- Must visit
Tabakalera
Major contemporary art center in a former tobacco factory. It hosts ambitious exhibitions, local culture, and one of the city’s strongest programs.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times and prices for Aug 22
Cheapest price
€18
Average price
€25
Fastest journey
4 h 48 m
Average duration
6 h 35 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
77 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around €25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €18.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian without transferring at least once.
04186 · 040876:53 AM5h57Bilbao-Abando12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€181One-way1 transfer- 00437 · 041673:02 PM8h18Bilbao-Abando11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€201One-way1 transfer
00283+0416711:58 AM11h22Bilbao-Abando11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€221One-way1 transfer- 04186+
180616:53 AM9h53Bilbao-Abando4:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€261One-way1 transfer - 00437+180633:02 PM5h24Bilbao-Abando8:26 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€281One-way1 transfer
- 00283+1806111:58 AM4h48Bilbao-Abando4:46 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€301One-way1 transfer
- 00437+180633:02 PM5h24Bilbao-Abando8:26 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€281One-way1 transfer
- 04186 · 040876:53 AM5h57Bilbao-Abando12:50 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€181One-way1 transfer
- 00437 · 041673:02 PM8h18Bilbao-Abando11:20 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€201One-way1 transfer
- 00283+1806311:58 AM8h28Bilbao-Abando8:26 PMDonostia-San Sebastián€301One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €5, and a bus costs an average of €8.
Distance: 47 miles (77 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€5 Average price Cheapest | €9 Average price | €17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | 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 Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is a train with an average price of €5.
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A train is €4 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average €9.
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 54m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €5 compared to roughly €17 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €11. The journey takes 3h 59m versus 1h 11m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Euskotren.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Friday, August 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00283 · 04257 | On time 11:58 AM Bilbao-Abando | 8h17 | 8:15 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 00283+18063 | On time 11:58 AM Bilbao-Abando | 8h17 | 8:15 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 00283+18061 | On time 11:58 AM Bilbao-Abando | 4h48 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 00437+04257 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 5h13 | 8:15 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 00437 · 04167 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 8h18 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 00437+18063 | On time 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 5h13 | 8:15 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04366 · 04167 | 5:12 PM Bilbao-Abando | 6h08 | 11:20 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, August 22 | |||||
| 04186 · 04087 | 6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando | 5h57 | 12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
| 04186+18061 | 6:53 AM Bilbao-Abando | 9h53 | 4:46 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian by bus or train
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Why should you book Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trains with Omio?
Renfe MD as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren and more offer trains services from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe MD?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe MD, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
- 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 Renfe MD with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian?
The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Trains
from €10Buses
from €8Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €5 if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 17:35. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (77 km) distance in 2h 40m.
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 47 miles (77 km) |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price €5 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 5:35 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Train companies: Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren trains will get you between Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian from €5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe ALVIA
About
Renfe Alvia are high-speed trains with top speeds of up to 250km/h operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company. Alvia trains cover most cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Alicante, Zaragoza and Cadiz. They are somewhat slower than Renfe AVE and AVLO (high-speed and low cost) but cover more destinations and are a comfortable and effective way of travelling around Spain. Onboard facilities include free WIFI, bike storage and luggage allowance. Alvia trains have two seat classes – Estándar and Confort. Top routes for Renfe Alvia include Barcelona to Pamplona, Madrid to Cádiz and Alicante to Gijón.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in Preferente class
Seat reservation
Included in Preferente (First) class. Optional extra cost in Turista (Second) class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be muzzled and leashed, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Euskotren
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
€5
Euskotren frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
- Must visit
San Telmo Museoa
Fine arts museum in a historic building with Basque, Spanish, and international works. A compact stop for painting and sculpture lovers.
- Must visit
Aquarium
Aquarium with historic maritime displays and a famous underwater tunnel. It combines family appeal with local ocean and fishing context.
- Must visit
Paseo de La Concha
The city’s most famous beach promenade curves around La Concha Bay. Essential for classic views, elegant walks, and sunset atmosphere.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
Historic Old Town of lively squares, churches, and traditional streets. It is the best area for atmosphere, architecture, and everyday city life.
- Must visit
Zurriola Beach and Promenade
Urban beach and neighborhood promenade popular with surfers and locals. Great for broad sea views, people-watching, and a more contemporary vibe.
Pintxos
Small bar snacks on bread or bites, central to local txikiteo culture. San Sebastián is famous for creative and classic pintxos in packed old-town bars.
- Gluten-free
Rodaballo A La Parrilla
Whole grilled turbot, prized on the Basque coast for its clean flavor and simple preparation with olive oil, garlic, and grill smoke.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao A La Donostiarra
Basque-style cod often cooked with garlic, olive oil, and peppers. It reflects the region’s deep seafood tradition and classic home cooking.
Arzak
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with innovative Basque cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant, destination setting above the city.
Kokotxa
Refined modern Basque restaurant by the bay, known for seafood-focused tasting menus and a polished but welcoming dining room.
Casa Urola
Well-known grill restaurant specializing in premium beef and Basque classics, with a smart, contemporary atmosphere near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: lodging is pricier in peak season, but pintxos, set lunches, and local buses keep daily costs manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for pintxos, fast food, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-40 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change is fine in cafes. Taxi tipping is usually just rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €5, while the average price is around €5.
The train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian takes 2h 40m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is 47 miles (77 km).
The first train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 5:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Euskotren.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is by train, with a cost of around €5.
Yes, the train journey from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is scenic, offering views of lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and charming Basque countryside.
A day trip from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 40m. However, trains run 12 times per day covering a distance of 47 miles (77 km).
In Donostia-San Sebastian, you can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, join a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, take a funicular to Monte Igueldo for stunning views and amusement park fun, explore marine life at the Aquarium, or attend events at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Don't miss visiting La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town, and the San Telmo Museoa. For panoramic views, head to Monte Igueldo, and visit Miramar Palace for beautiful gardens and bay views.
Three days in Donostia-San Sebastian is ideal to explore the city's beautiful beaches, indulge in its renowned culinary scene, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Monte Igueldo.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Since both Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian 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.
Popular day trips by train from Donostia-San Sebastian include Vitoria-Gasteiz, Pamplona, Tolosa, Irun, Alsasua – Altsasu.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Spain Pass and Interrail Spain Pass are valid on most trains within Spain, including RENFE regional, AVE high-speed, and other long-distance services. Some restrictions may apply for certain premium trains, so it is advisable to check specific train eligibility and reservation requirements in advance.
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 Donostia-San Sebastian, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as La Concha Beach and the Old Town. Common scams include distraction techniques used near popular attractions and public transportation. It is advisable to keep belongings secure and stay vigilant in busy spots, particularly during festivals or large events. Overall, the city is considered safe, but standard precautions against petty theft are recommended.
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.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San SebastianBilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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