- Must visit
Centro Botín
Leading modern and contemporary art center by Renzo Piano, renowned for exhibitions, architecture, and exceptional bay views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$11
Fastest journey
3 h 16 m
Average duration
3 h 33 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Santander will cost around $11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Bilbao for Santander on Wed, Jul 15, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 16 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 55 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.
718708:45 AM3h16Bilbao-Concordia12:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers- 718747:06 PM3h55Bilbao-Concordia11:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
- 718721:32 PM3h29Bilbao-Concordia5:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
- 718708:45 AM3h16Bilbao-Concordia12:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
- 718721:32 PM3h29Bilbao-Concordia5:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
- 718747:06 PM3h55Bilbao-Concordia11:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bilbao to Santander
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $10, and a train costs an average of $8.
Distance: 46 miles (75 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $21 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 43m Average total duration 2h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bilbao to Santander is a bus with an average price of $10 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Santander:
A bus is $0.69 (€0.57) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bilbao to Santander costing on average $11 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Santander is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Santander take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bilbao and Santander including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Santander 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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 Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
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 Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Santander trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71872 | 1:32 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 3h29 | 5:01 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 71874 | 7:06 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 3h55 | 11:01 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
| 71870 | 8:45 AM Bilbao-Concordia | 3h16 | 12:01 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Santander by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Bilbao to Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Bilbao to Santander.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bilbao to Santander.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to Santander.
- 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 with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bilbao to Santander.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bilbao to Santander.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Santander run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $8 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:46, the last at 19:36. The fastest train covers the 46 miles (75 km) distance in 3h 16m.
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 46 miles (75 km) |
Average train duration 2h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $8 (€7) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 16m |
First train 7:46 AM |
Last train 7:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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, Renfe Viajeros from Bilbao to Santander trainsRenfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Bilbao and Santander from $8 (€7). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe
About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€7)
Renfe frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Santander
Things to do in Santander
Discover the best of Santander — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santander trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Excellent maritime museum covering Cantabrian seafaring, ecology, fishing, and naval history with aquariums and family-friendly displays.
- Recommended
MAS | Museo de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo de Santander y Cantabria
Art museum focused on Cantabrian and Spanish painting, offering a compact but rewarding overview in a central historic setting.
- Must visit
Península de La Magdalena
Iconic peninsula park with palace grounds, beaches, mini-zoo area, and scenic walking routes. One of Santander’s essential outings.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Elegant seafront promenade linking gardens, monuments, and bay views. Ideal for a first walk through central Santander.
- Must visit
Cabo Mayor
Dramatic headland viewpoint with cliffs, lighthouse scenery, and walking trails. A favorite for sunsets and Atlantic panoramas.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas De Cantabria
Cantabrian anchovies cured in salt or olive oil. Santander is famous for high-quality bocarte landed on this coast and served as a prized tapa.
Merluza En Salsa Verde
Fresh hake with green sauce, usually with garlic, parsley, fish stock, peas and clams. A classic northern coastal dish tied to local fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Cocido Montañés
Mountain stew from Cantabria with white beans, collard greens and pork products. Hearty inland cooking that is iconic across the region.
Cenador De Amos
Refined Michelin-starred dining focused on seasonal Cantabrian products. Elegant setting and creative tasting menus with strong local identity.
El Serbal
Well-known dining room specializing in grilled fish and Cantabrian seafood. Smart but relaxed atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
Casa Lita
Established seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Santander cooking. Traditional atmosphere near the seafront.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, small change in cafes, and round up taxi fares.
FAQs: Trains from Bilbao to Santander
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Santander can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $8 (€7), while the average price is around $11 (€9).
The train from Bilbao to Santander takes 3h 16m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Santander is 46 miles (75 km).
The first train from Bilbao to Santander leaves at 7:46 AM.
The last train from Bilbao to Santander leaves at 7:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bilbao to Santander.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bilbao to Santander. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Santander.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Santander is Bilbao-Concordia, which connects to Santander station.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Santander is by train, with a cost of around $8 (€7).
The train journey from Bilbao to Santander offers scenic views, including lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Cantabrian Sea, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Bilbao to Santander is not feasible due to a travel duration of 3h 16m. However, there are 3 train trips available per day for this 46 miles (75 km) journey.
In Santander, you can explore the Santander Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture, and enjoy nature at Parque de Mataleñas. Experience local culture at Mercado de la Esperanza and take a leisurely stroll along Paseo de Pereda. Visit the Gran Casino del Sardinero for entertainment and a touch of history. Don't miss the Palacio de la Magdalena for stunning views, Centro Botín for modern art, and Playa del Sardinero for a beach day. Discover marine life at Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico and relax in the Jardines de Piquío.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Santander is ideal to explore its beaches, cultural attractions like the Magdalena Palace, and local cuisine, while allowing some time for leisure activities.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Santander.
Since both Bilbao and Santander 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 Santander include Reinosa, Cabezon de la Sal, Torrelavega, Aguilar de Campoo, Renedo de Piélagos.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it's recommended to use licensed taxis and agree on fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves in busy markets or near attractions. Staying alert and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Santander
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