Bilbao isn’t what you expect. I thought it was all museums—but it’s a full-on cultural awakening. Food, design, hiking—it’s got soul. I’ve mapped the ultimate experiences for a city that blew me away.
Have you ever visited a city that completely defied your expectations? That's Bilbao for me. The first time I stepped off the train, I thought I was in for a quick Guggenheim visit before moving on to more "exciting" Spanish destinations. Three days later, I was frantically rescheduling my itinerary to stay longer. Trust me, this former industrial powerhouse turned cultural gem will capture your heart in ways you never expected.
In this guide, I'll take you through everything that makes Bilbao special – from world-class museums to hidden pintxo bars where locals actually eat. Whether you're planning your first trip or looking for new experiences beyond the Guggenheim (though we'll definitely cover that too!), I've got you covered. So grab a coffee (or better yet, a glass of txakoli wine), and let's explore the best things to do in this surprising Basque city!
Why Bilbao Should Be on Your Travel List
If you've never considered Bilbao as a must-visit Spanish destination, you're not alone. For decades, this northern Spanish city was known primarily for its industrial grit rather than tourist appeal. But something remarkable happened here in the 1990s that changed everything.
Bilbao underwent one of Europe's most impressive urban transformations, reinventing itself from a declining industrial center to a vibrant cultural hotspot. The catalyst? The titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum that now symbolizes the city. But Bilbao's charm goes way beyond a single building.
What makes Bilbao truly special is its perfect balance. It's a city where ultramodern architecture stands alongside medieval streets. Where Michelin-starred restaurants and humble family-run pintxo bars coexist. Where Basque traditions remain fiercely preserved while innovation flourishes.
The best part? Bilbao hasn't been overrun by tourism like Barcelona or Madrid. You'll find authentic experiences, reasonable prices, and locals who seem genuinely pleased you've discovered their city. It's that rare place that feels both international and deeply authentic at the same time.
Whenever friends ask me about underrated European destinations, Bilbao always tops my list. I mean, where else can you admire world-class art in the morning, hike green mountains by afternoon, and enjoy some of Spain's best food by night? Let's dive into the experiences that make Bilbao so special.
Top Attractions & Must-See Sights in Bilbao
1. Marvel at the Guggenheim Museum
Let's start with the obvious. The Guggenheim isn't just Bilbao's most famous landmark – it's the building that changed the city's destiny. Designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 1997, this shimmering titanium structure resembles a futuristic ship docked along the Nervión River.
The first time I saw it, I spent nearly an hour just walking around the exterior before even going inside. Trust me, it's worth it. The building changes dramatically depending on the light and where you stand. Don't miss the giant floral "Puppy" sculpture by Jeff Koons guarding the entrance, or Louise Bourgeois' massive spider "Maman" on the riverside.
Inside, the soaring atrium will take your breath away. The museum houses rotating exhibitions of contemporary art plus permanent installations like Richard Serra's massive steel sculptures in "The Matter of Time" gallery. Even if you're not typically an art enthusiast, the architecture alone makes this a must-visit.
Best Time to Visit + Ticket Tips
To avoid crowds, arrive right at opening (10am) or late afternoon. Tuesday mornings are typically quietest. If you're on a budget, visit on Tuesday evenings from 5pm to closing when admission is reduced.
Pro tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the line, especially in summer. The Bilbao Card includes free entry to the Guggenheim and other museums, plus public transportation – worth considering if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
2. Wander Through Casco Viejo (Old Town)
After experiencing Bilbao's modern side, step back in time in Casco Viejo, the city's atmospheric medieval quarter. This labyrinth of narrow streets and charming plazas dates back to the 1400s and remains the beating heart of traditional Bilbao.
The historic district is organized around Las Siete Calles (The Seven Streets), which formed the original medieval town. I love getting purposefully lost here, stumbling upon tiny shops selling Basque berets, traditional pastry shops, and bars where locals gather for morning coffee or evening pintxos.
