The four options compared
| Mode | Time | Indicative price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alvia train | About 4 h 30 on board | Average of 44 EUR seen, from 22 EUR | Comfort, centre to centre |
| Alsa bus | 3 h 55 to 4 h 50 | From 34 EUR, average 52 EUR | Many departures (around twenty a day) |
| Flight | About 1 h in the air | Varies | When time is short |
| Car | About 4 h for 400 km | Fuel and tolls | Stopping along the way |
Our advice
The train arrives in central Bilbao (Abando) and leaves from Madrid-Chamartín or Atocha depending on the timetable: check the station before buying, see Madrid's stations. The bus suits you if you want the lowest price at a set time. Flying only saves time if you travel light and do not face a long trip to the airport.
The Guggenheim
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, opens 10:00 to 19:00, and until 20:00 from 15 June to 13 September and during Holy Week according to local press in December 2025; the museum says 2026 prices are those of 2025. Check the museum's website for the current price and free-entry days, which differ between sources.
Where to stay in Bilbao
For a weekend, stay in the centre or near the Guggenheim: everything is reachable on foot or by tram. Compare hotels in Bilbao on Booking with free cancellation.
Going further
If you spend a few days in Madrid before leaving, see transport in Madrid and day trips from Madrid.
La rédaction Madrid Authority
