Buses from Bilbao

Bilbao's main bus station is Termibus (officially the San Mamés Intermodal), located in the San Mamés district. It handles both long-distance and regional routes. The station is connected to the city's metro system via San Mamés station, making onward travel straightforward. Facilities include luggage storage, ticket counters, and waiting areas.

Yes, buses run frequently between Bilbao and San Sebastián (Donostia), departing from Termibus. The journey takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes depending on the route. ALSA and PESA operate services on this corridor. It is one of the most popular regional bus routes in the Basque Country, and advance booking is not always necessary outside peak summer weekends.

Bizkaibus line A3247 connects Bilbao Airport (BIO) to the city center, stopping at Plaza Moyúan and Termibus. The ride takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run throughout the day at regular intervals. You can pay with a contactless Barik transport card or purchase a ticket at the stop. Check current schedules at the airport arrivals area.

ALSA is the largest long-distance operator, covering routes to Madrid, Barcelona, and other major Spanish cities. PESA handles connections within the Basque Country, including San Sebastián. Flixbus offers some international and domestic routes. For regional travel within Bizkaia province, Bizkaibus runs an extensive local network. All long-distance services depart from Termibus.

Both work well. But buses often reach smaller Basque coastal towns that the rail network does not serve directly. For destinations like San Sebastián or Vitoria-Gasteiz, bus and train journey times are comparable. Buses tend to be the more economical option. For the coastal route through towns like Guernica or Bermeo, Bizkaibus regional services fill gaps the train misses.

Yes, long-distance buses departing from Termibus have luggage compartments under the coach. Typically one large suitcase and one carry-on bag are included. But policies vary by operator, check your carrier's baggage terms when booking. For oversized items like bikes or surfboards, contact the operator in advance. Regional Bizkaibus services have limited storage, so travel light on local routes.

For popular long-distance routes like Bilbao to Madrid or Barcelona, booking online in advance is worthwhile, fares are typically lower and seats are guaranteed, during holidays and summer. For regional Basque Country routes such as Bilbao to San Sebastián, walk-up tickets at Termibus are usually fine outside peak periods. ALSA and Flixbus both offer online booking through their websites and apps.