16 Best Things to Do in Bilbao 🇪🇸: Comprehensive Guide to Activities & Attractions

Welcome to the vibrant city of Bilbao, a jewel in northern Spain’s Basque Country’s crown. From the iconic Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum to the charming Plaza Nueva, this Spanish city offers a perfect blend of modern marvels and traditional Basque culture. Embark on a tour of Bilbao that will take you from the narrow streets of the Casco Viejo to the stunning Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, and experience the city’s rich history at the Santiago Cathedral.

🏡 Where to Stay in Bilbao

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Meliá Bilbao
• ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Carlton
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Ilunion Bilbao
• 💸 Cheap: Quartier Bilbao Hostel
• 🏢 Apartament: Santiago Apartments Bilbao
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Radisson Collection Bilbao
• 🏩 For Couples: The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Basque cuisine as you explore the pintxos bars and restaurants that line the Bilbao estuary. Take a stroll through the green spaces of Doña Casilda Park or ride the cable car to Mount Artxanda for breathtaking views of the city. Don’t miss the chance to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vizcaya Bridge, also known as Puente Colgante or the Hanging Bridge, and marvel at its 43 pillars spanning the Nervion River.

👩‍🏫 Top-Rated Bilbao Tours

• Gaztelugatxe, Gernika and Bermeo Small Group Tour with Lunch: This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Basque Country’s coastal gems. Visitors will experience the stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, learn about Basque history in Gernika, and enjoy the charming fishing village of Bermeo. The small group format ensures a personalized experience, and lunch is included for a taste of local cuisine.
• Food and Wine Tour of Bilbao: Embark on a culinary journey through Bilbao with this food and wine tour. Participants will sample local pintxos (Basque tapas) and wines while exploring the city’s vibrant food scene. This tour is perfect for food enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Basque gastronomy and culture.
• Discover Bilbao Like a Local: Food Tour: Experience Bilbao through the eyes of a local with this immersive food tour. Visitors will explore hidden gems and popular spots, tasting authentic Basque cuisine along the way. This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s culinary traditions and local culture off the beaten path.
• Architectural Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao: Combine the best of architecture and wine on this tour from Bilbao to La Rioja. Participants will visit stunning wineries designed by world-renowned architects while sampling some of Spain’s finest wines. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural and gastronomic experiences in the picturesque Rioja region.
• La Rioja Wine Tour with Two Winery Visits and Tastings from Bilbao: Delve into the world of Rioja wines with this tour from Bilbao. Visitors will explore two distinct wineries, learning about wine production processes and enjoying tastings of the region’s famous wines. This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge of Spanish viticulture while enjoying the beautiful La Rioja landscape.

Best Things To Do in Bilbao

Vibrant exploration: I’ve explored Bilbao countless times, and I never tire of its vibrant energy. This Basque city is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern marvels. Let me take you through some of my favorite spots.

1. 🏛️ Guggenheim Museum

Architectural marvel: First stop: the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Trust me, it’s not just about the art inside. The building itself, designed by Frank Gehry, is a masterpiece. I always spend a good hour just walking around the exterior, admiring the titanium curves catching the sunlight. Don’t miss Jeff Koons’ giant floral puppy guarding the entrance – it’s an Instagram hit!

Art extravaganza: Inside, you’ll find a rotating collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by artists like Richard Serra, Andy Warhol, and Anselm Kiefer. Don’t miss “The Matter of Time,” Serra’s massive steel sculpture installation that you can actually walk through.

Interactive experiences: The Guggenheim offers more than just static exhibits. Look out for interactive installations and multimedia presentations that change regularly. These often provide a more immersive art experience that’s great for visitors of all ages.

Insider Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry, but arrive early to beat the crowds.

Time Saver: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the often long queues at the entrance.

