Bilbao Airport is situated 9km north of the city of Bilbao in Basque Country,
Spain. It is famous for the design of its terminal, made of white concrete and glass, it has two wings from its centre. The scheduled services fly to many of Spain’s cities and some of Europe’s capital cities. To travel further afield, you could use
Paris or
Brussels to connect flights.
Driving out of Bilbao Airport (Aeropuerto de Bilbao) is generally straightforward, and the road network around the airport is well-developed. However, traffic conditions can vary, and there are a few things to keep in mind when leaving the airport. Here's what you need to know:
Leaving Bilbao Airport by Car:
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Airport Access: Bilbao Airport is located approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) northeast of the city center of Bilbao. The airport is well-connected to major highways and roads, making it easy to access the city and nearby points of interest.
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Road Signage: Road signage at and around Bilbao Airport is clear and follows standard international conventions. Signs are typically in Spanish and Basque, but you may also find signs in English at major tourist destinations.
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Traffic at the Airport: Traffic congestion directly at the airport is generally not a major concern. However, traffic conditions can vary depending on the time of day and the season. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, so busier periods may occur during peak travel times.
Distance to Nearest Cities/Points of Interest:
Bilbao is located in the Basque Country of northern Spain and provides easy access to several notable cities and points of interest. Here are some distances to nearby destinations:
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Bilbao City Center: The drive from Bilbao Airport to the city center typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Bilbao offers attractions like the Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town (Casco Viejo), and scenic riverfront walks.
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San Sebastian (Donostia): San Sebastian, known for its beautiful beaches and culinary scene, is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) east of Bilbao. The drive to San Sebastian takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Vitoria-Gasteiz: Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country, is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of Bilbao. The drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Santander: Santander, the capital of the Cantabria region, is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) west of Bilbao. The drive to Santander takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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La Rioja Wine Region: The famous La Rioja wine region is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Bilbao. The drive to the heart of La Rioja takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Basque Coast: Bilbao is situated along the Basque coast, providing easy access to coastal towns and beaches such as Getxo, Plentzia, and Bakio, which are within a short drive from the city center.
While driving out of Bilbao Airport is generally uncomplicated, it's essential to follow local traffic rules, drive safely, and plan your routes in advance, especially if you're visiting multiple destinations in the region. Overall, having a car allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions of the Basque Country and northern Spain with convenience and flexibility.