Madrid to Bilbao bus with Alsa

Sun 04 Oct
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Alsa
Alsa Supra
FlixBus
National Express
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
Alsa
Alsa Supra
FlixBus
National Express
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Madrid to Bilbao

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Oct

Cheapest price on 04 Oct

£35

Average ticket price on 04 Oct

£41

Fastest journey on 04 Oct

3 h 55 m

Average journey duration on 04 Oct

4 h 10 m

Buses on 04 Oct

26

Distance

323 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Madrid to Bilbao is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Madrid to Bilbao will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £35.

Fast coaches

On Sun 04 Oct, we found 26 buses from Madrid to Bilbao, including 23 direct services.

These direct buses cover the 323 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 55 m .

The slowest buses will take 4 h 25 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.

  • AlsaNormal
    22:004h45
    Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
    2:45Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • AlsaNormal
    11:005h05
    Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
    16:05Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • AlsaNormal
    19:004h45
    Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
    23:45Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • AlsaNormal
    22:154h30
    Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
    2:45Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
    £351One-way
    0 changes
  • AlsaNormal
    18:004h45
    Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
    22:45Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses
    £351One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Madrid to Bilbao

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of bus

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao run on average 24 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £4 by train.

There are 22 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 323 km distance in 2h 55m.

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
Train from £4
Distance
323 km
Average bus duration
5h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Buses per day
24
Direct buses
22
Fastest bus
2h 55m
First bus
0:05
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from £4

Live departures

Madrid to Bilbao bus times

The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Bilbao coaches for today, Saturday 3 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:20 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
20h30
8:50 Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea1 change
AlsaNormal12:30 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h45
17:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal14:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h45
18:45 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal15:00 Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses
4h45
19:45 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy15:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h10
19:10 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal15:30 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
4h15
19:45 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal16:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h45
20:45 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy17:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h20
21:20 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal17:30 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h45
22:15 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy20:30 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h10
0:40 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy20:45 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
3h55
0:40 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus20:50 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
18h15
15:05 Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus23:59 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
19h11
19:10 Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea1 change
Sunday 4 October
AlsaNormal7:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h50
11:50 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal8:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h45
12:45 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy9:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
4h25
13:25 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaNormal9:00 Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América
5h00
14:00 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect
AlsaSupra Economy9:15 Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)
4h10
13:25 Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses0 changesdirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Madrid to Bilbao coaches with Omio?

Alsa as well as Alsa Supra or FlixBus offer coaches services from Madrid to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid 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 or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Madrid 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid 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 or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Bilbao.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Bilbao.

Bus providers: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus from Madrid to BilbaoYou can travel by bus between Madrid to Bilbao with Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus for as low as £4. 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
2h 55m
Cheapest Alsa Price
£25
Alsa frequency
20 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
3h 55m
Cheapest Alsa Supra Price
£44
Alsa Supra frequency
8 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.

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
13h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£13
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; 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

Museo Guggenheim Bilbao

Globally known museum for contemporary art in a landmark riverside building. Go for the architecture, sculpture terraces and strong temporary shows.

  • 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.

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.

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao: Journey Details

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao are operated by Spanish provider, ALSA with up to 14 departures a day. The first bus leaves in the early hours of the morning, with the last departure at around 8:30 p.m., with a journey time of about 4 hours.

Taking the Bus from Madrid

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao leave from the Intercambiador de Transporte Bus Station, located on Avenida de America, which has good local transport links by bus and Metro to the rest of the city and the suburbs. Madrid's efficient and extensive transport network is supplemented by regular night bus routes. Taxis are available at the bus station.

Getting into Madrid by Bus

Bilbao is a bustling port and the capital of Vizcaya in the Basque Region of Northern Spain, and is situated on the tidal Nervión River. Bilbao enjoys a mild climate, more temperate than much of Spain and has become increasingly popular, with visitors enjoying the art and architecture of the modernist Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry. Other attractions are the Basque Museum and La Ria Maritime Museum. The Old Town, or Casco Viejo, of Bilbao has seven streets full of interesting shops and cafes. Buses from Madrid to Bilbao arrive at the TermiBus Station, which is linked by tram to central Bilbao. Bilbao has plenty of public transport options, including a Metro line, frequent Bilbobus City buses, one EuskoTran tram line, and the BizkaiBus service which covers surrounding regions and coastal towns. Bilbao has a weekend night bus service and taxis are available at the station.

