2024-09-29
Here is everything you need to know about things to do and visit in Bilbao, in the Basque Country, including 15 places you absolutely must include in your itinerary!
During the three days I spent in Bilbao, I saw a city with incredibly interesting monuments, well-maintained gardens, and buildings with impressive architecture.
I also got lost in the old town, searching for bars and terraces to try the famous pintxos…
So, in this article, which aims to be as comprehensive as possible, you will find suggestions on what to see and do in Bilbao.
I include places you are likely already familiar with, but also others that I believe will be new to you.
See which are the best neighborhoods and hotels I recommend in Bilbao, as well as how many days you need to see the city, what to do in Bilbao in 24 hours, how to get from the airport to the city center, and the best time to visit Bilbao.
All of this is accompanied by many, many photographs, so you know exactly what to expect. So, shall we get started?
What to Do and Visit in Bilbao, in the Basque Country
1. See the Vizcaya Bridge (Suspension Bridge and UNESCO Heritage Site)
The Vizcaya Bridge is known by many names: Puente de Vizcaya, Puente Pênsil, Puente Colgante, or Palacio Bridge, in honor of its architect, Alberto Palacio.
It is located in Portugalete, about 12 km from the center of Bilbao, and is truly an impressive work!
It is said to be the oldest transporter bridge in the world that is still in operation, yet it continues to gracefully span the Nervión River.
The bridge is made of iron, stands 45 meters high, and stretches 160 meters in length. It can be crossed inside the suspended cabin (vehicles and passengers) or by walking on the upper part of the bridge.
But do you know what really impressed me? It was the functioning of the bridge, as it seems to float over the river.
👉 Learn more about the Vizcaya Bridge and see other tourist attractions in Portugalete.
2. Explore the Old Town (Casco Viejo)
It’s so enjoyable to walk through the streets of Bilbao’s old town, or Casco Viejo, which are filled with historic buildings and traditional shops.
You can experience a relaxed atmosphere with people having a beer and snacking on pintxos. So delightful!
Regarding places to visit in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, my highlights are Plaza Nueva and the Cathedral of Santiago de Bilbao, but here is the full list with their respective locations:
- Church of San Antón
- Artekale Lightouse
- Ribeira Market
- Escaleras de Solokoetxe
- Fuente de la Cruz
- Joan Santuen eliza
- Mallonako bidarriak
- Church of San Nicolás
- Arriaga Theater
- Arenal Park
3. Do the Pintxos Route
Pintxos are a popular snack in the Basque Country and, above all, they have a strong cultural significance. This is because social life in this region revolves around gathering in bars and taverns with friends and family.
If you don’t know what pintxos are, they are small slices of bread topped with an ingredient or a combination of ingredients, held in place with a toothpick.
In fact, the name “pintxo” derives from the toothpick that is used.
And what kinds of pintxos are there? Well, there are as many pintxos as the creativity of those who prepare them… However, from what I gathered from the many displays I saw in Bilbao, the most popular ones are with ham, croquettes, cod, and cheese. Check out the images below to get an idea of the pintxos in Bilbao.
So, don’t forget to add trying as many pintxos as you can to your list of things to do in Bilbao. They say the best ones are at the market and in the bars of the Casco Viejo.
4. Explore the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
When talking about Bilbao, it is almost obligatory to mention the Guggenheim Museum. After all, this iconic contemporary art museum marked a clear turning point in the city’s tourism.
The Guggenheim was designed by Frank Gehry, and beyond its world-class exhibitions, the building itself changed Bilbao forever—in a good way, of course.
The exterior of the museum is clad in titanium panels with undulating and twisted shapes that resemble fish scales.
But the museum is not alone, as several giant sculptures around it are worth seeing. For example, there’s Puppy, a 13-meter tall sculpture of a West Highland Terrier, entirely covered in flowers and created by Jeff Koons.
I also recommend checking out the sculpture “Tall Tree and the Eye” by Anish Kapoor, as well as the giant spider named “Maman” by Louise Bourgeois.
Interestingly, if you look at the museum from the river, the building appears like a ship, which is a nod to the city’s port history.
👉 Did you know that the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one of the most visited museums in Spain?
5. Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is one of the most important in Spain, housing a vast collection ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
Located in the newer area of Bilbao, it is easily accessible on foot or by bus.
When visiting the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, you can expect a permanent collection featuring pieces dating back to the 12th century, as well as works from the Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism, and even modern and contemporary art.
Therefore, it offers a wide range of art pieces on display.
You can get up close to works by artists such as El Greco, Goya, Gauguin, and Bacon.
At the end of your visit, you can take a few minutes to relax at the museum café or stop by the shop to purchase Bilbao souvenirs. Moreover, taking home one or two art books is a great choice, don’t you think?
