Is Bilbao Near Madrid?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, you may be wondering if Bilbao is near Madrid. While both cities are located in northern Spain, they are not exactly close to each other. Let’s take a closer look at the distance between Bilbao and Madrid.

Distance Between Bilbao and Madrid

Bilbao is located in the Basque Country, while Madrid is the capital of Spain. The distance between these two cities is approximately 395 kilometers (245 miles). If you plan to travel by car or bus, it will take you around 4 hours and 30 minutes to get from Bilbao to Madrid.

How to Get from Bilbao to Madrid

There are several ways to travel from Bilbao to Madrid. You can take a direct flight from Bilbao Airport (BIO) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Bilbao to Madrid.

By Train

Renfe, the national railway company of Spain, operates trains between Bilbao and Madrid. The journey takes around 6 hours and there are several trains per day. You can choose between high-speed AVE trains or slower regional trains depending on your budget and preferences.

By Bus

Several bus companies operate services between Bilbao and Madrid, such as ALSA and Avanza. The journey takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes and there are several departures per day.

Is it Worth Visiting Both Cities?

Absolutely! While Bilbao and Madrid have different vibes, they both offer unique experiences for travelers.

Bilbao is known for its world-class Guggenheim Museum, which houses contemporary art exhibits in a stunning titanium-clad building designed by Frank Gehry. The city is also famous for its pintxos, a type of Basque tapas that you can enjoy in the lively streets of the Old Town.

Madrid, on the other hand, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. You can visit iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, and the Retiro Park. Madrid is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene and delicious cuisine.

Conclusion

In summary, Bilbao is not exactly near Madrid but it’s definitely worth visiting both cities if you have the chance. Whether you prefer contemporary art or historic landmarks, pintxos or paella, you’ll find something to love in these two amazing destinations in Spain.