- Must visit
Museu Picasso
Major collection focused on Pablo Picasso’s early years and artistic development in Barcelona. One of the city’s most visited museums.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Barcelona
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$106
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
7 h 11 m
Average duration
7 h 30 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
467 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Barcelona is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Barcelona will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $106.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Bilbao for Barcelona on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 467 km distance in an average of 7 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 11 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 48 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.
004373:02 PM7h11Bilbao-Abando10:13 PMBarcelona Sants$1061One-way0 transfers- 00437+
060153:02 PM7h48Bilbao-Abando10:50 PMBarcelona Sants$1591One-way1 transfer
- 004373:02 PM7h11Bilbao-Abando10:13 PMBarcelona Sants$1061One-way0 transfers
- 00437+060153:02 PM7h48Bilbao-Abando10:50 PMBarcelona Sants$1591One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bilbao to Barcelona
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Barcelona among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 34m. 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 $44, and a flight costs an average of $60.
Distance: 290 miles (467 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$77 Average price Cheapest | $168 Average price | $78 Average price | $117 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 4m Average total duration Fastest 4h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 43m Average total duration 5h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 51m Average total duration 7h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Bilbao to Barcelona is a train with an average price of $77 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Barcelona:
A train is $0.84 (€0.69) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bilbao to Barcelona costing on average $78 (€64).
A train is $91 (€74) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bilbao to Barcelona costing on average $168 (€138).
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Barcelona is by train with an average journey time of 4h 34m.
Other travel options to Barcelona take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 43m.
Bus takes on average 7h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bilbao and Barcelona including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Barcelona among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 37m faster (4h 34m by train vs 6h 11m by car) and roughly $40 (€33) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($77 (€63) vs $117 (€96)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bilbao to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Barcelona trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00437 | Delayed 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 7h11 | 8:13 PM 8:13 PMBarcelona Sants | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 00437+06201 | Delayed 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 8h37 | 9:39 PM 9:39 PMBarcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 00437+06015 | Delayed 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 7h48 | 8:50 PM 8:50 PMBarcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Barcelona 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Barcelona?
The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Barcelona is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Barcelona route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao to Barcelona 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 Bilbao to Barcelona.
Trains
from $38Buses
from $66Flights
from $155ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Bilbao to Barcelona
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
PunctualityVolumeStaffDisadvantages
PriceHygieneNeed to changeA few months ago, I took a trip from Barcelona to Bilbao with Deutsche Bahn. Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by the journey, as the train arrived in Bilbao on time. The volume on the train was optimal. The staff on the train were very friendly and dealt with their customers' concerns quickly. The price was personally not that impressive. I personally found it a bit expensive. Unfortunately, no attention was paid to hygiene, as the toilets were not clean. There were also many transfer necessities that made the trip difficult. Overall, a satisfactory trip.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Barcelona
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Barcelona run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:45, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (467 km) distance in 7h 11m.
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 290 miles (467 km) |
Average train duration 4h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 7h 11m |
First train 5:45 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 91 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, Renfe Viajeros from Bilbao to Barcelona trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Bilbao and Barcelona from $44 (€36). 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
7h 11m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
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
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 11m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Barcelona
Things to do in Barcelona
Discover the best of Barcelona — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Barcelona trip today.
- Must visit
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
Barcelona’s leading fine arts museum, especially strong in Romanesque murals, Gothic art, and Catalan modernism.
- Recommended
Fundació Joan Miró
Hilltop museum dedicated to Joan Miró, with paintings, sculptures, and strong views over the city from Montjuïc.
- Must visit
La Rambla
Barcelona’s best-known promenade, lively and crowded, linking Plaça de Catalunya with the old port.
- Must visit
Gothic Quarter
Historic heart of Barcelona with medieval lanes, small squares, hidden courtyards, and many major monuments.
- Recommended
Passeig de Gràcia
Elegant boulevard lined with luxury shops and landmark modernist buildings including Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pa amb tomàquet
Rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, olive oil, and salt. It is a signature Catalan staple served with many meals and tapas.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Escalivada
Roasted eggplant, red peppers, and onion dressed with olive oil. A classic Catalan vegetable dish with deep smoky flavor.
- Gluten-free
Esqueixada de bacallà
A Catalan salad of shredded salt cod, tomato, onion, and olives. It is especially associated with coastal Catalan cooking.
Disfrutar
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant offering highly creative contemporary cuisine by celebrated chefs in an elegant modern space.
Can Culleretes
Historic traditional restaurant in the Gothic Quarter known for classic Catalan dishes such as escudella, roast meats, and crema catalana.