6. Stroll through the La Ribera Market (Erriberako Merkatua)
They say that the La Ribera Market is the largest covered market in Europe!
So, as someone who loves markets, I was really excited about visiting the La Ribera Market until I entered the premises…
This is because a large part of the market is currently closed. The stained glass windows are very beautiful, and the dining area is operational.
However, considering it’s touted as “the largest covered market in Europe,” I expected it to be bigger. Well, maybe you’ll have better luck than I did.
Still, I recommend including a visit to the La Ribera Market in your itinerary in Bilbao, especially because it has good restaurants and people gather on the market steps to watch the sunset.
👉 Extra tip: in front of the La Ribera Market, there are arcades with painted ceilings (Arcos de la Ribera). I think it’s worth crossing the street to see these works of art.
7. Riding the Artxanda Funicular
Riding the Artxanda Funicular in Bilbao is a highly popular experience for both locals and visitors alike.
This is because the observation platform is situated approximately 250 meters above sea level, making it an excellent vantage point to see both the city and the mountains.
The Artxanda Funicular was inaugurated in 1915 and has since been a popular means of transportation.
The departure station is located in the center of Bilbao, near the Zubizuri Bridge. Also, the access is easy to find, and the journey to the top of the hill takes about three minutes.
Despite being a short trip, it offers ample opportunity to appreciate the view.
At the top of Artxanda hill, you will find a viewpoint, parks, and leisure areas where you can relax and enjoy nature.
Additionally, there are also restaurants and cafes at the top of the hill.
8. Relax in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Bilbao; in fact, it doesn’t feel like you’re in the center of such a bustling city.
As you walk through this green area, you can expect to see ancient trees, lakes with ducks, fountains, and meticulously maintained gardens.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some peacocks roaming freely in the gardens. It’s also common to see locals exercising.
One of the most sought-after spots in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the Cybernetic Fountain, a tourist attraction that combines water, light, and music. However, it is only active at certain times of the day, so I recommend staying there for about 30-45 minutes to have the chance to see the water and light choreographies.
In addition to green spaces, this park also features areas dedicated to children, a café, and a public library.
9. Visit the Cathedral of Santiago in Bilbao (Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala)
The Cathedral of Santiago in Bilbao (Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala), also known simply as the Bilbao Cathedral, is one of the oldest churches in the city.
It is dedicated to Saint James the Apostle, and its construction dates back to the late 14th century (completed in the 16th century). Over the centuries, it underwent several conservation works while maintaining its Gothic essence.
Located in the heart of the Casco Viejo, the historic center of the city, it is definitely worth a visit!
I particularly enjoyed seeing the colorful stained glass windows and the imposing columns that support the weight of the ceiling. Inside the cathedral, you can also admire sacred artworks including sculptures, paintings, and altarpieces.
Therefore, don’t forget to include a visit to the Cathedral of Bilbao on your list of things to see in Bilbao.
10. Visit the Maritime Museum Ría de Bilbao (Itsasmuseum Bilbao)
For those interested in delving into Bilbao’s maritime and industrial history, the Maritime Museum Ría de Bilbao is a must-visit!
Nowhere else will you find such comprehensive information and artifacts related to the birth and development of the port sector in Bilbao.
I particularly enjoyed seeing the dry dock, as well as the enormous chains and ship anchors.
Moreover, aside from its historical significance, this museum is situated on the banks of the Nervión River, which is an additional reason to include it in your itinerary in Bilbao.
11. Explore Alhóndiga Bilbao (Azkuna Zentroa)
Alhóndiga Bilbao (Azkuna Zentroa) is an excellent example of the wonderful transformations that occur when a place rich in history is rehabilitated and returned to the community.
This former wine warehouse has been converted into a multifunctional cultural center open to everyone.
Here, you can explore exhibitions, go to the cinema, and even visit a library.
There are also great restaurants and cafes where you can spend a couple of hours. For me, discovering such an interesting place in Bilbao was a delightful surprise.
12. Climb to the Basilica of Begoña
The Basilica of Begoña, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña or Basilica de la Virgen de Begoña, is one of the most beautiful churches in Bilbao.
It’s also a place that not all visitors venture to, as it’s not located in the city center.
I understand that with so many beautiful places to see in downtown Bilbao, the basilica might seem like it’s not worth the trip, but nothing could be further from the truth.
The church itself is beautiful, but the journey to get there is even more picturesque. So, if you’re hesitant about the stairs, consider driving up one of the hills in Bilbao.
I climbed up and down the stairs myself, but if you prefer not to, you can take an elevator from the city center. Trust me, it’s really worth visiting this important pilgrimage site in Bilbao!
