Zürich to Bilbao by Train

Q: How far is the train ride from Zürich to Bilbao?

The train ride from Zürich to Bilbao covers a distance of around 625 miles (1006 km). The quickest journeys on this route can take 26 hours and 56 minutes.

Q: Can I take a flight-free trip from Zürich to Bilbao?

Yes, you can get from Zürich to Bilbao without taking a flight. Check our Journey Planner to see available times and routes - the fastest trains take 26 hours and 56 minutes, with around 4 trains per day.

Q: What is the best way to travel to Bilbao from Zürich?

With the fastest journeys taking just 26 hours and 56 minutes, we think the best way to travel between Zürich and Bilbao is to take the train! Check out our Journey Planner for times, tickets and prices, or explore the classes and onboard services available on the train.

Q: What time does the first train run from Zürich to Bilbao?

The first train from Zürich to Bilbao usually leaves at 08:32, but times can vary depending on the day and train operator. Use our Journey Planner to check the schedule on your day of travel.

Q: How late does the train from Zürich to Bilbao run?

The last train from Zürich to Bilbao usually leaves at 17:04, but times can vary depending on the day and train operator. Use our Journey Planner to check the schedule on your day of travel.

Q: How many trains go from Zürich to Bilbao per day?

Trains from Zürich to Bilbao run frequently all day, with around 4 trains available every day. Use our Journey Planner to check the full schedule.

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About the train journey from Zürich to Bilbao

Want to travel from Zürich to Bilbao by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Zürich to Bilbao usually takes 28 hours 37 minutes on average to travel 1006 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 26 hours 56 minutes. You can expect to find 4 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Zürich and Bilbao, you'll need to make 3 changes on your way to Bilbao.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Zürich to Bilbao in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Bilbao, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

First train	8:32 am
Last train	5:04 pm
Departure station	Zürich
Arrival station	Bilbao
Journey time	From 26h 56m
Distance	625 miles (1006 km)
Frequency	4 trains per day
Changes	3 changes
Train and bus operators	Flixbus, BlaBlaCar Bus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Zürich to Bilbao?

Want to know more about your journey from Zürich to Bilbao? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Bilbao from Zürich?

To get to Bilbao from Zürich, why not take the train? With 4 trains per day and an average journey time of 28 hours and 37 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Zürich to Bilbao by train?

On average it takes around 28 hours and 37 minutes to travel from Zürich to Bilbao by train, although you can get there in 26 hours and 56 minutes on the fastest services. With 4 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Zürich to Bilbao?

The fastest time a train can travel the 625 miles (1006 km) from Zürich to Bilbao is 26 hours and 56 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Zürich to Bilbao?

There are no direct trains that run between Zürich and Bilbao. You’ll need to make around 3 changes along the way.

How far is the train ride from Zürich to Bilbao?

Can I take a flight-free trip from Zürich to Bilbao?

What is the best way to travel to Bilbao from Zürich?

What time does the first train run from Zürich to Bilbao?

How late does the train from Zürich to Bilbao run?

How many trains go from Zürich to Bilbao per day?

When do tickets from Zürich to Bilbao go on sale?

Planning a round trip from Zürich to Bilbao?

Departs	Arrives	Duration
7:32 am	11:00 am	27h 28m, 4 changes
8:04 am	11:00 am	26h 56m, 5 changes
2:34 pm	9:21 pm	30h 47m, 3 changes
4:04 pm	9:21 pm	29h 17m, 5 changes

Search all times and prices for today

How do I find cheap train tickets from Zürich to Bilbao?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Zürich to Bilbao starts at ^§ one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider traveling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as lots of trains companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Eurail Passes that are valid for travel in one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and deals

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales and offers on tickets throughout the year, so keep an eye out!

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

^§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

Trains from Zürich to Bilbao

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About the train journey from Zürich to Bilbao