Zurich to Bilbao bus with Alsa

Fri, Jun 19
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Alsa
FlixBus
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
Alsa
FlixBus
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Zurich to Bilbao

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$157

Average price

$184

Fastest journey

1 d 3 h 20 m

Average duration

1 d 4 h 28 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

1005 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zurich to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Zurich to Bilbao will cost around $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $157.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Zurich to Bilbao without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    9:25 PM30h30
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    3:55 AMBilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea
    $1571One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    3:35 PM27h35
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    7:10 PMBilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea
    $1601One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    8:25 PM27h20
    Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
    11:45 PMBilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea
    $2341One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Zurich to Bilbao

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $84. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.0 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, and a flight costs an average of $72.

Distance: 624 miles (1005 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Driving

$132

Average price

Cheapest

$195

Average price

$459

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

23h 16m

Average total duration

22h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 6m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

13h 5m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

1.0 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.0 - 6.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Vueling

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Bilbao is a bus with an average price of $132 (€108).

This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Bilbao:

A bus is $64 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Bilbao costing on average $195 (€160).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Bilbao is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 6m.

Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:

Bus takes on average 22h 46m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Bilbao including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Bilbao 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 $132 (€108) compared to roughly $459 (€376) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $327 (€268). The journey takes 22h 46m versus 13h 5m 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, BlaBlaCar Bus.

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.

Zurich to Bilbao Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Alsa
Departure Time
03:25AM
Arrival Time
07:00AM
Duration
27h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Sat
Cheapest price
$84
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:35PM
Arrival Time
07:10PM
Duration
27h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
BlaBlaCar Bus
Departure Time
07:50PM
Arrival Time
02:20AM
Duration
30h30
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$171
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:25PM
Arrival Time
11:45PM
Duration
27h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$105
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:25PM
Arrival Time
03:55AM
Duration
30h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$109

Live departures

Zurich to Bilbao bus times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Bilbao buses for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus8:25 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
27h20
11:45 PM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea2 transfers
Friday, June 19
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:35 PM Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
27h35
7:10 PM Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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 Zurich to Bilbao buses with Omio?

Alsa as well as FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Zurich to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Bilbao.

Why book with Omio vs Alsa?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alsa, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 Alsa with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Bilbao.

Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Zurich to Bilbao.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Zurich to Bilbao.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Zurich to Bilbao

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
SpainSpain
Icon of bus

Buses from Zurich to Bilbao run on average 2 times per day, taking around 22h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $84 (€69) but you can travel from only $72 (€59) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 624 miles (1005 km) distance in 26h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $72 (€59)
Distance
624 miles (1005 km)
Average bus duration
22h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$84 (€69)
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
26h 35m
First bus
2:45 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $72 (€59)

Bus providers: Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Zurich to BilbaoYou can travel by bus between Zurich to Bilbao with Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as $72 (€59). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
26h 35m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€69)
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.

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
27h 0m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€71)
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.

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
30h 30m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€86)
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 Bilbao

Things to do in Bilbao

Discover the best of Bilbao — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bilbao trip today.

  • Must visit

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Iconic contemporary art museum designed by Frank Gehry, famous for its titanium architecture and major modern art exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

One of Spain’s leading art museums, with strong collections spanning medieval works to modern Basque and Spanish art.

  • Recommended

Itsasmuseum Bilbao

Maritime museum by the estuary covering Bilbao’s shipbuilding, port history, and relationship with the sea.

Euro

Moderate for Spain: pintxos and local bars can be good value, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 10-15 for a simple lunch or pintxos.
Mid-range
EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 1.80-3.00 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 in bars, 5-10% in restaurants for very good service. Tipping is appreciated, not expected.

FAQs: Bus from Zurich to Bilbao

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Zurich to Bilbao can start from as little as $84 (€69) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zurich to Bilbao is $132 (€108) ; 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 Zurich to Bilbao is 26h 35m to travel the 624 miles (1005 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 Zurich to Bilbao leaves at 2:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zurich to Bilbao leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Zurich to Bilbao which require at least one change with Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Zurich to Bilbao, you can count on Alsa, 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 Zurich and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bilbao from Zurich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 26h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zurich to Bilbao is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zurich and Bilbao including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Zurich to Bilbao:
  • Alsa
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Accessible seating.
  • BlaBlaCar Bus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Accessible seating options.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Zurich to Bilbao for bus company Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
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 Zurich to Bilbao 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 Alsa, 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 Zurich to Bilbao.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Zurich to Bilbao:
  • 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 Zurich to Bilbao:
  • 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 Zurich to Bilbao. 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 Zurich to Bilbao with the following bus company: Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zurich to Bilbao with the following bus company: Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Zurich to Bilbao with the following bus company: Alsa, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Since both Zurich and Bilbao 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Bilbao among Omio's users.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Bilbao, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, the old town, and near major attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum. Common scams include distraction techniques and overcharging taxi drivers; it’s advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Travelers should also be aware of counterfeit tickets for events or transportation and always verify prices before purchasing. Staying vigilant in busy spots and keeping belongings secure helps reduce risks.
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 Zurich to Bilbao

Most Zurich to Bilbao buses use the Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) to Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea station pair, with some services arriving at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Bilbao bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Zurich
Arrival bus stations in Bilbao
Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof)
City-centre transport

Getting to Kloten, Zürich Flughafen (Bahnhof) from Zurich city centre

Train75 · 10m · $5 · every ~2 min
S2, S24, Ic5, Ir36, Ir75, Ir13, Ic81, Ic1, Ic8, S, Ir, N1, Ext · 12m · $5 · every ~22 min
S7, S16 · 18m · $6 · every ~5 min
BusN10 · 27m · $7
Tram10 · 30m · $4 · every ~14 min
Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai)Sihlquai, 8005 Zurich, SwitzerlandWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) from Zurich city centre

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus31, 33, 46 Train: S2, S5, S6, S7, S8, S14, S16 Tram: 4, 13, 17

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) bus station facilities and services

Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the terminal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich, Sihlquai Bus Terminal (Carparkplatz Sihlquai): Elevators, ramps.

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