- 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 Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$120
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$120
Fastest journey on Sep 20
10 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
13 h 21 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
458 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $120.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao without transferring at least once.
11:48 AM10h40Santiago de Compostela10:28 PMBilbao$1201One-way1 transfer- 8:05 PM16h02Santiago de Compostela12:07 PMBilbao$1201One-way1 transfer
- 11:48 AM10h40Santiago de Compostela10:28 PMBilbao$1201One-way1 transfer
- 8:05 PM16h02Santiago de Compostela12:07 PMBilbao$1201One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 39m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.5 - 1.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, while a flight costs an average of $371.
Distance: 284 miles (458 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$19 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price | $371 Average price | $115 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 8m Average total duration 8h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 21m Average total duration 10h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 39m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is a train with an average price of $19.
This is compared to other travel options from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao:
A train is $49 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao costing on average $68.
A train is $351 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao costing on average $371.
The fastest way to travel from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 39m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 38m.
Bus takes on average 10h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santiago de Compostela 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 $19 compared to roughly $115 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $96. The journey takes 8h 38m versus 5h 53m 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.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04364+04167 · 04267 | On time 7:43 AM Santiago de Compostela-Daniel Castelao | 15h19 | 11:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
| 04364+04267 · 04267 | On time 7:43 AM Santiago de Compostela-Daniel Castelao | 15h19 | 11:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe ALVIA as well as Renfe AVLO or AVE offer trains services from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Renfe ALVIA tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe ALVIA?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe ALVIA, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe AVLO or AVE to find the best option for your trip from Santiago de Compostela 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 ALVIA with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:52, the last at 12:15. The fastest train covers the 284 miles (458 km) distance in 7h 38m.
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 284 miles (458 km) |
Average train duration 8h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 38m |
First train 6:52 AM |
Last train 12:15 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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 ALVIA, AVE, Renfe AVLO from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao trainsRenfe ALVIA, AVE, Renfe AVLO trains will get you between Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao from $11. 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
Average Renfe ALVIA Duration
7h 55m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$6
Renfe ALVIA frequency
2 a day
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
AVE
About
Travel comfortably with AVE, Renfe’s high-speed trains. AVE connects major cities across Spain at speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph), offering a fast and smooth travel experience. Ticket options include Promo, Promo+, and Flexible fares to suit different budgets, along with discount cards such as the Gold Card and +Renfe Youth 50 Card for eligible travelers. AVE trains feature modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard catering, making them a convenient and enjoyable way to travel across Spain.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average AVE Duration
7h 38m
Cheapest AVE Price
$7
AVE frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, and designated areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. At-seat service in Preferente (First) Class
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets under 10kg in carriers allowed free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Renfe AVLO
About
Renfe Avlo is Spain’s low-cost high-speed rail service operated by the national rail company Renfe. Serving routes between major cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, Girona, and Figueres, Avlo trains reach speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All tickets are for Economy Class (“Básica”) with assigned seating and include onboard services such as free Wi-Fi, entertainment via the PlayRenfe app, power sockets, and vending machines. Child tickets are available for ages 0–13, while passengers aged 14 and over require an adult ticket. Each fare includes a backpack and hand luggage (55x35x25 cm, no weight limit), with the option to upgrade for extra baggage. Prices start from as low as €7, making Avlo a budget-friendly way to travel between Spain’s most popular destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe AVLO Duration
7h 43m
Cheapest Renfe AVLO Price
$7
Renfe AVLO frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) and 1 personal item (35x30x20cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers under 10kg allowed free. Service animals allowed
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 Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $6, while the average price is around $19.
The train from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao takes 7h 38m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao leaves at 6:52 AM.
The distance by train from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is 284 miles (458 km).
The last train from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao leaves at 12:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
The cheapest way to get from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is by bus, with a cost of around $11.
Yes, the train journey from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is scenic, offering views of Galicia's lush landscapes, the rugged coastline of northern Spain, and the picturesque Basque Country.
A day trip from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 38m with a distance of 284 miles (458 km). Trains operate with a frequency of 2 per day.
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 Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao.
Since both Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela 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 Santiago de Compostela
More options for your journey from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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