13. Watch a play at the Arriaga Theatre (Arriaga Antzokia)
Honestly, I must admit I didn’t get the chance to see a play at the Arriaga Theatre, but I regret not doing so.
Just look at the façade of the theatre; can you imagine what the interior is like?
Well, I would have loved to experience a play in this neobaroque theatre, inspired by the iconic Paris Opera. So, I highly recommend you do so.
And then, please tell me how it went and if my intuition about the Arriaga Theatre was correct.
14. Stroll along Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro, the best place in Bilbao for shopping
While shopping may not be everyone’s favorite activity while traveling, I recognize the importance of knowing the best places to shop.
I’m not just talking about souvenirs, but also clothing, jewelry, bags, hats, and other items to take home.
In Bilbao, the prime shopping area is Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro.
Expect to find many shops and cafes along this long street.
If shopping isn’t your thing, you can also appreciate the historic buildings in the area.
15. Explore Deusto, the lively neighborhood of Bilbao
While most visitors concentrate on Bilbao’s historic center, there are other neighborhoods that are well worth exploring.
One such example is Deusto, a youthful and vibrant neighborhood.
Located near the university, you’ll find plenty of lively bars and a relaxed atmosphere. So, here’s my suggestion! Leave the old town aside and head to Deusto.
Take a walk until you find a place you like and order a cider.
Accommodation in Bilbao: Best Neighborhoods to Look for Hotels in Bilbao
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Bilbao, I wanted to offer you some suggestions.
Firstly, it’s perfectly possible to walk from one end of the city to the other. However, this doesn’t mean it’s quick, as the distances can be considerable.
Another important piece of information is that, despite the old town being very interesting for tourists, there isn’t a lot of hotel availability. To give you an overview of how the city is organized, here’s a brief summary:
- Abando: This is the commercial and financial center of Bilbao. It’s close to the Guggenheim Museum, making it ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the city with easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transport.
- Casco Viejo: The old quarter of Bilbao, where you’ll find the main monuments and traditional bars and restaurants.
- Deusto: Popular among students due to its proximity to the University of Deusto. It has a youthful atmosphere with many bars and cafes.
Therefore, for those looking for a hotel with excellent location and comfort, I recommend the Meliá Bilbao Hotel, a 5-star accommodation in one of the best areas of Bilbao.
However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, both the Ilunion Bilbao Hotel (3 stars) and the Bilbao Place apartment are good choices, in my opinion.
Lastly, if none of these recommendations suit you, I suggest exploring this map of Bilbao.
Everything you need to know before traveling to Bilbao
How many days to see Bilbao?
As I mentioned, I stayed in Bilbao for three days and I think that’s the ideal amount of time to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
What to do in Bilbao in 1 day? Complete itinerary from morning to night.
If you have just 24 hours to explore Bilbao, here’s an itinerary for a well-spent day. However, with only 24 hours, you won’t have time to visit museums such as the Maritime Museum, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts. These places will have to wait for another trip.
Start early in the morning with a walk in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, then continue along the riverside, passing between the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the Casco Viejo. Take a ride on the Artxanda Funicular for a city view.
By now, it should be time for lunch, so head to the historic center and choose a restaurant, preferably one with outdoor seating.
Visit the Cathedral of Santiago in Bilbao and see the main tourist attractions mentioned in this article, such as the Church of Santo Antón, Artekale Lighthouse, Solokoetxe Stairs, Fuente de la Cruz, Joan Santuen eliza, Mallona Bidarte, Church of San Nicolás, Arriaga Theatre, and Arenal Park.
In the afternoon, take the metro to see the Bizkaia Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage suspended bridge. Return to Bilbao and climb the stairs to Basilica of Begoña to work up an appetite for dinner.
Return to the historic center towards La Ribera Market, where you can dine while watching the sunset.
When is the best time to visit Bilbao?
Bilbao hosts events throughout the year, but here’s information on some of the most well-known:
The BBK Live is one of Spain’s largest music festivals and takes place in Bilbao in July, featuring a lineup of top international artists.
On the other hand, Aste Nagusia, or Bilbao’s Great Week, happens every August and is the city’s largest festival. It lasts for nine days and includes music, dance, fireworks, and cultural activities.
Finally, if you love Christmas markets like I do, Bilbao’s Christmas Markets have been on my list for some time.
I traveled to Bilbao in July and had a wonderful time.
How to get from the airport to the center of Bilbao?
The most convenient way to get from Bilbao Airport to the city center is by bus.
So, the bus stop is located outside the airport, and the direct bus to the center of Bilbao is the A3247. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and the ticket costs 3 €.
However, if you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it might be a good idea to call an Uber and go directly to your hotel.
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