Bilbao Airport (BIO)

Bilbao Airport, also known as Bilbao International Airport (IATA code: BIO), is a secondary international airport located in Loiu, 9 kilometers north of Bilbao, in the Spanish region of Biscay. It is the most important airport for Basque Country and northern Spain. The new main terminal, designed by Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2000, has become an instant landmark.

Transfers Services at Bilbao Airport

There are different ground transportation options at Bilbao Airport in Spain. The airport offers taxi and bus services to get travelers to their destinations.

Passengers can take a taxi directly outside the arrivals area of the airport, or they can buy a ticket at the ground transportation desk upon arrival at Bilbao Airport.

Taking the bus is an economical way to reach downtown Bilbao, as well as nearby towns and beaches. The buses frequently run throughout the day, and tickets are available from machines inside the terminal building or from kiosks around town.

For those looking for more luxurious options, car rental companies within walking distance from Bilbao Airport offer a wide selection of hire cars ranging from economy vehicles to luxury sedans.

Furthermore, passengers can also make use of a chauffeur service where drivers will pick them up directly at their arrival gate and drive them anywhere within Spain.

Rental Car Services at Bilbao Airport

Rental car services at Bilbao Airport offer travelers an easy and convenient way to explore the surrounding Basque Country. Customers can choose from a wide selection of cars, from small economy vehicles to luxury sedans and SUVs.

Rental car companies offer many different packages for customers, depending on what type of vehicle they need. The rental car service at Bilbao Airport allows visitors to easily get to all their desired destinations within the city limits or outside of them without relying solely on public transportation.

Drivers will find friendly staff members happy to help with any needs they may have while renting a car at Bilbao Airport, ensuring their journey is stress-free and enjoyable.

See and compare all rental car companies at Bilbao Airport.

Taxi Services at Bilbao Airport

Under normal traffic conditions, it should take 15 minutes to go from Bilbao Airport to the city center. The price is roughly €25 during the day and €29 at night and on weekends. See more information about taxis at Bilbao Airport.

There are taxi stands just outside the terminal, facing the level of arrivals. The recognized and authorized taxi service at Bilbao Airport is Asociación Auto Taxis Femade, which works around the clock.

Train Services at Bilbao Airport

To get from Bilbao airport to Bilbao Train Station (Abando Indalecio Prieto) by taxi should take approximately 15 minutes and cost around €25 during the day and €30 at night or on weekends. More information about train services near Bilbao Airport.

Bus Services at Bilbao Airport

Bus services at Bilbao Airport provide a means of quick and convenient transport to and from the airport. Passengers can take advantage of regular bus services that depart every 15 minutes from outside the arrivals area at Bilbao Airport and several special express buses that offer direct links to major towns and cities in the region.

There are also shuttle-bus services for passengers traveling between nearby hotels and the airport. These buses are comfortable, clean, secure, and affordable, making them an ideal option for cheap transportation near Bilbao Airport. More information about buses to and from Bilbao Airport.

In addition to these public bus routes, there is also a taxi rank located just outside the terminal building – offering fast service all over town or other destinations if required.

Hotel Shuttle Services at Bilbao Airport

Hotel shuttle services at Bilbao Airport are a great way to get around the city quickly and efficiently. Whether you're looking for a quick ride from the airport to your hotel or a leisurely tour of all the local attractions, Bilbao Airport's shuttle services have covered you.

The shuttles are comfortable and luxurious, offering private vehicles for up to 8 passengers at one time. Plus, these vehicles may be equipped with free Wi-Fi so that you can stay connected during your trip.

From historic landmarks to modern shopping centers, Bilbao has something special to offer everyone – make sure you take advantage of this convenient service while in town.

Please browse our hotel page to see if this service is available at your accommodation.

Rideshare Services at Bilbao Airport

Uber is available at Bilbao Airport. To request a car, passengers must first download the application. There are various transfer firms located on the airport grounds if you want to get to and from Bilbao Airport.

Parking Services at Bilbao Airport

Parking services at the airport are located on the ground floor of the main terminal building. The facility is open all year long and provides short-term and long-term parking options for visitors traveling through Bilbao Airport.

Short-term parking costs €2 for up to an hour, with increases after that. Long-term parking fees start at €15 per day, with discounts available for longer stays. All payment methods are accepted, including credit cards, cash, or debit cards.

Disabled parking is also provided. Additional services include valet parking, which allows passengers to drop off their vehicles before security - this service costs €25 per day plus taxes.

