Madrid to Bilbao bus
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Journey Information
There are 3 intercity buses per day from Madrid to Bilbao. Traveling by bus from Madrid to Bilbao usually takes around 6 hours and 22 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus bus can make the trip in 6 hours and 15 minutes.
| Distance | 201 mi (323 km) |
| Shortest duration | 6h 15m |
| Cheapest price | €30.56 |
| Most frequent service | FlixBus |
| Bus lines | 1 |
What bus companies travel from Madrid to Bilbao?
There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Madrid to Bilbao. FlixBus connects the two cities by bus, it offers multiple scheduled buses per day for you to choose from.
| Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 3 | 6h 22m | €57.38 |
FlixBus
First launched in Germany in 2013, FlixBus has become one of the largest intercity bus companies in Europe. Its fleet travels through nearly every country in Europe, including the U.K. FlixBus operates an average of 3 trips from Madrid to Bilbao, and usually makes the trip in about 6 hours and 22 minutes. On your trip, you'll enjoy Wi-Fi and live GPS, as well as restrooms, air conditioning, and power outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel by bus from Madrid to Bilbao during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Our bus partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, bus carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the bus or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
How long is the bus ride from Madrid to Bilbao?
The bus takes an average of 6 hours and 22 minutes to cover the 323 kilometers from Madrid to Bilbao. However, the fastest bus only takes 6 hours and 15 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
What is the busiest day of the week to travel by bus?
"With many people traveling in the middle of the week, Wednesday is the busiest day of the week for bus travel. If you are planning to travel on a Wednesday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.
On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go."
When do the earliest and latest buses leave Madrid?
The first bus leaves at 15:00 and the last bus leaves at 15:00. To see the times for all buses from Madrid to Bilbao, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
How many bus departures serve Bilbao each day?
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Madrid?
Main departure station: Central Bus Station
Most buses depart from the main station in Madrid.
All bus stations in Madrid:
Central Bus Station
Where does the bus arrive in Bilbao?
Main arrival station: Bilbao Bus Station
All buses from Madrid arrive at one main station in Bilbao.
Bus stations in Bilbao:
Bilbao Bus Station
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