- 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.
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 Santander to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Jul 29
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$9
Fastest journey
3 h 11 m
Average duration
3 h 27 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santander to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to Bilbao will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Santander for Bilbao on Wed, Jul 29, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 29 the direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .
On Wed, Jul 29 the slowest trains will take 3 h 35 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.
718517:46 AM3h34Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers- 718531:46 PM3h11Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers
- 718556:46 PM3h35Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers
- 718531:46 PM3h11Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers
- 718517:46 AM3h34Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers
- 718556:46 PM3h35Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Santander to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santander to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. 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 $8, and a train costs an average of $7.
Distance: 46 miles (75 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$9 Average price | $9 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 56m Average total duration 2h 26m 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 Santander to Bilbao is a bus with an average price of $9 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Santander to Bilbao:
A bus is $0.30 (€0.30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santander to Bilbao costing on average $9 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Santander to Bilbao is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Bilbao including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santander to Bilbao 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 $9 (€9) compared to roughly $17 (€17) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $8 (€8). The journey takes 2h 26m versus 1h 16m 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
Santander to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Bilbao trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71851 | 7:46 AM Santander station | 3h34 | 11:20 AM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 71853 | 1:46 PM Santander station | 3h11 | 4:57 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 71855 | 6:46 PM Santander station | 3h35 | 10:21 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santander 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.
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Thu
Aug 13
Aug 13
Fri
Aug 14
Aug 14
Sat
Aug 15
Aug 15
Sun
Aug 16
Aug 16
Mon
Aug 17
Aug 17
Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Why should you book Santander to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Santander to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santander to Bilbao.
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 Santander 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 with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santander to Bilbao.
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 Santander to Bilbao.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Santander to Bilbao run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:46, the last at 19:39. The fastest train covers the 46 miles (75 km) distance in 3h 10m.
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 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 (€7) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 10m |
First train 7:46 AM |
Last train 7:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 Santander to Bilbao trainsRenfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Santander and Bilbao from $7 (€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 10m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€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 10m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€10)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 a day
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 Santander to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander 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 Santander to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $7 (€7), while the average price is around $9 (€9).
The train from Santander to Bilbao takes 3h 10m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Santander to Bilbao is 46 miles (75 km).
The first train from Santander to Bilbao leaves at 7:46 AM.
The last train from Santander to Bilbao leaves at 7:39 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santander to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santander to Bilbao. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santander to Bilbao.
The train station in Santander that goes to Bilbao is Santander station, which connects to Bilbao-Concordia.
The cheapest way to get from Santander to Bilbao is by train, with a cost of around $7 (€7).
The Santander to Bilbao train journey offers scenic views of the lush Cantabrian landscape, rolling hills, and picturesque coastal areas, providing a visually appealing experience for travelers.
A day trip from Santander to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 10m. Trains run 3 times per day over a distance of 46 miles (75 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 Santander to Bilbao.
Since both Santander 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 Santander 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santander to Bilbao
Most Santander to Bilbao trains use the Santander to Bilbao-Concordia station pair, with some services arriving at Basurto-Hospital. Use this guide to compare Santander and Bilbao train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santander
Arrival train stations in Bilbao
Which Santander station do trains to Bilbao leave from?
Trains from Santander to Bilbao leave from Santander. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santander city centre at 39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.
Santander39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Santander train station facilities and services
Santander has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Santander.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santander.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santander. Information desks are available at Santander.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santander.
Valdecilla La Marga39011 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Valdecilla La Marga from Santander city centre
Bus12 · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
ALSA - S1 Std-Ast, ALSA - B1 Std-Ast, ALSA - S5 Std-Mao, ALSA - S6 Sdt-Esc, ALSA - S-Cast · 4m · $1 · every ~8 min
Valdecilla La Marga train station facilities and services
Valdecilla La Marga has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Valdecilla La Marga: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Nueva Montaña - Feve39011 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Nueva Montaña - Feve from Santander city centre
Nueva Montaña - Feve is 4 km from Santander city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C3 · 8m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus12, 24C1 · 27m · every ~7 min
Nueva Montaña - Feve train station facilities and services
Nueva Montaña - Feve has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nueva Montaña - Feve: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Nueva Montaña - Feve: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Which Bilbao station do trains from Santander arrive at?
Trains from Santander to Bilbao most often arrive at Bilbao-Concordia. Some services arrive at Basurto-Hospital, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bilbao arrival station.
Bilbao-Concordia48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao-Concordia from Bilbao city centre
BusA3631, A3632 · 5m · $2 · every ~7 min
03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · $2 · every ~51 min
TramTr · 1m · $2 · every ~16 min
Bilbao-Concordia train station facilities and services
Bilbao-Concordia has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Basurto-Hospital48002 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Basurto-Hospital from Bilbao city centre
Basurto-Hospital is 2 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
Train5m · $1
C4, C5 · 6m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus28, 58, 85, G6 · 10m · $2 · every ~21 min
TramTr · 17m · $2 · every ~16 min
Basurto-Hospital train station facilities and services
Basurto-Hospital has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basurto-Hospital.
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve48013 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve from Bilbao city centre
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve is 4 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C2 · 10m · $1 · every ~10 min
Bus85 · 21m · $2 · every ~5 min
SubwayLínea De Metro Bilbao · 9m · $2 · every ~33 min
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve train station facilities and services
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve.
Most popular train connections from Santander
More options for your journey from Santander to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Santander
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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.
