- Must visit
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Frank Gehry’s titanium-clad museum is Bilbao’s global icon, celebrated for major contemporary art shows and bold architecture.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ponferrada to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
kr446
Average price
kr529
Fastest journey
6 h 30 m
Average duration
11 h 4 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
309 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ponferrada to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ponferrada to Bilbao will cost around kr529 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr446.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Ponferrada to Bilbao without transferring at least once.
00621+
0028011:52 AM6h30Ponferrada station6:22 PMBilbao-Abandokr4461One-way1 transfer- 00621 · 0426711:52 AM10h36Ponferrada station10:28 PMBilbao-Abandokr4651One-way1 transfer
- 04088+042676:22 AM16h06Ponferrada station10:28 PMBilbao-Abandokr6761One-way1 transfer
- 00621+0028011:52 AM6h30Ponferrada station6:22 PMBilbao-Abandokr4461One-way1 transfer
- 00621 · 0426711:52 AM10h36Ponferrada station10:28 PMBilbao-Abandokr4651One-way1 transfer
- 04088+042676:22 AM16h06Ponferrada station10:28 PMBilbao-Abandokr6761One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus for Ponferrada to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ponferrada to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr519. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 5h 41m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr519, and a bus costs an average of kr519.
Distance: 192 miles (309 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
kr562 Average price Cheapest | kr848 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration Fastest 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ponferrada to Bilbao is a bus with an average price of kr562.
The fastest way to travel from Ponferrada to Bilbao is by bus with an average journey time of 5h 41m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 54m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Ponferrada and Bilbao.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ponferrada to Bilbao among Omio's users.
Live departures
Ponferrada to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Ponferrada to Bilbao trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04088+04267 | On time 6:22 AM Ponferrada station | 16h06 | 10:28 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 00621 · 04267 | 11:52 AM Ponferrada station | 10h36 | 10:28 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 00621+00280 | 11:52 AM Ponferrada station | 6h30 | 6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Ponferrada to Bilbao by bus
Compare 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Ponferrada to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Take a train from Ponferrada to Bilbao and enjoy the approximately 192 miles (309 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:08, the last at 12:15.
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 kr519
Distance 192 miles (309 km) |
Average train duration 5h 54m |
First train 6:08 AM |
Last train 12:15 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 kr519
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Ponferrada to Bilbao trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Ponferrada and Bilbao from kr519. 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
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
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
Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao
Fine arts museum with outstanding Basque, Spanish, and European works spanning from the Middle Ages to today.
- Recommended
Euskal Museoa
Museum devoted to Basque archaeology, ethnography, and local history inside a restored Jesuit college in the Old Town.
- Must visit
Casco Viejo
Bilbao’s medieval old quarter, packed with historic streets, shops, churches, and lively plazas ideal for walking.
- Must visit
Paseo de Abandoibarra
Riverside promenade around the Guggenheim, excellent for architecture views, public art, and easy city-center walks.
- Must visit
Mirador de Artxanda
Panoramic hilltop viewpoint reached by funicular, popular for sweeping views over Bilbao and access to green walking areas.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
Salt cod cooked slowly in olive oil, garlic and chilli until the sauce emulsifies. A Basque classic closely linked to Bilbao's traditional seafood cooking.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao a la Vizcaína
Salt cod baked with a sauce of peppers, tomato, onion and garlic. A hallmark Biscayan dish that reflects Bilbao's historic cod trade.
Txakoli-Braised Carrilleras
Veal shanks braised in red wine and vegetables until tender. This rich stew is a beloved specialty from the Basque Country and northern Spain.
Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao
Celebrated fine dining restaurant by Martín Berasategui with creative tasting menus and refined service inside the Guggenheim Museum.
Zarate
Elegant Michelin-starred venue serving modern Basque cuisine with strong seasonal products. Ideal for a high-end local dining experience.
Restaurante Víctor Montes
Traditional restaurant known for Basque seafood and meat dishes in a polished setting near the river. Well regarded for classic local cooking.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: hotels and dining cost more than smaller cities, but pintxos, public transit, and coffee remain fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% for great service. In cafes and taxis, small change or rounding up is enough.
Barik Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- .
To the city center
Bilbao-Abando -> Plaza Moyúa
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless bank card payment is not generally accepted directly on Metro Bilbao or Bilbobus; use a Barik card or official mobile ticketing where available.
- Bilbao uses the Barik fare system across metro, tram, and many buses, so check zones before travel to avoid paying more than needed.
FAQs: Trains from Ponferrada to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ponferrada 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.
The distance by train from Ponferrada to Bilbao is 192 miles (309 km).
The first train from Ponferrada to Bilbao leaves at 6:08 AM.
The last train from Ponferrada to Bilbao leaves at 12:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Ponferrada to Bilbao.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ponferrada to Bilbao.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ponferrada to Bilbao.
The cheapest way to get from Ponferrada to Bilbao is by bus, with a cost of around kr519.
Yes, the train journey from Ponferrada to Bilbao is scenic, offering views of the lush landscapes of northern Spain, including the mountainous regions of León and the verdant Basque Country.
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 Ponferrada to Bilbao.
Since both Ponferrada 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.
Popular day trips by train from Bilbao include Miranda de Ebro, Espinosa de los Monteros, Haro, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Laudio-Llodio.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ponferrada to Bilbao 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 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.
Most popular train connections from Ponferrada
More options for your journey from Ponferrada to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Ponferrada
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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