⭐ Best Activities

• Bilbao Guggenheim Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access: This guided tour offers an immersive experience of the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Visitors will enjoy skip-the-line access, allowing them to bypass the queues and dive straight into the world of contemporary and modern art.
• Buy tickets online – Check Availability

2. 🏙️ Casco Viejo

Historic charm: After the Guggenheim, I recommend heading to the Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s charming old town. Its narrow streets are packed with history and buzzing with life. Here’s a quick list of must-sees in this area:

• Plaza Nueva: A beautiful square perfect for people-watching
• Santiago Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture
• Mercado de la Ribera: Europe’s largest covered market
• Arriaga Theatre: An elegant Neo-baroque building named after a Basque composer

Culinary paradise: The Casco Viejo is a food lover’s dream. It’s home to some of the best pintxos bars in the city. My favorites include Gure Toki for innovative pintxos and Bar Zuga for their classic offerings. Don’t forget to pair your pintxos with a glass of txakoli, the local white wine.

Shopping haven: If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, Casco Viejo won’t disappoint. The area is filled with boutique shops selling everything from traditional Basque handicrafts to trendy fashion. Check out Somera Street for the best shopping experience.

Top Tip: Join a pintxos tour to get the inside scoop on the best bars and learn about Basque culinary traditions.

Money Saver: Many bars offer a “pintxo-pote” deal in the early evening – a pintxo and a drink for a reduced price.

⭐ Best Activities

• BILBAO: The Best of Bilbao by Bike: This exciting tour offers visitors a unique way to explore the vibrant city of Bilbao on two wheels. Participants will pedal through the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, gaining a comprehensive overview of Bilbao’s rich history, culture, and modern transformation.

3. 🎨 Museo de Bellas Artes

Artistic immersion: For art lovers, the Museo de Bellas Artes is a must-visit. It’s often overshadowed by the Guggenheim, but I find its collection of Basque art fascinating. Look out for works by El Greco and local artists like Eduardo Chillida.

Diverse collection: The museum houses an impressive range of art from the 13th century to contemporary works. You’ll find everything from Gothic sculptures to modern paintings. The Basque art section is particularly noteworthy, offering insights into the region’s cultural heritage.

Temporary exhibitions: Besides its permanent collection, the museum hosts regular temporary exhibitions. These often showcase international artists or thematic collections, adding an extra layer of interest to your visit.

Time Saver: If you’re short on time, ask for a guide to the museum’s highlights at the information desk. They can point you towards the most significant pieces.

Insider Tip: The museum’s café offers great views of the Doña Casilda Park. It’s a perfect spot for a coffee break during your visit.

4. 🌉 Vizcaya Bridge

Engineering wonder: The Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world’s oldest transporter bridge. Built in 1893, this architectural marvel connects the towns of Portugalete and Getxo across the Nervion River.

Unique design: The bridge’s innovative design allows boats to pass underneath while transporting passengers and vehicles in a suspended gondola. It’s a testament to the industrial heritage of the Bilbao region.

Panoramic views: For a thrilling experience, take the elevator to the walkway at the top of the bridge. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the estuary and surrounding area.

Money Saver: If you’re just interested in crossing the river, the gondola ride is very affordable. The walkway experience is a separate, pricier ticket.

5. ⛪ Santiago Cathedral

Historic landmark: The Santiago Cathedral, Bilbao’s oldest building, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Built in the 14th century, it has been an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route for centuries.

Architectural beauty: The cathedral’s interior features three naves with ogive vaulted ceilings. Don’t miss the beautiful choir stalls and the florid Gothic cloister.

Cultural significance: The cathedral’s crypt incorporates walls from the original shrine, offering a glimpse into the building’s long history. Its two façades, one Renaissance and the other neo-Classical, showcase different architectural styles.

Top Tip: Try to visit during a service to hear the impressive 19th-century organ in action.

⭐ Best Activities

• Bilbao Historical Tour: This Bilbao Historical Tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich past and cultural heritage. Led by knowledgeable local guides, participants will explore the charming streets of Bilbao’s Old Town, known as Casco Viejo.

6. 🎭 Arriaga Theatre

Cultural gem: Named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, known as the “Spanish Mozart,” the Arriaga Theatre is the crown jewel of Bilbao’s performing arts scene. This beautiful neo-baroque building dates back to 1890.

