Ferry to Bilbao

Compare all available ferry crossings and secure the best deals for your journey. At Openferry, we make it easy to find and book ferry tickets to and from Bilbao in just a few clicks.

Because ferry travel can be seasonal, frequencies and departure times often change throughout the year. We recommend using our live search to see the most accurate schedules and information for your travel dates including:

Popular Connections: The port of Bilbao connects to several high-traffic destinations, including Portsmouth - Bilbao, Rosslare - Bilbao.

Top-Tier Operators: Regular services to and from Bilbao are provided by leading carriers like Brittany Ferries, Stena Line.

Amenities vary depending on the specific vessel and operator, but most ferries serving Bilbao feature:

Comfortable Seating: Options ranging from standard lounges to premium airplane-style seats.

Dining & Leisure: Onboard cafés and restaurants serving food and drinks.

Travel Essentials: Restroom facilities and, on longer routes, private cabins for added privacy.

Vehicle Transport: Most sailings accommodate cars, motorbikes, and campervans, allowing you to take your own transport to Bilbao.

Bilbao is currently served by 4 ferry routes operated by 2 ferry operators including Brittany Ferries, Stena Line.

Bilbao is well-connected to the rest of Spain and neighboring countries through various transport options. The city is accessible via the AP-68 and A-8 highways, with Madrid approximately 4 hours away by car and Barcelona about 6 hours. Regular train services connect Bilbao to major Spanish cities, with the RENFE network offering comfortable travel options. Bilbao Airport serves domestic and international flights, located about 12km from the city center. Public buses connect the ferry terminal to the city center every 30 minutes, while taxis offer a quicker option. Long-term parking facilities are available near the ferry terminal for those arriving by car.

Nestled in the verdant hills of northern Spain, Bilbao combines industrial heritage with cutting-edge architecture to create a city of fascinating contrasts. This Basque Country capital has transformed itself from an industrial port into a vibrant cultural hub, anchored by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. As a key ferry destination on Spain's northern coast, Bilbao offers travelers a perfect blend of metropolitan sophistication and authentic Basque traditions.

Bilbao enjoys a mild oceanic climate with moderate temperatures year-round. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring, with temperatures typically ranging from 15-25°C and fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer months bring warmer weather and the vibrant Semana Grande festival in August, featuring concerts, traditional sports, and fireworks competitions. Winter sees increased rainfall but rarely drops below freezing, with the advantage of virtually no tourist crowds and regular ferry services maintained throughout the year. For the best balance of good weather and cultural experiences, plan your visit during June when the city hosts numerous outdoor events and art exhibitions.

Bilbao serves as an excellent gateway for exploring beyond Spain's borders by sea. Regular ferry services connect Bilbao to Portsmouth in the UK, with crossings taking approximately 24 hours across the Bay of Biscay – a journey that can be particularly scenic during sunset. The port also offers connections to Rosslare in Ireland (about 30 hours), providing a direct link to the Emerald Isle's stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. Coastal routes allow travelers to explore charming towns along Spain's northern coast, including Santander with its beautiful beaches just a short journey away. Using Bilbao as your ferry hub gives you the flexibility to create multi-country itineraries while enjoying comfortable sea travel.

The titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum isn't just Bilbao's most famous landmark – it's an architectural marvel housing world-class contemporary art that transformed the city's international profile. Wander through the medieval streets of Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) to sample pintxos, the Basque Country's delicious take on tapas, hopping between traditional bars on Plaza Nueva. For spectacular city views, take the Artxanda Funicular to the summit and enjoy panoramic vistas of Bilbao nestled in its green valley. The Ribera Market, Europe's largest covered market, offers an authentic glimpse into local life and Basque culinary traditions, perfect for sampling local cheeses, meats, and seafood. Don't miss the riverside promenade for a pleasant stroll that showcases the city's remarkable urban renewal.

The Guggenheim Museum's exterior is cleaned by a team of mountain climbers who rappel down its unusual curves and angles to maintain its gleaming appearance. Bilbao's metro system was designed by Sir Norman Foster and locals affectionately call the glass entrances 'fosteritos' after the famous architect. The city was once primarily industrial, and its remarkable transformation into a cultural destination is often referred to as the 'Bilbao Effect' – a term used worldwide in urban planning to describe similar city regenerations. Bilbao's maritime history stretches back centuries, with its port once being one of the most important in Spain for wool exports and shipbuilding.