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How to get from Bilbao to Bordeaux
The easiest way from Bilbao to Bordeaux is a direct long-distance coach, about 4 to 5 h. Driving takes about 3 h 30 along the coast motorways; the train needs at least one change at the border at Hendaye/Irun and takes about 5 to 6 h.
Best option: Bus. Direct coaches run the whole way without changes and cost less than either driving with tolls or the slow, multi-change train route.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct long-distance coaches from Bilbao Intermodal to Bordeaux (FlixBus, ALSA and others) | about 4 to 5 h | several a day | about €20–45 | Bordeaux stops are usually near Saint-Jean station; book ahead in summer. |
| car AP-8 motorway via San Sebastián, then the French A63 to Bordeaux | about 3 h 30 | fuel plus tolls of roughly €30–40 | Heavy lorry traffic on the A63; Bordeaux centre has restricted and paid parking. | |
| train Euskotren regional trains from Bilbao to San Sebastián and Hendaye, then a TER or TGV from Hendaye to Bordeaux Saint-Jean | about 5 to 6 h with changes | a handful of usable connections a day | about €30–60 | The Euskotren leg is slow and stops often; check the connection at Hendaye on SNCF Connect. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Compare coach companies; prices vary by day and time.
- Driving lets you stop in San Sebastián, Biarritz or Bayonne on the way.
- French motorways accept cards at toll booths; keep one handy.
- If taking the train, give yourself a buffer at Hendaye in case the regional train runs late.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Bilbao to Bordeaux?
No. You need to take Euskotren regional trains from Bilbao to Hendaye on the French border, then a French TER or TGV to Bordeaux Saint-Jean. The whole trip takes about five to six hours. Direct coaches are faster and simpler for most travellers, though the train can be more comfortable if you want a break.
How long is the bus from Bilbao to Bordeaux?
About four to five hours on a direct coach, depending on traffic around San Sebastián and Bayonne. Several departures run each day from Bilbao Intermodal bus station. Prices start at around €20 when booked ahead and rise closer to the date, especially on Friday and Sunday.
How long does it take to drive from Bilbao to Bordeaux?
About three and a half hours, roughly 330 km, using the AP-8 past San Sebastián and the A63 through the Landes. Tolls on both sides of the border add up to about €30–40. Summer weekends and holiday dates bring traffic jams near the border and Bayonne.
What is the cheapest way from Bilbao to Bordeaux?
A long-distance coach booked a few days ahead, typically €20–45 one way. Ride-sharing apps can also be cheap. Driving alone costs more once you count fuel and tolls, but is reasonable for a group of three or four. The train is usually the most expensive and slowest option.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.