Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao train with Renfe MD

Mon, Sep 21
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Renfe MD
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe
Euskotren
2,000+ travel companies
Renfe MD
Renfe ALVIA
Renfe INTERCITY
Renfe
Euskotren
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21

Cheapest price on Sep 21

€16

Average ticket price on Sep 21

€23

Fastest journey on Sep 21

4 h 54 m

Average journey duration on Sep 21

6 h 12 m

Trains on Sep 21

12

Distance

77 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao will cost around €23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €16.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao without transferring at least once.

  • Renfe ALVIA04176 · 04267
    4:45 PM6h17
    Donostia-San Sebastián
    11:02 PMBilbao-Abando
    161One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe INTERCITY04056+Renfe ALVIA04187
    5:15 AM6h50
    Donostia-San Sebastián
    12:05 PMBilbao-Abando
    181One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe INTERCITY04056+Renfe ALVIA00438
    5:15 AM10h38
    Donostia-San Sebastián
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04086 · 00438
    8:36 AM7h17
    Donostia-San Sebastián
    3:53 PMBilbao-Abando
    201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Renfe ALVIA04086+Renfe INTERCITY00280
    8:36 AM9h46
    Donostia-San Sebastián
    6:22 PMBilbao-Abando
    221One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €5 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 3h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €5, while a bus costs an average of €10.

Distance: 77 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

€5

Average price

Cheapest

€10

Average price

€30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 9m

Average total duration

3h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 8m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Renfe MD

Most popular train company

Alsa

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is a train with an average price of €5.

This is compared to other travel options from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao:

A train is €4 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao costing on average €10.

The fastest way to travel from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 37m.

Other travel options to Bilbao take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao including taking a train and bus.

Live departures

Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao train times

The table below shows live departures for Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trains for today, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Euskotren12:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
3:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren1:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
4:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren2:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
5:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren3:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
6:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren4:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
7:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren5:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
8:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren6:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
9:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren7:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
10:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Euskotren8:50 PM Donostia-San Sebastian
2h31
11:21 PM Bilbao0 transfersDirect
Monday, September 21
Renfe INTERCITY04056+Renfe ALVIA00438
On time
5:15 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
10h38
3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando
1 transfer
Renfe INTERCITY04056+Renfe ALVIA04187
On time
5:15 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
6h50
12:05 PM Bilbao-Abando
1 transfer
Renfe16000+Renfe INTERCITY002806:25 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
11h57
6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe16000+Renfe ALVIA041876:25 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
5h40
12:05 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe16000+Renfe ALVIA004386:25 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
9h28
3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe ALVIA04086 · 004388:36 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
7h17
3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe ALVIA04086+Renfe INTERCITY002808:36 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
9h46
6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe MD18012+Renfe INTERCITY0028010:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
7h23
6:22 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe MD18012+Renfe ALVIA0043810:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
4h54
3:53 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe MD18012+Renfe ALVIA0426710:59 AM Donostia-San Sebastián
12h03
11:02 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer
Renfe MD18014+Renfe ALVIA042671:54 PM Donostia-San Sebastián
9h08
11:02 PM Bilbao-Abando1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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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Why should you book Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trains with Omio?

Renfe MD as well as Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren and more offer trains services from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.

Why book with Omio vs Renfe MD?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Renfe MD, but also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Renfe MD with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.

Why book with Omio over Raileurope, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe or Euskotren to find the best option for your trip from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao?

The best time to book your train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is 1 day before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Donostia-San Sebastian 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 Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao

SpainSpain
SpainSpain
Icon of train

Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €5 if you book in advance.

There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 17:35. The fastest train covers the 77 km distance in 2h 31m.

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
Distance
77 km
Average train duration
3h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
€5
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
12
Fastest train
2h 31m
First train
4:45 AM
Last train
5:35 PM
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
49 days
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

Train companies: Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trainsRenfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren trains will get you between Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao from €5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Renfe MD

About
Renfe MD, or Media Distancia (Mid-distance), is a division of Spain's national railway company, Renfe, specializing in regional train services. These trains connect cities and towns within the same autonomous community or between contiguous communities, typically covering distances under 300 km. Renfe MD operates various train types, including modern regional services with amenities like power sockets and reading lights, and high-speed Avant trains that reach up to 250 km/h on shorter, high-speed routes. While not as fast as long-distance AVE trains, Renfe MD offers extensive coverage across Spain, providing essential regional connections.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 3 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and light meals. Vending machines available on some trains
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Some routes require mandatory seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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
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 INTERCITY

About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
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 First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone

Renfe

About
Renfe is Spain’s national train company operating freight and passenger on Spain’s extensive railway network as well as international routes to neighboring France and Portugal. Renfe has a wide range of ticket types to fit your budget like the Basic, Elige and Premium tickets. Renfe also offers discount cards like the Renfe Gold Card and +Renfe Youth Card 50 for qualified travelers. The Renfe AVE trains run at high speed and serve long-distance routes, Alvia trains combine high-speed and normal speed trains serving domestic routes, Altaria serves domestic routes into southern Spain, Euromed offers domestic routes along the Mediterranean coast, Avant trains serve regional commuter routes and Trenhotel offers night train routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and up to three suitcases free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and spaces between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (cafeteria) available on most long-distance trains serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages. First class passengers receive at-seat service
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation. Included in some ticket types, additional fee for others. Recommended during peak travel times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Euskotren

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Euskotren Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Euskotren Price
€5
Euskotren frequency
10 a day

FAQs: Trains from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Donostia-San Sebastian 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
Cheap train tickets from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao can start from as little as €5 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is €5; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao is 2h 31m to travel the 77 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao leaves at 4:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao leaves at 5:35 PM.
Yes,there are 12 direct trains a day from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao with Euskotren. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
When taking a train from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao, you can count on Renfe MD, Renfe ALVIA, Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe, Euskotren for the best way to get you to Bilbao. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Bilbao from Donostia-San Sebastian is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 31m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao including taking a train and bus.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao

Most Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao trains use the Donostia-San Sebastián to Bilbao-Abando station pair. Use this guide to compare Donostia-San Sebastian and Bilbao train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Arrival train stations in Bilbao
Donostia-San SebastiánDe Francia Ibilbidea, 22, 20012 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, SpainAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Donostia-San Sebastián from Donostia-San Sebastian city centre

Bus9, 37, B3, 42 · 6m · €2 · every ~14 min

Donostia-San Sebastián train station facilities and services

Donostia-San Sebastián has practical services for this route, including Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Donostia-San Sebastián. Information desks are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Donostia-San Sebastián: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Donostia-San Sebastián.

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