In Bilbao Spain, things to do are more than plentiful in this highly underrated city. The Guggenheim Museum’s unique building by Frank Gehry started “starchitecture” in Bilbao. It draws many visitors to the riverbanks. However, there is more to see than the renowned museum. Many more cultural sites await your eagre exploration.
Unfortunately, some still call Bilbao merely an “industrial city”, dismissing its transformation. On the contrary, this outdated perception is inaccurate. In fact, Bilbao now offers far more beyond industry. If you’re looking for more exciting destinations in Spain, be sure to check out our guide on the 7 cool things to do in Barcelona.
20 yrs ago, Bilbao decided to take a risk on housing the Guggenheim Museum. Consequently, it created a hugely impressive landmark sparking a cultural-revolution, and reviving the prosperity of the city in the process.
Known as the “Guggenheim effect,” the museum instantly made Bilbao one of Europe’s trendiest weekend getaways. Additionally, the old parts of the town and river area were redeveloped.
Now, Bilbao glitters with stunning modern buildings and prettied up old ones with iron balconies. For example, you’ll see polished Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles. So it’s great for exploring art, culture, and charming lanes.
Furthermore, Bilbao is a top foodie town. It has Michelin restaurants, cozy Basque spots, talented chefs, and more. In other words, it offers tons for hungry visitors.
Bilbao, Spain Things to do: Top Attractions
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 1
The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim is about as iconic as it gets. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, seeing it in real life is shocking.
In 1997 the museum was opened with much anticipation to the general public. It was designed by Frank Gehry. His cool, twisting building is the star of Bilbao. The futuristic-structure celebrates the rejuvenation of Bilbao.
Inside and out, it amazingly mixes titanium, glass and limestone. The scaly outside looks like a silvery fish. The wings seem like wind-filled sails. Light plays off the building and river.
There is neat art outside too. Like a 42-foot puppy covered in flowers. And a 30-foot spider sculpture. Plus other unique pieces.
Inside, the architecture continues to amaze. There is a glass-enclosed 164 ft high atrium with a floral-skylight. Light fills the galleries and halls, yet the space also flows with movement.
However, the building is not the only art. The Guggenheim’s modern art collection is also top-notch. For example, you’ll find works by Robert Motherwell, Yves Klein, Andy Warhol, Eduardo Chillada, and Anselm Kiefer. Therefore, the museum can compete with Europe’s best for modern pieces.
Additionally, there is an installation titled A Matter-of-Time by Richard Serra. This minimalist sculpture fills an entire section. The purpose is to make people move around and through it. Consequently, from shifting views, it gives a dizzy, space-in-motion impression. The result is an unforgettable experience.
Bilbao, Spain Things to Do: Best Tours
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 2
Bilbao’s Lively Old Town
Bilbao has an atmospheric old town called Casco Viejo. Specifically, the original “seven streets” from the 1400s are for pedestrians only.
The top things to do in Bilbao, Spain include exploring these lively, twisty lanes full of cafés, tapas-bars, shops and small plazas. Locals and tourists mingle with real Basque energy. Even touristy spots like the 1821 arcaded Plaza Nuevo have locals drinking and eating tapas. For more ideas on experiencing the best of Basque cuisine, take a look at our San Sebastian itinerary.
The tasty local tapas feature cod, shrimp, ham, peppers and more. The combinations seem endless.
Additionally, the main attraction of the old town is the Santiago Cathedral built in the 1300s and was fully renovated in the year 2000. Entry is free, or pay 2 euros to see the courtyard.
Connected to Casco Viejo is Bilbi, another ancient district. In contrast, Bilbi now has a trendy vibe. Its funky-bars, galleries and trendy boutiques keep visitors more than busy.
See also: Is Madrid worth visiting? Tips and advice & the best of Southern Spain
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 3
Take a Food or Pintxos Tour of Bilbao
It’s almost required to take a food tour when visiting a culinary hotspot like Bilbao.
Specifically, you can learn about the cuisine of Northern Spain. Plus, enjoy tasty Basque tapas called pintxos.
In particular, pintxos are bite-sized snacks on bread or skewers. For instance, pintxos can include marinated anchovies, local cheeses, cured meats, roasted peppers, and more.
Additionally the tours offer food pairing giving suggestions for foods that go well with local wines and beers.
