Bilbao, Spain
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
3.5/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
3.5/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Located in the far north of Spain, Bilbao stands as the principal city of the Basque Country, offering an ideal blend of beach access, vibrant nightlife, and distinctive architecture.
Party
Bilbao offers a vibrant nightlife, sometimes overshadowed by other Spanish cities. The lively Abando area is brimming with bustling nightclubs and bars, catering to those seeking energetic entertainment. The old town exudes a unique atmosphere and hosts charming venues, while the popular Indautxu district provides additional options to savor Bilbao’s nightlife.
Sightseeing
Bilbao offers a rich sightseeing experience. For panoramic city views, consider taking the Funicular de Artxanda, which provides a stunning vantage point to admire the entire city. Don’t miss the iconic Guggenheim Museum, renowned for its distinctive architecture and outstanding art collections. Additionally explore the charming old town to immerse yourself in the city’s unique culture and history.
Relaxation
Bilbao offers an ideal setting for relaxation. The leisurely Spanish way of life, combined with nearby beaches, makes it a perfect destination for unwinding. Leisurely strolls along the Ría de Bilbao and through the charming old town further enhance the relaxation experience in this vibrant city.
Value
The Basque Country, including Bilbao, is considered slightly pricier than southern regions of Spain. However, Bilbao still remains an affordable destination, particularly when compared to Western European cities, and is more budget-friendly than major Spanish cities such as Barcelona and Madrid.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Bilbao Airport is conveniently located just 12km from the city center. While there isn’t a direct train connection to the airport, there are regular bus and taxi services available for a convenient transfer. Keep in mind Bilbao Airport is relatively small, which may affect flight options and availability.
Train
Bilbao-Abando station serves as the primary railway hub connecting the Basque Country to the rest of Spain. The station offers a high-speed train service linking Bilbao to Madrid, along with a network of standard trains that connect the city to other major Spanish cities.
Drive
Renting a car in Bilbao can be ideal, especially if you plan to explore the scenic Basque countryside and its pristine beaches. However, for a city-focused getaway, renting a car is not needed. Bilbao’s compact layout and efficient public transportation system make it highly walkable and accessible.
Experiences
Bilbao offers a range of captivating experiences. Firstly is a visit to the renowned Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece that houses a world-class art collection. Delve into the vibrant culture at Mercado de la Ribera market, a food lover’s paradise, and explore the Euskalduna Palace, a cultural hub for music, theater, and exhibitions.
Best Things To Do
1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum, renowned for its unique architectural design and a remarkable collection of contemporary art. The museum’s stunning titanium-clad structure designed by Frank Gehry is a work of art itself. Inside, you’ll find an extensive collection featuring artists like Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol.
Purchase your tickets online in advance to skip the lines and, if possible, plan your visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds.
2. Visit Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Stroll through the charming Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s historic old town, where you can discover quaint streets, local shops, and delectable pintxos (small Basque dishes). As you wander through its medieval alleyways, you’ll encounter historic landmarks like the Santiago Cathedral. Don’t miss Plaza Nueva, a lively square surrounded by cafes and pintxos bars.
Try the “pintxos hopping” experience, where you move from bar to bar sampling various pintxos and drinks.
3. Arriaga Theatre
Catch a performance at the historic Arriaga Theatre, a cultural gem with a stunning façade and an array of artistic events, from ballet to opera. The opulent interiors are equally captivating, making it a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
Check the schedule for upcoming shows and book your tickets early, especially if there’s a performance you’re eager to see.
4. Euskalduna Palace
Visit the Euskalduna Palace, a versatile venue for concerts, conventions, and exhibitions, located near the riverfront. Its modern design and scenic location make it a fascinating stop.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade nearby, providing scenic views of the Nervión River and Bilbao’s modern architecture.
5. Mercado de la Ribera
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets, offering an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and dining options. The market is a sensory delight, filled with the aromas and flavors of Basque cuisine.
Come hungry and try the local pintxos and delicacies at the market’s food court. Arrive during the late morning or early afternoon for the liveliest atmosphere.
6. Santiago Cathedral
Explore the stunning Santiago Cathedral, an example of Gothic architecture with an impressive interior, including a cloister, beautifully preserved chapels, and even the option to access the rooftop for panoramic views of Bilbao. The cathedral’s history and architectural details make it a captivating visit.
To explore the rooftop for panoramic views, make sure to check the cathedral’s opening hours and access times.
7. Funicular de Artxanda
Take a ride on the Funicular de Artxanda for breathtaking vistas of Bilbao and the surrounding mountains. The funicular journey itself is an adventure, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the city.
The best time to go is during sunset, allowing you to witness Bilbao’s transition from day to night for a truly magical experience.
8. San Mamés Stadium
Experience the passion of Spanish football by attending a match at San Mamés Stadium, home to Athletic Club Bilbao. The fervor of the fans, the electrifying atmosphere, and the chance to witness world-class football in action are unbeatable.
Book your tickets well in advance, as matches can sell out quickly, and don’t forget to wear the team’s colors to truly immerse yourself in the experience.
9. Basque Museum
Discover the rich Basque heritage at the Basque Museum, where you can explore exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and traditions. The museum provides valuable insights into the Basque Country’s distinct identity and the impact of history on the region.
Check for guided tours or educational programs to enhance your understanding of the Basque heritage.
10. Ría de Bilbao
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Ría de Bilbao, a scenic estuary that flows through the heart of the city. As you meander along the riverbanks, you’ll take in the modern urban landscape, including the iconic Zubizuri footbridge.
Visit the riverbanks at different times of the day to appreciate changing views of the cityscape, from morning tranquility to evening illumination.
