- Must visit
Centro Botín
Major contemporary art center on Santander’s waterfront, known for international exhibitions, cultural programming, and its striking Renzo Piano design.
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
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Santander
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
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 Fri, Jun 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 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 Fri, Jun 19 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.
718721:32 PM3h29Bilbao-Concordia5:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers- 718708:45 AM3h16Bilbao-Concordia12:01 PMSantander station$111One-way0 transfers
- 718747:06 PM3h55Bilbao-Concordia11:01 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 | $11 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 $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Santander:
A bus is $0.70 (€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, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71870 | 8:45 AM Bilbao-Concordia | 3h16 | 12:01 PM Santander station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 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 | |
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.
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 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 de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria
Important archaeological museum presenting prehistoric cave culture, Roman material, and key finds from across Cantabria.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Leading maritime museum covering Cantabrian Sea ecology, fishing, naval history, and aquariums; a strong family-friendly cultural stop.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Scenic headland combining gardens, sea views, beaches, and the palace grounds; ideal for walking and one of the city’s top experiences.
- Must visit
Playa del Sardinero
Santander’s best-known beach area, famous for its elegant promenade, broad sands, and lively atmosphere in good weather.
- Must visit
Paseo de Pereda
Grand waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings, sculptures, and access to the bay; essential for a first walk through Santander.
Rabas
Lightly battered and fried squid rings, one of Santander’s most iconic tapas, especially popular for aperitif time by the bay.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas de Santoña
High-quality Cantabrian anchovies, usually served in olive oil on bread or as a tapa; a flagship product of the region.
- Gluten-free
Bonito del Norte
White tuna from the Cantabrian Sea, prized for its delicate texture and often served grilled, stewed, or preserved in olive oil.
El Serbal
Michelin-starred restaurant known for contemporary tasting menus rooted in Cantabrian products, with polished service and elegant ambiance.
Cañadío
Well-known Santander restaurant and tapas bar, famous for refined Cantabrian cuisine, seafood, and a lively central atmosphere.
Bodega del Riojano
Historic and established dining room serving classic Cantabrian dishes in a traditional setting with strong local character.
Euro
Moderate by Spanish standards: tapas and set lunches are affordable, while waterfront dining and summer stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple meal or tapas.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Small change in cafes is enough. Taxis are usually rounded up, and hotel tips are appreciated but not expected.
Santander City
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.30 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Santander Airport, Santander -> Santander Railway Station, Santander
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay by contactless card on TUS Santander city buses, but carry some cash as a backup.
- For airport transfers, the Alsa airport bus is usually the fastest and most economical option to the city center.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bilbao to Santander
Bilbao
Santander
The major train station for departures in Bilbao is Bilbao-Concordia. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao-Concordia for your trip from Bilbao to Santander.
Bilbao-Concordia
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Basurto-Hospital
Amenities at train station
Accessibility
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityThe major train station for arrivals in Santander is Santander. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander for your journey to Santander from Bilbao.
Santander
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Valdecilla La Marga
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Nueva Montaña - Feve
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityBike ParkingMost 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
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.
