- Must visit
Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología de Cantabria
Museum in a historic market building covering Santander’s prehistory, Roman past and medieval development through well-presented local finds.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bilbao to Santander
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Aug
Cheapest price on 30 Aug
£8
Average ticket price on 30 Aug
£8
Fastest journey on 30 Aug
3 h 16 m
Average journey duration on 30 Aug
3 h 33 m
Trains on 30 Aug
3
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bilbao to Santander is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bilbao to Santander will cost around £8 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £8.
Fast trains
On Sun 30 Aug, we found 3 trains from Bilbao to Santander, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 16 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 55 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.
7187213:323h29Bilbao-Concordia17:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes- 718708:453h16Bilbao-Concordia12:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes
- 7187419:063h55Bilbao-Concordia23:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes
- 718708:453h16Bilbao-Concordia12:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes
- 7187213:323h29Bilbao-Concordia17:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes
- 7187419:063h55Bilbao-Concordia23:01Santander station£81One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Bilbao to Santander
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bilbao to Santander among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £8 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 2h 19m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £8, while a train costs an average of £9.
Distance: 75 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£9 Average Price | £8 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 46m Average total duration 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Bilbao to Santander train times
The table below shows live departures for Bilbao to Santander trains for today, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71870 | 8:45 Bilbao-Concordia | 3h16 | 12:01 Santander station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 71872 | 13:32 Bilbao-Concordia | 3h29 | 17:01 Santander station | 0 changesdirect | |
| 71874 | 19:06 Bilbao-Concordia | 3h55 | 23:01 Santander station | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander trains with Omio?
Renfe as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains services from Bilbao to Santander.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bilbao to Santander.
Why book with Omio vs Renfe?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Bilbao to Santander.
- 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 with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bilbao to Santander.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bilbao to Santander.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bilbao to Santander?
The best time to book your train from Bilbao to Santander is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bilbao to Santander route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander.
Trains
from £8Coaches
from £7Journey information
Overview: Train from Bilbao to Santander
SpainSpain
Trains from Bilbao to Santander run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 but you can travel from only £7 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:46, the last at 19:36. The fastest train covers the 75 km distance in 3h 16m.
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
Coach from £7
Distance 75 km |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 16m |
First train 7:46 |
Last train 19:36 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 63 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
Coach from £7
Train companies: Renfe, Renfe Viajeros from Bilbao to Santander trainsRenfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Bilbao and Santander from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe
About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Renfe Price
£8
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Renfe Viajeros Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Renfe Viajeros Price
£9
Renfe Viajeros frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Santander
Things to do in Santander
Discover the best of Santander — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santander trip today.
- Must visit
Centro Botín
Large art centre on the waterfront with modern and contemporary exhibitions, a striking building and broad views over the bay.
- Recommended
Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Museum dedicated to Cantabrian maritime history, fishing and oceanography, with aquariums and displays suited to adults and children.
- Must visit
Jardines de Pereda
Historic gardens by the bay and Centro Botín, ideal for a gentle walk among monuments, flowerbeds and harbour views.
- Must visit
Península de la Magdalena
Headland park with the palace, coastal paths, beaches and sea views; one of Santander’s classic places for walking and photography.
- Recommended
Parque de Mataleñas
Clifftop viewpoint and green space above the sea, popular for sunsets, dramatic waves and broad views of the Cantabrian coast.
- Gluten-free
Cocido montañés
Hearty Cantabrian bean stew with white beans, chorizo, morcilla and pork. A regional cold-weather classic closely tied to Santander and wider Cantabria.
- Gluten-free
Anchoas de Cantabria
Fresh anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea, often salted or preserved in olive oil. Santander is especially known for high-quality bocarte and anchovy traditions.
- Gluten-free
Marmita de bonito
Bonito tuna cooked with onions, peppers and tomato. A beloved summer dish across Cantabria, showcasing local fishing and seasonal produce.
El Serbal
Established dining room specialising in fish and seafood rice dishes, offering polished service and a classic Santander feel.
Casa Lita
Traditional seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Cantabrian cooking in a smart but approachable setting.
Bodega del Riojano
Popular traditional venue for rabas, seafood tapas and casual local eating, especially good for sampling classic Santander flavours.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: hotels and dining are fair, while local buses and casual meals stay reasonably priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ 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; small change for cafés; round up taxi fares.
TUS Santander
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport -> Estación de Autobuses de Santander
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- The airport bus links Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport with Estación de Autobuses de Santander in under 20 min according to flight schedules.
- Card or contactless payment information was not clearly confirmed from the official sources reviewed, so check before boarding.