Architectural splendor: The theatre’s façade is a work of art in itself, with its ornate decorations and distinctive green domes. The interior is equally impressive, featuring a grand auditorium with excellent acoustics.

World-class performances: With a capacity for 1,200 spectators, the Arriaga Theatre hosts a diverse program of operas, plays, and concerts throughout the year, rivaling the offerings of major European venues.

Insider Tip: Even if you can’t attend a performance, consider taking a guided tour of the theatre to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its history.

⭐ Best Activities

• Bilbao Walking Small Group Tour: This walking tour offers an intimate exploration of Bilbao’s rich history and vibrant culture in a small group setting. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, participants will journey through the city’s most significant landmarks and hidden gems.

Things to Do in Bilbao with Kids

1. 🏛️ Azkuna Zentroa

Cultural hotspot: As evening approaches, head to the Azkuna Zentroa. This former wine warehouse was transformed by Philippe Starck into a cultural center. I love grabbing a drink at the rooftop bar and watching the sun set over the city.

Family-friendly activities: The Azkuna Zentroa isn’t just for adults. It offers a range of activities that kids will love. There’s a public library with a great children’s section, regular workshops for young artists, and even a small indoor pool with a glass bottom that you can see from the ground floor.

Architectural wonder: The building itself is a marvel. Kids will be fascinated by the 43 uniquely designed columns supporting the structure. Each one tells a different story, from mythology to history to pop culture.

Time Saver: Check the center’s website before your visit for a schedule of family-friendly events and workshops.

Insider Tip: The center has a “chill-out” zone on the top floor where kids can relax and parents can enjoy a moment of peace.

2. 🌉 Zubizuri Bridge

Scenic stroll: After lunch, walk off those pintxos with a stroll across the Zubizuri Bridge. This striking white bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, spans the Nervion River. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at sunset when the light turns the white structure golden.

Interactive experience: Kids will love the glass walkway on the bridge. It’s a bit nerve-wracking at first, but it’s perfectly safe and offers a unique perspective of the river below.

Riverside fun: On either side of the bridge, there are green spaces where children can run around. The Ribera Park on the right bank is particularly nice for a picnic or a game of frisbee.

Top Tip: Visit at night to see the bridge beautifully illuminated. It’s a magical sight that children won’t forget.

Money Saver: Walking tours of Bilbao often include the Zubizuri Bridge. Look for free walking tours that operate on a tip basis for a budget-friendly option.

3. 🚢 Itsasmuseum 

Nautical journey: The Itsasmuseum Bilbao, located in the former Euskalduna shipyards, is a dynamic museum dedicated to showcasing the maritime heritage of the Bilbao Estuary. It offers visitors a unique experience to discover the city’s rich naval history.

Interactive exhibits: The museum features three main exhibition areas: ‘The Ría: a maritime port’, ‘The Ría: market and factory,’ and ‘The Ría: naval shipyard’. These exhibits bring to life the watery depths of Bilbao and Basque maritime history through interactive displays and models.

Educational experience: This museum is highly educational for both adults and children, offering insights into old shipbuilding techniques, shipwrecks, coastal rescue strategies, and the threats of piracy.

Insider Tip: Start your visit with the 10-minute introductory video that provides an overview of Bilbao’s history from the 1300s to the present.

Buy tickets online – Check Availability

Free Things to Do in Bilbao

1. 🏛️ Plaza Nueva

Gastronomic adventure: For dinner, you can’t beat the restaurants around Plaza Nueva. My personal favorite is Víctor Montes, known for its traditional Basque cuisine and extensive wine list.

Historical significance: Plaza Nueva isn’t just about food. This neoclassical square, built in the 19th century, is a historical landmark. The arcades surrounding the square house some of Bilbao’s oldest and most traditional shops and cafes.

Cultural hub: On Sundays, the plaza transforms into a lively market where you can find everything from antiques to artisanal crafts. It’s also a popular spot for cultural events and concerts, especially during the summer months.

Insider Tip: Visit early on Sunday mornings to catch the bird market, a charming local tradition where bird enthusiasts gather to buy, sell, and trade birds.

