- Must visit
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Iconic contemporary art museum designed by Frank Gehry, famous for its titanium architecture and major modern art exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Madrid to Bilbao flight
SpainSpain
Flights from Madrid to Bilbao depart on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $45 (€36) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by train.
There are 7 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 06:30, the last at 22:45. The fastest flight covers the 200 miles (323 km) distance in 1h 0m. June is the cheapest month to fly.
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
Train from $27 (€22)
Distance 200 miles (323 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€36) |
Flights per day 10 |
Direct flights 7 |
Fastest flight 1h 0m |
First flight 6:30 AM |
Last flight 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $27 (€22)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Madrid to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$211
Average price
$452
Fastest journey
1 h
Average duration
4 h 26 m
Flights per day
9
Distance
323 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Madrid to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Bilbao will cost around $452 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $211.
Fast flights
Of the 9 flights that leave Madrid for Bilbao onThu, Jun 18, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 18 the direct flights cover the 323 km distance in an average of 4 h 26 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h .
On Thu, Jun 18 the longest flights will take 10 h 5 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.
UX9059 · UX70077:05 AM11h25Madrid Barajas Airport6:30 PMBilbao Airport$2111One-way1 transfer- UX9118 · UX700711:45 AM6h45Madrid Barajas Airport6:30 PMBilbao Airport$2341One-way1 transfer
- UX71616:30 AM1h05Madrid Barajas Airport7:35 AMBilbao Airport$2711One-way0 transfers
- UX715710:55 AM1h00Madrid Barajas Airport11:55 AMBilbao Airport$3281One-way0 transfers
- UX6013 · UX750610:15 AM10h05Madrid Barajas Airport8:20 PMBilbao Airport$4411One-way1 transfer
- UX715710:55 AM1h00Madrid Barajas Airport11:55 AMBilbao Airport$3281One-way0 transfers
- UX71616:30 AM1h05Madrid Barajas Airport7:35 AMBilbao Airport$2711One-way0 transfers
- UX6079 · UX75065:05 PM3h15Madrid Barajas Airport8:20 PMBilbao Airport$6861One-way1 transfer
- UX9118 · UX700711:45 AM6h45Madrid Barajas Airport6:30 PMBilbao Airport$2341One-way1 transfer
- UX6013 · UX750610:15 AM10h05Madrid Barajas Airport8:20 PMBilbao Airport$4411One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $45.
Distance: 200 miles (323 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$225 Average price | $64 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Madrid to Bilbao is a train with an average price of $55 (€44).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Bilbao:
A train is $9 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Madrid to Bilbao costing on average $64 (€52).
A train is $170 (€137) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Bilbao costing on average $225 (€182).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Bilbao is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 27m.
Bus takes on average 4h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Bilbao including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Bilbao among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to Bilbao flight times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Bilbao flights for today, Wednesday, June 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UX6031 · UX7506 | 8:20 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 4h25 | 12:45 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UX7157 | 10:55 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h00 | 11:55 AM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IB1099 | 11:40 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 12:45 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UX9073 · UX7029 | 12:30 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 7h40 | 8:10 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
 AT973 · AT886 | 1:35 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 6h00 | 7:35 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UX7153 | 2:55 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h00 | 3:55 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UX9048 · UX7007 | 3:00 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 27h30 | 6:30 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
| IB435 | 3:45 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h10 | 4:55 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UX6097 · UX7506 | 7:00 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 25h20 | 8:20 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UX7159 | 7:15 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h00 | 8:15 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UX9057 · UX7007 | 7:15 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 23h15 | 6:30 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
| IB439 | 7:45 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 8:50 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IB441 | 10:10 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 11:15 PM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, June 18 | |||||
| UX7161 | 6:30 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1h05 | 7:35 AM Bilbao Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UX9059 · UX7007 | 7:05 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 11h25 | 6:30 PM Bilbao Airport | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Madrid to Bilbao?
The best time to book your flight from Madrid to Bilbao is 91 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Madrid to Bilbao route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Bilbao per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Madrid to Bilbao.
Flights
from $90Trains
from $30Buses
from $50Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Bilbao by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Why should you book Madrid to Bilbao flights with Omio?
Iberia as well as Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling, GetJet Airlines and more offer flights services from Madrid to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Bilbao.
Why book with Omio vs Iberia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Iberia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling or GetJet Airlines to find the best option for your trip from Madrid 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 Iberia with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Bilbao.
Why book with Omio over Kayak, Trip or Edreams?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling or GetJet Airlines to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Bilbao.
ReviewsReviews for the flight from Madrid to Bilbao
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
punctualPriceCheck-inDisadvantages
noneCheck-in was quick and uncomplicated.