Don't miss Plaza Nueva, a beautiful arcaded square that comes alive during Sunday markets. Santiago Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, offers a quiet respite from the bustling streets. For the best shopping, head to Calle Artekale and Tendería for everything from high-end boutiques to quirky local designs.
What I love most about Casco Viejo is how lived-in it feels. Unlike historic centers in some Spanish cities, this isn't just a tourist zone – it's where real Bilbaínos shop, eat, and socialize. Grab a spot at a plaza cafe and watch local life unfold around you.
3. Indulge in a Pintxo Crawl
If there's one experience that defines Bilbao (and the Basque Country) for me, it's a proper pintxo crawl. Pintxos are the Basque version of tapas – small, often elaborate bites typically served on bread and skewered with a toothpick. But calling them "tapas" might get you a friendly correction from locals!
The traditional way to enjoy pintxos is to hop from bar to bar, having one or two specialties and a small drink (called a zurito if it's beer, or txikito if it's wine) at each place. It's social, fun, and lets you try many different flavors.
For the best experience, head to Casco Viejo and focus on streets like Calle Somera and the bars around Plaza Nueva. My personal favorites include Gure Toki for innovative, award-winning pintxos, and Bar Zuga for their amazing foie gras creations. In the newer part of town, La Viña del Ensanche serves incredible jamón and classic pintxos in an old-school atmosphere.
Pintxo Etiquette Tips
Pintxo culture has its own unwritten rules that can be confusing for first-timers. Here's a quick guide:
In traditional bars, you'll see pintxos displayed on the counter. Just grab a plate and help yourself to what looks good.
Keep track of what you've taken – you'll pay based on your toothpick count when finished.
Many of the best pintxos aren't displayed but made to order from a menu board (called pintxos calientes). Don't be shy about asking what's recommended.
Don't expect to sit down – pintxo crawling is typically done standing at the bar or at small tables.
One drink and 1-2 pintxos per bar is the norm before moving on to the next spot.
The best time for pintxos is early evening, around 7:30-8:30pm, though bars start serving them earlier. Locals typically don't eat dinner until 9pm or later.
4. Cross the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante)
For something truly unique, take a short metro ride to Portugalete to see the world's oldest transporter bridge. The Vizcaya Bridge, built in 1893 and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an engineering marvel that solves a clever problem: how to connect two towns without disrupting ship traffic on the river.
The solution was this "hanging bridge" that uses a suspended gondola to transport people and vehicles across the water. You have two options for crossing: join the gondola (which costs about €0.40) or take the more adventurous high walkway across the top for panoramic views (about €8).
I highly recommend the walkway if you're not afraid of heights. The views of the river mouth and coastline are spectacular, and there's something thrilling about walking across this historic iron structure. The bridge connects Portugalete and Getxo, both pleasant towns worth exploring if you have time.
5. Explore Museo de Bellas Artes
While the Guggenheim gets all the attention, many art lovers (myself included) find the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum equally impressive. Housed in a building that combines classic and modern architecture, this museum offers an outstanding collection spanning from the 12th century to contemporary works.
What makes this museum special is its focus on Spanish and Basque artists, giving you insight into the region's cultural heritage. You'll find masterpieces by El Greco, Goya, and Zurbarán, plus important works by Basque artists like Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza.
The museum is much less crowded than the Guggenheim, allowing for a more peaceful art experience. It's also surrounded by the beautiful Doña Casilda Park, making it a perfect afternoon destination. If you're an art enthusiast, I'd recommend allocating at least two hours here.
6. Relax in Doña Casilda Park
When you need a break from urban exploring, Doña Casilda Park (also called Parque de Doña Casilda de Iturrizar) offers a perfect green retreat. This English-style park in the heart of Bilbao features manicured gardens, tree-lined paths, and a large duck pond where you can rent small rowboats in summer.
I love grabbing a coffee and pastry from a nearby cafe and finding a bench to people-watch here. The park is popular with locals of all ages – you'll see families with children, elderly couples out for their daily walk, and young people lounging on the grass when the weather's nice.