1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum, renowned for its unique architectural design and a remarkable collection of contemporary art. The museum’s stunning titanium-clad structure designed by Frank Gehry is a work of art itself. Inside, you’ll find an extensive collection featuring artists like Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol.
Purchase your tickets online in advance to skip the lines and, if possible, plan your visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds.
2. Visit Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Stroll through the charming Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s historic old town, where you can discover quaint streets, local shops, and delectable pintxos (small Basque dishes). As you wander through its medieval alleyways, you’ll encounter historic landmarks like the Santiago Cathedral. Don’t miss Plaza Nueva, a lively square surrounded by cafes and pintxos bars.
Try the “pintxos hopping” experience, where you move from bar to bar sampling various pintxos and drinks.
3. Arriaga Theatre
Catch a performance at the historic Arriaga Theatre, a cultural gem with a stunning façade and an array of artistic events, from ballet to opera. The opulent interiors are equally captivating, making it a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
Check the schedule for upcoming shows and book your tickets early, especially if there’s a performance you’re eager to see.
4. Euskalduna Palace
Visit the Euskalduna Palace, a versatile venue for concerts, conventions, and exhibitions, located near the riverfront. Its modern design and scenic location make it a fascinating stop.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade nearby, providing scenic views of the Nervión River and Bilbao’s modern architecture.
5. Mercado de la Ribera
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets, offering an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and dining options. The market is a sensory delight, filled with the aromas and flavors of Basque cuisine.
Come hungry and try the local pintxos and delicacies at the market’s food court. Arrive during the late morning or early afternoon for the liveliest atmosphere.
6. Santiago Cathedral
Explore the stunning Santiago Cathedral, an example of Gothic architecture with an impressive interior, including a cloister, beautifully preserved chapels, and even the option to access the rooftop for panoramic views of Bilbao. The cathedral’s history and architectural details make it a captivating visit.
To explore the rooftop for panoramic views, make sure to check the cathedral’s opening hours and access times.
7. Funicular de Artxanda
Take a ride on the Funicular de Artxanda for breathtaking vistas of Bilbao and the surrounding mountains. The funicular journey itself is an adventure, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the city.
The best time to go is during sunset, allowing you to witness Bilbao’s transition from day to night for a truly magical experience.
8. San Mamés Stadium
Experience the passion of Spanish football by attending a match at San Mamés Stadium, home to Athletic Club Bilbao. The fervor of the fans, the electrifying atmosphere, and the chance to witness world-class football in action are unbeatable.
Book your tickets well in advance, as matches can sell out quickly, and don’t forget to wear the team’s colors to truly immerse yourself in the experience.
9. Basque Museum
Discover the rich Basque heritage at the Basque Museum, where you can explore exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and traditions. The museum provides valuable insights into the Basque Country’s distinct identity and the impact of history on the region.
Check for guided tours or educational programs to enhance your understanding of the Basque heritage.
10. Ría de Bilbao
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Ría de Bilbao, a scenic estuary that flows through the heart of the city. As you meander along the riverbanks, you’ll take in the modern urban landscape, including the iconic Zubizuri footbridge.
Visit the riverbanks at different times of the day to appreciate changing views of the cityscape, from morning tranquility to evening illumination.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Bilbao: A Modern Gem
Bilbao’s beauty lies in its modernity, boasting stunning architecture and artistic structures that provide a different, less typical Spanish feel compared to southern cities like Malaga or Seville.
6.
Walkability in Bilbao
Bilbao’s compact layout makes it highly walkable, with most sights in close proximity to the city center, reducing the need for public transport.
2.
Ideal Stay Duration
Bilbao is perfect for a 2-3 day city break or can be seamlessly paired with a beach holiday in nearby San Sebastian for a well-rounded vacation.
7.
Historic Center Stay
Staying in the old town, near the center of Bilbao, immerses you in Basque culture and offers easy access to the city’s top sights and attractions.
3.
Clean and Eco-Friendly
Known for its immaculate streets and eco-friendliness, Bilbao’s cleanliness enhances the overall experience of a city break.
8.
Prepare for Rain
Embrace the Basque country’s reputation for rainy days compared to the rest of Spain, and be prepared for some wet weather during your visit to Bilbao.
4.
Year-Round Destination
Bilbao is a year-round destination, with pleasant summer weather, ideal spring and autumn conditions, and a charming Christmas market during the mild winters.
9.
Siesta Timing
Plan your activities around the traditional siesta hours observed in Bilbao, as many businesses close in the afternoon, allowing you to make the most of your stay.
5.
Safety First
Bilbao is incredibly safe; however, caution is advisable in the San Francisco area, especially at night, and be vigilant about pickpockets in crowded spaces.
10.
Cash for the Old Town
Carry some cash when visiting Bilbao, particularly when exploring the old town, as many small cafes and stalls may only accept cash payments.
6.
Walkability in Bilbao
Bilbao’s compact layout makes it highly walkable, with most sights in close proximity to the city center, reducing the need for public transport.
7.
Historic Center Stay
Staying in the old town, near the center of Bilbao, immerses you in Basque culture and offers easy access to the city’s top sights and attractions.
8.
Prepare for Rain
Embrace the Basque country’s reputation for rainy days compared to the rest of Spain, and be prepared for some wet weather during your visit to Bilbao.
9.
Siesta Timing
Plan your activities around the traditional siesta hours observed in Bilbao, as many businesses close in the afternoon, allowing you to make the most of your stay.
10.
Cash for the Old Town
Carry some cash when visiting Bilbao, particularly when exploring the old town, as many small cafes and stalls may only accept cash payments.