- Must visit
Museo Guggenheim Bilbao
Globally known museum for contemporary art in a landmark riverside building. Go for the architecture, sculpture terraces and strong temporary shows.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Santander to Bilbao
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct
Cheapest price on 14 Oct
£7
Average ticket price on 14 Oct
£9
Fastest journey on 14 Oct
1 h 15 m
Average journey duration on 14 Oct
1 h 24 m
Buses on 14 Oct
42
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Santander to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santander to Bilbao will cost around £9 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £7.
Fast coaches
On Wed 14 Oct, we found 42 buses from Santander to Bilbao, including 24 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 75 km distance in an average of 1 h 24 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
The slowest buses will take 1 h 30 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.
Normal17:001h30Santander, Estación de Autobuses18:30Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes- Normal11:402h00Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander13:40Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal11:001h30Santander, Estación de Autobuses12:30Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal2:301h45Santander, Estación de Autobuses4:15Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal20:201h40Santander, Estación de Autobuses22:00Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Supra Economy12:301h15Santander, Estación de Autobuses13:45Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£131One-way0 changes
- Normal8:051h15Santander, Estación de Autobuses9:20Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal17:001h30Santander, Estación de Autobuses18:30Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal11:001h30Santander, Estación de Autobuses12:30Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
- Normal14:001h30Santander, Estación de Autobuses15:30Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses£71One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santander to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Buses from Santander to Bilbao run on average 46 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 25 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:45, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 75 km distance in 45m.
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 75 km |
Average bus duration 1h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Buses per day 46 |
Direct buses 25 |
Fastest bus 45m |
First bus 0:45 |
Last bus 23:45 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Live departures
Santander to Bilbao bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Bilbao coaches for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal · Normal | 18:00 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 3h00 | 21:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal · Normal | 18:40 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h20 | 21:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal · Normal | 19:20 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h55 | 22:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal · Normal | 19:20 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h40 | 22:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 19:30 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 21:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal · Normal | 20:00 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h15 | 22:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 20:20 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h40 | 22:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal | 20:45 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 22:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Wednesday 14 October | |||||
| Normal | 2:30 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h45 | 4:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal | 6:00 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 7:30 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal | 7:00 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h40 | 8:40 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal | 7:00 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 8:30 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal · Normal | 7:20 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h00 | 9:20 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 8:00 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h40 | 9:40 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal · Normal | 8:00 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h30 | 10:30 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 8:05 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h15 | 9:20 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal · Normal | 8:40 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 2h20 | 11:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 9:00 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 10:30 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
| Normal · Normal | 9:20 Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander | 3h10 | 12:30 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 1 change | |
| Normal | 9:30 Santander, Estación de Autobuses | 1h30 | 11:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Santander to Bilbao coaches with Omio?
Alsa as well as Alsa Supra offer coaches 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 Alsa?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Alsa, but also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Santander 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 Alsa 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 Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Alsa Supra to find the best option for your trip from Santander to Bilbao.
- 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.
Bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra from Santander to BilbaoYou can travel by bus between Santander to Bilbao with Alsa, Alsa Supra for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Alsa
About
Alsa is the main provider of bus travel in Spain and a subsidiary of the UK’s National Express. It operates an extensive network of regional, national, and international routes, transporting more than 300 million passengers annually. Alsa’s modern fleet offers varying levels of comfort and amenities. The standard Alsa Normal buses include free Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, footrests, and entertainment. For a more premium experience, Alsa Supra, Alsa Eurobus, and Alsa Premium services provide enhanced comfort and luxury features.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Alsa Duration
45m
Cheapest Alsa Price
£7
Alsa frequency
48 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for an additional fee; must be packed.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must travel in the hold.
Alsa Supra
About
Alsa Supra is a premium service offered by Alsa, a leading Spanish bus company. It provides a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers, aiming to make each journey a unique experience. Key features of Alsa Supra buses include reclining leather seats with footrests, individual seating rows, high-speed Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and an \Ociobus\" on-board entertainment system with films, documentaries, and music. Passengers can also enjoy daily newspapers and a food and drink service, with a special menu available in the Premium class. Alsa Supra also offers services for people with reduced mobility, including reserved seating and wheelchair spaces. These services are available on various national and international routes."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Alsa Supra Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Alsa Supra Price
£13
Alsa Supra frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; prior reservation required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; guide dogs travel for free.
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
Bilboko Arte Ederren Museoa
Fine arts museum with collections from medieval works to modern painting and sculpture. A strong choice for a broader art visit beyond the Guggenheim.
- Recommended
Euskal Museoa
Museum on Basque archaeology, ethnography and maritime life in the old quarter. A clear introduction to regional history and identity.
- Must visit
Casco Viejo
Bilbao’s old town of narrow lanes, churches, shops and lively squares. Ideal for walking, local atmosphere and understanding the city’s historic core.
- Must visit
Mirador de Artxanda
Hilltop viewpoint above the city reached by the Artxanda funicular. Worth it for broad views over Bilbao and the surrounding green hills.
- Recommended
Plaza Nueva
Elegant central square with arcades, cafés around the edges and frequent city events. A convenient stop between the old and newer parts of Bilbao.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao al pil-pil
Salt cod cooked slowly with olive oil, garlic and chilli until it forms a silky sauce. A Basque classic closely linked with Bilbao’s taverns and home cooking.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao a la vizcaína
Salt cod baked or simmered in a red pepper and tomato sauce, often with onion. A traditional Biscayan dish emblematic of local Basque cooking.