For those looking for added convenience and peace of mind when leaving their cars at Bilbao Airport, undercover secure car parks are available too; these cost slightly more but offer enhanced protection and access control systems.

See more information about short and long term parking at Bilbao Airport.

Other Services at Bilbao Airport

Other passenger services and amenities at Bilbao Airport include a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. There are duty-free stores for those looking to save money on their purchases. The airport also has ATMs throughout the terminal and currency exchange services near arrivals and departure areas.

Free Wi-Fi is available in all airport areas so passengers can stay connected. At the same time, they wait for their flight or during layovers. For those with long layovers or early morning flights, a hotel is steps away from the main terminal, providing comfortable rooms at affordable rates.

Additionally, Bilbao Airport offers wheelchair access and an information desk staffed by friendly personnel who are always happy to help with any questions you may have about your travels through the airport or city destination.

Disabled Passengers at Bilbao Airport

The airport offers several services specifically for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair access, special assistance on arrival or departure flights, special seating on board, and a dedicated help desk where staff can provide advice.

Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are also available throughout the terminal building. Passengers requiring assistance should book it in advance when making their travel arrangements.

Additionally, Bilbao Airport has specially trained personnel available 24 hours a day to assist with any requests or queries that may arise during the journey. These staff members can offer help with checking-in luggage and escort passengers through security checks.

Furthermore, an adapted shuttle service operates between the car park and terminals, so disabled passengers do not need to worry about walking long distances around the airport grounds.

Wi-Fi at Bilbao Airport

The service is free and easy to connect to, allowing users to access the Internet while they wait for their flight. Passengers can connect with an active wireless network card or adapter through a laptop or mobile device. Once connected, they can browse the web and use applications and instant messaging services.

The connection speed depends on the number of passengers using it simultaneously. It usually provides sufficient bandwidth for browsing and downloading files. Additionally, plenty of charging points is located around the airport so that you can keep your devices powered up while waiting for your flight.

Baggage Claim at Bilbao Airport

The baggage claim section at Bilbao Airport is quite efficient and organized. All the arriving passengers can easily locate their luggage by simply following the signs and scanning their ticket barcodes at the designated kiosk.

The staff here is friendly, helpful, and professional, making it comfortable for everyone to find their bags quickly. This helps ensure that all your belongings are collected in time without hassle or waiting in long queues for hours together.

Information Desk at Bilbao Airport

Information desk services at Bilbao Airport are available to assist with various travel-related tasks. Whether you need help finding information on flight schedules, terminal facilities, or transportation options to your destination, the staff at the Information Desk can provide guidance and advice.

Additionally, they are well-versed in local customs and areas of interest that may be useful during your trip. The desk is staffed by friendly personnel who will happily answer any questions about airport services or tourism attractions in the area. Should you have any urgent inquiries about lost baggage or special assistance requests for disabled passengers, they can also offer support.

Smoking at Bilbao Airport

Smoking is strictly prohibited because it is a public space shared by many people, and smoking can disrupt their experience of the airport. Smoking areas are available outside the terminal building, where passengers can smoke in designated areas away from other travelers.

Passengers must comply with all local laws and regulations at Bilbao Airport, including smoking-related ones. As part of this policy, anyone found smoking in any area of the airport apart from designated outdoor zones will be subject to fines or removal from the premises.

Lost and Found Section at Bilbao Airport

This section provides a convenient way for passengers to keep track of their belongings. Passengers can easily fill out an online form or call the Lost and Found office directly to report any lost items they may have encountered during their travels.

Once reported, the staff at Bilbao Airport will do their best to locate and return your missing item as quickly as possible. In addition, all claims are logged into a database so that if your item is ever found, it can be returned promptly with minimal hassle.

Restrooms at Bilbao Airport

The restrooms are equipped with modern amenities and feature automatic hand dryers and adequate lighting to ensure the safety of passengers when using the facilities. Additionally, ample toilet paper and soap dispensers are available in each restroom for travelers' convenience.

A designated area outside the restroom is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, and an accessible stall inside each restroom with grab bars and other assistive devices. Furthermore, Sanitary Inspectors have certified all restrooms to ensure maximum hygiene standards are always met.

With these high-end features coupled with customer-friendly policies like no extra charges for using public toilets or diaper changing stations, Bilbao Airport provides a safe and clean environment for its customers that reflects their commitment to providing quality service.

Nursing Mothers Station at Bilbao Airport

The nursing mothers' station at Bilbao Airport is located in the arrivals area of Terminal B. The station has comfortable chairs, a changing table, and a microwave oven to help mothers prepare bottles for their little ones. There are also electrical outlets so moms can plug in breast pumps or warm baby bottles.

