How to get from Bilbao to San Sebastián: best options

In this post, we share the different options available for travelling from Bilbao to San Sebastián, a gem on the Basque Country coast and a must-visit destination if you’re in Bilbao. Separated by about 100 kilometres, these two cities offer a unique experience in the north of Spain.

Here we present the best options for travelling from Bilbao to San Sebastián:

How to get from Bilbao to San Sebastián: all the options

If you want to travel from Bilbao to San Sebastián, you can choose between a taxi, bus, train, or car.

Taxi

Opting for a taxi from Bilbao to San Sebastián is ideal for those seeking comfort and speed. It’s the most expensive option, but it offers a direct, hassle-free journey. At Mitaxi.net, you can book a taxi from Bilbao to San Sebastián starting from 169€. The journey takes about 1 hour.

Bus

The bus is a practical and economical option for travelling between Bilbao and San Sebastián. Regular services are offered from Bilbao’s intermodal station, located next to San Mamés train station, to Donostia’s bus station, very close to the city centre. The journey lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the ticket price is 7.51€. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between comfort and economy.

Train

For travellers who prefer the train, the E1 line of Euskotren covers the journey between Bilbao and San Sebastián in approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Although it’s a slower option due to multiple stops, it’s also one of the most economical, with tickets at only 6.50€. Trains depart from Bilbao’s Matiko station, and a change at Zumaia is required to reach the Amara Donostia station in San Sebastián.

Car

If you prefer the freedom of travelling at your own pace, driving is a good option. The quickest route is the AP-8 motorway, though you should consider the cost of fuel and tolls, which add up to about 15.30€. The journey takes around 1 hour. If you decide to take the coastal road, the journey extends to over three hours, but it allows you to explore the beautiful Basque coast and visit places like San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Lekeitio, Zumaia, and Getaria.