- Gluten-free
Angulas a la bilbaína
Baby eels sautéed with olive oil, garlic and chilli, usually served very hot in a clay dish. A classic celebratory pintxo in Bilbao.
Gure Toki
Bustling pintxos bar in Casco Viejo with a wide counter selection and a lively, informal atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Sorginzulo
Well-known tavern for inventive and traditional pintxos near Plaza Nueva, with a busy bar scene and strong local following.
Victor Montes
Historic Old Town restaurant known for classic Basque dishes and seafood in a traditional, polished setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and dining cost more than in many inland Spanish cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or simple 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. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up in taxis; small change in cafés is enough.
Barik Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.70
- Day pass
- €10.00
To the city centre
Bilbao Intermodal -> Plaza Moyúa, Bilbao
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Bilbao Intermodal connects directly with San Mamés Metro, RENFE Cercanías and nearby tram and bus stops, so it is usually the easiest onward transfer point.
- Barik Mobile lets you carry and top up a Barik card on your phone. Check operator rules before relying on bank card payment onboard.
Coaches from Santander to Bilbao
Reaching the centre of Spain's Basque Region is easy, thanks to regular, rapid coaches from Santader to Bilbao. Every day, five direct buses leave from Santander Airport, running to the heart of Bilbao. The journey time isn't generally too long but ranges from one hour 20 minutes to two hours 10 minutes.
Which coach companies travel from Santander to Bilbao?
There's only one choice available to travellers when heading by coach from Santander to Bilbao. Alsa runs a direct, daily service on the route, offering connections all year round.
How long is the coach from Santander to Bilbao?
Coaches from Santander to Bilbao vary in journey duration. The fastest buses will reach Bilbao in just one hour 20 minutes, while the slowest take as long as two hours 10 minutes, so it helps to check schedules carefully when making a reservation.
How many coaches are there from Santander to Bilbao?
Coaches leave Santander for Bilbao every day of the week, every week of the year. Travellers can choose from five direct buses every day. Departures tend to start around midday, concluding before 9:00 p.m.
What are the departure and arrival stations for coaches from Santander to Bilbao?
Departure bus station: Coaches from Santander to Bilbao will depart from Aeropuerto Santander, not the city centre. Alsa shuttles run every 30 minutes from the city's main bus station, taking just 15 minutes to get to the airport, so transfers shouldn't take very long. Taxis are the best option for those coming from the coast or regional towns, as there's no railway station at the airport. Before boarding buses to Bilbao, all travellers can take advantage of free internet connectivity.
Arrival bus station: Coaches to Bilbao from Santander will arrive at Bilbao's main bus station, also known as Termibus. Termibus is located in the centre of town, not far from San Mames Metro station, and taking the Metro is probably the best way to reach attractions like the Guggenheim Museum or the city's port. Arrivals can also catch bus services from Termibus to Bilbao Airport if required. A3247 Shuttles leave the bus station every 15 minutes. Finally, travellers can also walk to Bilbao Station in around 15 minutes, which offers rail links to San Sebastian, Pamplona and other regional destinations.
FAQs: Santander to Bilbao coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander to Bilbao by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bilbao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Santander to Bilbao can start from as little as £7 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Santander to Bilbao is £9; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Santander to Bilbao is 45m to travel the 75 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Santander to Bilbao leaves at 0:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Santander to Bilbao leaves at 23:45.
Yes, there are 25 direct coaches a day from Santander to Bilbao with Alsa, Alsa Supra. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Santander to Bilbao, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Santander and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Santander , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Santander, Estación de Autobuses, Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander . When arriving in Bilbao , you can end your route in coach stations like Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Santander, Estación de Autobuses, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Bilbao including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Santander to Bilbao:
- Alsa
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating.
- Alsa Supra
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible restrooms.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Santander to Bilbao for coach company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Santander to Bilbao depends on the coach companies:
- Alsa
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure for a partial refund. Within 48 hours, a fee applies.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Santander to Bilbao.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Santander to Bilbao:
- Alsa
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
- Alsa Supra
- One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 25kg.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Santander to Bilbao:
- Alsa
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Alsa Supra
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Santander to Bilbao. The following conditions apply:
- Alsa
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must travel in the hold.
- Alsa Supra
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Santander to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Santander to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Santander to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Santander and Bilbao
Most Santander to Bilbao buses use the Santander, Estación de Autobuses to Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses station pair. Use this guide to compare Santander and Bilbao bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Santander
Arrival bus stations in Bilbao
Santander, Estación de AutobusesSantander Bus Station, Calle Navas de Tolosa 2, 39002
Santander, Aeropuerto De SantanderCarretera del Aeropuerto, s/n, 39600 Camargo, Cantabria, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander from Santander city centre
Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander is 4 km from Santander city centre. Public transport options include:
BusALSA - S4 Std-Aer · 15m · £0.89 · every ~3 min
Shuttle10m · £74
Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander bus station facilities and services
Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility and WC.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santander, Aeropuerto De Santander: Elevators, ramps.
Which Bilbao station do buses from Santander arrive at?
Buses from Santander to Bilbao arrive at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses. Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses is 2 km from Bilbao city centre.
Bilbao, Estación de AutobusesGurtubay Kalea, 1, 48013 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses from Bilbao city centre
Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses is 1 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus01, 10 · 3m · every ~13 min
A3223 · 7m · £2
TramTr · 3m · £2 · every ~16 min
SubwayLínea De Metro Bilbao · 2m · £2 · every ~33 min
Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses bus station facilities and services
Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café de la Estación (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.
Most popular bus 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 buses to and from Bilbao and Santander
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