To get around in Bilbao, you can use a variety of transportation options, including metro, bus, taxi, and ride-hailing services, as well as trains and buses for longer distances.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Bilbao is easily accessible by air, with Bilbao Airport (BIO) being the main international airport serving the city. The airport is located about 12 kilometers north of the city center and offers direct flights to several European cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. You can also reach Bilbao by car or bus from nearby cities, such as San Sebastian and Vitoria-Gasteiz. The city is well-connected to the rest of Spain and Europe by highway and rail, making it a convenient destination for travelers.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus or train from nearby cities or from other parts of Spain. The city has several bus stations, including the Termibus station, which offers connections to major cities in Spain and Europe. The train station, Bilbao Abando, is also a major hub, with connections to Madrid, Barcelona, and other cities in Spain. Additionally, you can take a ferry from the nearby port city of Santurtzi to reach Bilbao.
Domestic Flights
For domestic flights, you can use airlines such as Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair, which offer connections to major cities in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to get the best prices. Approximate costs for domestic flights can range from $50 to $200, depending on the route and time of booking. It's also a good idea to compare prices across different airlines and book directly on their websites or through a travel agency to get the best deals.
Trains & Rail
Bilbao has an extensive rail network, with connections to major cities in Spain and Europe. The high-speed train, known as the AVE, connects Bilbao to Madrid and other major cities in Spain. You can book train tickets online through the Renfe website or at the train station. The booking process is relatively straightforward, and you can choose from different classes of service, including tourist, preferente, and club. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially for high-speed trains, to get the best prices.
Buses & Coaches
For bus travel, you can use companies such as ALSA and FlixBus, which offer connections to major cities in Spain and Europe. The bus network is extensive, with multiple departures per day to nearby cities and towns. You can book bus tickets online or at the bus station, and prices can range from $10 to $50, depending on the route and time of booking. The quality of the buses is generally good, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and restrooms.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Bilbao | $2-$3 | Three lines, frequent departures |
| City Bus | Bilbao | $1-$2 | Extensive network, frequent departures |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $1.50/km | Available at taxi stands or by phone |
| Ride-Hailing | Bilbao | $5-$10 | Uber, Bolt, and local alternatives available |
| Bike Rental | Bilbao | $10-$20 | Available at bike rental shops or through mobile apps |
Driving
- To drive in Bilbao, you need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- The road quality in Bilbao is generally good, with well-maintained highways and city streets.
- Fuel costs can range from $1.50 to $2.50 per liter, depending on the type of fuel and location.
- Car rental companies such as Europcar and Avis have offices in Bilbao, and you can book online or at the airport.
- When driving in Bilbao, be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, as the city has a strong focus on sustainable transportation.
- Parking can be challenging in the city center, so it's a good idea to use public parking garages or park outside the city center.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of pickpocketing and scams in tourist areas, especially at train and bus stations.
- Use a reputable taxi company or ride-hailing app to avoid overcharging.
- Download the Bilbao Metro app to plan your route and get real-time updates.
- Use a credit card or contactless payment method to pay for public transportation.
- Be mindful of peak hours and plan your route accordingly to avoid congestion.
- Use a bike rental service to get around the city sustainably and avoid traffic.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases, such as "¿Dónde está...?" (where is...?), to help you navigate the city.
- Use a map or GPS to get around the city, especially if you're not familiar with the area.