- Must visit
Museu Picasso
One of the world’s leading Picasso collections, especially strong on his formative years in Barcelona and early artistic development.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Barcelona
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 13
- Cheapest price on Nov 13
- $78
- Average ticket price on Nov 13
- $83
- Fastest journey on Nov 13
- 7 h 11 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 13
- 7 h 59 m
- Trains on Nov 13
- 4
- 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 $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast trains
On Fri, Nov 13, we found 4 trains from Bilbao to Barcelona, including 1 direct services.
On Fri, Nov 13 the direct trains cover the 467 km distance in an average of 7 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 11 m .
On Fri, Nov 13 the slowest trains will take 8 h 37 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.
00437+
062013:02 PM 8h37 Bilbao-Abando 11:39 PM Barcelona Sants $78 1 One-way 1 transfer- 00437+
033093:02 PM 8h18 Bilbao-Abando 11:20 PM Barcelona Sants $80 1 One-way 1 transfer - 00437+06015
3:02 PM 7h48 Bilbao-Abando 10:50 PM Barcelona Sants $86 1 One-way 1 transfer - 00437
3:02 PM 7h11 Bilbao-Abando 10:13 PM Barcelona Sants $86 1 One-way 0 transfers
- 00437
3:02 PM 7h11 Bilbao-Abando 10:13 PM Barcelona Sants $86 1 One-way 0 transfers - 00437+06015
3:02 PM 7h48 Bilbao-Abando 10:50 PM Barcelona Sants $86 1 One-way 1 transfer - 00437+03309
3:02 PM 8h18 Bilbao-Abando 11:20 PM Barcelona Sants $80 1 One-way 1 transfer - 00437+06201
3:02 PM 8h37 Bilbao-Abando 11:39 PM Barcelona Sants $78 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Barcelona
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Barcelona run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 but you can travel from only $10 by bus.
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 6h 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
Distance 290 miles (467 km) |
Average train duration 6h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 3m |
First train 5:45 AM |
Last train 9:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $10
Frequently asked questions about your Bilbao to Barcelona trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bilbao to Barcelona.
Train ticket prices from Bilbao to Barcelona can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14, while the average price is around $48.
The train from Bilbao to Barcelona takes 6h 3m and runs 3 per day.
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.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bilbao to Barcelona. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA.
Live departures
Bilbao to Barcelona train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Barcelona trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00437+06015 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 7h48 | 10:50 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 00437+06201 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 8h37 | 11:39 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
| 00437 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 7h11 | 10:13 PM Barcelona Sants | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 00437+03309 | 3:02 PM Bilbao-Abando | 8h18 | 11:20 PM Barcelona Sants | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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 84 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 $30Buses
from $52Flights
from $29ReviewsReviews 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.
Train companies: Renfe ALVIA from Bilbao to Barcelona trainsRenfe ALVIA trains will get you between Bilbao and Barcelona from $10. 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
6h 3m
Cheapest Renfe ALVIA Price
$14
Renfe ALVIA frequency
3 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bilbao and Barcelona
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bilbao to Barcelona.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bilbao to Barcelona.
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 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
This national art museum is essential for Romanesque murals, Gothic masterpieces, and one of the city’s grandest palace settings.
- Recommended
Fundació Joan Miró
Europe’s largest museum dedicated to Miró, combining bold paintings, sculpture, and a superb hilltop setting on Montjuïc.
- Must visit
La Rambla
Barcelona’s most famous boulevard connects Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront, lined with performers, kiosks, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Barri Gòtic
This medieval district rewards slow wandering with narrow lanes, hidden squares, Roman traces, and some of the city’s richest atmosphere.
- Must visit
Passeig de Gràcia
Barcelona’s grand modernist avenue is ideal for architecture lovers, showcasing luxury facades, major Gaudí works, and elegant urban design.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pa Amb Tomàquet
A Catalan tomato-rubbed bread with olive oil and salt. Simple, iconic, and served almost everywhere as a staple of Barcelona meals.
- Gluten-free
Arròs Negre
Mixed seafood and rice cooked in a rich broth, often finished in the pan. A beloved coastal dish tied to Catalonia’s Mediterranean fishing tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Crema Catalana
A Catalan custard dessert with citrus and cinnamon, topped with a caramelized sugar crust. It is one of the region’s most classic sweets.
Cinc Sentits
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant serving inventive Catalan tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
La Cova Fumada
Traditional tavern celebrated for vermouth, bombas, and classic tapas in a busy, authentic Barceloneta atmosphere.
Bar Pinotxo
Historic market bar famed for seafood tapas, fried fish, and a lively counter atmosphere inside Mercat de La Boqueria.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe; lodging in central areas is costly, but tapas, menu del día, and public transport are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good service; small change for cafes; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
TMB App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2,55 €
- Day pass
- 11,20 €
To the city center
Barcelona Sants -> Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Use T-mobilitat or TMB App to buy and store tickets digitally for metro and bus.
- Metro ticket machines accept bank cards. On buses, card or contactless payment availability can vary, so keep a valid ticket ready before boarding.
Plan your visit to Barcelona
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 Barcelona.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Barcelona include Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Lleida, Port Aventura.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Barcelona.
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 · $3 · every ~51 min
A3631, A3632 · 8m · $3 · every ~7 min
TramTr · 1m · $3 · 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 · $2 · 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 · $2
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.
Train stations for Bilbao to Barcelona
Check train stations information for Bilbao and Barcelona, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Barcelona is Bilbao-Abando, which connects to Barcelona Sants.
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
