- 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 trains from Santander to Bilbao
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 03 Sept
Cheapest price on 03 Sept
£8
Average ticket price on 03 Sept
£8
Fastest journey on 03 Sept
3 h 11 m
Average journey duration on 03 Sept
3 h 27 m
Trains on 03 Sept
3
Distance
75 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 £8 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £8.
Fast trains
On Thu 03 Sept, we found 3 trains from Santander to Bilbao, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 75 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 35 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.
7185518:463h35Santander station22:21Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes- 718517:463h34Santander station11:20Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes
- 7185313:463h11Santander station16:57Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes
- 7185313:463h11Santander station16:57Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes
- 718517:463h34Santander station11:20Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes
- 7185518:463h35Santander station22:21Bilbao-Concordia£81One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Santander to Bilbao
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Santander to Bilbao 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 21m. 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 | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£9 Average Price | £8 Average Price Cheapest | £16 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 57m Average total duration 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santander to Bilbao is a coach with an average price of £8.
This is compared to other travel options from Santander to Bilbao:
A coach is £0.57 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santander to Bilbao costing on average £9.
The fastest way to travel from Santander to Bilbao is by coach with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santander and Bilbao 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 £9 compared to roughly £16 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £7. The journey takes 2h 27m versus 1h 16m 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 Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Santander to Bilbao train times
The table below shows live departures for Santander to Bilbao trains for today, Wednesday 2 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71853 | 13:46 Santander station | 3h11 | 16:57 Bilbao-Concordia | 0 changesdirect | |
| 71855 | 18:46 Santander station | 3h35 | 22:21 Bilbao-Concordia | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 3 September | |||||
| 71851 | 7:46 Santander station | 3h34 | 11:20 Bilbao-Concordia | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santander to Bilbao 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 Santander to Bilbao trains with Omio?
Renfe as well as Renfe Viajeros offer trains 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 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 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 Renfe 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 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 Santander to Bilbao.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santander to Bilbao
SpainSpain
Trains from Santander to Bilbao run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. 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 19:39. The fastest train covers the 75 km distance in 3h 35m.
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 27m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 35m |
First train 7:46 |
Last train 19:39 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 Santander to Bilbao trainsRenfe, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Santander and Bilbao 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 35m
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 10m
Cheapest Renfe Viajeros Price
£9
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 a day
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.
Bilbobus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €0.53
- Day pass
- /null
To the city centre
Bilbao-Abando -> Plaza Circular, Bilbao
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use a Barik card for cheaper integrated fares on metro, tram and buses across Bizkaia.
- Bilbao-Abando is beside Plaza Circular in the city centre, so many central sights are walkable from the station.
FAQs: Santander to Bilbao train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santander to Bilbao 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 Bilbao, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Santander to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £9.
The train journey from Santander to Bilbao covers a distance of 75 km and takes approximately 3h 35m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Santander to Bilbao is 75 km.
The first train from Santander to Bilbao leaves at 7:46.
The last train from Santander to Bilbao departs at 19:39.
Trains from Santander to Bilbao run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santander to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santander and Bilbao. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Renfe, Renfe Viajeros.
To get from Santander to Bilbao, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Santander to Bilbao.
The train station in Santander that goes to Bilbao is Santander station, and it arrives at Bilbao-Concordia.
The cheapest way to get from Santander to Bilbao is by coach, costing approximately £7.
Booking trains from Santander to Bilbao in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Santander to Bilbao offers scenic views, including lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of the picturesque Basque countryside, making it a pleasant and visually appealing route.
A day trip from Santander to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 35m. Trains run 3 times per day, covering a distance of 75 km.
In Bilbao, you can visit Mount Artxanda for panoramic city views or explore La Ribera Market for fresh produce and local delicacies. Stroll along the Nervión River for beautiful cityscape views, and enjoy pintxos in local bars. Discover the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural centre in a former wine warehouse. Don't miss the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao for contemporary art, or wander through Casco Viejo with its historic charm. The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum offers diverse artworks, while Santiago Cathedral provides a glimpse into Gothic architecture. Lastly, enjoy scenic views from the Zubizuri Bridge.
To fully experience Bilbao, plan for 2 to 3 days. This allows time to explore the Guggenheim Museum, stroll through the Casco Viejo, and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Santander to Bilbao.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Santander and Bilbao
Most Santander to Bilbao trains use the Santander to Bilbao-Concordia station pair, with some services arriving at Basurto-Hospital. Use this guide to compare Santander and Bilbao train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santander
Arrival train stations in Bilbao
Which Santander station do trains to Bilbao leave from?
Trains from Santander to Bilbao leave from Santander. The station is 1 km from Santander city centre at 39008 Santander, Cantabria, Spain.
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.
Which Bilbao station do trains from Santander arrive at?
Trains from Santander to Bilbao most often arrive at Bilbao-Concordia. Some services arrive at Basurto-Hospital, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bilbao arrival station.
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.
Most popular train 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 trains to and from Bilbao and Santander
Most popular train connections to Bilbao
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