Money Saver: Many bars in Plaza Nueva offer complimentary pintxos with each drink during certain hours. Ask locals for the best spots and times.

2. 🌳 Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park

Urban oasis: Also known as the “duck park,” this green space in the heart of Bilbao offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. The park features beautiful landscaping, including a variety of tree species and well-maintained flower beds.

Family-friendly: The park features a pond with ducks and swans, making it a hit with children. There’s also a small playground and plenty of open spaces for games and picnics.

Cultural events: Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, from open-air concerts to art exhibitions. Even if there’s no special event, you might catch impromptu performances by local musicians or artists.

Money Saver: Pack a lunch and enjoy a budget-friendly meal in beautiful surroundings. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas perfect for picnicking.

Top Tip: Visit the park’s pergola, a beautiful structure that offers shade on hot days and serves as a focal point for many park events.

3. 🏔️ Mount Artxanda

Panoramic views: Take the funicular (there is a small fee) or hike up Mount Artxanda for breathtaking views of Bilbao. The vista encompasses the entire city, from the old town to the modern Guggenheim, all framed by the surrounding mountains.

Outdoor activities: Enjoy walking trails and recreational areas at the top. There are several paths of varying difficulty, suitable for casual strollers and more serious hikers alike.

Historical significance: The mountain played a role in Bilbao‘s defense during the Spanish Civil War. Look out for remnants of old fortifications as you explore.

Insider Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning cityscape from this vantage point. The view is particularly spectacular at sunset.

Money Saver: While the funicular costs a small fee, hiking up is free and offers a great workout with rewarding views.

4. 🏪 La Ribera Market

Culinary paradise: Europe’s largest covered market is a feast for the senses. While purchasing is optional, browsing is free and highly recommended. The market boasts an impressive array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood, showcasing the best of Basque cuisine.

Architectural beauty: Admire the Art Deco design and impressive stained-glass windows of this historic building. The market’s renovation in 2012 beautifully blended modern amenities with its original 1929 structure.

Local culture: Get a glimpse of daily Bilbao life as locals shop for fresh produce and seafood. The interactions between vendors and customers offer insight into Basque social customs and the importance of food in the local culture.

Top Tip: Visit in the morning to see the market at its liveliest. The hustle and bustle of morning trade provides the most authentic experience.

Insider Tip: Look out for free food samples, especially at cheese and charcuterie stalls. It’s a great way to taste local specialties without spending money.

Seasonal Activities

🌸 Spring

Blooming beauty: Spring in Bilbao is a feast for the senses. The city comes alive with color as parks and gardens burst into bloom. I love strolling through Doña Casilda Park, where tulips and cherry blossoms create a stunning backdrop for picnics and lazy afternoons.

Cultural awakening: The Bilbao Bizkaia Film Festival (BIFF) usually takes place in early April. It’s a treat for cinema buffs, showcasing both local and international talent. I always try to catch a few screenings – it’s a great way to experience Basque culture through film.

Outdoor adventures: As the weather warms up, I recommend taking a bike tour along the Nervión River. The city’s bike-sharing system makes it easy and affordable. You’ll get a unique perspective of Bilbao’s transformation from industrial port to cultural hotspot.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Bilbao Jardin festival in May. It’s a celebration of urban gardening with flower shows and workshops. The exact dates vary each year, so check the city’s official website for details.

☀️ Summer

Festival fever: Summer in Bilbao is all about Aste Nagusia, the city’s biggest festival. It kicks off on the Saturday following August 15th and lasts for nine days. Expect non-stop music, traditional Basque sports, and nightly fireworks over the river. It’s an explosion of local culture that you won’t want to miss.

Beach escapes: When the city heats up, I love heading to nearby beaches. Plentzia, just a 30-minute metro ride away, is my go-to spot. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming, and the beachfront bars serve up excellent pintxos and cold drinks.

Open-air concerts: The BBK Live music festival, held in mid-July (usually around the 7th-9th), draws big-name international acts to Bilbao. The hilltop venue offers amazing views of the city while you dance the night away.

Time Saver: Book your accommodation well in advance if you’re visiting during Aste Nagusia or BBK Live. The city fills up quickly during these events.

