- 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 Santander to Bilbao
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 28
Cheapest price on Oct 28
$11
Average ticket price on Oct 28
$11
Fastest journey on Oct 28
3 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Oct 28
3 h 16 m
Trains on Oct 28
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
On Wed, Oct 28, we found 3 trains from Santander to Bilbao, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 28 the direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 3 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 4 m .
On Wed, Oct 28 the slowest trains will take 3 h 23 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.
718556:58 PM3h23Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers- 718517:58 AM3h22Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718531:53 PM3h04Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718531:53 PM3h04Santander station4:57 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718517:58 AM3h22Santander station11:20 AMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
- 718556:58 PM3h23Santander station10:21 PMBilbao-Concordia$111One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Santander to Bilbao run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $10 (€9) by bus.
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 3m.
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 $10 (€9)
Distance 46 miles (75 km) |
Average train duration 3h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 7:46 AM |
Last train 7:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10 (€9)
Frequently asked questions about your Santander to Bilbao trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santander to Bilbao.
Train ticket prices from Santander to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $11 (€9).
The train from Santander to Bilbao takes 3h 3m 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.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santander to Bilbao. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe.
Live departures
Santander to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Bilbao trains for today, Tuesday, October 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71851 | 7:58 AM Santander station | 3h22 | 11:20 AM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 71853 | 1:53 PM Santander station | 3h04 | 4:57 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 71855 | 6:58 PM Santander station | 3h23 | 10:21 PM Bilbao-Concordia | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Santander to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies: Renfe from Santander to Bilbao trainsRenfe trains will get you between Santander and Bilbao from $10 (€9). 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 Renfe Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Renfe Price
$11 (€9)
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santander and Bilbao
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Santander to Bilbao.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santander to Bilbao.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Bilbao
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Bilbao.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Bilbao include Miranda de Ebro, Espinosa de los Monteros, Haro, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Laudio-Llodio.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to Bilbao.
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 · $2 · every ~4 min
ALSA - S1 Std-Ast, ALSA - B1 Std-Ast, ALSA - S5 Std-Mao, ALSA - S6 Sdt-Esc, ALSA - S-Cast · 4m · $2 · 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.
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 · $3 · every ~7 min
03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · $3 · every ~51 min
TramTr · 1m · $3 · 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 · $2
C4, C5 · 6m · $2 · every ~3 min
Bus28, 58, 85, G6 · 10m · $3 · every ~21 min
TramTr · 17m · $3 · 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.
Ametzola48012 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Ametzola from Bilbao city centre
Ametzola is 1 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C2 · 3m · $2 · every ~10 min
BusA3336 · 12m · $3 · every ~1 min
TramTr · 22m · $3 · every ~16 min
Ametzola train station facilities and services
Ametzola 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 Ametzola.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Ametzola.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ametzola: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ametzola: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ametzola.
Train stations for Santander to Bilbao
Check train stations information for Santander and Bilbao, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Santander that goes to Bilbao is Santander, which connects to Bilbao-Concordia.
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
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