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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Apr 12
Cheapest price
$55
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
8 h 7 m
Average duration
9 h 44 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
323 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Bilbao without transferring at least once.
Normal+
18061+
002807:45 AM10h37Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$551One-way2 transfers- Normal+18061+002808:00 AM10h22Madrid, Calle de la Princesa / Paseo de Moret (Moncloa)6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$551One-way2 transfers
04087+002807:20 AM11h02Madrid Chamartín6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$701One-way1 transfer- Normal+37631+0028012:30 AM17h52Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$721One-way2 transfers
- Normal+18061+002806:15 AM12h07Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$721One-way2 transfers
08109+18061+0028010:15 AM8h07Madrid Chamartín6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$891One-way2 transfers- 04087 · 004387:20 AM8h33Madrid Chamartín3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$721One-way1 transfer
- Normal+18061+002808:00 AM10h22Madrid, Calle de la Princesa / Paseo de Moret (Moncloa)6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$551One-way2 transfers
- Normal+18061+002807:45 AM10h37Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$551One-way2 transfers
- 04087+002807:20 AM11h02Madrid Chamartín6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$701One-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 bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 36m. 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 bus costs an average of $20, and a flight costs an average of $44.
Distance: 200 miles (323 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$59 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $156 Average price |
5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Madrid to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Bilbao trains for today, Saturday, April 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04087+00280 | On time 5:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 11h02 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04187 | On time 5:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 4h47 | 10:07 AM Bilbao-Abando | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 04087 · 00438 | On time 5:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h33 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04187 · 00438 | On time 5:20 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h33 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| Normal+18061+00280 | On time 5:45 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 10h37 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 04073+18061+00280 | On time 5:45 AM Madrid Chamartín | 10h37 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 04073+04687+00438 | On time 5:45 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h08 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Normal+18061+00280 | On time 6:00 AM Madrid, Calle de la Princesa / Paseo de Moret (Moncloa) | 10h22 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 04687 · 00280 | On time 6:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h42 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04687+00438 | On time 6:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 7h13 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04687+18061+00280 | On time 6:40 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h42 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
 10491+18061+00280 | On time 7:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 9h07 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 05763+18061+00280 | On time 7:25 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h57 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 05071+18061+00280 | On time 7:56 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h26 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 08109+18061+00280 | On time 8:15 AM Madrid Chamartín | 8h07 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Normal+00631+00438 | On time 10:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 15h23 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Normal+37631+00280 | On time 10:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 17h52 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Normal+37631+00438 | On time 10:30 PM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 15h23 | 1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, April 12 | |||||
| Normal+18061+00280 | On time 4:15 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 12h07 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| Normal+18061+00280 | On time 4:15 AM Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses | 12h07 | 4:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Bilbao by train, bus, or flight
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Why should you book Madrid to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Madrid to Bilbao.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe or Renfe Viajeros 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 Renfe ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Bilbao.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Bilbao?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Bilbao is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains 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 train from Madrid to Bilbao.
Trains
from $30Buses
from $51Flights
from $91ReviewsReviews for the rail journey 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
HygieneDisadvantages
,I didn't notice any negative aspects on the journey. The train was very punctual and I had fast and, above all, constant wifi. The sanitary facilities and benches were very hygienic and well cleaned. The price-performance ratio was very good and I can only recommend the train connection. There was no need to change trains. The journey took about five hours. Four stars overall.
Advantages
Unfortunately nothingDisadvantages
Train 2 hours lateNo refund for delayStaff could not helpTrain overcrowdedTrain number: ALVIA 04182
Departure: 08:00, Arrival: planned 13:30, actual 15:30
This train journey from Madrid to Bilbao was a disaster. The train was 2 hours late and no compensation or refund was offered. The train staff were unfriendly and not helpful at all when I asked for information. The train was also completely overcrowded which made the journey very uncomfortable. The lack of seats and the general condition of the train made the travelling experience even worse.
A really disappointing journey - I won't be taking this route again any time soon.
Advantages
Faster than by carPunctual, cleanSufficient legroomDisadvantages
Boardbistro was closedI was very satisfied with the journey. There is no cheaper and easier way to get to your destination. It takes about 4 hours to get here without changing trains. You definitely can't complain about the price. The seats are also very comfortable, so it's bearable. The only negative: the board bistro was closed. So it's best to bring drinks and something to eat. Otherwise really great! We travelled on the Renfe train. No need to change trains here.
Advantages
CleanDisadvantages
DelayUnfortunately, the train journey with train number 1932 was not entirely satisfactory. The journey took 5 hours and included one change of trains. Unfortunately, the journey was a little more stressful due to the delay of the train. The changeover went well, but the waiting time due to the delay was unpleasant. The train seats were comfortable and the hygiene was acceptable for the most part, although some aspects could be optimised. The wifi was good and I had a power socket.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Madrid to Bilbao run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:30, the last at 17:37. The fastest train covers the 200 miles (323 km) distance in 4h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $20 (€16)
Distance 200 miles (323 km) |
Average train duration 4h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 4h 40m |
First train 12:30 AM |
Last train 5:37 PM |
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
Bus from $20 (€16)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Bilbao trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe MD, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Bilbao from $20 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Average Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
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 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
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 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
0
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
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
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
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Bilbao 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 Bilbao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $59 (€47).
The train from Madrid to Bilbao takes 4h 40m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Madrid to Bilbao is 200 miles (323 km).
The first train from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 12:30 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 5:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Madrid to Bilbao. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Bilbao.
The train station in Madrid that goes to Bilbao is Madrid Chamartín, which connects to Bilbao-Abando.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Bilbao is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Madrid to Bilbao offers a variety of scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming villages, making it a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Madrid to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 40m one way. Trains run 2 times per day.
In Bilbao, you can enjoy panoramic views from Mount Artxanda, accessible by funicular, and explore the vibrant La Ribera Market with its fresh produce and local delicacies. A walk along the Nervión River offers beautiful cityscape views, while enjoying pintxos in local bars provides a taste of Basque culture. Discover the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center in a former wine warehouse. Don't miss the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao with its innovative architecture, the historic Casco Viejo, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Gothic Santiago Cathedral, and the striking Zubizuri Bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava.
A visit to Bilbao is typically well-suited for a 2 to 3-day itinerary, allowing time to explore the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Bilbao.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madrid to Bilbao
Madrid
Bilbao
The major train station for departures in Madrid is Madrid Chamartín. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Chamartín for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
The major train station for arrivals in Bilbao is Bilbao-Abando. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao-Abando for your journey to Bilbao from Madrid.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
More options for your journey from Madrid to Bilbao
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Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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