The park contains several notable sculptures and a beautiful pergola. It's also home to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum on one edge. During summer months, you might catch open-air concerts or cultural events. For a moment of tranquility in the city center, this is your spot.
7. Visit Mercado de la Ribera
Food markets always give you insight into local culture, and Bilbao's Mercado de la Ribera is no exception. Claiming the title of Europe's largest covered market (by floor area), this Art Deco building sitting alongside the river has been feeding Bilbao since 1929.
The market underwent renovation in 2010, combining its traditional function with modern gastronomy. On the upper floors, you'll find traditional vendors selling incredibly fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and produce – many of the same suppliers that stock Bilbao's famous restaurants.
The lower level has been transformed into a gastro market with various bars and eateries where you can sample Basque specialties. I recommend grabbing a glass of txakoli (the slightly effervescent local white wine) and a few pintxos, then finding a spot by the windows overlooking the river.
The market is busiest and most atmospheric on Saturday mornings when local families do their weekly shopping. It's closed Sundays and Monday afternoons.
8. Admire Basílica de Begoña
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Basilica of Begoña is both an important religious site for locals and a fantastic viewpoint for visitors. This 16th-century church is dedicated to the Virgin of Begoña, patroness of Bizkaia province.
While the exterior is fairly simple Gothic style, the interior houses an impressive altarpiece and the venerated figure of the Virgin. What makes this church special is its significance to Bilbaínos – it's a place of genuine devotion rather than just a tourist attraction.
You can reach the basilica by climbing the Mallona stairs from the old town (over 300 steps – quite the workout!) or taking a more gradual route through the Atxuri neighborhood. Either way, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views over the city. I particularly enjoy visiting in the late afternoon when the light makes the city glow.
If you're interested in Basque traditions, try to visit during the feast of the Virgin of Begoña on August 15th, when pilgrims from across the region come to pay homage.
9. Ride the Funicular to Artxanda Mirador
For the absolute best panoramic views of Bilbao, take the historic funicular railway up to Mount Artxanda. This cable railway has been carrying visitors up the steep slope since 1915, and the journey itself is part of the experience.
The ride takes just three minutes but transports you from urban Bilbao to a peaceful hilltop with breathtaking vistas. From the viewing platform (mirador), you can see the entire city spread out before you, from the winding river to the surrounding green mountains that cradle Bilbao in their valley.
There are several restaurants at the top if you want to enjoy the view over a meal, plus walking paths if you feel like exploring. I particularly recommend timing your visit for sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle and the Guggenheim's titanium panels catch the last golden rays.
The funicular runs every 15 minutes until late evening and costs just a few euros each way. You can use your Bilbao card or regular metro card for the journey.
10. Discover Itsasmuseum (Maritime Museum)
To understand Bilbao's soul, you need to appreciate its deep connection to the sea and shipbuilding industry. The Itsasmuseum (Maritime Museum) does exactly that, housed in what was once the Euskalduna shipyard, where thousands of Bilbaínos worked before the industry's decline.
The museum combines indoor exhibitions on Basque maritime history with an outdoor area featuring restored vessels in the old dry docks. You'll learn about everything from traditional fishing techniques to modern port operations that still drive much of Bilbao's economy.
What struck me most was how personal many of the exhibits feel – with stories of local sailors, shipbuilders, and their families bringing the industrial history to life. The museum does an excellent job contextualizing how the river and sea shaped Bilbao's development and culture.
Located near the Guggenheim, it's an easy addition to your itinerary and provides a nice counterpoint to the contemporary art focus of its famous neighbor. Allow about 1-2 hours for a visit.
For a more refined island experience, explore our guide to Ibiza’s best luxury activities away from the party scene.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
11. Stroll Zorrotzaurre's Urban Art Scene
Want to see Bilbao's creative future taking shape? Head to Zorrotzaurre, the former industrial peninsula that's transforming into the city's hippest district. Until recently, this area was filled with abandoned factories and warehouses, but it's now evolving into an urban creative hub.
