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Madrid to Bilbao train ticket prices
Book cheap train tickets from Madrid to Bilbao with TrainPal, starting at €31.63, with an average price of €74.46*. Board Renfe AVE, Avant, and Avlo high-speed trains, or take iryo and OUIGO trains. Enjoy high-speed travel and excellent services to every corner of Spain. Compare options and start your journey now on TrainPal.
€74.46
From 03 Nov to 09 Nov
€31.63
On Wed 05 Nov
Madrid to Bilbao train times
The quickest travel time from Madrid to Bilbao is 4h 40m, with a standard duration of 4h 44m. 3 trains are running daily on this route, with the earliest train at 07:20 and the latest at 4h 44m. For more information on train schedules, prices, delays, and cancellations, browseTrainPal. Stay informed with real-time updates to ensure a seamless journey in Spain.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
07:20 Madrid-Chamartín | 4h 40m, Direct | 12:00 Bilbao-Abando | Renfe | Find tickets |
08:40 Madrid-Chamartín | 7h 4m, 1 change | 15:44 Bilbao-Abando | RENFE | Find tickets |
17:37 Madrid-Chamartín | 4h 44m, Direct | 22:21 Bilbao-Abando | Renfe | Find tickets |
Madrid to Bilbao train journey information
Access detailed Renfe, iryo, and OUIGO train information from Madrid to Bilbao, including departure and arrival times, stations, distance, journey duration, train companies, and price options. Check train times and prices for a hassle-free trip.
Madrid to Bilbao train travel guide
Explore the travel guide from Madrid to Bilbao on TrainPal. With an average duration of 4h 44m, you can enjoy a wonderful trip on Renfe AVE high-speed trains, along with iryo and OUIGO trains.

Planning and booking
1. How do I book train tickets for the Madrid to Bilbao route?
2. Is it cheaper to buy Madrid to Bilbao train tickets in advance?
Discover affordable AVE train tickets from Madrid to Bilbao on TrainPal. Book your tickets up to 90 days in advance to maximise savings. We offer special discounts for students and seniors. For additional savings, consider purchasing a Return ticket and using our discount codes. Experience budget-friendly travels with TrainPal.
3. Are there any stops along the way from Madrid to Bilbao on the AVE train?
No, you need to transfer on the route from Madrid to Bilbao. TrainPal helps you compare times, prices, and transfer details. We aim to make your journey as smooth and worry-free as possible.
4. What is the frequency of AVE trains from Madrid to Bilbao?
3 trains travel from Madrid to Bilbao every day. TrainPal provides a variety of information you may find useful. Stay updated with live train times to determine the best time to leave home, ensuring a smooth journey and saving you time, effort, and worry.
5. How long does it take to travel from Madrid to Bilbao by train?
The fastest route from Madrid to Bilbao takes 4h 40m, while the average travel time is 4h 44m. Check detailed departure and arrival times for both stations. Use TrainPal to stay informed with live schedules.
6. How much does a train ticket from Madrid to Bilbao cost?
You can find the cheapest train ticket from Madrid to Bilbao for €31.63, with an average price of €74.46*. Check TrainPal regularly for real-time price updates, as they may change. Cut travel costs and keep extra cash for your destination.

Onboard services
1. What classes of service are available on the AVE train from Madrid to Bilbao?
On AVE trains from Madrid to Bilbao, all ticket types include free WiFi, power outlets, and allowance for up to three bags. A cafeteria or mobile catering bar is accessible to all passengers. Boxed meals start at €5.50 for Básico and Elige tickets, while Prémium ticket holders enjoy complimentary meals.
2. Can I bring luggage and bicycles on the AVE train from Madrid to Bilbao?
Yes, AVE permits three pieces of luggage with a total weight of up to 25 kg. Foldable bicycles are allowed; non-foldable bikes must be disassembled and bagged within 140 x 90 x 40 cm.
3. How early should I arrive at the train station for the AVE train from Madrid to Bilbao?
Ensure you reach the station 30 minutes ahead for security checks and boarding. For luggage or during peak times, aim to arrive 45-60 minutes early. Always confirm your ticket and TrainPal instructions for the most accurate information.
Madrid to Bilbao Train Classes
When travelling from Madrid to Bilbao, explore and compare the various class services provided by AVE, Avlo, Iryo, and OUIGO to effortlessly plan your upcoming journey.

BÁSICO

ELIGE ESTÁNDAR

ELIGE CONFORT

PRÉMIUM

BÁSICA

Inicial

Singular

Singular Only YOU

Infinita Bistró

OUIGO ESENCIAL

OUIGO PLUS
Change and refunds
| Train ticket types | Change | Refunds |
|---|---|---|
| Básico | | |
| Elige Estándar | | |
| Elige Confort | | |
| Prémium | | |
| Train ticket types | Change | Refunds |
|---|---|---|
| Sencillo | | |
| Ida y Vuelta | | |
| Con enlace | | |
| Train ticket types | Change | Refunds |
|---|---|---|
| Inicial | | |
| Singular | | |
| Singular Only YOU | | |
| Infinita Bistró | | |
| Train ticket types | Change | Refunds |
|---|---|---|
| OUIGO ESENCIAL | | |
| OUIGO PLUS | | |
How to buy cheap Renfe and iryo train tickets

Get cheap train tickets from Train Journey Planner with clear route details, including price, time, and company. Labels mark the best options. Save extra with discount codes.

As the most affordable option among all AVE tickets, it is non-refundable. However, you can modify your ticket by paying a €10 fee plus any fare difference. Despite this, you will still enjoy our high-quality services onboard.

With Avlo's Básica (Basic) tickets starting at €7 on eight routes, you can change or refund for €8. Each ticket lets you bring two children under 14 for €5 each.

Get 20% off with Avant's Return tickets instead of purchasing separate ones. Both tickets are changeable. Cancellations incur a minimum 15% fee, and cancelling one ticket costs 40% of its price.

Experience comfortable travel with iryo Inicial fare, featuring reclining leather seats, extra legroom, individual armrests, and power outlets. Tickets can be refunded and changed with conditions. Travel in style and flexibility with iryo.

The double-decker OUIGO trains are high-speed and low-cost, making trips like Madrid to Barcelona feel shorter. You can bring two small pieces of luggage for free.

Children under 14 get a 40% discount on AVE, Alvia, Avant, and more. Tickets include a seat, are changeable and refundable. Kids up to three travel free, while on Cercanías, kids under six travel free.

Get an 8% discount off the total price when travelling in a group of 4 to 9 people. Tickets are non-changeable but refundable, with fees ranging from 5% to 30% of the total price.
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* The lowest price is based on historical data to predict the cheapest fare over the next 7 days, but actual prices may vary.
























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