Public Transport Guide in Bilbao: How to Get Around the City Easily and Quickly
If you’re planning to live in Bilbao, spend some time there, or just visit the city, understanding how public transport works in Bilbao will save you time, money, and hassle. Bilbao has an efficient, modern, and well-connected network that makes it easy to travel throughout the metropolitan area.
How Does Public Transport Work in Bilbao?
Bilbao’s public transport system integrates metro, urban and interurban buses, tram, and funicular. All modes are coordinated to provide smooth mobility both within the city center and to surrounding neighborhoods and towns.
- Metro Bilbao: Fast, clean, and with accessible stations. It connects outer districts such as Barakaldo, Getxo, or Basauri with the city center in just a few minutes.
- Bilbobus: Urban buses run throughout the city and reach areas not covered by the metro. Ideal for short or medium-distance trips.
- Tram: Connects key points in central Bilbao with neighborhoods like Atxuri or La Casilla. Very convenient for moving around the center at a relaxed pace.
- Euskotren and Bizkaibus: Perfect for traveling to towns in Greater Bilbao and other areas in Biscay.
Bilbao Public Transport Card: Barik
The public transport card in Bilbao is called Barik, and it’s essential if you're staying for more than a few days. With it, you can use any mode of transport with a single card, enjoying discounts and avoiding paying with individual tickets.
- You can get it at metro stations, tobacconists, or authorized kiosks.
- It’s easy to top up at automatic machines or online.
- There’s an anonymous version and a personalized one, which is ideal if you’re moving to Bilbao.
The Barik card allows you to travel within Bilbao and to nearby towns such as Portugalete, Leioa, Santurtzi, or Plentzia.
Where to Find a Bilbao Public Transport Map?
To plan your journeys and understand how the city is connected, we recommend checking an up-to-date public transport map of Bilbao. You can find it in several formats:
- At metro and tram stations, with details by lines and fare zones.
- On the official websites of Metro Bilbao or Bilbobus, where you can download a PDF or use an interactive map.
- Mobile apps like Barik NFC or Bilbao App also integrate maps and real-time schedules.
With these tools, you’ll be able to travel smarter, combining different transport options according to your needs.
Living in Bilbao: Mobility and Quality of Life
One of the highlights of living in Bilbao is its human scale and excellent urban mobility. The city has been recognized for its sustainable urban planning and commitment to public transport, cycling, and pedestrian spaces.
At Cotown, we offer temporary rentals and coliving spaces in Bilbao that are perfectly connected by public transport. Whether you're coming to study, work, or explore the city, we help you find a practical and well-connected location.
