Overview

Traveling from Bilbao Airport (BIO) to Pau, France? This cross-border journey spans approximately 220 km (137 miles) through Spain’s Basque Country into southwestern France’s Béarn region. The drive typically takes 2-3 hours by road depending on traffic and route choices. Key highlights include scenic views of the Pyrenees mountains and charming villages along the way.

Getting to Know Pau

Pau is a historic city in Nouvelle-Aquitaine known for its elegant boulevards, panoramic mountain vistas from the Boulevard des Pyrénées, and landmarks like Château de Pau (birthplace of King Henry IV). Visitors often come for outdoor activities like hiking in the Pyrenees or exploring Béarn’s vineyards.

Arriving at Bilbao Airport

After landing at Bilbao Airport, follow signs for arrivals to locate baggage claim and exits. The airport offers basic amenities like currency exchange and car rental desks. For international travelers:

• Check signage for ground transportation options outside Terminal 1.
• Spanish is widely spoken; basic French phrases may help once nearing Pau.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport (Bus/Train)

Public transit between Bilbao and Pau requires multiple connections:

1. Take Bizkaibus A3247 from Bilbao Airport to Bilbao’s Termibus station (€1-3).
2. Transfer to a long-distance bus (ALSA) toward San Sebastián or Irún (~2 hours).
3. From Irún/Hendaye station, take SNCF trains to Pau (~3 hours). Total cost: €40-60+.

Best for: Budget travelers with flexible schedules.

Taxi & Rideshare

A direct taxi from Bilbao Airport to Pau costs €250-350+ depending on operator. Confirm fixed pricing upfront to avoid meter surprises. Rideshares (BlaBlaCar) may offer cheaper shared rides but require advance booking.

Car Rentals

Major rental agencies (Hertz, Europcar) operate at Bilbao Airport. Driving via AP-68/A64 highways takes ~2h45m. Note:

• Tolls cost ~€20-25 each way.
• Parking in Pau averages €1-3/hour in city centers.

Private Transfer Bilbao Airport to Pau

Pre-booking a private transfer ensures door-to-door convenience without navigation stress. Services like **A2B** offer fixed-price rides with English-speaking drivers and amenities like Wi-Fi or child seats. Average cost: €280-400 for standard vehicles (1-4 passengers).

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Families/groups: Private transfers simplify luggage handling.
• Solo travelers: Rideshares or buses for budget savings.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Border crossing: No passport checks between Spain/France (Schengen Area), but carry ID.
• Scenic detour: Take N-121A via Pamplona for mountain views before joining A64 near Tarbes.
• Language: While Basque is common near Bilbao, French dominates in Pau.

Booking tip: Reserve transfers 1-2 months ahead during peak seasons (July-August/ski season).

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop off directly at hotels or addresses in central Pau. If staying outside the city:

• Local buses (IDELIS) connect key areas for €1.50/ticket.
• Taxis within Pau cost €10-15 for short trips.

Where to Get More Info

• Bilbao Airport Official Site – Flight updates & transport details
• Pau Tourism Office – Attractions & events
• SNCF Train Schedules – Cross-border rail options

FAQ

How much is a taxi from Bilbao Airport to Pau? Expect €250-350+ for direct transfers; confirm fixed rates beforehand with providers like **A2B**.

Is there a train from Bilbao to Pau? No direct trains exist—combine bus/train via Irún/Hendaye (~5 hours total).

Why book a private transfer? Pre-booked transfers guarantee punctuality, luggage space, and local driver expertise—ideal after long flights.

Are there tolls on the route? Yes—AP-68 (Spain) and A64 (France) have tolls totaling ~€20-25 each way.

Can I book child seats for transfers? Yes—services like **A2B** offer complimentary child seats upon request during booking.