Campervan rental in Bilbao

Bilbao is a very good base for a campervan or motorhome trip along the Cantabrian coast: its airport has direct connections with many European cities, the Basque coast, the Urdaibai estuary and the mountains of Bizkaia are within an hour's drive, and San Sebastián, Santander and La Rioja Alavesa are all within about two hours. The rental companies in this guide are based in Bizkaia, a few minutes from the city, and most of them will meet you at the airport.

• Basque coast at 30-60 minutes: Bakio, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka, Lekeitio and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, with cliffs, surf beaches and fishing villages.
• San Sebastián at about 1 hour 15 minutes: the Gipuzkoan coast, Getaria, Zarautz and the pintxos culture, along the A-8 motorway.
• Cantabria at 1-2 hours: Castro Urdiales, Santander and the beaches of eastern Cantabria, with the Picos de Europa about 2.5 hours away.
• Rioja Alavesa at about 1 hour 15 minutes: vineyards, wineries and Laguardia, a good inland alternative on a rainy day.

Recommended campervan routes from Bilbao

Basque coast and Urdaibai (3-4 days)

Drive along the coast through Bakio and Gaztelugatxe to Mundaka, Gernika and Lekeitio. Access to Gaztelugatxe and its car parks is limited and may require advance booking, so check the official Bizkaia tourism information before you go. Large motorhomes will find the coastal roads narrow in places.

Basque coast to San Sebastián (3-5 days)

Continue east to Ondarroa, Zumaia, Getaria and Zarautz and finish in San Sebastián. It is the classic trip for food and surf; parking in the towns is limited in summer, so plan your overnight stops.

Cantabria and Picos de Europa (5-7 days)

Go west to Castro Urdiales, Santander and Santillana del Mar, then on to Cangas de Onís and the Picos de Europa. Check the access rules for the mountain roads (Covadonga and the lakes) before you drive them in a large vehicle.

Rioja Alavesa and Álava (2-3 days)

A short inland route through Vitoria-Gasteiz, Laguardia and the wine villages, ideal when the coast is under rain. Winter and spring are also good for the Gorbeia Natural Park.

Indicative prices for camper and motorhome rental in Bilbao

• Low season: from about €90-110/day.
• Mid season (June and September): between €110 and €135/day.
• High season (July and August): between €150 and €190/day, depending on the model.

These are starting prices published by the companies in this guide (October 2026). Most of the local offer in Bilbao is made up of motorhomes (coachbuilt and low-profile models), not small camper vans, so rates are usually per vehicle, not per sleeping place. Compare what each rate includes: mileage, insurance excess, bed linen, airport transfer and pets are often charged separately, and some companies ask for a minimum of 4, 7 or 10 days depending on the season. Deposits and excess vary by company, so check them before you book.

Frequently asked questions

Can I pick up the vehicle at Bilbao airport?

Most companies in this guide offer free or low-cost delivery or transfer at Bilbao airport (Loiu), sometimes on weekdays only or at set times. Ask when you book and confirm the cost and the meeting point.

What is the weather like for a campervan trip?

The Basque Country is green because it rains throughout the year, with mild summers and cool winters. The best months are late spring, summer and early autumn; plan flexible routes and look for covered activities for rainy days.

Is it difficult to drive a motorhome around Bilbao and the coast?

The motorway network is good, but some coastal and village roads are narrow and parking is limited in summer. Check the height and width of your vehicle, avoid the historic centres and use the motorhome areas and campsites.

Can I sleep overnight in a camper?

There are motorhome areas and campsites in Bizkaia and along the whole coast. Free overnight parking is regulated by each municipality and is not allowed in many protected areas. Check the local rules wherever you plan to stop.

What driving licence do I need?

A category B licence is enough. Most companies ask for 2 years of driving experience and a minimum age between 23 and 25; check the exact requirement before booking.

Can I travel with my pet or to France?

Many companies accept pets, some with a supplement or prior consent. Travel to France (the French Basque coast is about 2 hours from Bilbao) usually needs prior notice and is not allowed by all companies. Always ask before you go.