Bilbao

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Public Transportation

Sections

1. Types of Public Transportation in Bilbao

Bilbao offers a variety of public transportation options, including the metro, buses, trams, commuter trains, and taxis. Each mode of transport is well-integrated, making it convenient to switch between them.

a. Metro Bilbao

  • Overview: The Metro is one of the most efficient and popular ways to get around Bilbao and its suburbs. It is modern, clean, and easy to use.
  • Lines: There are three lines:
    • Line 1 (L1): Runs from Etxebarri to Plentzia, covering the city center and coastal areas.
    • Line 2 (L2): Runs from Basauri to Kabiezes, serving the city and nearby towns.
    • Line 3 (L3): Connects Kukullaga to Matiko, operated by Euskotren.
  • Frequency: Trains run every 2-5 minutes during peak hours and every 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Monday to Thursday: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
    • Friday: 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM
    • Saturday: 24 hours
    • Sunday: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM

b. Bilbobus (City Buses)

  • Overview: Bilbobus operates the city’s bus network, covering areas not served by the metro or tram.
  • Routes: Over 40 routes, including daytime and nighttime services (called "Gautxori" buses).
  • Frequency: Buses run every 10-20 minutes, depending on the route and time of day.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Daytime: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
    • Night buses: 11:00 PM to 2:30 AM (weekends only)

c. Euskotren (Commuter Trains)

  • Overview: Euskotren connects Bilbao with nearby towns and cities in the Basque Country, such as Gernika, Durango, and San Sebastián.
  • Lines: Several lines operate from Bilbao’s Atxuri and Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo stations.
  • Frequency: Trains run every 15-30 minutes, depending on the line.

d. Tram (Euskotran)

  • Overview: The tram is a scenic and eco-friendly way to travel through Bilbao, especially for tourists.
  • Route: The tram runs from Atxuri to La Casilla, passing through key landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town (Casco Viejo), and the Abando train station.
  • Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

e. Bizkaibus (Regional Buses)

  • Overview: Bizkaibus connects Bilbao with other towns and villages in the province of Bizkaia.
  • Key Routes: Includes routes to the airport, beaches, and nearby towns like Getxo and Bermeo.

f. Taxis

  • Overview: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or via apps like Cabify.
  • Costs: Starting fare is around €4, with additional charges per kilometer and for nighttime or weekend rides.

g. Bicycle Rentals (Bilbao Bizi)

  • Overview: Bilbao has a public bike-sharing system called Bilbao Bizi, with docking stations throughout the city.
  • Cost: Free for the first 30 minutes, then €0.50 per hour.

2. Ticketing Options and Costs

Bilbao uses the Barik Card, a rechargeable contactless card that can be used across all public transportation modes (metro, buses, tram, and commuter trains). It is the most convenient and cost-effective option for frequent travelers.

a. Barik Card

  • Where to Buy: Available at metro stations, tram stops, and kiosks.
  • Cost: €3 for the card itself (non-refundable).
  • Recharge: Can be topped up with amounts ranging from €5 to €50 at machines, kiosks, or online.
  • Discounts: Offers significant discounts compared to single tickets.

b. Single Tickets

  • Cost:
    • Metro: €1.70-€2.50 (depending on zones traveled).
    • Tram: €1.50.
    • Bilbobus: €1.35.
  • Where to Buy: Available at ticket machines or directly from bus drivers (cash only).

c. Travel Passes

  • Creditrans: A prepaid travel pass loaded onto the Barik Card, offering discounts for multiple trips.
  • Monthly Pass: Unlimited travel for a fixed monthly fee (ideal for long-term residents).

3. Schedules and Frequency

  • Metro: Frequent service, with trains every 2-10 minutes depending on the time of day.
  • Buses: Daytime buses run every 10-20 minutes, while night buses operate less frequently.
  • Tram: Every 10-15 minutes.
  • Euskotren: Every 15-30 minutes.

Schedules are generally reliable, but it’s a good idea to check real-time updates using the official apps or websites for each service.

4. Accessibility

Bilbao’s public transportation system is highly accessible:

  • Metro: All stations have elevators and ramps for wheelchair users.
  • Tram: Fully accessible with low-floor trams and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  • Buses: Most Bilbobus vehicles are equipped with ramps and priority seating.
  • Apps: Many services have apps that provide accessibility information in real-time.

5. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • Punctuality: Public transportation in Bilbao is generally punctual, so plan to arrive at stops/stations a few minutes early.
  • Language: Signs and announcements are in Spanish and Basque. While most staff speak Spanish, English may not be widely spoken, so learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.
  • Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during rush hours (8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) if possible, as metro and buses can get crowded.
  • Etiquette:
    • Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
    • Keep noise levels low, especially on the metro and buses.
  • Tourist-Friendly Stops:
    • Guggenheim Museum: Accessible via the tram.
    • Casco Viejo (Old Town): Served by the metro (Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo station) and tram.
    • Beaches: Take the metro (Line 1) to Getxo or Plentzia.

6. Useful Apps and Websites

  • Metro Bilbao App: For metro schedules, maps, and real-time updates.
  • Bilbobus App: For bus routes, schedules, and live tracking.
  • Euskotren App: For commuter train information.
  • Barik NFC App: To check your Barik Card balance and recharge it.
  • Google Maps: Works well for planning routes across all modes of transport.

Bilbao’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for both visitors and residents. With the Barik Card and a little planning, you’ll be able to explore the city and its surroundings with ease. Enjoy your time in Bilbao!