Trains from Bilbao to Santiago

Are you ready for a breathtaking train journey through the heart of Spain? Hop aboard and experience the beauty and charm of the route from Bilbao to Santiago. In this article, we will guide you through this mesmerizing trip, highlighting the shortest duration, main stations, iconic items, and the exciting destinations you'll encounter along the way.

Shortest Duration: The fastest option to travel from Bilbao to Santiago is by taking an express train, which will take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. The train zips through picturesque landscapes, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

Main Stations: Your adventure begins at Bilbao-Abando station and concludes at the Santiago de Compostela railway station. These stations are well-equipped with modern facilities, including restaurants, shops, and easy access to public transportation.

Enchanting Destinations: Throughout this train journey, you will pass through some captivating cities and towns. First, you'll encounter the historic city of Santander, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Next, the train travels through the enchanting region of Asturias, with its picturesque landscapes and charming coastal towns. Finally, the route takes you to the breathtaking region of Galicia, known for its lush greenery and charming villages.

Iconic Items: As you depart from Bilbao, keep an eye out for the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture located near the station. Arriving in Santiago, the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral awaits you, a historic pilgrimage site with its impressive Baroque façade and stunning interior.

In conclusion, the train journey from Bilbao to Santiago offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or seeking spiritual connections, this trip guarantees an unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags, grab a seat on the train, and let the magic unfold!

Welcome to Bilbao, an enchanting coastal city in the autonomous community of Basque Country, Spain. It is home to a rich history, great culture and beautiful architecture. The city’s main attractions are its old architecture and its surrounding hills, which offer stunning views of the estuary. Whether you come for the culture, gastronomy, or simply to soak up the sun for a few days, there’s something special to do in Bilbao. 

Guggenheim Museum: Located in Abandoibarra, the museum is one of Bilbao’s most recognizable and iconic attractions. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, it is renowned for its unique style and memorable design. It houses more than 200 exhibitions of contemporary art. Entrance fee: 10€. Hours: 10am - 8pm Tues-Sun. 

Bilbao Cathedral: Situated on Calle San Anton in the Casco Viejo, the cathedral is a must-visit for its Gothic, baroque and Renaissance architecture. Inside the building, you can admire the works of some of the city’s best artists. Entrance fee: Free Hours: 9am -3pm Mon-Sat. 

Plaza Nueva: A popular meeting point in the city center, the plaza includes a number of important buildings, such as the City Hall, the Provincial Government, and the University of Deusto. The square also houses a number of restaurants and pubs, offering a great range of traditional dishes. Entrance fee: Free Hours: 10am – 8pm. 

San Mamés Stadium: Home to one of Spain’s most popular football teams, Athletic Bilbao, San Mamés Stadium is a must-see for sports fans. If you’re lucky, you can catch a match during your visit – it’s an utterly unforgettable experience. Entrance fee: 10€ Hours: 9am – 8pm. 

Puente de San Antonio: This beautiful bridge connects Bilbao’s Old Quarter and the Arenal district, providing stunning views of the Nervión River. At night, the bridge is illuminated and the views become even more breathtaking. Entrance fee: Free Hours: 24/7. 

Basque Culinary Center: This modern building holds some of the best restaurants in Bilbao, including two Michelin-starred establishments. If you’re a foodie, this is the place for you – you can sample some of the best dishes and buy unique kitchenware. Entrance fee: Free Hours: 10am – 8pm. 

Bilbao Areeta: An enormous park situated in the center of the city, Bilbao Areeta is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful Basque landscape. It’s also home to a number of historical monuments and recreational activities. Entrance fee: Free Hours: 10am – 10pm.

In Bilbao, you can experience the unique culture and cuisine of the region. Don't forget to try the famous pintxos, small Basque tapas served alongside a glass of wine. A visit to the city will leave you with a memorable experience. Whether you come for a few days or a few weeks, there’s something for everyone in Bilbao.

Santiago de Compostela is a Spanish city famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Located in the northwest corner of Spain, it is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. From stunning monuments to delicious regional cuisine, there is something for everyone in Santiago de Compostela. Here are the top 7 must-visit historical and architectural sites when traveling in the city. 

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: Located in Old Town, this ancient cathedral is one of the most important sites in the city. Built in the 11th century, it is an architectural masterpiece and is renowned for its Romanesque and Gothic styles. Entrance fees are from €5-€10 depending on the season, and the Cathedral is open daily (9am-8:30pm). 

Monasterio de San Martín Pinario: One of the most important religious centers of Santiago, this beautiful monastery dates back to the 9th century. Explore its beautiful cloisters, which are covered with Romanesque and Baroque decorations. Entrance to the monastery is free, and it is open daily from 9am-8pm. 

Palacio de Raxoi: The Royal Palace of Raxoi stands proudly in the heart of Santiago de Compostela and is a must-see. Constructed in the 17th century, it houses an impressive collection of artwork, as well as gardens with lush green lawns. Entrance fees range from €5-€10, and the palace is open from 10am-7pm, except on Sundays (closed). 

 Museo do Pobo Galego: A great way to discover the culture and history of Galicia, this museum showcases a range of local artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and archaeological pieces. Entrance is free, and it is open from 10am-6pm, except on Sundays and holidays (closed). 

Praza do Obradoiro: This beautiful square is the heart of Santiago de Compostela and the ideal place to enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere. Here you can take a leisurely stroll or watch the locals go about their day. There are no entrance fees, and the square is open 24/7. 

Parque de San Domingos de Bonaval: This idyllic park is the perfect spot to relax and take a break from the city. With its lush green gardens and stunning views of the city, it is a great place to get some fresh air. Entrance to the park is free, and it is open from 9am-10pm. 

A Tafona das Marianas: You can't leave Santiago de Compostela without trying local cuisine. A Tafona das Marianas is an iconic local restaurant that serves traditional Galician dishes, such as caldeirada de lulas and Pulpo a Feira. Don't forget to try their renowned Rabanada dessert. Open from 9am-11pm. 

The best way to explore Santiago de Compostela is to wander around the city and discover its hidden gems. From historic cathedrals to lush parks, the city offers a wealth of delights that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. Don't forget to sample some local cuisine along the way!