🍂 Autumn

Gastronomic delights: Fall is my favorite time for food in Bilbao. The Rioja Alavesa Wine Harvest Festival in nearby Laguardia (usually held in mid-September) is a must-visit for wine lovers. Closer to home, don’t miss the pintxo-pote evenings that many bars offer – it’s a great way to sample local specialties at reduced prices.

Cultural immersion: The Bilbao Night Marathon, typically held in mid-October, is a unique way to experience the city. Even if you’re not running, the festive atmosphere is infectious. The exact date changes each year, so check the official website for details.

Autumn colors: For the best fall foliage, I recommend taking the funicular up to Mount Artxanda. The panoramic views of the city surrounded by rust-colored hills are breathtaking. It’s also a great spot for a traditional Basque cider tasting.

Money Saver: Many museums offer reduced rates or free entry during the European Heritage Days in late September. It’s a great opportunity to explore Bilbao’s cultural offerings on a budget.

❄️ Winter

Festive cheer: Bilbao truly sparkles during the holiday season. The Christmas market in Plaza Nueva, which runs from early December to early January, is a wonderland of lights, local crafts, and seasonal treats. Don’t miss the giant Christmas tree in front of the Guggenheim – it’s a spectacular sight.

Culinary warmth: Winter is the perfect time to cozy up in a sidrería (cider house) for a traditional Basque meal. The cider season officially kicks off in mid-January, but many places start serving earlier. It’s a quintessential Bilbao experience.

Cultural highlights: The Bilbao International Documentary and Short Film Festival (ZINEBI) in November showcases thought-provoking works from around the world. It’s been running for over 60 years and is a staple of Bilbao’s cultural calendar.

Top Tip: If you’re in Bilbao for New Year’s Eve, head to Plaza Moyúa for the countdown. The tradition is to eat twelve grapes at midnight for good luck in the coming year.

Day Trips from Bilbao

1. 🏖️ San Sebastian

Coastal gem: San Sebastian, located about an hour’s drive from Bilbao, is a jewel of the Basque Country. This charming coastal city offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. The beautiful La Concha Beach, with its crescent-shaped shoreline, is a must-visit for any traveler.

Culinary paradise: The Old Town (Parte Vieja) of San Sebastian is a food lover’s paradise. It’s famous for its pintxos bars, where you can sample a wide variety of these Basque tapas. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings, creating a romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for evening strolls.

Panoramic vistas: For panoramic views of the city and bay, head to Monte Igueldo. You can take a funicular to the top, where you’ll find an old-fashioned amusement park and breathtaking vistas. Don’t miss the Peine del Viento (Wind Comb) sculpture by Eduardo Chillida at the base of the mountain.

Cultural hub: San Sebastian is also known for its cultural events, particularly the San Sebastian International Film Festival held annually in September. The city’s blend of Belle Époque architecture, modern design, and Basque traditions makes it a fascinating day trip destination from Bilbao.

⭐ Best Activities

• Private Transfer from Bilbao to San Sebastian: This private transfer service offers a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Bilbao to San Sebastian. Passengers can enjoy a stress-free journey in a private vehicle with a professional driver. This door-to-door service eliminates the hassle of navigating public transportation or dealing with taxi queues, making it ideal for travelers looking for a seamless transition between these two popular Basque cities.
• Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, Hondarribia and San Sebastian Tour: This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the most charming coastal towns in the Basque Country and French Basque Coast. Participants will explore the elegant resort town of Biarritz, the picturesque fishing village of Saint Jean De Luz, the historic border town of Hondarribia, and finally, the culinary capital of San Sebastian

2. 🏰 San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Dramatic landscape: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, located just 35 kilometers from Bilbao, is a stunning islet connected to the mainland by a man-made stone bridge. The site gained worldwide fame as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones, where it served as Dragonstone.

Challenging ascent: The main attraction is the hermitage of John the Baptist, perched atop the islet. To reach it, visitors must climb 241 steps along a zigzagging path. The climb is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the rugged Biscay coast along the way.

