How to Get from La Rioja to Bilbao

The distance from the La Rioja wine region to Bilbao, a major port city in the Basque Country of Spain, is about 60 to 70 miles (97 to 112 km), depending on your starting point. The best way to make the journey is by car, either with a rental car or by hiring a private transfer. If you drive straight through, plan for about 1.5 hours through Spain's beautiful northern regions.

If you prefer public transportation, the bus is also an option, though it takes slightly longer than driving. The train takes about 2.5 hours and is a bit more expensive than the bus.

For some ideas on how to spend your time in northern Spain, check out this 5-day itinerary through the Basque Country.

By Rental Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 1.5 hours (standard highway route), 4 hours (recommended road trip route)

Getting from La Rioja to Bilbao typically takes just about 1.5 hours by following highway AP-68 when traveling from the region's capital of Logroño. This route includes tolls, which you can pay via a machine using your credit card or with cash to an attendant. Also note that some signs will be in Euskara, the language of the Basque region.

On this journey, you'll pass through the green valleys of wine country, so there are plenty of options for stopping points:

Laguardia

Not far from Logroño is Laguardia, so if you've already explored La Rioja's capital, you could make this your first stop. This beautiful walled city was once a defense fortress for Navarra in the 10th century. Today, the old military tunnels serve as a place to store wine; many residents use them for personal wine storage. You can view these cellars with a guide for a very historical and cultural experience. 

Briones-Haro

But if you haven't yet made it to the Vivanco Wine Museum in Briones, known as the best wine museum in the world, you might want to make a detour. Not only can you taste varietals, but you can also participate in workshops and dine at the museum's restaurant. And not far from Briones is Haro, a town nearly surrounded by vineyards, some of the best in Rioja. Walk and sip along the town's famed Train Station District with numerous wineries and tasting rooms.

Sajazarra

Once a walled city, Sajazarra has a few attractions worth seeing, and the best way to view them all is with an optional segway tour. You can zip along the old walls and visit the castle, enjoying its viewpoint over the surrounding vineyards. The old stone houses and buildings are quite picturesque, especially those of Ruiz Loizaga and Loma Osorio and the town's church, the Church of Santa María de la Asunción. If you take the segway tour, you'll also ride through the vineyards and countryside.

Frías

As one of the most beautiful towns in the area, a stop in Frías might be a must. The village and its dramatic castle sit atop a rock called La Muela. Though originally built in the 10th century, the castle shows more signs of Romanesque and Gothic styles. You can also view the town's famous Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses), also built straight into the rocky hillside. Other points of interest include the Church of San Vitores and the town's Gothic bridge.

By Bus

Duration: 1-2 hours

Bus routes are operated by CuadraBus, which offers multiple daily options between Logroño and Bilbao that are both economical and efficient. The route takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making a stop in Haro after about one hour. Be sure to check the schedule in advance, as it changes seasonally, on the weekend, and with holidays. However, regardless of the time of year, buses tend to depart every couple of hours.

By Train

Duration: 2.5 hours

Spain's state-owned train operator Renfe runs the route between La Rioja and Bilbao twice a day, leaving Logroño and making three stops along the way, in Haro, Calahorra, and Alfaro. All trains are in the ALVIA category and you should take them in the direction of Barcelona. Check Renfe's website to reserve in advance, as the tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially in the high seasons. For a more comfortable journey, first-class tickets (turista plus) are available.