Getting to the city centre or San Mamés Stadium from Bilbao Airport is easy thanks to the many transport options available. Located about 12 kilometres from the centre of the Biscayan capital, the airport offers several connections to suit different budgets and needs.
Bus: the most economical option
The bus is one of the most popular and affordable ways to get to the centre of Bilbao from the airport. The Bizkaibus A3247 line connects the airport with the Bilbao Intermodal bus station, with several stops in between.
•Route and stops: The bus departs from the arrivals terminal and stops at Gran Vía (city centre), Plaza Moyúa (one of the most central areas) and ends at Bilbao Intermodal, a stone’s throw from the San Mamés stadium.
•Duration: The journey to Plaza Moyúa takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Bilbao Intermodal, about 30 minutes.
•Timetable: Buses operate from 5:00 to 22:00 from Bilbao, and from 6:10 to 23:45 from the airport. They depart every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day.
•Price: A single ticket costs approximately €1.50 if you use the Barik card (a rechargeable card for public transport in Bizkaia) or around €4.50 if you pay in cash.
•How to get to San Mamés: From Bilbao Intermodal, the stadium is only a 5-minute walk away. If you get off at Plaza Moyúa, you can walk for about 15 minutes or take the metro (lines 1 or 2) from Moyúa station to San Mamés (two stops, about a 5-minute journey).
Recommendation: Purchase a Barik card if you plan to use public transport during your stay, as it significantly reduces costs.
Taxi: comfort and speed
If you prefer a direct and hassle-free transfer, a taxi is an excellent option, especially if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or in a group.
•Duration: The journey to the city centre or San Mamés takes between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
•Price: The average fare is between 20 and 30 Euros, although this may vary depending on the time of day and traffic. There is a fixed minimum fare from the airport, which is usually around €20.
•Where to catch a taxi: The taxi rank is just outside the arrivals terminal.
•How to get to San Mamés: Tell the driver you want to go to the San Mamés stadium or to a specific address in the city centre.
Recommendation: If you are travelling in a group, splitting the cost of the taxi makes it more competitive compared to other options.
Car hire: freedom to explore
Hiring a car is ideal if you plan to travel beyond Bilbao or want flexibility. Several car hire companies operate at the airport.
•Duration: The journey to the city centre or San Mamés is similar to that by taxi, around 15-20 minutes.
•Cost: Prices vary depending on the company and type of vehicle, but are usually around 30-50 Euros per day.
•Parking: Finding parking in the city centre can be difficult and expensive. There are private car parks near San Mamés, but check rates and availability, especially on match days.
•Route: Take the N-633 from the airport and follow the signs to Bilbao city centre or San Mamés. A GPS or app such as Google Maps will be useful.
Recommendation: Consider renting a car if you plan to visit other places such as San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or San Sebastián, but for short stays in Bilbao, public transport is more practical.
Metro: a practical alternative from the city centre
Although the airport does not have a metro station, you can combine the A3247 bus with the metro for greater convenience. From Bilbao Intermodal or Plaza Moyúa, the metro (lines 1 and 2) takes you directly to San Mamés.
•Duration: From Plaza Moyúa, about 5 minutes.
•Price: A single ticket costs around two euros, but with the Barik card it is reduced to less than 1 euro per journey.
•Timetable: The metro runs from 6:00 to 23:00 (until 1:30 on Fridays and the eve of public holidays).
Recommendation: If your final destination is San Mamés, get off at Bilbao Intermodal and walk or take the metro to avoid unnecessary transfers.
Practical tips
•Match schedules: If you are going to San Mamés to enjoy an Athletic Club match, check public transport schedules, as there may be special services or restrictions.
•Luggage: The bus and metro are suitable for moderate luggage, but a taxi is more comfortable if you have large suitcases.
From Bilbao Airport, the A3247 bus is the cheapest and most practical option for getting to the city centre or San Mamés, while a taxi offers speed and comfort. Hiring a car is useful for exploring further afield, and the metro is a good complement if you need to get around the city. Whatever you choose, Bilbao is a well-connected city, and you’ll reach your destination in around 30 minutes from the airport, traffic permitting. Enjoy the city, and if you’re going to San Mamés, cheer on Athletic!
