- Must visit
Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
An excellent maritime museum focused on La Rochelle's seafaring history, with preserved vessels and harbor-side exhibits. A strong choice for understanding the city's identity as an Atlantic port.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bilbao to La Rochelle
Showing times and prices for Jun 06
Cheapest price
$33
Average price
$44
Fastest journey
7 h 35 m
Average duration
8 h 4 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
352 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bilbao to La Rochelle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to La Rochelle will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Bilbao for La Rochelle on Sat, Jun 06, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 06 the direct buses cover the 352 km distance in an average of 8 h 4 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 35 m .
On Sat, Jun 06 the slowest buses will take 9 h 19 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:50 AM8h15Bilbao4:05 PMLa Rochelle$331One-way0 transfers
4:55 PM9h19Bilbao2:14 AMLa Rochelle$341One-way0 transfers- 8:20 PM7h35Bilbao3:55 AMLa Rochelle$461One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 PM7h35Bilbao5:55 AMLa Rochelle$471One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 PM7h35Bilbao4:55 AMLa Rochelle$601One-way0 transfers
- 10:20 PM7h35Bilbao5:55 AMLa Rochelle$471One-way0 transfers
- 8:20 PM7h35Bilbao3:55 AMLa Rochelle$461One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 PM7h35Bilbao4:55 AMLa Rochelle$601One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 AM8h15Bilbao4:05 PMLa Rochelle$331One-way0 transfers
- 4:55 PM9h19Bilbao2:14 AMLa Rochelle$341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Bilbao to La Rochelle
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to La Rochelle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 7h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a bus costs an average of $31.
Distance: 218 miles (352 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$46 Average price Cheapest | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 17m Average total duration Fastest 7h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bilbao to La Rochelle is a bus with an average price of $46 (€37).
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to La Rochelle is by bus with an average journey time of 7h 47m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Bilbao and La Rochelle.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to La Rochelle among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $46 (€37) compared to roughly $107 (€86) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $61 (€49). The journey takes 7h 47m versus 5h 24m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Bilbao to La Rochelle Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 02:14AM | Duration 12h14 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 02:14AM | Duration 11h29 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 01:14AM | Duration 9h19 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 02:14AM | Duration 9h19 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 02:14AM | Duration 8h44 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 03:14AM | Duration 9h19 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 02:14AM | Duration 7h44 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 23h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Alsa | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 03:14AM | Duration 7h44 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator Internorte | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 03:14AM | Duration 7h44 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 04:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Bilbao to La Rochelle bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to La Rochelle buses for today, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 9:20 PM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea | 7h35 | 4:55 AM La Rochelle, Jean Moulin | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 6 | |||||
| 7:50 AM Bilbao | 8h15 | 4:05 PM La Rochelle | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:55 PM Bilbao | 9h19 | 2:14 AM La Rochelle | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to La Rochelle by bus
Compare bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Why should you book Bilbao to La Rochelle buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus or Alsa offer buses services from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus or Alsa to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus or Alsa to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle
Spain
France
Buses from Bilbao to La Rochelle run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:20. The fastest bus covers the 218 miles (352 km) distance in 7h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 218 miles (352 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 7h 35m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa from Bilbao to La RochelleYou can travel by bus between Bilbao to La Rochelle with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa for as low as $31 (€25). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 35m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Alsa
About
Alsa is the main provider of bus travel in Spain and a subsidiary of the UK’s National Express. It operates an extensive network of regional, national, and international routes, transporting more than 300 million passengers annually. Alsa’s modern fleet offers varying levels of comfort and amenities. The standard Alsa Normal buses include free Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, footrests, and entertainment. For a more premium experience, Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus, and Alsa Premium services provide enhanced comfort and luxury features.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 44m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
Alsa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for an additional fee; must be packed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must travel in the hold.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 19m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Complete guide to La Rochelle
Things to do in La Rochelle
Discover the best of La Rochelle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Rochelle trip today.
- Recommended
Muséum d'Histoire naturelle de La Rochelle
A well-regarded natural history museum with zoology, geology, and ethnography collections in a historic setting. Good for families and visitors interested in science and regional heritage.
