$346 Cheap Flights to Bilbao

Flights to Bilbao at a glance

Traveling to Bilbao is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Evaluate journey times and select the flight that best fits your budget, schedule, and plans to discover the city's iconic attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports in and around Bilbao: Bilbao Airport (BIO), San Sebastian Airport (EAS)
• Closest airport to Bilbao: Bilbao Airport, BIO (within Bilbao)
• Flights per week: 420+ flights arriving across Bilbao airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Bilbao: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant metropolis perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and beach lovers alike. Travelers flock to this city for its rich culture, sports, adventure, and stunning coastlines, with two major airports providing convenient access to the area.

• Bilbao Airport (BIO): Situated in Bilboaldea, Biscay, within the Basque Country, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking approximately 8 domestic cities with over 35 international destinations. Travelers have the option to elevate their experience by selecting business class for extra comfort, based on the specific routes and airlines. Notable carriers operating at this airport include Vueling Airlines, Iberia, and Air Europa.
• San Sebastian Airport (EAS): Found in Bidasoa Beherea / Bajo Bidasoa, Gipuzkoa Province, Basque Country, and roughly 58 miles from Bilbao, this airport offers both domestic and international services, connecting around 4 domestic cities and 6 international locations. Passengers can opt for an upgraded business class service for enhanced comfort, depending on the available routes and airlines. Major airlines at this airport include Iberia, Vueling Airlines, and American Airlines.

Top routes to Bilbao

• Madrid (MAD) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with one-way flight options from around $35
• Barcelona (BCN) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with one-way airfare from around $30
• London (LGW/LHR) to Bilbao (BIO), with one-way fares starting at around $40
• New York (JFK) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with one-way airfare from around $230
• Miami (MIA) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with one-way airfare from around $240

Cheapest routes to Bilbao

• Valencia (VLC) to Bilbao (BIO), with cheap one-way fares from around $25
• Alicante (ALC) to Bilbao (BIO), with low one-way fares from around $25
• Barcelona (BCN) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $30
• Porto (OPO) to Bilbao (EAS/BIO), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
• Seville (SVQ) to Bilbao (BIO), with budget one-way fares from around $30

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Bilbao

• Iberia: Provides service to San Sebastian Airport (EAS) and Bilbao Airport (BIO), making up about 31% of arrivals to Bilbao. The typical one-way fare hovers around $320. Depending on the route, a premium cabin option may feature business class.
• Vueling Airlines: Operates flights to San Sebastian Airport (EAS) and Bilbao Airport (BIO), contributing approximately 22% of arrivals to Bilbao. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of around $160.
• Air Europa: Flies exclusively to Bilbao Airport (BIO), accounting for roughly 12% of arrivals to the city. One-way fares average about $250, with a premium cabin option that might include business class based on the route.
• United: Serves Bilbao Airport (BIO), responsible for around 7% of the total arrivals to Bilbao. The average one-way fare is approximately $530, and a premium cabin option may incorporate business class depending on the route.
• Lufthansa: Also operating to Bilbao Airport (BIO), Lufthansa accounts for about 7% of arrivals to the region. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $380, with premium cabin options possibly including business class based on the route.

Best time to fly to Bilbao

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Bilbao are April, June, and July, when peak temperatures in Bilbao can reach up to 67.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 48.4°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $189), roughly 26% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? February offers an average one-way fare of around $212, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Bilbao

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Bilbao is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Bilbao hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Bilbao flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Bilbao

Bilbao welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Bilbao efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Bilbao Airport, Santutxu Station, a metro station, is located about 6.3 miles away by car, while both Bilbao Seaport, a seaport, and Bilbao (YJI-Bilbao-Abando Train Station), a train station, are each situated approximately 6.7 miles away by car, providing convenient options for travelers heading into the city or beyond.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Bilbao, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Bilbao is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Bilbao on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Bilbao

• Portugalete: Located in the area of Bilbao, Portugalete is a charming city that blends outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and beach fun. Visitors can enjoy shopping in the vibrant local area, attend music concerts, or take a ferry ride. Key highlights include the iconic Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views and rich history. The nearby Guggenheim Museum Bilbao showcases contemporary art, while the Bilbao Exhibition Centre hosts various events, making it an attractive destination for culture lovers and business travelers alike.
• Santurtzi: Santurtzi is located in the area of Bilbao and is a delightful city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor attractions. This coastal gem is perfect for those who enjoy leisurely walks along the marina or soaking up the sun at the beach. Visitors can explore the vibrant local culture and attend music concerts. Notable places include the renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which features modern art, and the historic Vizcaya Bridge. The Bilbao Exhibition Centre is also nearby, catering to business travelers and event-goers.
• Erandio: Erandio is located in the area of Bilbao and offers a unique blend of sports, entertainment, and cultural experiences. The city is ideal for visitors interested in music concerts and theater performances, with various venues showcasing local talent. Sports enthusiasts can check out the modern facilities, including a stadium and a university campus. Key attractions nearby include the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a centerpiece of contemporary art, and the Bilbao Exhibition Centre for business events. For a beach escape, Solarium-Zona de Pesca Los Cargaderos is also a short distance away.

Tips for short-haul flights to Bilbao

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Prepare in advance by downloading TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s wise to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Bilbao

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, which is generally 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and readily available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help mitigate jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Bilbao

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Bilbao on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

January is the cheapest month to fly to Bilbao. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Bilbao. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Bilbao, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Bilbao

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Bilbao in 2026 starts from $616, while one-way tickets start from from $346. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Bilbao. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Bilbao

Aer Lingus, Delta, Lufthansa, Iberia, Air Canada, British Airways, TAP Portugal, Finnair, United are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Bilbao. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Bilbao and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Bilbao, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Bilbao. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Bilbao plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Bilbao

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Bilbao.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Bilbao are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Bilbao. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Bilbao for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Bilbao. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Bilbao flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Bilbao. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.