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Santander, Cantabria to Bilbao, Basque Country from $4.5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santander, Spain
to
Bilbao, Spain

How to Get from Santander 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.

$4.5 RideshareBest price
106 kmDistance
1h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santander 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
ALSA
Bus
Average Duration
1h  30m
Estimated price
$7.1-17
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  30m
Estimated price
$4.5-8
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 106 km
Duration: 1h 10m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Renfe Cercanias AM - Feve
Train
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
$8-9.8
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  10m
Estimated price
$17-25

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $8 $8 $8 $8 $8 $8 $8
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Traveling From Santander to Bilbao

The journey from Santander to Bilbao offers a refreshing contrast, as Santander boasts beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe, while Bilbao showcases a vibrant cultural scene and modern architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bilbao

Bilbao's neighborhoods showcase a blend of history, culture, and vibrant life.

Casco Viejo
• Charming narrow streets filled with local shops.
• Historic buildings and vibrant markets to explore.
Abando
• Home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
• Great dining options and a lively atmosphere.
Getxo
• Coastal neighborhood with stunning beaches.
• Beautiful seafront promenades for leisurely walks.

Best Times To Visit Bilbao's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Bilbao by timing your visits just right.

Guggenheim Museum
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds.
Casco Viejo
Explore during weekday afternoons for a more leisurely experience.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Go on Thursday evenings for free entry and a quieter atmosphere.

Bilbao Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bilbao enjoys a mild oceanic climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it inviting throughout the year. Spring and early fall tend to offer the best weather for exploration, while the rainy season from October to April can shape your travel plans.

Dining Recommendation in Bilbao

In Bilbao, don’t miss trying the Bizkaina-style bonito, a unique twist on tuna cooked in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, perfectly showcasing the region's bold flavors. This culinary experience contrasts with Santander's seafood offerings by featuring local Basque ingredients in a lively atmosphere that reflects the city's vibrant culture.

Santander - Bilbao operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santander and Bilbao, 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 Santander E.A. to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
7.1-12
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+34 912 320 320
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en/suburban/cercanias-am

Train from Santander to Bilbao

Average Duration
3h 3m
Estimated price
8-9.8
Rideshare
Website
https://www.blablacar.fr

Rideshare from Santander to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
4.5-8
Drive

Drive from Santander to Bilbao

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
17-25

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

Traveling between Santander 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Santander to Bilbao, covering a distance of 66 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, offering picturesque views along the way. 💸 Explore the budget-friendly travel options from Santander to Bilbao by car, with prices ranging from €18 to €26. Take control of your travel expenses while experiencing the convenience and flexibility of driving on your own terms.
Average price
€18 - €26
🌄 Enjoy the approximately 3-hour train ride through the picturesque landscapes of northern Spain as you make your way from Santander to Bilbao. Sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful views along the way. 💰 With tickets ranging from €8 to €10, the train journey from Santander to Bilbao is not only affordable but also a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between these two vibrant cities in Spain.
Departure Point
Santander station
Arrival Point
Bilbao station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services for your train trip typically include a cafe car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. If you're traveling on the Alvia or Regional Express trains, you might find some additional meal options during peak hours. Be sure to check the onboard menu upon boarding to plan your refreshments.
• The trains between Santander and Bilbao usually offer several seating options: First Class provides more spacious and comfortable seating with additional amenities, Business Class has inclusive services like complimentary snacks and drinks, while Economy Class is budget-friendly with standard seating. Consider opening the train’s seating layout to identify your chosen class when booking.
• For this route, you can choose trains operated by Renfe and Feve. Renfe's website is renfe.com, and Feve can be accessed at feve.es Check both sites for schedules, ticket prices, and booking availability.
• Upon arriving at Bilbao's Abando station, there are lockers available where you can leave your luggage for a few hours if you want to explore the city without your bags. The station also has restrooms but does not offer shower facilities.
• The fastest way to get from Abando station to the Bilbao city center is to take the Metro Line 1 (the Biscaying Metro) from Abando station to the nearest stops like 'Centro de Bilbao' or 'San Mamés.' It typically takes about 10 minutes and is convenient for accessing local attractions.
🚌 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from Santander to Bilbao by bus with ALSA. Departing hourly, you can enjoy a smooth ride that takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 With ticket prices ranging from €7 to €18, your bus trip from Santander to Bilbao offers an affordable and comfortable travel option for adventurers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Spain's Basque Country.
Departure Point
Santander E.A. station
Arrival Point
Bilbao station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the ALSA website for the most accurate bus schedules and book your tickets in advance at ALSA to secure the best pricing, as prices can vary between €7.2 and €17 depending on the demand.
• Bring snacks or a light meal along, as while the journey to Bilbao is only 1.5 hours, having something to munch on can make your trip more enjoyable; consider picking up some local pastries from pastelerías in Santander before you board.
• When you arrive at Bilbao Intermodal station, be prepared for a bit of a hub; take time to familiarize yourself with the station layout using the provided station map and information desks, as it connects to multiple transport options, including metro and tram services for your onward journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santander to Bilbao.

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The distance between Santander and Bilbao is 47 miles. If you choose to travel by train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes to reach Bilbao from Santander. The road distance is slightly longer at 65.9 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach Santander from Bilbao by car. If you prefer to take the bus, it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Bilbao from Santander.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santander to Bilbao is ridesharing. Ridesharing typically costs between €4-€8 and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is a convenient way to travel as you can share the cost with other passengers heading in the same direction. Alternatively, if you are looking for a quicker option, taking a taxi is the best choice. Although it is more expensive, costing between €109-€136, it only takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach Bilbao from Santander.
The prices for traveling from Santander to Bilbao by train vary between €7 and €10. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from Bilbao to Santander range from €5 to €22. It is suggested to check various transportation options and compare prices to find the best deal that fits your budget.
To get from Santander to Bilbao without using public transportation, you can consider carpooling with BlaBlaCar, a popular rideshare service. This option is especially convenient if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Santander and Bilbao is approximately 66 miles, and it usually takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car. The prices for carpooling between Santander and Bilbao can vary between €17 and €25, depending on the specific arrangements made with the driver.
The most convenient way to travel from Santander to Bilbao without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range from €5 to €22. The bus route between the two cities is reliable and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santander and Bilbao. You can take a train from Santander to Bilbao, with services departing three times a day and taking approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus, with services departing hourly and taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both options provide convenient and efficient transportation between these two cities in Spain.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Bilbao. With over 1287 hotels available, you have a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at €46, so you can find something that fits your budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there is something for everyone in Bilbao.