Bilbao Airport

Overall I'd give Bilbao airport the thumbs-up. I've only departed so I don't have experience of arriving. Get airside as soon as possible as the bar/cafe is OK - but go in and find a seat as from the outside it is most unwelcoming.

Despite it's beautiful external design (representing a seagull) Bilbao airport is probably one of the most uncomfortable user unfriendly airports that I have ever visited. The seating area is scarce with hard concrete benches. The cafeteria is small and the tables are always piled with dirty plates and glasses. Another of my complaints is that when passengers arrive and leave the baggage hall they come straight outside. This means that people waiting to collect arriving passengers have to wait outside in the cold/rain not very welcoming to say the least!!

This regional size airport is a gem. Not only does it have great design but it is also very functional. Ground transportation exceeds expectations as you can get a bus to/from Bilbao center for just 1EUR. The ride is quick and painless. Taxis are also available in large numbers and are affordable. Check in procedures are expedite and the staff is accommodating: one time I arrived at the airport 15 minutes before my flight and the counter staff was kind enough to check me in - the plane I was travelling on hadn't arrived it was nearly empty and I had no luggage but still I have to praise the decency of the staff for checking me in despite my delay (something not to be taken for granted in other airports). Security check waiting times are usually OK although some delays may occur in peak hours Overall BIO is a very good facility.

The airport designed by Santiago Calatrava it's modern easy to use and offer a great image of the Basque Country. You can expect all the services from a big airport concentrated in an state of the art building.