1st Class
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Food available
- Extra legroom
- Newspapers and magazines
- Air-conditioned
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept
Cheapest price on 05 Sept
£16
Average ticket price on 05 Sept
£22
Fastest journey on 05 Sept
4 h 48 m
Average journey duration on 05 Sept
6 h 35 m
Trains on 05 Sept
7
Distance
77 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around £22 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £16.
Fast trains
To travel from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian you need to make at least one change.
04186 · 040876:535h57Bilbao-Abando12:50Donostia-San Sebastián£161One-way1 change- 00437 · 0416715:028h18Bilbao-Abando23:20Donostia-San Sebastián£181One-way1 change
00283+0416711:5811h22Bilbao-Abando23:20Donostia-San Sebastián£191One-way1 change- 04186+
180616:539h53Bilbao-Abando16:46Donostia-San Sebastián£241One-way1 change - 00437+1806315:025h24Bilbao-Abando20:26Donostia-San Sebastián£261One-way1 change
- 00283+1806111:584h48Bilbao-Abando16:46Donostia-San Sebastián£271One-way1 change
- 00437+1806315:025h24Bilbao-Abando20:26Donostia-San Sebastián£261One-way1 change
- 04186 · 040876:535h57Bilbao-Abando12:50Donostia-San Sebastián£161One-way1 change
- 00437 · 0416715:028h18Bilbao-Abando23:20Donostia-San Sebastián£181One-way1 change
- 00283+1806311:588h28Bilbao-Abando20:26Donostia-San Sebastián£271One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £5 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 2h 24m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £5, while a coach costs an average of £8.
Distance: 77 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£5 Average Price Cheapest | £8 Average Price | £15 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Donostia-San Sebastian is a train with an average price of £5.
This is compared to other travel options from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A train is £3 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average £8.
The fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is by coach with an average journey time of 1h 54m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train and coach.
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 £5 compared to roughly £15 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £10. The journey takes 3h 59m versus 1h 11m 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 Euskotren.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04186 · 04087 | On time 6:53 Bilbao-Abando | 5h57 | 12:50 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 04186+18061 | On time 6:53 Bilbao-Abando | 9h53 | 16:46 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00283+18063 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 8h17 | 20:15 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00283 · 04257 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 8h17 | 20:15 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00283+18061 | On time 11:58 Bilbao-Abando | 4h48 | 16:46 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00437+18063 | 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 5h13 | 20:15 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00437 · 04167 | 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 8h18 | 23:20 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 00437+04257 | 15:02 Bilbao-Abando | 5h13 | 20:15 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
| 04366 · 04167 | 17:12 Bilbao-Abando | 6h08 | 23:20 Donostia-San Sebastián | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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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Why should you book Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trains with Omio?
Renfe MD as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren and more offer trains services from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe MD?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe MD, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
- 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 Renfe MD with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Why book with Omio over Raileurope or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian?
The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian.
Trains
from £7Coaches
from £7Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 17:35. The fastest train covers the 77 km distance in 2h 40m.
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 77 km |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 4:45 |
Last train 17:35 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 70 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 MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Euskotren trains will get you between Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian from £5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe MD
About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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
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
What's included in each class
Compare Renfe ALVIA classes and the amenities included in each one.
2nd Class
- Power plugs
- Food available
- Air-conditioned
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
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 First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
What's included in each class
Compare Renfe INTERCITY classes and the amenities included in each one.
1st Class
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Newspapers and magazines
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
2nd Class
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Euskotren
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Euskotren Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Euskotren Price
£5
Euskotren frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
- Must visit
Aquarium
Major aquarium with a maritime museum section, historic displays and a walk-through tunnel. A strong all-weather visit near the harbour.
- Must visit
Chillida Leku
Museum dedicated to sculptor Eduardo Chillida, set in a large garden with monumental works. Combines art, landscape and a quieter side of the area.
- Recommended
Tabakalera
Contemporary art centre focused on Basque and international work. It is worth visiting for exhibitions, architecture and a calmer cultural stop in the city.
- Must visit
La Concha
Iconic city beach and promenade framed by Belle Époque buildings. It is the classic place for walks, sea views and experiencing San Sebastián’s atmosphere.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
Historic quarter with narrow streets, churches and lively public spaces. Go for architecture, atmosphere and easy access to several major sights.
- Must visit
Monte Igueldo
Hilltop viewpoint reached by funicular or on foot, with a small amusement area and sweeping views over the bay and city. Ideal for first-time visitors.
Bacalao a la Donostiarra
Battered cod fried with green peppers and onion. A classic Basque pintxo tied to local salt cod cooking traditions.
Txangurro a la Donostiarra
Whole spider crab dressed with its own juices, egg and breadcrumbs. A prized festive shellfish dish on the Basque coast.
- Vegetarian
Tarta de queso vasca
Basque-style cheesecake from San Sebastián, baked until deeply caramelised outside with a creamy centre. Now iconic city-wide.
Arzak
Elegant dining room known for creative Basque cooking with strong local produce and polished service.
La Viña
Historic old-town spot celebrated for Basque cheesecake and classic dishes in a bustling tavern setting.
Bar Ganbara
Busy traditional pintxos bar famed for mushroom pintxos and a lively old-town atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: pintxos and coffee are reasonable, but central hotels and popular dining can cost more than in many comparable Spanish cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for a casual meal or pintxos.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for very good service; small change in cafés; taxi tips are optional, often just rounding up.
MUGI
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.85
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
San Sebastián Airport -> Donostia Geltokia, Donostia-San Sebastián
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Use a MUGI card for integrated fares across Dbus and other Gipuzkoa operators; paying cash on Dbus is €1.85 for a single ticket.
- Aena confirms airport buses to San Sebastián run under Lurraldebus. Buy according to the operator’s current fare rules, as airport fare varies by zones.
FAQs: Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £5, while the average price tends to be around £5.
The train journey from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian covers a distance of 77 km and takes approximately 2h 40m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is 77 km.
The first train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:45.
The last train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian departs at 17:35.
Trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastian. The service operates 12 times per day, provided by Euskotren.
To get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is by train, costing approximately £5.
Booking trains from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian offers scenic views, including rolling hills, lush landscapes, and glimpses of the Bay of Biscay, making it a picturesque route through the Basque Country.
A day trip from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 40m. The distance is 77 km, and there are 12 trains per day.
In Donostia-San Sebastian, visitors can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, embark on a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, and ride the funicular to Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views and amusement park excitement. Exploring the Aquarium with its diverse marine life and ocean tunnel is a must, as is attending a concert or event at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Notable sights include the scenic La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town with its Basque architecture, Monte Igueldo, San Telmo Museoa focused on Basque culture, and the Miramar Palace with its beautiful gardens.
Three to four days is ideal to explore Donostia-San Sebastian, allowing time to enjoy its beaches, savour the famous pintxos, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Mount Urgull.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
HomeTrainsTrains in SpainTrain Times to Donostia-San Sebastian Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian train
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