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Malaga, Andalucía to Bilbao, Basque Country from $49: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Malaga, Spain
to
Bilbao, Spain

How to Get from Malaga 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.

$49 by busBest price
744 kmDistance
3h 35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Malaga 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$29-164
Recommended
Company
Socibus
Bus
Average Duration
13h  15m
Estimated price
$49-67
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 744 km
Duration: 3h 35m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$55-219
Company
Renfe AVE
Train
Average Duration
8h  43m
Estimated price
$64-124
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
13h  30m
Estimated price
$71-290
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  6m
Estimated price
$291-292

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60
Fly $55 $30 $29 $27 $37 $35 $55
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Malaga to Bilbao

Traveling from Malaga to Bilbao offers you a fascinating contrast, where sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife in the south shift to the lush greenery and rich culinary scene of the Basque Country.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bilbao

Bilbao features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique charm and attractions.

Casco Viejo
• Historic streets full of local shops
• Vibrant tapas bars and cultural sites
Abando
• Bustling area with modern amenities
• Home to the famous Guggenheim Museum
Indautxu
• Lively atmosphere with chic cafes
• Great access to public transport

Best Times To Visit Bilbao's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Bilbao's attractions.

Guggenheim Museum
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.
Casco Viejo
Explore in the morning or late afternoon for a more relaxed stroll.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Mondays and late afternoons offer a chance to experience art with less hustle.

Bilbao Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bilbao features a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it comfortable for most of the year. Spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant, enhancing your travel experience with ideal conditions for exploring the city's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.

Dining Recommendation in Bilbao

Try the traditional Basque dish 'bacalao a la vizcaína' at Restaurante Casa Rufo, where you’ll experience rich flavors from locally sourced ingredients like cod and piquillo peppers. This dining experience differs from Malaga's focus on seafood tapas, offering you a deeper connection to the region's culinary heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

Malaga - Bilbao operators

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

Plane
Website
vueling.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
292-297

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO) via Madrid

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
298-299
Website
aireuropa.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO) via Madrid

Average Duration
3h 16m
Estimated price
295-297
Website
iberia.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
292-297

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO) via Madrid

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
298-299
Website
volotea.com

Plane from Malaga (AGP) to Bilbao (BIO)

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
1640-1641
Train
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
renfe.com

Train from Malaga Maria Zambrano to Estación de tren de Atocha

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
1642-295

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Bilbao-Abando

Average Duration
4h 37m
Estimated price
1640-1644
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+34 915 304 417
Website
socibusventas.es

Bus from Málaga to Bilbao

Average Duration
13h 15m
Estimated price
49-67
Contact phone
+34 910 207 007
Website
alsa.es

Bus from Málaga to Bilbao

Average Duration
13h 30m
Estimated price
71-290

Bus from Santander E.A. to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
1645-1646
Drive

Drive from Málaga to Bilbao

Average Duration
9h 6m
Estimated price
291-292

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

Traveling between Malaga 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.

Average price
€148 - €231
Departure Point
Malaga Maria Zambrano station
Arrival Point
Bilbao-Abando station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your trip from Malaga to Bilbao, take note that Renfe operates the main services on this route. Onboard catering services may include a bistro car offering snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. In higher-class accommodations, you often have access to table service for a more enhanced dining experience. Make sure to check the menu options during your journey!
• The train services typically provide different seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class offers spacious seating with more legroom, complimentary snacks, and drinks. Business Class also has comfortable seating but with fewer extra services. Economy Class has more standard seating; however, you can still enjoy a comfortable journey. Choose based on your budget and comfort preference.
• For your journey from Malaga to Bilbao, Renfe is the primary operator, so check out their website for schedules and ticketing: renfe.com Additionally, you can also look for any potential offers and promotions. There are also buses like ALSA that can provide connecting travel options: alsa.es
• Upon arrival at Bilbao's main train station (Estación de Abando), you can find luggage storage facilities at the station if you wish to explore the city without your bags. The station is well equipped with restrooms but lacks showers. Ensure to keep an eye on station signs for directions to luggage services.
• The fastest way to get from Estación de Abando to the city center is by taking the metro. The Metro de Bilbao has a direct line that connects the station to the central areas. Take Line 1 (the Green Line) toward Etxebarri and hop off at the Bilbao Abando station, which is right in the heart of the city. Alternatively, you can also use local bus lines like the A1 or A2 that frequently run from the train station to the city center. Metro information can be found at: metrobilbao.eus
Departure Point
Malaga Airport
Arrival Point
Bilbao Airport
Departure Point
Málaga station
Arrival Point
Bilbao station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive early at the Málaga bus station to ensure a smooth boarding process; buses operated by Socibus leave from the main station, so check both the station's layout and your bus platform in advance by visiting the official website: socibus.es
• The bus journey to Bilbao is long, at around 13 hours and 15 minutes, so be sure to pack snacks and entertainment to make the trip more enjoyable; you may also want to check the dining options near Málaga station for any last-minute purchases before departure.
• Upon arrival at Bilbao station, familiarize yourself with the surrounding area; it's conveniently located near 'Abando' Metro station, providing easy access to the city; you can view the station map and explore local transit options at: metrobilbao.eus

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Malaga to Bilbao.

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The distance between Malaga and Bilbao is approximately 462 miles by direct route, or 577.3 miles if driving. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 8 hours and 49 minutes to reach Bilbao from Malaga by train, 5 hours and 27 minutes by taking a train to Sevilla and then flying to Bilbao, and 3 hours and 24 minutes by plane. To travel from Bilbao to Malaga, it takes approximately 9 hours and 6 minutes by car or 13 hours and 15 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Malaga to Bilbao is by bus, which takes approximately 13 hours and 15 minutes and costs around €50-€63. This option may not be the most time-efficient, but it offers a relatively cheaper way to travel between the two cities. However, if time is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 24 minutes and costing approximately €27-€181.
The prices for traveling from Malaga to Bilbao by train range from €65 to €121. Alternatively, taking a bus from Bilbao to Malaga has prices ranging from €50 to €63. It is recommended to check with the specific train or bus operator for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Malaga to Bilbao without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the approximately 577-mile distance. The drive takes around 9 hours and 6 minutes. Keep in mind that rental prices for cars between Malaga and Bilbao can range from €145 to €226, depending on the rental company and the type of car you choose.
To travel from Malaga to Bilbao without a car, the best option is to take a train. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 49 minutes and the train ticket prices range from €63 to €127. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €27 to €181. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes 13 hours and 15 minutes and costs between €50 and €63.
There is no direct link between Malaga and Bilbao by train. However, there are train services available that require transfers and take approximately 8 hours and 49 minutes. The bus is another option with a direct service that runs once daily and takes around 13 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between Malaga and Bilbao typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from €30 to €176. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may also depend on factors such as the time of booking and availability. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are various options for accommodation near Bilbao. There are over 1287 hotels available to choose from with prices starting as low as €46. The hotels offer a range of amenities and locations to suit different preferences and budgets. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or consult with a travel agent to find the best option for your stay in Bilbao.