The area has become a canvas for impressive street art and murals, with both local and international artists leaving their mark. Wander along the riverside path to discover massive colorful works on old factory walls. The contrast between industrial decay and vibrant art makes for fantastic photos.
Beyond the street art, you'll find repurposed warehouses housing artist studios, design shops, and cultural spaces like Pabellón 6, an experimental theater. The ZAWP (Zorrotzaurre Art Work in Progress) project organizes events, markets, and workshops that are worth checking out if your timing aligns.
This area is still very much in transition – part abandoned, part reborn – which gives it an exciting energy you won't find in more polished parts of the city. It feels like witnessing a neighborhood's transformation in real-time.
12. Catch a Game at San Mamés Stadium
Even if you're not a football (soccer) fan, experiencing a match at San Mamés Stadium offers insight into Basque culture you can't get anywhere else. Athletic Club Bilbao is one of the few professional teams globally that traditionally only fields players from its own region – a policy that reflects the strong Basque identity.
The stadium itself, nicknamed "La Catedral," is an architectural marvel that replaced the original 1913 venue in 2013. Its stunning façade of twisted white slats illuminates beautifully at night. If you can't catch a game, the stadium offers tours that include the museum, trophy room, and pitch-side access.
What makes the experience special is the passionate atmosphere. The fans' devotion to their team transcends sport – it's about regional pride and identity. The thunderous chants and sea of red and white make for an unforgettable experience, even for casual observers.
Check the Athletic Club website for fixtures and ticket information. Matches against real Madrid, Barcelona, or local rivals Real Sociedad sell out quickly.
13. Explore Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga)
One of my favorite examples of Bilbao's architectural reinvention is Azkuna Zentroa, formerly known as Alhóndiga. This massive wine warehouse from 1909 sat abandoned for years before being transformed by designer Philippe Starck into a mind-blowing multi-purpose cultural center.
The moment you step inside, you'll be awestruck by the 43 unique columns supporting the structure – each with a different design representing cultures from around the world. The vast atrium feels like stepping into an alternate reality.
Beyond its stunning design, Azkuna Zentroa functions as a community living room with a public library, cinema, exhibition spaces, restaurants, and shops. The rooftop includes a glass-bottomed swimming pool that creates fascinating light patterns on the floor below.
I love grabbing a book from the library and finding a comfortable corner to read, or enjoying a coffee while people-watching in the central atrium. It's a perfect rainy day destination and showcases how Bilbao has reimagined its historic buildings for contemporary life.
14. Day Trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
If you have a day to spare, the most magical excursion from Bilbao is to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This tiny islet connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge features a hermitage church at its peak and 241 zigzagging steps to reach it.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as "Dragonstone" from the show, but this place has been captivating visitors long before TV fame. The name Gaztelugatxe means "castle rock" in Basque, and the dramatic setting against the crashing Bay of Biscay is straight out of a fantasy novel.
According to tradition, after climbing the steps, you should ring the church bell three times and make a wish. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort – a panorama of rugged coastline and the vast Cantabrian Sea stretching to the horizon.
To get there, you can take a bus from Bilbao to Bakio (about 45 minutes), then either walk the final stretch or take a local bus. Alternatively, organized tours from Bilbao provide transportation and historical context. Visit on a weekday if possible, as weekends get extremely crowded.
15. Kayak the Nervión River
For an active and unique perspective of Bilbao, consider paddling the Nervión River in a kayak. This urban waterway that once served industrial ships is now clean and perfect for recreational activities.
Several companies offer guided kayak tours that take you past the city's architectural highlights from water level. There's something special about gliding beneath the futuristic Zubizuri bridge or paddling alongside the Guggenheim – views you simply can't get on foot.
Most tours last 1-2 hours and require no previous kayaking experience. The river is generally calm, making this suitable for beginners and families. Evening tours are particularly magical as you watch the city lights come on reflected in the water.
