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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cologne to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Mar 20
Cheapest price
$81
Average price
$140
Fastest journey
23 h 5 m
Average duration
1 d 1 h 39 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
1132 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cologne to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Bilbao will cost around $140 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Cologne for Bilbao on Fri, Mar 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Mar 20 the direct buses cover the 1132 km distance in an average of 1 d 1 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 23 h 5 m .
On Fri, Mar 20 the slowest buses will take 1 d 2 h 51 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.
10:55AM23h05
Cologne10:00AMBilbao
$811One-way
0 transfers
11:20AM26h45
Cologne02:05PMBilbao
$1151One-way
0 transfers
12:15PM25h55
Cologne02:10PMBilbao
$1181One-way
0 transfers
11:14AM26h51
Cologne02:05PMBilbao
$2461One-way
0 transfers
10:55AM23h05
Cologne10:00AMBilbao
$811One-way
0 transfers
12:15PM25h55
Cologne02:10PMBilbao
$1181One-way
0 transfers
11:20AM26h45
Cologne02:05PMBilbao
$1151One-way
0 transfers
11:14AM26h51
Cologne02:05PMBilbao
$2461One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Cologne to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $147.
Distance: 703 miles (1132 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
$98 Average price Cheapest | $440 Average price |
21h 22m Average total duration 20h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Cologne to Bilbao Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 22h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 24h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Cologne to Bilbao bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Bilbao buses for today, Thursday, March 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 5:14 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:50 AM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 22h35 | 5:25 AM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:55 PM Köln, Kennedystraße (Köln Bonn Flughafen) | 24h10 | 11:05 PM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Bilbao by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight 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.
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Why should you book Cologne to Bilbao buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Cologne to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Bilbao.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bilbao.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Bilbao.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Bilbao.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Bilbao.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Bilbao
Germany
Spain
Buses from Cologne to Bilbao run on average 5 times per day, taking around 20h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 703 miles (1132 km) distance in 21h 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 703 miles (1132 km) |
Average bus duration 20h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 21h 35m |
First bus 00:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest month Apr |
Cheapest day Mon |
High season Apr - Jun |
Low season Jan - Mar |
Busiest day Fri |
Least busy day Fri |
Best day to book ahead 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 from Cologne to BilbaoYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Bilbao with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as $42 (€34). 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
21h 35m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
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.
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
23h 5m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
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.
FAQs: Bus from Cologne to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Bilbao 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 Bilbao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cologne to Bilbao can start from as little as $42 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cologne to Bilbao is $98 (€80) ; 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 Cologne to Bilbao is 21h 35m to travel the 703 miles (1132 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 Cologne to Bilbao leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cologne to Bilbao leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Cologne to Bilbao which require at least one change with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cologne to Bilbao, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cologne and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bilbao from Cologne is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 21h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cologne to Bilbao is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Bilbao including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cologne to Bilbao for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cologne to Bilbao:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bilbao are:
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a modern and contemporary art museum known for its innovative architecture by Frank Gehry
- Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao featuring narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant local markets
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, a museum housing a diverse collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to contemporary pieces
- Santiago Cathedral, a Gothic-style cathedral with a rich history dating back to the 14th century
- Zubizuri Bridge, a striking white arch bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava offering scenic views of the city.
The best things to do in Bilbao include:
- Mount Artxanda, a scenic viewpoint accessible by funicular offering panoramic views of the city
- La Ribera Market, a vibrant market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere
- A walk along the Nervión River, providing a relaxing experience with beautiful views of the cityscape
- Enjoying pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, in one of the many local bars
- Exploring the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural and leisure center housed in a former wine warehouse.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cologne to Bilbao depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
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 Cologne to Bilbao.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cologne to Bilbao:
- 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 Cologne to Bilbao:
- 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 Cologne to Bilbao. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cologne to Bilbao with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cologne to Bilbao with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cologne to Bilbao with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cologne to Bilbao
Cologne
Bilbao
The major bus station for departures in Cologne is Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) for your trip from Cologne to Bilbao.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Accessibility
WCinformation
Distance to city center
13 km
Car connection
KennedystraßeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
13 kmCar connection
KennedystrasseWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside Terminal 2 arrivals area.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)
- Bus: SB60 Train: S13, S19
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Bilbao from Cologne.
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 kmCar 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
Most popular bus connections from Cologne
More options for your journey from Cologne to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bilbao and Cologne
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