Cal Pep
Lively, established seafood and tapas spot near El Born, famous for market-fresh plates, shellfish, and a bustling counter atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe: tapas and transit are fair value, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.80-3.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Locals often round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change for taxis and cafés is enough.
TMB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.65 EUR
- Day pass
- 11.20 EUR
To the city center
Barcelona Sants -> Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- The T-casual and Hola Barcelona travel cards can be better value than single tickets for multiple trips. Buy and validate tickets before boarding.
- You can pay by contactless card on TMB buses, but not on most metro turnstiles for standard single tickets. Use ticket machines or the TMB app for metro travel.
FAQs: Trains from Bilbao to Barcelona
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Barcelona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $44 (€36), while the average price is around $77 (€63).
The train from Bilbao to Barcelona runs once a day and takes approximately 7h 11m.
The distance by train from Bilbao to Barcelona is 290 miles (467 km).
The first train from Bilbao to Barcelona leaves at 5:45 AM.
The last train from Bilbao to Barcelona leaves at 9:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bilbao to Barcelona.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bilbao to Barcelona. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Barcelona.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Barcelona is Bilbao-Abando, which connects to Barcelona Sants.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Barcelona is by train, with a cost of around $44 (€36).
The train journey from Bilbao to Barcelona offers scenic views of the Basque Country's lush landscapes and the rolling hills of Catalonia, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Bilbao to Barcelona is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 11m and trains run only 1 time per day over a distance of 290 miles (467 km).
In Barcelona, you can explore Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona, which offers tours and a museum. Visit Montjuïc for stunning city views, the Magic Fountain, and Montjuïc Castle. Relax at Barceloneta Beach, known for sunbathing and seaside dining. Discover El Raval's eclectic culture and nightlife, and enjoy rides and views at Tibidabo Amusement Park. Must-see sights include the iconic Sagrada Família, vibrant Park Güell, bustling La Rambla, the historic Gothic Quarter, and the uniquely designed Casa Batlló by Gaudí.
Three to four days in Barcelona is ideal to explore its main attractions, including La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter, while also enjoying its vibrant culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Barcelona.
Since both Bilbao and Barcelona 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 Barcelona include Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Lleida, Port Aventura.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bilbao to Barcelona 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 Barcelona, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques, fake petitions, and overpriced taxi rides without meters. It's advisable to keep valuables secure, avoid unlicensed taxis, and remain vigilant in busy spots to ensure a safe visit.
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 Bilbao to Barcelona
Most Bilbao to Barcelona trains use the Bilbao-Abando to Barcelona Sants station pair. Use this guide to compare Bilbao and Barcelona train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bilbao
Arrival train stations in Barcelona
Which Bilbao station do trains to Barcelona leave from?
Trains from Bilbao to Barcelona leave from Bilbao-Abando. The station is from Bilbao city centre at 48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain.
Bilbao-Abando48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao-Abando from Bilbao city centre
Bus03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · $2 · every ~51 min
A3631, A3632 · 8m · $2 · every ~7 min
TramTr · 1m · $2 · every ~16 min
Bilbao-Abando train station facilities and services
Bilbao-Abando 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 Bilbao-Abando.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bilbao-Abando. Information desks are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao-Abando: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bilbao-Abando: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao-Abando.
Which Barcelona station do trains from Bilbao arrive at?
Trains from Bilbao to Barcelona arrive at Barcelona Sants. Barcelona Sants is 1 miles (2 km) from Barcelona city centre.
Barcelona SantsPlaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain+34 934956020
City-centre transport
Getting to Barcelona Sants from Barcelona city centre
Barcelona Sants is 1 km from Barcelona city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainR1, R4 · 4m · $1 · every ~15 min
Re, 15254, 15710, 15760, 15762, 15770, 15772, 15774, 15778, 15780, 15782, 15784, 15786, 15788, 15792, 15850, 15860, 15868, 15874, 15878, 15886 · 5m · $1
BusN28 · 20m · every ~3 min
D20 · 21m · $4 · every ~12 min
SubwayL3 · 16m · $4 · every ~26 min
Barcelona Sants train station facilities and services
Barcelona Sants has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, 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 options include: McDonald’s, Caffe di Fiore, Ars Café, Café de l'Estació, Café de l’Estació Deli, Lavazza, Como, Peter's, Tutti Frutti, Enrique Tomás, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Hotspots in and near restaurants. ATMs are in the central part of the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located in various locations inside the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Barcelona Sants: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Barcelona Sants: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Barcelona Sants: All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Apartments Eixample, Apartment Guell, Sweet Inn Callao.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Barcelona
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Barcelona and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Barcelona
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