The flight itself was on time and the aircraft was modern and clean. The seats were okay for the short distance, even if the space was a bit narrower than I would have liked. But for a one-hour flight, it was perfectly fine. The cabin crew regularly offered drinks during the flight, which I found very positive. Overall, it was an uncomplicated and pleasant journey. I was taken to Bilbao well and on time.
Airlines: Iberia, Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling, GetJet Airlines from Madrid to BilbaoFind the best flights between Madrid to Bilbao with Omio's travel partners Iberia, Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling, GetJet Airlines from $27 (€22). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Iberia
About
Iberia is the national airline of Spain and a key member of the International Airlines Group (IAG), operating flights throughout Europe and to major global destinations. Its wide range of services makes travel easy and flexible—Economy passengers enjoy affordable fares with comfort, while Business Class travelers can experience premium seating, exclusive lounges, and enhanced dining. From short domestic flights to intercontinental journeys, Iberia combines Spanish hospitality with modern amenities, making it a popular choice worldwide.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€36)
Iberia frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (40x30x20 cm) and 1 checked bag (158 cm total dimensions) included in most fares except Basic
Additional luggage
Additional bags can be purchased, with prices varying by route and fare type
Cancellation Policy
Basic fares non-refundable, Flexible fares refundable with fee, Business fully refundable
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy). Medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel alone using Iberia's unaccompanied minor service. Service is optional for ages 12-17
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Iberia provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and special services for visually or hearing impaired passengers
Pets
Small pets under 8kg in cabin, larger animals in hold. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Air Europa
About
Air Europa is Spain’s third most popular airline, offering flights across Europe and to destinations worldwide. For your next trip, you can choose between Economy and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 0m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
Air Europa frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25 cm) max 10kg
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type, Basic fares non-refundable, Flex fares refundable with fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy). Medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with UM service. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair assistance available, must be requested 48h before flight
Pets
Small pets under 8kg allowed in cabin, larger animals in hold
Entertaiment on board
Air Nostrum
About
Air Nostrum, operating as Iberia Regional, is a Spanish regional airline based in Valencia, founded in 1994. It functions as a franchisee for Iberia Airlines, connecting numerous domestic destinations within Spain and international routes across Europe and North Africa. Air Nostrum plays a crucial role in feeding Iberia's long-haul network from its Madrid hub. The airline is an affiliate member of the Oneworld airline alliance and operates 91 domestic and international routes to 51 destinations, along with charter flights. Its fleet includes CRJ 200 and CRJ 1000 jets, as well as ATR 72-600 turboprops. In 2023, Air Nostrum merged with CityJet, forming the Strategic Alliance of Regional Airlines (SARA).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$133 (€108)
Air Nostrum frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (40x30x20 cm) included
Additional luggage
Additional cabin bag and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type, some tickets non-refundable
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to week 36 of pregnancy, medical certificate required after week 28
Unaccompagned minor
Service available for children aged 5-11, must be booked at least 48h in advance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested 48h before flight
Pets
Small pets in cabin allowed, max 8kg including carrier
Entertaiment on board
Vueling
About
Vueling is a Spanish low-cost airline and one of the largest carriers in Europe, offering affordable flights across Spain, Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Operating mainly from its hub in Barcelona, Vueling provides a modern fleet with flexible fare options to suit different types of travelers. Passengers can choose from basic low-cost tickets to fares that include extras such as seat selection, checked baggage, and priority boarding. With WiFi and onboard services available on many routes, Vueling is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$288 (€233)
Vueling frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (40x20x30 cm)
Additional luggage
Extra cabin bag (55x40x20 cm) and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24h of booking if flight is more than 7 days away. After that, cancellation fees apply based on fare type
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to week 36 (32 for multiple pregnancies). Medical certificate required after week 28
Unaccompagned minor
Available for children aged 5-11, must be booked at least 48h in advance. Service fee applies
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets in cabin allowed, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
GetJet Airlines
About
GetJet Airlines is a Lithuanian-based airline established in 2016, specializing in Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) services, passenger charter, and air cargo operations. They provide flexible aviation solutions to other airlines and tour operators globally, helping them manage seasonal demand or cover unscheduled maintenance. GetJet Airlines operates a fleet that includes Airbus A320, A321, A330, and Boeing 737 aircraft. They have served clients such as Norwegian Air Shuttle, Finnair, LOT Polish Airlines, and TUI. In 2019, GetJet Airlines became the first Lithuanian airline to operate transatlantic flights to North America.
