Overview

Traveling between Bilbao and Santander Airport (SDR) covers approximately 100 km through northern Spain’s lush landscapes. The journey typically takes 1 hour 15 minutes by road, passing coastal vistas of the Cantabrian Sea and rolling Basque countryside. Whether you’re catching a flight or arriving for a Basque Country adventure, seamless transfers ensure you start your trip stress-free.

Getting to Know Your Destination

Santander Airport serves Cantabria’s capital and is a gateway to Bilbao’s vibrant culture. Bilbao attracts visitors with its Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo’s historic streets, and Michelin-starred dining. Meanwhile, Santander offers golden beaches like El Sardinero and the striking Palacio de la Magdalena. Both cities blend urban energy with coastal relaxation—ideal for travelers seeking art, cuisine, or scenic escapes.

Arriving at Santander Airport

Santander Airport is compact and easy to navigate. After baggage claim:

• Taxi stands are outside arrivals (no pre-booking needed).
• Car rental desks (Europcar, Sixt) are in the terminal for immediate pickups.
• For pre-booked private transfers, drivers wait in arrivals holding name signs.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport (Bus/Train)

No direct trains connect Bilbao to Santander Airport. Alternatives include:

1. Train + Bus: Take FEVE regional rail from Bilbao-Concordia station to Santander (2h), then bus line 17B (25 mins) to SDR airport Renfe.
2. ALSA Bus: Direct buses from Bilbao Termibus station to Santander city center (1h45m), then taxi/bus to airport ALSA. Cost: €10–€20 | Travel Time: 2h30m+

Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis from Bilbao city center cost €100–€120 (fixed rates vary by luggage/vehicle size). Apps like Uber operate sporadically here; pre-booking local taxis is safer for early flights.

Car Rentals

Renting a car offers flexibility but requires navigating Spain’s AP-8 motorway (tolls apply). Note:

• Narrow roads in Bilbao’s old town can challenge new drivers.
• Parking costs €20–€30/day downtown Europcar.

Private Transfer Bilbao to Santander Airport

For comfort and reliability, private transfers like A2B provide door-to-door service with English-speaking drivers and fixed pricing (€85–€110). Benefits include:

• Free 60-minute airport waiting time for flight delays.
• Child seats/extra luggage space on request.
• Direct pickup from hotels or apartments in Bilbao.

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Public transport works but requires patience with transfers.
• Families/groups: Private transfers offer space and fixed rates for stress-free travel A2B.
• Business travelers: Pre-booked taxis or private cars ensure punctuality for flights.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Book early: Summer routes fill quickly; reserve transfers 2+ months ahead for peak season (June–September).
• Scenic detour: Take the BI-636 coastal road via Castro Urdiales for cliffside ocean views—add 20 minutes but worth it!
• Language: Most drivers speak basic English; learn “¿Dónde está la parada de taxis?” (“Where’s the taxi stand?”).

Reaching Your Final Destination

If using public transport: Most buses/trains terminate in central Santander or Bilbao—budget €10–€15 for a short taxi ride to hotels or cruise terminals like Getxo Port. Private transfers drop you directly at your address without extra steps.

Where to Get More Info

• A2B Transfers: Book private taxis with upfront pricing across Spain A2B.
• Santander Airport: Real-time flight updates and terminal maps Santander Airport.
• Bilbao Tourism: Guides on attractions like Pintxos bars and Azkuna Zentroa Bilbao Tourism.

FAQ

How long does a taxi from Bilbao to Santander Airport take? Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic near Bilbao’s city center or motorway delays during peak hours (7–9 AM / 6–8 PM).

What’s the cheapest way to get from Bilbao to SDR airport? Public transport via ALSA bus + local taxi costs ~€20 but takes over 2h30m—ideal only for flexible solo travelers without heavy luggage ALSA.

Why choose a private transfer over a regular taxi? Private transfers guarantee fixed pricing (no surge fees), meet-and-greet service at arrivals/departures, and tailored vehicle options (e.g., vans for groups) A2B.

Can I book a last-minute transfer? Yes—providers like A2B allow bookings up to 12 hours before travel via their app or website A2B.

Are child seats available? Most private transfer companies provide free child/booster seats upon request during booking—specify ages when reserving A2B.