If kayaking isn't your thing, consider the river cruise boats that offer a more relaxed option for seeing Bilbao from the water. Either way, experiencing the river that gave birth to the city provides a deeper understanding of Bilbao's geography and development.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bilbao
After several visits to Bilbao, I've picked up some practical advice that will help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Time to Visit
Bilbao has a mild, rainy climate compared to southern Spain. The ideal months to visit are May-June and September-October when temperatures are pleasant (65-75°F/18-24°C) and rainfall is lower. July and August bring the warmest weather and biggest crowds.
Be prepared for rain any time of year – locals joke that Bilbao doesn't have a climate, just weather! The rainiest months are November through January, though the city has plenty of indoor attractions for wet days. I've found that even in "rainy" periods, showers often pass quickly, followed by sunshine.
Getting Around
Bilbao's public transportation is excellent and easy to navigate. The Metro, designed by Norman Foster, is clean, efficient, and connects most major attractions. A Barik card (available at stations) or Bilbao Card gives you discounted fares on all public transportation.
The city center is very walkable – you can cover most main attractions on foot. For longer distances, consider these options:
Metro: Two lines covering the city and suburbs
Trams: Connecting the Guggenheim area with the old town
Buses: Extensive network reaching everywhere the metro doesn't
The Bilbao Card (available for 24, 48, or 72 hours) includes unlimited public transport and free or discounted entry to museums – worth considering if you plan to see several attractions.
Language Tips
Bilbao is in the Basque Country, where two official languages coexist: Spanish (Castellano) and Basque (Euskera). While everyone speaks Spanish, you'll see street signs, menus, and public information in both languages.
Basque is one of Europe's oldest languages and completely unrelated to any other language family. Even a few Basque phrases will delight locals:
Kaixo (kai-show) – Hello
Eskerrik asko (es-keh-rrick as-ko) – Thank you
Agur (ah-goor) – Goodbye
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels, but less so in neighborhood establishments. Basic Spanish phrases will help in more local spots.
Money Matters
Bilbao offers good value compared to Madrid or Barcelona. Budget around €90-150 per day for mid-range travel, including accommodations, food, and activities. Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash for smaller purchases.
Tipping isn't expected in most situations – service is included in restaurant bills. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Local Customs
Meal times in Bilbao follow typical Spanish schedules but are slightly earlier than southern Spain:
Breakfast: 7-9am (often just coffee and a small pastry)
Lunch: 1-3pm (the main meal of the day)
Dinner: 8:30-10:30pm (lighter than lunch)
Pintxo bars typically serve all day, making them perfect for filling the gaps between traditional meal times.
Final Thoughts: Bilbao's Unmissable Magic
There's something magical about Bilbao that's hard to capture in words. Perhaps it's the perfect balance the city has struck – between preserving its industrial heritage and embracing cutting-edge design, between maintaining deep-rooted Basque traditions and welcoming global influences, between offering world-class attractions while remaining authentically itself.
What I love most about Bilbao is how it surprises visitors at every turn. The Guggenheim may draw you in, but it's often the unexpected discoveries that leave the lasting impressions – a perfect pintxo at a neighborhood bar, the kindness of locals directing you when lost, or the way the green mountains embrace the urban landscape.
Unlike some overtouristed European destinations, Bilbao still feels like it belongs to Bilbaínos first, with visitors welcomed as guests rather than targets for tourist traps. There's an honesty to the city, perhaps reflecting its working-class roots, that makes experiences feel more genuine.
As you plan your own Bilbao adventure, I encourage you to balance the must-see attractions with plenty of unstructured wandering. Save time for sitting in plaza cafes watching local life, for getting lost in neighborhoods beyond the tourist maps, and for conversations with shopkeepers and bartenders.
Bilbao may not have been on your travel radar before, but I guarantee it will earn a special place in your travel memories. The city that reinvented itself has a remarkable way of helping visitors see travel – and perhaps life – with fresh eyes.
¡Agur, Bilbao! Until we meet again.
FAQS Travel to Paradiso
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