Madrid to Bilbao: travel options
Approximate direct distance: 323 km • Travel distance depends on the route and transport you choose.
Compare the options
Recorded fares and journey times. Check each operator before booking.
| Transport Mode | Operator | Duration | Price guide | Stations / Airports | Key Booking Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct | Alsa Coach | About 4h 45m |
Check fare
Fare source checked: 6 Oct 2026 Fares vary by departure and ticket conditions. Tickets and times: Alsa Coach |
Dep: Madrid Avenida de América; confirm your departure stop
Arr: Bilbao Intermodal
|
The operator lists journeys from roughly 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 20 minutes. Comfort and Supra are different products; compare the booked departure and facilities. |
| train Direct | Renfe Alvia | About 5h 10m |
Check fare
Fare source checked: 7 Oct 2026 Fares vary by departure and ticket conditions. Tickets and times: Renfe Alvia |
Dep: Madrid Chamartín–Clara Campoamor
Arr: Bilbao Abando
|
Plan about 5–5¼ hours on a suitable direct Alvia departure from Madrid Chamartín to Bilbao Abando. Compare the full arrival time and local journey with the coach alternative. |
Choosing your journey
Compare the direct coach and Alvia train for the departure you need. Allow roughly 4¼–5½ hours by coach or around 4½–5½ hours by a suitable train, plus local travel.
Loading the map...
Compare the two city arrivals
Alsa has different coach service classes on this route; not every departure is Supra. Check the Madrid departure stop and Bilbao Intermodal arrival. Renfe’s train uses Madrid Chamartín and Bilbao Abando on the direct connection.
Choose comfort for the actual journey
A coach with a useful departure can be the easier choice, while a train may suit you if you prefer to move around during the trip. Compare the total fare, seat and luggage terms. Do not assume one mode is always cheaper or more reliable.
Add the final part in Bilbao
Abando and Intermodal are different arrival points. Check the walk or metro to your room before deciding which ticket is more convenient. A flight is another option to price if its times work, but include both airport journeys and the airline’s arrival margin in the comparison.
Plan the arrival
The Madrid guide and Bilbao guide explain the local journeys, places to stay and visits. Add the main travel ticket separately to your daily spending plan. The distance above is a straight-line comparison between the city centres; your train, road or flight route can be longer.