- Recommended
Musée du Nouveau Monde
Set in an elegant mansion, this museum explores links between La Rochelle and the Americas through art, trade, and colonial-era history. Especially interesting for history-focused visitors.
- Must visit
La Rochelle Old Town
The historic center, with arcaded streets, stone facades, and lively squares, is the best area for wandering without a strict plan. It is central to the city's appeal.
- Recommended
Le Gabut
A colorful former fishermen's quarter known for bright facades, street art atmosphere, and lively harbor views. It is especially popular for photos and sunset walks.
- Recommended
Parc Charruyer
A long urban park ideal for walking, jogging, and relaxing near the center. It offers greenery, water features, and an easy break from the busy port area.
- Gluten-free
Moules De Bouchot
Small mussels farmed on wooden poles along the Atlantic coast, often served marinière with white wine. A classic local seafood specialty around La Rochelle.
- Gluten-free
Huîtres De Marennes-Oléron
Renowned oysters from the nearby Marennes-Oléron basin, prized for their refined, briny flavor and strong link to Charente-Maritime.
- Gluten-free
Éclade De Moules
Traditional Charentais mussels cooked under a layer of burning pine needles, giving them a smoky aroma. It is a festive regional preparation.
Christopher Coutanceau
Celebrated fine dining restaurant by the sea, known for refined sustainable seafood and elegant service. One of La Rochelle's landmark gastronomic addresses.
Les Flots
Well-known upscale restaurant facing the old port, appreciated for polished seafood cuisine, seasonal products, and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
La Yole De Chris
Established seafood-focused restaurant linked to chef Christopher Coutanceau, offering a more casual bistro experience with quality local produce.
Euro
Moderate by French standards. Cafes and casual meals are reasonable, while seafood, hotels, and summer prices rise.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple lunch or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included in restaurant prices. Small change or rounding up is appreciated for good service; 5-10% is optional. Round up taxis; tipping is not expected in bars or cafes.
Yelo La Rochelle
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 5.00 EUR
To the city center
La Rochelle P+R Jean Moulin -> La Rochelle-Ville Station
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can buy tickets in the Yelo app or from ticket machines; contactless card payment availability depends on the vehicle and is not guaranteed on all buses.
- Park-and-ride sites are designed to connect with Yelo buses, making them a practical option for reaching the center and La Rochelle-Ville Station.
FAQs: Bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to La Rochelle by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at La Rochelle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bilbao to La Rochelle can start from as little as $31 (€25) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bilbao to La Rochelle is $46 (€37) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle is 7h 35m to travel the 218 miles (352 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle leaves at 11:20 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Bilbao to La Rochelle with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa for the best way to get you to La Rochelle. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bilbao and La Rochelle and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to La Rochelle from Bilbao is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle is January.
Yes, you can take a bus between Bilbao and La Rochelle.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bilbao to La Rochelle depends on the bus companies:
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bilbao to La Rochelle:
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Bilbao to La Rochelle:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bilbao to La Rochelle with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa.
Since both Bilbao and La Rochelle are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to La Rochelle among Omio's users.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In La Rochelle, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old port and during festivals. Avoid leaving belongings unattended and be wary of distraction techniques. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at small shops can occur, so always confirm prices in advance. Petty theft near popular tourist sites is the main safety concern to watch out for.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bilbao to La Rochelle
Bilbao
La Rochelle
The major bus station for departures in Bilbao is Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea for your trip from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea
information
Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Gurtubay KaleaWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café de la Estación (in the station)
- Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
- Bus: 58, 62, 77 Metro: L1, L2 Train: C1, C2
The major bus station for arrivals in La Rochelle is La Rochelle, Jean Moulin. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at La Rochelle, Jean Moulin for your trip to La Rochelle from Bilbao.
La Rochelle, Jean Moulin
information
La Rochelle, P+R Jean Moulin
information
La Rochelle, Place De Verdun
information
More options for your journey from Bilbao to La Rochelle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from La Rochelle and Bilbao
Most popular bus connections to La Rochelle
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