Wishful tradition: Once at the top, tradition dictates that visitors ring the church bell three times and make a wish. Whether or not your wish comes true, the panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding cliffs are truly spectacular.

Coastal exploration: Many tours combine a visit to Gaztelugatxe with stops at nearby coastal towns like Bermeo, a charming fishing village, and Guernica, famous for Picasso’s painting. This combination allows visitors to experience both the natural beauty and the rich culture of the Basque coast in a single day trip from Bilbao.

⭐ Best Activities

• Gaztelugatxe, Gernika and Bermeo Small Group Tour with Lunch: This small group tour offers an enchanting exploration of the Basque Country’s coastal treasures. Participants will visit the breathtaking San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a rocky islet connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge, famous for its appearance in Game of Thrones.
• Buy tickets online – Check Availability

3. 🍷 La Rioja Wine Region

Vinicultural paradise: La Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine region, makes for an excellent day trip from Bilbao. Located about an hour and a half south of the city, La Rioja offers a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and world-class wineries.

Wine capital: The heart of La Rioja is the town of Haro, known as the wine capital of the region. Here, you can visit traditional bodegas (wineries) that have been producing wine for centuries, as well as modern, architecturally striking wineries. Many tours offer the opportunity to taste a variety of Rioja wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.

Medieval charm: Beyond wine, La Rioja boasts charming medieval villages like Laguardia, perched on a hilltop and surrounded by vineyards. The narrow streets, ancient walls, and underground cellars offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Riojan cuisine, which pairs perfectly with the local wines.

Architectural marvel: For those interested in architecture, the Marqués de Riscal winery in Elciego is a must-see. Designed by Frank Gehry (who also designed the Guggenheim in Bilbao), its undulating titanium roof is a striking contrast to the surrounding vineyards. A day trip to La Rioja offers a perfect combination of gastronomy, culture, and stunning landscapes.

⭐ Best Activities

• Architectural Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao: This tour offers a unique blend of world-class architecture and exquisite wines in the renowned Rioja region. Departing from Bilbao, visitors will explore stunning wineries designed by famous architects, combining the appreciation of innovative design with the pleasure of wine tasting.
• La Rioja Wine Tour with Two Winery Visits and Tastings from Bilbao: This tour takes wine enthusiasts on a journey through the heart of La Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine region. Departing from Bilbao, participants will visit two distinct wineries, each offering a unique perspective on Rioja wine production.

❓ FAQ

What are the must-see attractions in Bilbao?

The top attractions in Bilbao include the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the charming Casco Viejo (Old Town), the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Zubizuri Bridge, and the Mercado de la Ribera. Don’t miss the chance to explore Plaza Nueva, visit the Azkuna Zentroa cultural center, and take a stroll along the Nervion River.

What are the best free things to do in Bilbao?

Bilbao offers many free activities, including walking tours of the city, exploring the Casco Viejo, admiring the exterior of the Guggenheim Museum, relaxing in Doña Casilda Park, and enjoying the views from Mount Artxanda. You can also visit the Santiago Cathedral and wander through the bustling streets to soak in the Basque culture.

Where can I find the best pintxos in Bilbao?

For the best pintxos (Basque tapas) experience in Bilbao, head to the Old Town’s narrow streets, especially around Plaza Nueva. Popular areas for pintxos include Calle Ledesma and the Ensanche district. Don’t miss trying the local txakoli wine with your pintxos for an authentic Basque culinary experience.

What day trips can I take from Bilbao?

Popular day trips from Bilbao include visiting San Sebastian for its beautiful beaches and renowned cuisine, exploring the Rioja wine region, seeing the Game of Thrones filming location at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, or taking a trip to the coastal town of Bermeo. The Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also worth a visit.

What cultural experiences are available in Bilbao?

Bilbao offers rich cultural experiences, including visiting the Guggenheim Museum and the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, attending performances at the Arriaga Theatre, exploring the Basque Museum to learn about local history, and experiencing the vibrant art scene in the Bilbao Art District. Don’t forget to check out temporary exhibitions at Azkuna Zentroa.