Trains from La Rochelle to Bilbao
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How to travel from La Rochelle to Bilbao by train
Want to find out more about taking the train from La Rochelle to Bilbao? Look no further.
You'll usually find 4 trains per day running between La Rochelle and Bilbao, which usually take 19 hours 19 minutes to complete the 351 km journey. It can take as little as 16 hours 13 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. Although there aren't any direct services on this line, it's still easy to travel to Bilbao from La Rochelle, you'll just need to make 3 changes along the way.
You can save money on train tickets from La Rochelle to Bilbao if you book in advance, as tickets usually start from $81.64. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for train schedules (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
La Rochelle to Bilbao by train
It takes an average of 19h 19m to travel from La Rochelle to Bilbao by train, over a distance of around 218 miles (351 km). There are normally 4 trains per day traveling from La Rochelle to Bilbao and tickets for this journey start from $81.64 when you book in advance.
| First train | 05:26 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 19:44 | |
| Departure station | La Rochelle | |
| Arrival station | Bilbao | |
| Journey time | From 16h 13m | |
| Distance | 218 miles (351 km) | |
| Frequency | 4 trains per day | |
| Changes | 3 changes | |
| Price | From $81.64 | |
| Train and bus operators |
Cheap train tickets from La Rochelle to Bilbao
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from La Rochelle to Bilbao by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for La Rochelle to Bilbao
Want to know more about your journey from La Rochelle to Bilbao? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from La Rochelle to Bilbao take?
The average journey time by train between La Rochelle and Bilbao is 19 hours and 19 minutes, with around 4 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between La Rochelle and Bilbao by train?
The fastest journey time by train from La Rochelle to Bilbao is 16 hours and 13 minutes.
How much does the train from La Rochelle to Bilbao cost?
Train tickets from La Rochelle to Bilbao can start from as little as $81.64 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from La Rochelle to Bilbao?
No, there are no direct train services from La Rochelle to Bilbao. Travelling from La Rochelle to Bilbao by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.
What time does the first train from La Rochelle to Bilbao leave?
The first train from La Rochelle to Bilbao leaves at 05:26. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from La Rochelle to Bilbao leave?
The last train from La Rochelle to Bilbao leaves at 19:44. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between La Rochelle and Bilbao by train?
Trains travelling from La Rochelle to Bilbao cover a distance of around 218 miles (351 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Bilbao to La Rochelle.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.