Barcelona to Bilbao train with Renfe ALVIA

Thu, Apr 02
+ Add return
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe Viajeros
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Barcelona to Bilbao

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$121

Average price

$159

Fastest journey

7 h 3 m

Average duration

8 h 6 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

467 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Barcelona to Bilbao will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $121.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Barcelona for Bilbao on Thu, Apr 02, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 467 km distance in an average of 8 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 3 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 10 h 8 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.

  • Renfe ALVIA00438
    8:50 AM7h03
    Barcelona Sants
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    $1211One-way
    0 transfers
  • iryo06080+Renfe ALVIA00438
    7:50 AM8h03
    Barcelona Sants
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    $1421One-way
    1 transfer
  • iryo06060+Renfe ALVIA00438
    5:45 AM10h08
    Barcelona Sants
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    $1781One-way
    1 transfer
  • iryo06016+Renfe ALVIA00438
    8:45 AM7h08
    Barcelona Sants
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    $1951One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Barcelona to Bilbao

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Barcelona to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a flight costs an average of $25.

Distance: 290 miles (467 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$81

Average price

$175

Average price

$72

Average price

Cheapest

6h 51m

Average total duration

6h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 37m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 10m

Average total duration

7h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Renfe ALVIA

Most popular train company

Vueling

Most popular airline

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Barcelona to Bilbao train times

The table below shows live departures for Barcelona to Bilbao trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
iryo06060+RenfeALVIA00438
On time
3:45 AM Barcelona Sants
10h08
1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando		1 transfer
iryo06080+RenfeALVIA00438
On time
5:50 AM Barcelona Sants
8h03
1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando		1 transfer
iryo06016+RenfeALVIA00438
On time
6:45 AM Barcelona Sants
7h08
1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando		1 transfer
RenfeALVIA00438
On time
6:50 AM Barcelona Sants
7h03
1:53 PM Bilbao-Abando		0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Barcelona to Bilbao by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Barcelona to Bilbao?

The best time to book your train from Barcelona to Bilbao is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Barcelona to Bilbao route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Barcelona to Bilbao 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 Barcelona to Bilbao.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Barcelona to Bilbao

