In Bilbao there are three ways to get a taxi: go to a taxi rank, hail one in the street or book in advance. All three work, but they don't suit every situation equally. Here's when to use each one and how much the most common journeys cost.
How to recognise a Bilbao taxi
Licensed Bilbao taxis are white, display their licence number and switch on the green roof light when they're free. If you don't see those signs, it isn't a taxi: it may be a private hire vehicle (VTC), which works under different rules and prices.
Three ways to get one
- At a taxi rank. You'll find them at the busiest spots: the arrivals exit at the airport, Abando station, the Termibus station and the city centre. It's the quickest option if there are cars waiting.
- In the street. If you see the green light, raise your hand. On rainy days, at rush hour or after a concert, it's hard to find a free one.
- Booked. You choose the time, pick-up point and destination, and you know the price before you get in. It's the safe option for the airport, early starts or getting back from an event.
How much the most common journeys cost
These are our fixed prices, calculated using the real distance in kilometres and with tolls included. The night column also applies to Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
| Journey | Day | Night & weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Central Bilbao → Airport | ||
| Abando → Guggenheim Museum | ||
| Central Bilbao → Portugalete | ||
| Central Bilbao → Getxo | ||
| Central Bilbao → BEC (Barakaldo) | ||
| Central Bilbao → Bakio (Gaztelugatxe) |
Short journeys within Bilbao fall under our minimum fare. For any other trip, the fare calculator gives you the exact price instantly.
Meter or fixed price
If you take one from a rank or hail it in the street, you pay what the meter shows, which depends on the traffic and the time of day. If you book with us, the price is set before you leave and doesn't change even if there's a jam on the motorway or in the Artxanda tunnels. On the way to the airport, that difference shows.
How to pay
With our bookings you pay when you book, by Apple Pay, Google Pay or card, and cancellation is free up to one hour before. If you need an invoice for your company, enter your company details when you book and it will be emailed to you.
When it's worth booking
- Early-morning flights: at five in the morning there are few taxis on the street. See what time to leave for an early-morning flight.
- Leaving concerts and trade fairs: once they finish, the ranks empty within minutes. We explain it in how to get back from the BEC.
- If you're travelling with a dog or young children, or there are more than four of you: that way the car comes prepared.
- Day trips outside Bilbao: to Gaztelugatxe, Oma or San Sebastián.
Taxi or VTC
Licensed taxis can use the bus and taxi lanes, have no surge pricing and carry the compulsory passenger insurance. On ride-hailing (VTC) apps, prices rise when demand is high, just when you need a ride most.
