How to Travel from Bilbao to Florence? Traveling from Bilbao, Spain, to Florence, Italy, involves a significant distance (approximately 1,500 km), making multi-modal transport the most common and practical approach for budget backpackers. Options typically include a combination of flights, long-distance buses, or multi-leg train journeys, often requiring at least one transfer.
What are the Budget Flight Options from Bilbao to Florence? Budget flights are often the fastest way to travel from Bilbao to Florence, though direct flights are rare and connections are usually necessary. Typical routes involve flying from Bilbao (BIO) to an intermediate hub like Barcelona (BCN), Madrid (MAD), or a major French/Italian city, then connecting to Florence (FLR) or a nearby airport like Pisa (PSA). Budget airlines such as Vueling, Ryanair, or EasyJet frequently operate these connecting routes. Flight prices can range from an estimated €70-150 for a one-way ticket (excluding checked baggage) if booked 2-3 months in advance. From Pisa (PSA) airport, a regional train to Florence Santa Maria Novella station typically costs €10-15 and takes approximately one hour.
Can I Travel by Bus from Bilbao to Florence? Yes, traveling by bus from Bilbao to Florence is possible but involves a very long journey with multiple transfers, typically taking 24-36 hours or more. Major European bus operators like FlixBus or BlaBlaCar Bus offer extensive networks. A common journey would involve legs such as Bilbao to a French city (e.g., Bordeaux, Lyon), then to an Italian city (e.g., Milan, Turin), and finally to Florence. Individual bus legs typically cost €15-40. The total estimated cost for a multi-leg bus journey can range from €80-150. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance often provides better rates.
Is it Possible to Travel by Train from Bilbao to Florence on a Budget? Traveling by train from Bilbao to Florence is feasible but often more expensive and time-consuming than flying, also requiring multiple transfers. This route involves Spain’s Renfe, France’s SNCF, and Italy’s Trenitalia national networks. A common route might be Bilbao to Hendaye/Irún (on the Spanish-French border), then through France (e.g., to Paris or Lyon) and into Italy (e.g., Milan), and finally to Florence. Individual train legs typically cost €20-80, depending on the route, operator, and booking time. The total estimated cost for a multi-leg train journey can range from €150-300+. Booking 2-3 months in advance is generally recommended for significant savings on long-distance international trains.
How to Find Free Amenities in Bilbao and Florence? For backpackers looking to minimize expenses, resources like AllInMap can help identify free public amenities, such as restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, and water fountains, in both Bilbao and Florence.