FAQs: Bilbao to Santander train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bilbao to Santander can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £9.
The train journey from Bilbao to Santander covers a distance of 75 km and takes approximately 3h 16m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Bilbao to Santander is 75 km.
The first train from Bilbao to Santander leaves at 7:46.
The last train from Bilbao to Santander departs at 19:36.
Trains from Bilbao to Santander run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bilbao to Santander.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bilbao and Santander. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
To get from Bilbao to Santander, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Bilbao to Santander.
The train station in Bilbao that goes to Santander is Bilbao-Concordia, and it arrives at Santander station.
The cheapest way to get from Bilbao to Santander is by coach, costing approximately £7.
Booking trains from Bilbao to Santander 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 Santander is quite scenic, offering views of lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque coastal areas along the way.
A day trip from Bilbao to Santander is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 16m. Trains run 3 times per day over a distance of 75 km.
In Santander, you can explore the Santander Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture and historical significance. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Parque de Mataleñas, ideal for hiking. Visit Mercado de la Esperanza to experience local culture and cuisine. Stroll along Paseo de Pereda, a picturesque waterfront promenade. Discover the Gran Casino del Sardinero for entertainment and a glimpse into the city's past. Don't miss Palacio de la Magdalena for stunning views and guided tours, Centro Botín for modern art, Playa del Sardinero's golden sands, the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico for maritime history, and Jardines de Piquío for a peaceful retreat.
Three to four days in Santander should be sufficient to explore the city's cultural landmarks, enjoy its beaches, and experience the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Bilbao to Santander.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bilbao and Santander
Most Bilbao to Santander trains use the Bilbao-Concordia to Santander station pair, with some services arriving at Valdecilla La Marga. Use this guide to compare Bilbao and Santander 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 Santander
Which Bilbao station do trains to Santander leave from?
Trains from Bilbao to Santander leave from Bilbao-Concordia. The station is from Bilbao city centre at 48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain.
Bilbao-Concordia48001, Nafarroa Kalea, 2, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Bilbao-Concordia from Bilbao city centre
BusA3631, A3632 · 5m · £2 · every ~7 min
03, 28, 30, 71, 72, 77, A1, A7, A9, G2 · 6m · £2 · every ~51 min
TramTr · 1m · £2 · every ~16 min
Bilbao-Concordia train station facilities and services
Bilbao-Concordia has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bilbao-Concordia: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bilbao-Concordia.
Basurto-Hospital48002 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Basurto-Hospital from Bilbao city centre
Basurto-Hospital is 2 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
Train5m · £0.90
C4, C5 · 6m · £0.90 · every ~3 min
Bus28, 58, 85, G6 · 10m · £2 · every ~21 min
TramTr · 17m · £2 · every ~16 min
Basurto-Hospital train station facilities and services
Basurto-Hospital has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basurto-Hospital.
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve48013 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve from Bilbao city centre
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve is 4 km from Bilbao city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C2 · 10m · £0.90 · every ~10 min
Bus85 · 21m · £2 · every ~5 min
SubwayLínea De Metro Bilbao · 9m · £2 · every ~33 min
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve train station facilities and services
Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zorrotza-Zorrozgoiti - Feve.
Which Santander station do trains from Bilbao arrive at?
Trains from Bilbao to Santander most often arrive at Santander. Some services arrive at Valdecilla La Marga, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Santander arrival station.
Santander39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
Santander train station facilities and services
Santander 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 Santander.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santander.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santander. Information desks are available at Santander.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santander.
Valdecilla La Marga39011 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Valdecilla La Marga from Santander city centre
Bus12 · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
ALSA - S1 Std-Ast, ALSA - B1 Std-Ast, ALSA - S5 Std-Mao, ALSA - S6 Sdt-Esc, ALSA - S-Cast · 4m · £0.90 · every ~8 min
Valdecilla La Marga train station facilities and services
Valdecilla La Marga has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Valdecilla La Marga: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Nueva Montaña - Feve39011 Santander, Cantabria, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Nueva Montaña - Feve from Santander city centre
Nueva Montaña - Feve is 4 km from Santander city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1, C3 · 8m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus12, 24C1 · 27m · every ~7 min
Nueva Montaña - Feve train station facilities and services
Nueva Montaña - Feve has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nueva Montaña - Feve: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Nueva Montaña - Feve: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nueva Montaña - Feve.
Most popular train connections from Bilbao
More options for your journey from Bilbao to Santander
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santander and Bilbao
Most popular train connections to Santander
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