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Bilbao Airport Transfer to El Astillero: Your Complete Guide
Overview
Traveling from Bilbao Airport (BIO) to El Astillero offers a quick journey of approximately 15 km, taking around 20 minutes by road. Nestled near the Bay of Santander in Cantabria, El Astillero combines coastal charm with easy access to urban amenities. Whether arriving for business or leisure, choosing between public transport, taxis, or private transfer services like A2B ensures a smooth start to your trip.
Getting to Know El Astillero
El Astillero is a historic town known for its maritime heritage and proximity to Santander’s vibrant cultural scene. Key attractions include:
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico (15-minute drive)
- Scenic walks along the Ría de Solía estuary
- Traditional festivals like La Fiesta de San Juan in June
Its strategic location makes it ideal for travelers exploring northern Spain’s coastline or attending meetings in nearby business hubs.
Arriving at Bilbao Airport
Bilbao Airport offers modern facilities with clear signage in Basque, Spanish, and English. After collecting luggage:
- Head to the arrivals hall for taxis or pre-booked transfers.
- Car rental desks (Europcar, Hertz) are located near exits.
- Public transport options are outside Terminal 1.
Main Transfer Options
Public Transport
While no direct trains connect Bilbao Airport to El Astillero**, travelers can take:
- Bizkaibus A3247 from the airport to Bilbao’s Termibus station (€3, 20 minutes).
- Renfe Cercanías train from Bilbao-Abando station to Santander (€8–12, 1 hour).
- Local bus/taxi from Santander to El Astillero (€10–15, 10 minutes).
Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Taxi & Rideshare
A taxi from Bilbao Airport to El Astillero costs €35–45, depending on traffic and luggage. Key tips:
- Use official taxi ranks outside Terminal 1.
- Confirm fares upfront; meters start at €3.50.
- Rideshares like Uber operate sparingly in this region.
Best for: Solo travelers or small groups prioritizing convenience.
Car Rentals
Major providers like Sixt and Avis offer daily rates from €30. Note:
- Parking in El Astillero is generally easy outside peak season.
- Tolls on the AP-8 highway add €5–7.
Best for: Explorers planning day trips across Cantabria.
Private Transfer Bilbao Airport to El Astillero
Services like A2B provide door-to-door comfort with fixed pricing (€50–70) and perks:
- Meet-and-greet service at arrivals.
- Free waiting time (up to 60 minutes).
- Options for child seats or luxury vehicles.
Best for: Families or business travelers valuing reliability and comfort.
Choosing the Best Method
Option | Cost | Time | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
Public Transport | €15–25 | 1h45m | Moderate |
Taxi | €35–45 | 20m | High |
Car Rental | €30+/day | 20m | High |
Private Transfer | €50–70 | 20m | Very High |
Recommendations:
- Budget: Public transport with advance planning.
- Families: Private transfers for luggage space and child seats.
- Business Trips: Pre-booked taxis or private chauffeurs.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- 🕒 Avoid weekday rush hours (8–9 AM / 6–7 PM) for quicker trips.
- 🌉 Take the scenic route via CA-141 along the coast for estuary views.
- 📱 Download Moovit or Rome2rio for real-time transit updates.
Reaching Your Final Destination
Most transfers drop passengers directly at hotels or addresses in El Astillero’s compact center. If staying outside town:
- Local buses run hourly between El Astillero and Santander (€2, 15 minutes).
- Taxis within El Astillero cost €5–10 for short rides.
Where to Get More Info
- Book a private transfer Bilbao Airport to El Astillero via A2B’s user-friendly platform.
- Check Bilbao Airport’s official site for live flight updates.
- Explore Turismo de Cantabria for local event calendars.
FAQ
How much is a taxi from Bilbao Airport to El Astillero?
A taxi costs €35–45, depending on traffic and luggage.
Is there a shuttle service from Bilbao Airport to El Astillero?
No direct shuttles exist**, but private transfer companies like A2B offer dedicated services.
What’s the cheapest way to reach El Astillero?
Public transport via Bilbao’s Termibus station costs under €25.
How far in advance should I book a private transfer?
Book at least 48 hours ahead**, especially during summer festivals.
Do taxis accommodate large luggage?
Most taxis fit 2–3 suitcases; specify needs when booking.
