- Must visit
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Iconic contemporary art museum designed by Frank Gehry, famous for its titanium architecture and major modern art exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Tarragona to Bilbao
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$85
Average price
$85
Fastest journey
6 h 26 m
Average duration
6 h 26 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
419 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Tarragona to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tarragona to Bilbao will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Tarragona for Bilbao on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 419 km distance in an average of 6 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 26 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 6 h 26 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.
004389:27 AM6h26Camp de Tarragona3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$851One-way0 transfers
- 004389:27 AM6h26Camp de Tarragona3:53 PMBilbao-Abando$851One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Tarragona to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Tarragona to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $39, and a bus costs an average of $63.
Distance: 260 miles (419 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$68 Average price Cheapest | $172 Average price | $140 Average price | $107 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 41m Average total duration 6h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 38m Average total duration 10h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.5kg 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 Tarragona to Bilbao is a train with an average price of $68 (€56).
This is compared to other travel options from Tarragona to Bilbao:
A train is $71 (€58) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tarragona to Bilbao costing on average $140 (€114).
A train is $104 (€85) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Tarragona to Bilbao costing on average $172 (€141).
The fastest way to travel from Tarragona to Bilbao is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 11m.
Bus takes on average 10h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tarragona and Bilbao including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Tarragona 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 ALVIA.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Tarragona to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Tarragona to Bilbao trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00438 | 9:27 AM Camp de Tarragona | 6h26 | 3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Tarragona to Bilbao by bus, train, or flight
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Tarragona to Bilbao?
The best time to book your train from Tarragona to Bilbao is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Tarragona to Bilbao route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Tarragona 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 Tarragona to Bilbao.
Trains
from $37Flights
from $127Journey information
Overview: Train from Tarragona to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Tarragona to Bilbao run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:27, the last at 20:27. The fastest train covers the 260 miles (419 km) distance in 6h 26m.
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
Flight from $20 (€16)
Distance 260 miles (419 km) |
Average train duration 6h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 26m |
First train 6:27 AM |
Last train 8:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 56 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
Flight from $20 (€16)
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Tarragona to Bilbao trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Tarragona and Bilbao from $20 (€16). 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 Duration
6h 26m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Renfe ALVIA frequency
1 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
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 leading art museums, with strong collections spanning medieval works to modern Basque and Spanish art.
- Recommended
Itsasmuseum Bilbao
Maritime museum by the estuary covering Bilbao’s shipbuilding, port history, and relationship with the sea.
- Must visit
Casco Viejo
Bilbao’s historic Old Town, known for its narrow lanes, traditional architecture, lively squares, and local atmosphere.
- Must visit
Abandoibarra
Revitalized riverside district around the Guggenheim, ideal for walking, architecture, and skyline views.
- Must visit
Artxanda Viewpoint
Popular panoramic viewpoint above Bilbao with wide city views, especially attractive at sunset.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
Salt cod gently cooked with olive oil, garlic, and chili until the sauce emulsifies. A Basque classic strongly associated with Bilbao and nearby coastal cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao a la Vizcaína
Salt cod served with a rich Bizkaian red pepper and onion sauce. It is one of the signature dishes of the province of Bizkaia.
- Gluten-free
Marmitako
A traditional Basque fisherman’s stew of tuna, potatoes, peppers, and onions. It is especially emblematic of the Cantabrian coast.
Restaurante Mina
Well-known fine dining restaurant overlooking the river, offering a seasonal tasting-menu approach rooted in high-level Basque cooking.
Gure Toki
Popular pintxos bar on Plaza Nueva, celebrated for creative Basque bites and a busy, classic old-town setting.
La Viña del Ensanche
Established Bilbao dining room and deli known for quality Basque produce, seafood, ham, and a polished but traditional atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and local bars can be good value, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for a simple lunch or pintxos.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.00 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave EUR 1-2 in bars, 5-10% in restaurants for very good service. Tipping is appreciated, not expected.
Bilbobus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 5.00 EUR
To the city center
Bilbao-Abando, Bilbao -> Moyua, Bilbao
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Barik card offers cheaper fares than buying single paper tickets and works across Metro Bilbao, Bilbobus and other operators.
- On Bilbobus, contactless card payment is generally available onboard, but carrying a Barik card is usually the most convenient option.
FAQs: Trains from Tarragona to Bilbao
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tarragona 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 Tarragona to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $68 (€56).
The train from Tarragona to Bilbao runs once a day and takes approximately 6h 26m.
The distance by train from Tarragona to Bilbao is 260 miles (419 km).
The first train from Tarragona to Bilbao leaves at 6:27 AM.
The last train from Tarragona to Bilbao leaves at 8:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Tarragona to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Tarragona to Bilbao. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Tarragona to Bilbao.
The train station in Tarragona that goes to Bilbao is Camp de Tarragona, which connects to Bilbao-Abando.
The cheapest way to get from Tarragona to Bilbao is by flight, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Tarragona to Bilbao offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Spanish countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of charming villages along the way, providing a visually pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Tarragona to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 26m one way. There is a frequency of 1 train 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 Tarragona to Bilbao.
Since both Tarragona 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Tarragona 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 Tarragona to Bilbao
Tarragona
Bilbao
The major train station for departures in Tarragona is Camp de Tarragona. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Camp de Tarragona for your trip from Tarragona to Bilbao.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Ticket Office
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 06:00 - 23:15
- Sun: 06:30 - 23:15
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- MÁSCOSAS Cafe pans
- Cafe Pans
Accessibility
- The station is fully accessible, including step-free access, handicapped restrooms, and adapted elevators
Hotel
- Chilliman & Mas Miro Biofarm
- Hotel Peralta
- H10 Imperial Tarraco
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 06:00 - 23:15
- Sun: 06:30 - 23:15
Public transit options for Camp de Tarragona
- Bus lines: Empresa Plana
- Train lines: Alvia, Avant, AVE, Euromed, Intercity
The major train station for arrivals in Bilbao is Bilbao-Abando. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bilbao-Abando for your journey to Bilbao from Tarragona.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibility
WCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket Office
Bike Parking
Bike RentalCar Rental
Information Deskinformation
Most popular train connections from Tarragona
More options for your journey from Tarragona to Bilbao
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bilbao and Tarragona
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