FAQs: Madrid to Bilbao coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Madrid to Bilbao can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Madrid to Bilbao is £41; 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 Madrid to Bilbao is 2h 55m to travel the 323 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 Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Madrid to Bilbao leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 22 direct coaches a day from Madrid to Bilbao with Alsa, Alsa Supra. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Madrid to Bilbao, you can count on Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Madrid and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Madrid , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América, Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid), Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses . When arriving in Bilbao , you can end your route in coach stations like Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses, Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea, Bilbao, Bo. Gaztañaga (Bilboko Aireportua).Passengers board the coach most frequently from Madrid, Intercambiador de Avenida de América, which is located around 3 km 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 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Bilbao including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Madrid to Bilbao:
  • Alsa
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Accessible seating.
  • Alsa Supra
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Accessible restrooms.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Madrid to Bilbao for coach company Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Madrid 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.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
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 Madrid to Bilbao.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Madrid 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.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Madrid to Bilbao:
  • Alsa
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
  • Alsa Supra
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Madrid 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.
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Madrid to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Madrid to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Madrid to Bilbao with the following coach company: Alsa, Alsa Supra, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Madrid and Bilbao

Most Madrid to Bilbao buses use the Madrid, Avenida de América to Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses station pair, with some services arriving at Bilbao, Calle Luis Briñas / Basurtuko Kaputxinoen kalea. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Bilbao bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Madrid
Arrival bus stations in Bilbao

Which Madrid station do buses to Bilbao leave from?

Buses from Madrid to Bilbao leave from Madrid, Avenida de América. The station is 3 km from Madrid city centre at Avenida de America, 9, 28002 Madrid, Spain.
Madrid, Avenida de AméricaAvenida de America, 9, 28002 Madrid, SpainWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid, Avenida de América from Madrid city centre

Madrid, Avenida de América is 3 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainC3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · £2 · every ~15 min
BusN4 · 8m · £0.89 · every ~11 min
52 · 25m · £2 · every ~30 min
Subway4 · 8m · £2 · every ~26 min
6 · 36m · £2 · every ~48 min

Madrid, Avenida de América bus station facilities and services

Madrid, Avenida de América has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Rincón (0.5 km), La Vaca Argentina (0.7 km).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and on the second floor.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Avenida de América.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Madrid, Avenida de América: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Avenida de América: Elevators, ramps.

Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid)Av. de la Hispanidad, s/n, 28042 Madrid, SpainDiningATMAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) from Madrid city centre

Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus203, N27 · 1h 2m · £8 · every ~45 min

Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) bus station facilities and services

Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid) has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Rodilla, Mahoudrid

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are aTMs located throughout T4, major cards accepted .

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Terminal de autobuses T4 (Aeropuerto de Madrid): Step-free access, elevators, accessible toilets.

Madrid, Estación Sur de AutobusesCalle de Mendez Alvaro, 83, 28045 Madrid, SpainWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses from Madrid city centre

Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses is 3 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainC5, C10, C7 · 2m · £0.89 · every ~23 min
C10, C7 · 8m · £0.89 · every ~8 min
C3, C4, C4a, C4b · 11m · £0.89 · every ~15 min
BusN11 · 16m · £0.89 · every ~11 min
N13 · 18m · £0.89 · every ~15 min
148 · 45m · £4 · every ~30 min
Subway6 · 24m · £2 · every ~48 min

Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses bus station facilities and services

Madrid, Estación Sur 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: Cafetería de la estación (in the station), Restaurante El Brillante (0.5 km), La Taberna de Domínguez (0.7 km).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the waiting area.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid, Estación Sur de Autobuses: Elevators, ramps.

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