Bilbao

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Transportation

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Bilbao

Bilbao’s public transportation system is modern, reliable, and affordable. It includes buses, the metro, the tram, and commuter trains. All these systems are integrated, making it easy to transfer between them using a unified ticketing system.

A. Metro Bilbao

  • Overview: The Metro in Bilbao is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city and its suburbs. It has three lines (Lines 1, 2, and 3) that connect the city center with nearby towns and neighborhoods.
  • Schedule:
    • Monday to Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
    • Friday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM
    • Saturday: 24-hour service
    • Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Frequency: Trains run every 3-10 minutes, depending on the time of day.
  • Costs:
    • Single ticket: €1.70–€2.50 (depending on the zones traveled).
    • Barik card (rechargeable travel card): €0.97–€1.36 per trip (cheaper than single tickets).
  • How to Purchase Tickets:
    • Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines in metro stations.
    • The Barik card can be purchased at metro stations, kiosks, or authorized shops for €3 (non-refundable) and can be recharged with credit.
  • Local Tip: The metro is clean, safe, and easy to use. Stations are well-marked, and maps are available in English and Spanish.

B. Tram (Euskotren Tranbia)

  • Overview: The tram is a scenic and eco-friendly way to travel through Bilbao. It runs along the river and connects key landmarks, including the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the San Mamés Stadium.
  • Schedule:
    • Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
    • Saturday: 6:00 AM – 1:30 AM
    • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes.
  • Costs:
    • Single ticket: €1.50.
    • Barik card: €0.57 per trip.
  • How to Purchase Tickets:
    • Tickets can be bought at tram stops or by using the Barik card.
  • Local Tip: The tram is slower than the metro but offers beautiful views of the city. It’s a great option for tourists.

C. Buses (Bilbobus and Bizkaibus)

  • Bilbobus: Operates within Bilbao city.
    • Schedule: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM (varies by route).
    • Night Buses (Gautxori): Operate on weekends from 11:00 PM to 2:30 AM.
    • Costs:
      • Single ticket: €1.35.
      • Barik card: €0.57 per trip.
  • Bizkaibus: Connects Bilbao with surrounding towns and the airport.
    • Costs: €1.30–€3.00 (depending on the distance).
  • How to Purchase Tickets:
    • Tickets can be purchased on the bus (cash only) or with the Barik card.
  • Local Tip: Buses are punctual and well-maintained. Use the Barik card for significant savings.

D. Commuter Trains (Cercanías Renfe and Euskotren)

  • Cercanías Renfe: Connects Bilbao with nearby towns and cities.
    • Costs: €1.70–€5.00 (depending on the zones).
  • Euskotren: Operates regional trains to destinations like Gernika and San Sebastián.
    • Costs: €2.75–€6.00 (depending on the distance).
  • How to Purchase Tickets:
    • Tickets can be bought at train stations or with the Barik card.

2. Ticketing System: The Barik Card

  • What is it?: A rechargeable contactless card that can be used across all public transportation in Bilbao (metro, tram, buses, and some trains).
  • Cost: €3 for the card (non-refundable).
  • Where to Buy: Metro stations, kiosks, and authorized shops.
  • How to Recharge: At ticket machines, kiosks, or online (if you register the card).
  • Local Tip: The Barik card is highly recommended for convenience and cost savings, especially if you plan to use public transport frequently.

3. Bike-Sharing Services

Bilbao is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and a public bike-sharing system called Bilbaobizi.

  • How It Works:
    • Bilbaobizi offers free bike rentals for short trips (up to 30 minutes per ride).
    • You need to register online or at the Bilbaobizi office to get a membership card.
  • Costs:
    • Registration: €20 annual fee.
    • Usage: Free for the first 30 minutes; €0.50 for every additional 30 minutes.
  • Local Tip: Bilbao is hilly, so electric bikes are available at some stations. Always lock the bike securely when not in use.

4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

  • Taxis:
    • Taxis in Bilbao are white with a red stripe and are widely available.
    • Costs:
      • Base fare: €4.00 (daytime) / €4.50 (nighttime).
      • Per kilometer: €1.10–€1.50.
      • Airport trips: Flat rate of €25–€30.
    • How to Book:
      • Hail a taxi on the street, use a taxi stand, or call a local taxi company (e.g., Radio Taxi Bilbao: +34 944 448 888).
  • Ride-Sharing:
    • Services like Uber and Cabify operate in Bilbao, offering competitive prices and app-based convenience.

5. Walking

Bilbao is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. The city center, Casco Viejo, and the riverside promenade are particularly pedestrian-friendly.

6. Driving and Car Rentals

  • Driving in Bilbao:
    • Driving is not recommended in the city center due to narrow streets, limited parking, and traffic restrictions.
    • If you plan to explore the Basque countryside, renting a car is a good option.
  • Car Rentals:
    • Major companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate in Bilbao.
    • Costs: €30–€60 per day, depending on the car type and season.
  • Local Tip: Check if your accommodation offers parking, as public parking can be expensive (€15–€25 per day).

7. Airport Transfers

Bilbao Airport (BIO) is about 12 km from the city center.

  • Bizkaibus A3247: Connects the airport to the city center.
    • Cost: €3.00.
    • Frequency: Every 20 minutes.
  • Taxis: Cost €25–€30 to the city center.
  • Local Tip: The bus is the most economical option, while taxis are faster and more convenient for groups or late-night arrivals.

8. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • Punctuality: Public transport in Bilbao is generally punctual, so plan to arrive at stops/stations a few minutes early.
  • Language: While Spanish is widely spoken, many signs and announcements are in Basque (Euskara). However, English is increasingly common in tourist areas.
  • Etiquette: When using public transport, give up your seat for elderly passengers or those with disabilities. Eating and drinking are generally discouraged on buses and trains.

By using this guide, you’ll be able to navigate Bilbao’s transportation system with ease and confidence. Enjoy your time in this vibrant and culturally rich city!