or discounts that may be available.
If you want to travel from Bilbao to Santander without using public transportation, a good option is to use BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This allows you to find rideshare options between the two cities, even if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Bilbao and Santander is around 63 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive there. The prices for carpooling services from Bilbao to Santander can range from €16 to €25.
The best way to travel from Bilbao to Santander without a car is by taking a bus. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of a bus ticket ranges from €5 to €21. Buses provide a convenient and affordable option for transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between Bilbao and Santander. You can take a train or a bus to travel between the two cities. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes, while the bus journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Both modes of transportation operate daily, providing convenient options for travelers.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Santander. With over 1362 hotels available, travelers can choose from a variety of options to fit their budget and preferences. Prices start at €15, making it accessible for travelers with different budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly accommodations, or cozy bed and breakfasts, Santander has options to suit every traveler's needs.
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