Travel from San Sebastian to Bilbao easy and fast
If you are planning on visiting the Basque region of Spain, then the two main cities of interest to enjoy in the region would be San Sebastian and Bilbao. Travel from San Sebastian to Bilbao has never been easier, cheap and relatively fast depending on the mode of transportation. We will share the different ways to travel to both cities below.
What is the best way to travel from San Sebastian to Bilbao?
Best Ways to Travel from San Sebastian to Bilbao is best by bus for a direct, easy and cheap ride between both cities. You also get to the bus stations from each city from a central downtown district.
By Bus
Pros:
– Convenience: Direct routes available, often without transfers.
– Frequency: Buses run frequently throughout the day.
– Comfort: Modern buses with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Cons:
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, slightly longer than driving but you don’t have to do the driving
Who are the Bus Operators: ALSA and PESA.
By Train
Pros:
– Scenic Route: Enjoy picturesque views of the Basque countryside.
– Comfort: Spacious seating and facilities.
Cons:
– Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours, the longest option.
– Frequency: Fewer trains compared to buses.
Train Operator: Euskotren (Basque Railways).
By Car
Pros:
– Flexibility: Stop whenever and wherever you want.
– Speed: Journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Cons:
– Parking: Finding parking in Bilbao can be challenging and expensive.
– Cost: Consider fuel, tolls, and potential rental fees.
Route: AP-8 motorway is the most direct.
By Rideshare
Pros:
– Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than bus or train.
– Social: Opportunity to meet locals or fellow travelers.
Cons:
– Availability: Depends on finding a suitable ride.
– Flexibility: Less control over timing and stops.
Ridesharing Platform: BlaBlaCar.
By Taxi or Private Transfer
Pros:
– Convenience: Door-to-door service.
– Comfort: Travel in a private vehicle.
Cons:
– Cost: The most expensive option but gets you to where you want to be in a final location in Bilbao
How to get to Bilbao Airport from San Sebastian by bus
To get to Bilbao Airport from San Sebastian by bus, use ALSA, which offers direct services. You can purchase tickets online via the ALSA website or app, or at the San Sebastian Bus Station (Donostia-San Sebastián) located at Paseo de Francia. The journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, with multiple buses running daily. The bus will drop you off at the airport’s bus stop near the terminal. Check the schedule in advance, arrive at the station at least 15 minutes early, and verify luggage policies if needed.
Arriving Bilbao
The arrival to Bilbao by bus takes you to the central downtown district at the Bilbao Intermodel station. From here you have access to taxi service, tram service and the metro which is right at the station.
When arriving, take your luggage from the bus carriage and you can easily store it in the lockers at the station or take easy access to public transportation or taxi to your final destination.
Plenty of local transportation from Bilbao Intermodal station
Conclusion on travel from San Sebastian to Bilbao
That’s it, these are all the best options between travel to both cities in a timely, cost effective and direct route. Enjoy your visit to Bilbao and exploring the best attractions and landmarks to the city.
Thanks for checking out Visit Spain and Mediterranean and this post. We hope you check out all the other posts to explore all around the country for inspiration.