For those traveling with toddlers, an area full of toys and activities is available to keep them entertained while waiting for flights. The airport also offers a range of services to make the journey easier for travelers with young children, including car seats for hire and airport staff on hand to assist whenever needed.

ATMs at Bilbao Airport

ATMs at Bilbao Airport are located in the main terminal building. They are easily accessible to both arriving and departing passengers. ATMs accept all major credit cards and debit cards from local banks.

For those looking to purchase items before boarding their flight, there is an extensive selection of shops selling food & beverages, and souvenirs throughout the main terminal building. Travelers with any remaining time before their departure will appreciate the selection of cafés offering refreshments and snacks onsite.

Currency Exchange at Bilbao Airport

Currency exchange services at Bilbao Airport offer travelers a wide range of financial services, including purchasing and selling foreign currency. The airport currency exchange rates are competitive with other international airports.

In addition to offering competitive exchange rate services, Bilbao Airport also provides customers access to ATMs throughout the airport terminal building, where they can withdraw local and foreign currencies anytime during their stay in Spain.

With this convenient service, tourists can easily make purchases with their credit or debit cards while abroad without worrying about carrying large amounts of cash from one place to another.

Food and Beverages at Bilbao Airport

With the airport's expansion, there are now many more restaurants and cafés available for travelers to enjoy. There is something for everyone, from traditional Spanish paella to international cuisines like Mexican tacos and Italian pasta dishes.

In addition to sit-down restaurants, several fast food outlets cater to those who need a quick meal on the go. Whether you're looking for a snack or a full meal before your journey begins, Bilbao Airport has plenty of options when it comes to food and beverage services.

Shopping at Bilbao Airport

Shopping options at Bilbao Airport are great, with various stores offering everything from luxury items to souvenirs. You can find it here if you're looking for something to bring back as a gift or just some snacks and drinks for the flight. You'll also find duty-free shopping available in the airport's main terminal. With dozens of shops ranging from designer clothing to electronics and books, there's something for everyone at Bilbao Airport.

Pet Relief at Bilbao Airport

This service provides great convenience for travelers with furry friends in tow. The pet relief area is located at the Arrivals level of the airport. It provides indoor and outdoor areas with artificial grass, fire hydrants, waste bags, benches, water bowls, and more. It allows your four-legged companion to take care of its business quickly so you can get on your way.

Ticketing Services at Bilbao Airport

Passengers will find ticket offices at the airport's main entrance, where they can purchase tickets or get help with any questions or concerns related to their journey. Travelers should be aware that several different airlines are operating from Bilbao Airport, so it is important to check which airline offers the best rates before purchasing a ticket.

Additionally, travelers may also want to consider booking online in advance as this can often offer great discounts on airfare prices and other associated costs such as baggage fees. With all these options available, passengers traveling through Bilbao Airport will surely have an enjoyable trip regardless of their destination.

History of Bilbao Airport

The Union of Public Works began planning the construction of an airport in Bilbao in October 1927, following a series of successful aeronautical experiments in the province of Biscay. A Provincial Board investigated the potential airport sites.

In 1936, the FAA finally gave the go-ahead for an airport to be built in Sondika. Nonetheless, the airport could have been more promising because of the location's many flaws. Because of its mountainous setting, Bilbao required a level valley with a manageable population.

During the time of the Civil War, construction began. Even so, the airport served exclusively as a military base up until June 1937. Phase two of the airport's construction began in 1938.

The council and the government have resumed their efforts to update the dated plan from 1936. The General Management of Infrastructure gave the green light for a new project to be drafted.

The establishment of a civil airport in Sondika was agreed upon by local groups in 1940. Construction took its time, but on September 19, 1948, with the help of Aviación y Comercio, SA's new air route to Madrid, the airport finally opened to daytime traffic.

Just two years later, in honor of the famous Bilbao pilot Carlos Haya, the terminal opened to the public. An asphalt runway, an earth runway, a taxiway, a tower control, a radio beacon, a direction finder, law enforcement, mail delivery, medical care, fuel, telecommunications, and more were available at the airport.

The terminal and parking lots were connected to the runway via a taxiway in 1955. A permanent home for Campsa and a hangar for the Royal Flying Club of Vizcaya were also constructed.

The runway and apron were lengthened, and an instrumental ILS landing system and a meteorological radio were installed between 1964 and 1965.

About Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao, in the northern Spanish province of Biscay, is also the largest city in the Basque Country. As the largest proper city in northern Spain, it is also the largest city in the region. Bilbao will rank as Spain's tenth-largest city, with an expected population of over 350,000 in 2021.

With over 880,000 people living there, the Bilbao metropolitan area is one of the most populous in northern Spain. The Greater Bilbao area is Spain's fifth-largest metropolitan area. It's also the biggest city in the Greater Basque area.

The estuary of Bilbao is formed in the Bay of Biscay, located in the north-central part of Spain, about 16 kilometers south of Bilbao. At most 400 meters in altitude, two small mountain ranges surround the main urban core.

The low-pressure systems and mild air from the Bay of Biscay moderate the region's typical high sunshine and high-rainfall Iberian summers. For its latitude, the annual temperature swing is relatively mild.

Bilbao enjoyed significant importance in the Crown of Castile after it was founded in the early 14th century by Diego López V de Haro. This was because of the abundant trade in wool and iron goods from the nearby Biscayan quarries that the city's port facilitated throughout Europe.

Industrialization began in Bilbao in earnest in the late nineteenth century. It continued into the early twentieth, making the city the economic hub of Spain's second-most industrialized region after Barcelona. Several neighboring cities were annexed at the same time due to the extraordinary population growth that occurred.

Starting with the iconic Bilbao Guggenheim Museum and continuing with infrastructure investments like the airport terminal, the rapid transit system, the tram line, the Azkuna Zentroa, and the currently under development Abandoibarra and Zorrozaurre renewal projects, Bilbao is currently undergoing a social, economic, and aesthetic revitalization process that has made it a vibrant service city.

Athletic Club, the city's football team and a major symbol for Basque nationalism due to its promotion of only Basque players and its status as one of the most successful clubs in Spanish football history is based in Bilbao. The city-state of Singapore and the Swedish Nobel Academy presented Bilbao with the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize in 2010.

Its mayor, Iaki Azkuna, was honored for Biscay's urban transformation since the 1990s when he was awarded the 2012 World Mayor Prize by the British foundation The City Mayors Foundation. Bilbao also won the Best European City (2018) at the annual Urbanism Awards ceremony held in 2017. These awards are presented by the Academy of Urbanism, a global organization dedicated to urban planning and design.

Weather in Bilbao, Spain

The weather in Bilbao is mild in the summers but long, cold, wet, and windy in the winters. Temperatures rarely drop below 34 degrees Fahrenheit or rise above 84 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

From late June to early September, Bilbao is at its best for outdoor activities. The average high temperature is above 71 degrees Fahrenheit from June until September, making this the warm season. During August, temperatures average 76 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest day of the year is usually around 61 degrees.

Temperatures below 58 degrees Fahrenheit are the norm during the cool season, which lasts nearly four months, from November to March. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature range of 42.0 to 53.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

It rains more heavily for about a week and a half in November, during the wetter season that lasts nearly eight months from September to May. From May through September, the weather is drier than usual, with only about four rainy days in July. There are typically 11 days of precipitation in November, making it the wettest month.

Useful Contact Details in Bilbao, Spain

In the case of a police or medical emergency in Bilbao, Spain, it is important to contact the local authorities as soon as possible. The emergency hotline number 112 is available 24 hours a day and can be reached by dialing any telephone (landline or mobile).

This line will connect you with either the Police Force or ambulance service if required. If necessary, they will provide instructions on how to proceed and where to get help. In addition, several Bilbao hospitals offer treatment for medical emergencies and minor injuries such as cuts or strains.

Travelers need to familiarize themselves with these locations before their trip. Hence, they know what their options are should an emergency arise.

Hospitals

Clinica Indautxu

Address: Gordóniz Kalea, 9, 48010 Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

Phone: +34 944 44 50 12

Clinica San Francisco Javier - Bilbao

Address: San Francisco Javier Clinic Cl. Gordoniz, 12 48020, Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

Phone: +34 944 10 27 10

Police

General Directorate of Police (Bilbao)

Address: Felipe Uhagón Alkatearen Kalea, 6, 48010 Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

Bilbao Airport Contacts

Address: Bo. Gaztañaga, 633, 48180 Loiu, Vizcaya, Spain

General Phone: (+34) 91 321 1000

Lost and Found Phone: (+34) 91 321 1000

Information Desk Phone: (+34) 91 321 1000

Official Website: https://www.aena.es/en/bilbao.html

Local Information

Drive on: Right

Electricity: 230V/50Hz

Plug: F

Currency: Euro

Wi-Fi at Airport: Free Wi-Fi is available at Bilbao Airport.