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
IconVolume
IconStaff
Disadvantages
IconPrice
IconHygiene
IconNeed to change
A few months ago, I took a trip from Barcelona to Bilbao with Deutsche Bahn. Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by the journey, as the train arrived in Bilbao on time. The volume on the train was optimal. The staff on the train were very friendly and dealt with their customers' concerns quickly. The price was personally not that impressive. I personally found it a bit expensive. Unfortunately, no attention was paid to hygiene, as the toilets were not clean. There were also many transfer necessities that made the trip difficult. Overall, a satisfactory trip.
Advantages
IconIt was very hygienic
Disadvantages
IconAbsolutely nothing
I experienced many wonderful things on the trip. These included the hygiene, the helpfulness of the staff and the customer-friendly price-performance ratio. I can enthusiastically report that I had absolutely no unpleasant experiences on the journey. I can definitely give my recommendation. This time I can only give 5 stars for punctuality. Can be recommended.
Advantages
IconClean
Disadvantages
IconUnpunctual
One thing I was very upset about was that my train was very unpunctual. Nevertheless, I was very happy when I got on the train because the benches were very well cleaned. The compartment was equipped with several power sockets. There was also good wifi and constant reception. The staff were very friendly and spoke good English. I can therefore recommend the journey.
Advantages
IconVery clean
Disadvantages
IconAir
The train wasn't full and there were actually only a few passengers. Nevertheless, the air on the train was strange. It wasn't stuffy, but it had an unusual odour, even though it was clean. When I pointed this out to the staff in Bilbao, they couldn't tell me why. Probably just a problem with the ventilation. Nevertheless, I think the train journey was quite relaxing. That's why I give it 5 stars. The problem with the air is certainly not the norm.
Advantages
IconGood value
IconGood for the environment
IconAir-conditioned
IconFree wifi
IconPlenty of space
IconPunctual
Disadvantages
IconEverything was great
I travelled directly from Barcelona to Bilbao on the **Alvia 4789** train and was absolutely thrilled! The journey took about **6 hours and 30 minutes** and the time flew by. The train was extremely comfortable, the seats were cosy and the atmosphere on board was pleasantly quiet. There was plenty of space to relax and the views of the countryside were simply breathtaking, especially when travelling through the Basque Country. The staff were friendly and the service on board was excellent. I was also pleasantly surprised that the wifi worked reliably, so I was able to use the journey productively. For a relaxed and comfortable journey, this direct connection from Barcelona to Bilbao is an absolute recommendation.
Advantages
IconPunctual
IconComfortable
IconFriendly service
IconGood cuisine
Disadvantages
Icon-
The train journey from Barcelona to Madrid was punctual and extremely comfortable. The 2.5-hour journey flew by. The changeover in Madrid went well and I was able to find my way around quickly. The next morning, the Alvia line took me from Madrid-Chamartín to Bilbao-Abando. Although it took 4 hours and 44 minutes, this part of the journey was also pleasant. The staff on both trains were extremely friendly and helpful. The seats felt good, the trains were tidy and the journey was very relaxed. There was also a dining car on both trains. The connection between Barcelona and Bilbao is highly recommended for road trips.
Advantages
IconComfortable
IconGood climate
IconFriendly staff
IconGab on-board service
Disadvantages
IconLong journey time
IconPoor wifi
IconChangeover
IconA little late
My experience on the Alvia 438 from Barcelona to Bilbao was satisfactory overall, but there were ups and downs. A total journey time of around 7 hours with one change meant that the journey was quite long. However, it was comfortable on the train. The seats were comfortable and adjustable in the direction of travel. The air conditioning worked perfectly and there was plenty of legroom. Although there was a Wi-Fi system on board, the quality of the connection proved to be poor. In terms of service, this chapter was neither outstanding nor particularly disappointing. The selection of food and drinks presented in the dining car was average, albeit expensive. The service staff were friendly but rather inattentive. The most time-consuming part of the journey was changing between trains. The time was rather short, which caused some stress. Furthermore, the signposting at the transfer station could have been better. Finally, punctuality proved to be a mixed bag. The first part of the journey was slightly late, but this put more pressure on the transfer. In the case of the following train, passengers were luckier as the connecting train arrived on time. All in all, the journey was functional, but not very spectacular. For the high fares and the long overall duration, we would have liked to have had the highest level of comfort and professionalism. If you are considering travelling the same route, it is definitely worth looking into whether a direct connection might be an alternative.
Advantages
IconPunctual
Disadvantages
IconCleanliness
The train journey on train number 8917 was fine overall, but there were some aspects that could be improved. The journey took 7 hours and required a change of trains. Although the train arrived on time, hygiene was not optimal. The journey was less pleasant as some areas of the train were not completely clean. Although the seats were comfortable, leg space was limited, especially on long journeys. There was a bistro and good wifi.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconClean
Overall, the train journey was pleasant and well organised. The reservation worked smoothly and my seat was clearly marked. The seat was comfortable with plenty of legroom, which made the long journey relaxing. The change at a large station was well signposted and went smoothly, the connection time was ideal. The interior of the train was modern, with power sockets, wifi and pleasant lighting. However, the cleanliness was a weak point: the table at my seat was not really clean and the toilets definitely needed more care. Nevertheless, the journey was on time and the friendly staff went out of their way to create a pleasant atmosphere. Overall a good experience with small areas for improvement.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Barcelona to Bilbao

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Barcelona to Bilbao run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:45, the last at 21:07. The fastest train covers the 290 miles (467 km) distance in 6h 54m.

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
Bus from $17 (€14)
Distance
290 miles (467 km)
Average train duration
6h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$31 (€25)
Trains per day
1
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
6h 54m
First train
5:45 AM
Last train
9:07 PM
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
Bus from $17 (€14)

Train companies: Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros from Barcelona to Bilbao trainsRenfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Barcelona and Bilbao from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
Average Duration
6h 54m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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

Renfe Viajeros

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 51m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
2 a day

Traveling by train from Barcelona to Bilbao

The train connection between Barcelona and Bilbao is a convenient way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Spain. The journey is primarily serviced by Renfe Alvia, Renfe, and Renfe ALVIA trains, offering comfortable seating and scenic views along the route. With multiple departures throughout the day, travelers can easily plan their trip while enjoying efficient service from these reputable providers.

Train Connection: Barcelona to Bilbao

The train journey from Barcelona to Bilbao takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with a total of 2 connections available per day. The route is not direct, requiring one transfer during the trip. Passengers will depart from Barcelona Sants and arrive at Bilbao-Abando station.

