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The cheapest and fastest trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for May 02
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$34
Fastest journey
4 h 53 m
Average duration
6 h 58 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
77 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao will cost around $34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao without transferring at least once.
04086+
002808:40 AM9h42Donostia-San Sebastián6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$251One-way1 transfer- 04086 · 004388:40 AM7h13Donostia-San Sebastián3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$281One-way1 transfer
16000+002806:20 AM12h02Donostia-San Sebastián6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$331One-way1 transfer- 16000+004386:20 AM9h33Donostia-San Sebastián3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$351One-way1 transfer
18012+0028011:00 AM7h22Donostia-San Sebastián6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$371One-way1 transfer
- 18012+0043811:00 AM4h53Donostia-San Sebastián3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$391One-way1 transfer
- 16000+041876:20 AM5h47Donostia-San Sebastián12:07 PMBilbao-Abando$381One-way1 transfer
- 04086 · 004388:40 AM7h13Donostia-San Sebastián3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$281One-way1 transfer
- 18012+0028011:00 AM7h22Donostia-San Sebastián6:22 PMBilbao-Abando$371One-way1 transfer
- 16000+004386:20 AM9h33Donostia-San Sebastián3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$351One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 52m. 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 $6, and a bus costs an average of $10.
Distance: 47 miles (77 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
$6 Average price Cheapest | $11 Average price |
3h 44m Average total duration 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trains for today, Friday, May 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18014+04267 | Delayed 1:55 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 8h33 | 8:28 PM 8:28 PMBilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04176 · 04267 | Delayed 4:47 PM Donostia-San Sebastián | 5h41 | 8:28 PM 8:28 PMBilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, May 2 | |||||
| 16000+00438 | Delayed 4:20 AM 6:20 AMDonostia-San Sebastián | 9h33 | 3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 16000+04187 | Delayed 4:20 AM 6:20 AMDonostia-San Sebastián | 5h47 | 12:07 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 16000+00280 | Delayed 4:20 AM 6:20 AMDonostia-San Sebastián | 12h02 | 6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04086+00280 | 8:40 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 9h42 | 6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 04086 · 00438 | 8:40 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 7h13 | 3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 18012+00280 | 11:00 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 7h22 | 6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando | 1 transfer | |
| 18012+00438 | 11:00 AM Donostia-San Sebastián | 4h53 | 3:53 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe MD as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren and more offer trains services from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
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, Renfe or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Donostia-San Sebastian 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 MD with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao?
The best time to book your train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Trains
from $11Buses
from $10Journey information
Overview: Train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 (€5) if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:50, the last at 17:35. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (77 km) distance in 2h 29m.
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 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 (€5) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 29m |
First train 4:50 AM |
Last train 5:35 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 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, Renfe, Euskotren from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren trains will get you between Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao from $6 (€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
0
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
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
Euskotren
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€5)
Euskotren frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $6 (€5), while the average price is around $6 (€5).
The train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao takes 2h 29m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is 47 miles (77 km).
The first train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao leaves at 4:50 AM.
The last train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao leaves at 5:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Euskotren.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
The cheapest way to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is by train, with a cost of around $6 (€5).
Yes, the train journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is considered scenic, offering views of the Basque Country's rolling hills, lush greenery, and picturesque coastal landscapes.
A day trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 29m. However, trains operate 12 times per day, covering a distance of 47 miles (77 km).
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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Since both Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian
More options for your journey from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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