Is there a train leaving for Bilbao out of Madrid and what are the departure times???

Check http://www.renfe.es for Train travel info for Spain. But you might do better by air (faster AND cheaper). There is a great deal of competition on that route: Iberia and Spanair. Check Spanair's 'Ofertas' on their Spanish language page or Iberia's 'Despegue on-line.' You can often fly roundtrip Madrid-Bilbao for about 10.000 pesetas. http://www.Spanair.com or http://www.Iberia.es
Bus service also runs more often than trains and 'Business Class' service (Alsa's 'Supra' class or Continental-Auto's 'Gran' class)is comfortable and inexpensive (8.400 pesetas roundtrip).

Check out this thread with information about traveling from Madrid to Bilbao.

Note that, despite what they say at the website, buses to Bilbao don't depart from calle Alenza. They do it from the new Avenida de América station (since April 4th 2000).

Regards,

Antonio

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The best tips from your favourite hostal in Madrid.
Hostal Chelo at http://www.chelo.com

Does anyone know what building was used for the last James Bond film where Bond jumps out of the window?

It was probably a soundstage at Pinewood Studios in London...

Actually, I was interested as well since it was in front of the Guggenheim. As I walked around the Guggenheim, I noticed that most of the office buildings around there looked like the one in that opening scene. I'm sure it was one of many non-descript ones. I noticed that the Spanish accent was actually Spanish this time, not some South American version...thank goodness. Also, notice that the police responding were dressed like the Ertzaintza, which is also accurate. The movie sucked too bad to have to go back and watch it for that cool Spain part, though. I think if I had to watch Sophie Marceau again I would puke!

I forgot to say, don't underestimate the great train trip that is Bilbao-Madrid. I've taken it about 10 times and it's always great. I think the price is somewhat cheaper than the 10.000 avion trip, and the scenery is great. The trip takes about 8 hours depending on what train you take. I guess I figure I can fly all I want in the US, but the train experience isn't the same here...so I go by train.