Barcelona to Bilbao Train Connection

The first daily train journey from Barcelona to Bilbao departs at 06:45 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful landscapes of Spain. The last departure is scheduled for 07:45 AM, allowing passengers a convenient option for late morning travel.

Train Tickets Price for Barcelona to Bilbao

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Barcelona and Bilbao is €49. The average ticket price tends to be around €74, providing travelers with a range of options depending on their booking preferences.

Exploring Bilbao: A Cultural and Architectural Journey

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, inaugurated in 1997, is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture designed by Frank Gehry that transformed the city into a cultural hub. Its significance lies not only in its stunning titanium-clad exterior but also in how it revitalized the local economy and tourism industry through world-class exhibitions and events. Unique features include its innovative design with flowing forms and an impressive collection of modern art, making it a must-visit for any art enthusiast.

Casco Viejo, or Old Town, dates back to the 14th century and serves as the historical heart of Bilbao filled with narrow streets brimming with charm. This area holds great significance as it showcases traditional Basque culture through vibrant markets like Mercado de la Ribera and quaint shops offering artisanal goods. What sets Casco Viejo apart are its seven original streets known as "Las Siete Calles," where you can experience authentic tapas bars alongside centuries-old architecture.

The Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge), completed in 1893, is an engineering marvel recognized as one of the world's first transporter bridges connecting Getxo to Portugalete across the Nervión River. Its importance stems from being designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to both its architectural innovation and role in facilitating transportation during industrial growth. The bridge's unique feature includes a gondola system that allows vehicles and pedestrians to cross while enjoying breathtaking views from above—an unforgettable experience for visitors!

FAQs: Trains from Barcelona to Bilbao

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Barcelona to Bilbao can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $81 (€66).
The train from Barcelona to Bilbao runs once a day and takes approximately 6h 54m.
The distance by train from Barcelona to Bilbao is 290 miles (467 km).
The first train from Barcelona to Bilbao leaves at 5:45 AM.
The last train from Barcelona to Bilbao leaves at 9:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Barcelona to Bilbao.
Yes, there is a direct train from Barcelona to Bilbao. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Renfe ALVIA, Renfe Viajeros.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Barcelona to Bilbao.
The train station in Barcelona that goes to Bilbao is Barcelona Sants, which connects to Bilbao-Abando.
The cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Bilbao is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Barcelona to Bilbao offers varied scenery, including glimpses of Catalonia's rolling hills, the verdant landscapes of the Basque Country, and charming towns along the way, making it a pleasant and scenic trip.
A day trip from Barcelona to Bilbao is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 54m. The distance is 290 miles (467 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Bilbao, you can enjoy panoramic views from Mount Artxanda, accessible by funicular, and explore the vibrant La Ribera Market with its fresh produce and local delicacies. A walk along the Nervión River offers beautiful cityscape views, while enjoying pintxos in local bars provides a taste of Basque culture. Discover the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center in a former wine warehouse. Don't miss the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao with its innovative architecture, the historic Casco Viejo, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Gothic Santiago Cathedral, and the striking Zubizuri Bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava.
A visit to Bilbao is typically well-suited for a 2 to 3-day itinerary, allowing time to explore the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Barcelona to Bilbao.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Barcelona to Bilbao

Barcelona
Bilbao
The major train station for departures in Barcelona is Barcelona Sants. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Barcelona Sants for your trip from Barcelona to Bilbao.
Barcelona SantsWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
address
Address
Plaça dels Països Catalans, 1, 7, 08014 Barcelona, Spain
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Hotspots in and near restaurants.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Staffed and automatic. Open daily from 05:30 to 21:00.
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald’s
  • Caffe di Fiore
  • Ars Café
  • Café de l'Estació
  • Café de l’Estació Deli
  • Lavazza
  • Como
  • Peter's
  • Tutti Frutti
  • Enrique Tomás
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • All areas of the station have full disability access facilities.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Apartments Eixample
  • Apartment Guell
  • Sweet Inn Callao
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in various locations inside the station.
Public transit options for Barcelona Sants
  • Metro lines: L3, L5
  • Bus lines: A1, A2
  • Train lines: AVE, Alvia, Euromed, Talgo, Trenhotel, TGV, Avant, Intercity, R1, R2, R2 Nord, R2 Sud, R3, R4, RG1, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, R17

More options for your journey from Barcelona to Bilbao

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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