Overview
Traveling from Bilbao Airport (BIO) to Santander offers a scenic 100-kilometer journey through Spain’s Basque Country and Cantabria regions. The trip typically takes 1 hour 15 minutes by road, with routes passing lush green valleys and coastal vistas. Whether you’re visiting for Santander’s historic architecture, its pristine beaches, or business engagements, choosing the right transfer ensures a smooth start to your trip.
Getting to Know Santander
Santander, the capital of Cantabria, blends maritime charm with cultural richness. Key attractions include:
- Palacio de la Magdalena: A former royal summer residence overlooking the Bay of Santander.
- Playa del Sardinero: A golden-sand beach popular for surfing and sunbathing.
- Centro Botín: A modern arts center hosting international exhibitions.
The city is also a gateway to UNESCO-listed Altamira Cave and Picos de Europa National Park.
Arriving at Bilbao Airport
After landing at Bilbao Airport, follow signage to baggage claim and exits. The arrivals hall has ATMs, car rental desks, and a tourist information counter for maps. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Bilbao Airport to Santander Transfer Options
Public Transport (Bus & Train)
- Bus: ALSA buses run 4x daily from Bilbao Termibus station (45-minute taxi ride from BIO). Fare: ~€10–15; journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Train: Renfe Cercanías connects Bilbao-Abando station (1-hour train from airport) to Santander via regional lines (~€12; 3 hours).
Taxi & Rideshare
- Taxi: Direct rides cost €120–150. Confirm fare upfront; avoid unlicensed drivers.
- Rideshare: BlaBlaCar offers shared rides (~€20–30), but availability varies.
Car Rentals
Major providers (Hertz, Europcar) operate at BIO. Daily rates: €35–60. Note: AP-8 highway tolls apply (~€8).
Private Transfer from Bilbao Airport to Santander
Booking a private taxi service like A2B ensures door-to-door convenience. Benefits include:
- Fixed pricing (€110–130)
- English-speaking drivers
- Free 60-minute airport waiting time
- Pre-booked child seats or extra luggage space
Choosing the Best Transfer Method
Recommendations:
- Budget travelers: Opt for buses but factor in taxi costs to Bilbao’s central station.
- Families/Groups: A2B’s private taxis offer space for luggage and car seats.
- Business travelers: Pre-booked transfers save time for meetings or sightseeing.
Travel Tips & Local Insights
- Peak seasons: July–August roads get busy; book transfers early.
- Scenic detour: Take CA-141 via Castro Urdiales for coastal views.
- Language: Learn basic Spanish phrases; drivers may not speak English outside private services.
Reaching Your Final Destination in Santander
Most private transfers drop guests directly at hotels or cruise terminals. If arriving by bus/train:
- Santander Bus Station: Taxis cost €5–10 to city center hotels.
- Santander Port: Walk 15 minutes to downtown attractions like Jardines de Pereda.
Where to Get More Info
FAQ: Bilbao Airport to Santander Transfer
1. How long is a private taxi from Bilbao Airport to Santander? Around 1 hour 15 minutes in normal traffic. A2B provides real-time tracking for accurate ETAs.
2. What’s the cheapest transfer option? Public buses (€10–15), but include extra time/cost for getting to Bilbao’s bus station from BIO.
3. Can I pre-book a Santander transfer from Bilbao Airport? Yes—reliable providers like A2B allow online bookings up to 12 months ahead with free cancellations.
4. Are taxis available at Bilbao Airport 24/7? Yes, but late-night rides may incur surcharges (+20%). Pre-booking guarantees availability.
5. Is there luggage space in private transfers? Most services include vehicles for up to 8 passengers + suitcases; specify needs when booking via A2B.
