- Must visit
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Bilbao’s iconic contemporary art museum, famous for Frank Gehry’s titanium design and major modern and contemporary exhibitions. A defining city landmark and top cultural stop.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santander to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Jun 14
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$11
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 $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 Santander for Bilbao on Sun, Jun 14, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 14 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 Sun, Jun 14 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.
718556:46 PM3h35Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers- 718531:46 PM3h11Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718517:46 AM3h34Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718531:46 PM3h11Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718517:46 AM3h34Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718556:46 PM3h35Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-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 $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 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 $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Santander to Bilbao:
A bus is $0.37 (€0.30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santander to Bilbao costing on average $11 (€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 {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
Santander to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Bilbao trains for today, Saturday, June 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | |
| Sunday, June 14 | |||||
| 71851 | 7:46 AM Santander station | 3h34 | 11:20 AM 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.
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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 $8 (€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 $8 (€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 $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 10m
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 10m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€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
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
One of Spain’s most important art museums, with collections spanning medieval to modern works, including Basque, Spanish and European masters.
- Recommended
Itsasmuseum Bilbao
Bilbao’s maritime museum by the estuary, covering the city’s shipbuilding, port and industrial heritage through outdoor docks and indoor exhibits.
- Must visit
Plaza Nueva
Grand neoclassical square in the Old Town, lined with arcades and always lively. A classic place to experience Bilbao’s urban character.
- Must visit
Abandoibarra
Waterfront redevelopment zone around the Guggenheim, ideal for contemporary architecture, riverside walks and some of Bilbao’s most shared views.
- Must visit
Artxanda Viewpoint
Classic viewpoint over Bilbao, reached by funicular, offering one of the city’s most iconic panoramas and a favorite photo spot.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
Salt cod gently cooked with olive oil, garlic, and chili until the sauce emulsifies. A classic Basque dish strongly associated with Bilbao.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao a la Vizcaína
Salt cod served with a rich red pepper and onion sauce in the Bizkaia style. It is one of the signature dishes of the province.
- Gluten-free
Marmitako
A traditional Basque fishermen’s stew of tuna, potatoes, peppers, and onions. It is hearty, local, and widely loved in Bilbao.
Restaurante Mina
Highly regarded fine-dining restaurant by the river, known for tasting menus that highlight seasonal Basque ingredients with contemporary style.
Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao
Refined Michelin-starred dining inside the Guggenheim, offering modern Basque cuisine with elegant technique and a calm, minimalist room.
La Viña del Ensanche
Well-known, long-running restaurant and wine bar celebrated for quality pintxos, seasonal Basque cooking, and a lively local atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and local bars are affordable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for pintxos or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Small change is enough in bars or taxis; tipping is not obligatory.
Bilbobus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- null
To the city center
Bilbao-Abando, Bilbao -> Moyua, Bilbao
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Barik is the rechargeable card used on Metro Bilbao, Bilbobus, tram and other local transport, and it usually gives cheaper fares than single tickets.
- On Bilbobus, contactless card payment is available on board, but having a Barik card is usually the most practical option for regular travel.
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 $8 (€7), while the average price is around $11 (€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 $8 (€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
Santander
Bilbao
The major train station for departures in Santander is Santander. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santander for your trip from Santander to 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 Parking
The major train station for arrivals in Bilbao is Bilbao-Concordia. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao-Concordia for your journey to Bilbao from Santander.
Bilbao-Concordia
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Basurto-Hospital
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityZorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost 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
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