Luggage & cancellation policy
GetJet Airlines frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max. 8kg) included
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type and time of cancellation request
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to the end of 36th week of pregnancy. After 28th week, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Children between 5-11 years can travel unaccompanied with mandatory assistance service
Amenities on board the airplane
Accessibility
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
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.
- Must visit
Casco Viejo
Bilbao’s historic Old Town, known for its narrow lanes, traditional architecture, lively squares, and local atmosphere.
- Must visit
Abandoibarra
Revitalized riverside district around the Guggenheim, ideal for walking, architecture, and skyline views.
- Must visit
Artxanda Viewpoint
Popular panoramic viewpoint above Bilbao with wide city views, especially attractive at sunset.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
Salt cod gently cooked with olive oil, garlic, and chili until the sauce emulsifies. A Basque classic strongly associated with Bilbao and nearby coastal cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao a la Vizcaína
Salt cod served with a rich Bizkaian red pepper and onion sauce. It is one of the signature dishes of the province of Bizkaia.
- Gluten-free
Marmitako
A traditional Basque fisherman’s stew of tuna, potatoes, peppers, and onions. It is especially emblematic of the Cantabrian coast.
Restaurante Mina
Well-known fine dining restaurant overlooking the river, offering a seasonal tasting-menu approach rooted in high-level Basque cooking.
Gure Toki
Popular pintxos bar on Plaza Nueva, celebrated for creative Basque bites and a busy, classic old-town setting.
La Viña del Ensanche
Established Bilbao dining room and deli known for quality Basque produce, seafood, ham, and a polished but traditional atmosphere.
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.
Bilbobus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 5.00 EUR
To the city center
Bilbao Airport -> Moyua Plaza, Bilbao
- Distance
- 12 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
- You can use contactless bank cards on Metro Bilbao gates and on many urban transport services, but carrying some cash is still useful for certain operators or ticket machines.
- The Barik card is the most practical option if you plan to use metro, tram, funicular, or buses several times, as it works across much of Bilbao's public transport network.
FAQs: Madrid to Bilbao Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Bilbao by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bilbao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Madrid to Bilbao can start from as little as $45 (€36) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Madrid to Bilbao is $225 (€182) ; 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 plane from Madrid to Bilbao is 1h 0m to travel the 200 miles (323 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 10:45 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct flights a day from Madrid to Bilbao with Iberia, Air Europa, Air Nostrum. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Madrid to Bilbao, you can count on Iberia, Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Vueling, GetJet Airlines for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Madrid and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Madrid to Bilbao generally leave from Madrid Barajas Airport and arrive in Bilbao Airport.Madrid Barajas Airport is 7 miles (12 km) away from Madrid city centre and Bilbao Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Bilbao city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Madrid to Bilbao is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Bilbao including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since both Madrid 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.
There is no time difference between Madrid and Bilbao.
The best events to attend in Bilbao include:
- Bilbao BBK Live, a music festival featuring international and local artists
- Bilbao Art District, a celebration of art with exhibitions and performances throughout the city
- Semana Grande, a week-long festival with concerts, fireworks, and traditional Basque activities
- Festival Internacional de Cine de Bilbao, an international film festival showcasing diverse films and filmmakers.
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 holidays to experience in Bilbao include:
- Carnival, lively parades and colorful costumes in February
- Easter, significant religious celebrations and local traditions in March/April
- San Sebastián Day, a celebration of the city's patron saint with various festivities in September
- Christmas Holidays, festive markets and beautiful decorations throughout December.
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.
The best season to visit Bilbao is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Bilbao is during April-June or September-October.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Bilbao among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports
Popular airports from Madrid to Bilbao
Madrid
Bilbao
The major airport for departures in Madrid is Madrid Barajas Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Barajas Airport for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
12 km
Car connection
M-14, exit 2Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport
Shopping
- Shops in all terminals, including duty-free and fashion brands
Parking
- Parking available at all terminals, approximately 2.5€ per hour
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available in all terminals, including VIP lounges
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Terminal 1, 2, and 4
Public transit options for Madrid Barajas Airport
- Metro: Line 8
- Bus: Lines 101, 200, Exprés-203
- Train: Cercanías C1, C10
The major airport for arrivals in Bilbao is Bilbao Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao Airport for your journey to Bilbao from Madrid.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
AP-8, Exit 11Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport
Shopping
- Shops are located in the departures area, main shops include duty-free and local products
Parking
- Parking available with short-term and long-term options, approximately 1.2€ per hour
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available throughout the airport, including accessible facilities
Lounge
- Lounges available, the VIP Lounge offers refreshments and Wi-Fi
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the arrivals area
Public transit options for Bilbao Airport
- Bus: A3247
More options for your journey from Madrid to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Bilbao and Madrid
Most popular flights to Bilbao
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