Bilbao, Spain Things to Do: Best Tours
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 4
The Arriaga Theatre
This theatre is named for Juan Arriaga. Folks called him the “Spanish Mozart.” It dates back to 1890. Architect Joaquín Rucoba planned the building. He also did the nearby City Hall. With pretty carved stone on the outside, the inside has cool marble stairs.
The Arriaga is the oldest theatre in Bilbao and kind of looks like the Paris Opera House. And coincidentally it occasionally hosts operas. The fancy old furnishings are still there from its early days.
In 1983 bad flooding busted up the place. After fixes, it reopened in 1986.
The theater sits by the bridge from the old town to El Ensache. If you’re passing by and the doors are open you might be lucky to sneak a peek at the fantastic marble staircase.
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 5
The El Ensanche Neighbourhood
El Ensache’s an upscale Bilbao ‘hood. Its main drag, the Gun Via, is Gran Via Don Diego Lopez de Haro.
The best things to do in Bilbao, Spain include experiencing this classy area, which has some of the city’s best redone old buildings. Check out Chavarri Palace, Euskalduna Palace, La Equativo, Banco de Bilbao and more.
It’s the most big city-feeling part of town. There are shops, fancy boutiques, eats, and nightlife galore. The buildings go way back – you’ll see neoclassical, Art Nouveau and other throwback looks.
Bilbao, Spain Things to Do: Best Tours
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 6
The Ribera Market
La Ribera is Europe’s biggest indoor food market, located in southern Bilbao. Specifically, vendors have sold items on this spot since the 1300s. However, the pretty Art Deco structure seen today was built in 1929.
As part of improving Bilbao, the market was rebuilt and reopened to praise in 2011.
Inside you’ll see goat bodies and pig heads. But there are also lovely stained glass panels to admire. Most notably, Bilbao’s wolf coat of arms decorates the biggest pane.
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 7
Azkuna Zentroa
It’s one of Bilbao’s most iconic buildings, affectionately dubbed “Bilbao’s Living Room.”
Originally, a neglected wine warehouse from the 1970s stood here. In 2006, designer Philippe Stark redid the place as a flashy, movie-set-like complex. Now it’s a cultural spot for locals and visitors.
Inside you’ll discover cafés, shops, exhibits, a rooftop café, a library, and more all under 43 columns representing humanity’s history.
Look up to see people swimming laps in the glass-floored pool overhead. Definitely one of the top things to do in Bilbao, Spain.
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 8
The Fine Arts Museum
Overshadowed by the famous Guggenheim, the Museo de Bellas Artes is one of Spain’s best museums. For art lovers, it’s a top Bilbao attraction. If modern art’s not your thing, skip the Guggenheim and head here.
Found in Abando, the museum displays over 10,000 pieces from the 1200s until now. It has an awesome group of Spanish and Basque paintings.
See also: Our travel guide to Nerja, Spain
You’ll see works by big name Spanish artists too like Picasso, Goya, El Greco, Zurbaran and Chillida.
Things to do in Bilbao Spain: 9
Visit Gaztelugatxe
For a nature break from Bilbao, visit stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. It’s just 50 minutes away.
There, hike an ancient stone bridge to a tiny church. Soak up the wild Bay of Biscay beauty.
Gaztelugatxe is also a Game of Thrones site. Fans will know it as Dragonstone, home of Daenerys Targaryen. This is where you can play out your favourite scenes!
For nature lovers, Gaztelugatxe’s easily Bilbao’s top day trip. Because it’s remote, driving there is best. If you’re planning to explore more of Spain’s natural wonders, our guide on the best places to visit in Spain during winter is a must-read.
From Bilbao, take highway B1-631. Follow the signs to Gaztelugatxe and park on the top of the hill. Then walk 1 kilometer to the spot.
Bilbao, Spain Things to Do: Best Tours
Bilbao, Spain Things to do: Faqs
i. Where is Bilbao?
Though the biggest city in northern Spain’s Basque area, Bilbao keeps a small town feel. It lies beautifully among green hills, nestled between mountain ranges. Near the Bay of Biscay, Bilbao stays pretty mild but can be rainy in winter.
ii. How do I Get to Bilbao?
Bilbao Airport, officially called Bilbao Airport-Loiu, is the main airport for the city. It has domestic and international flights, connecting Bilbao to big Spanish cities and European destinations.
From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to reach downtown Bilbao. For fast, easy transport, book a private car to your hotel.
Renfe, Spain’s national-railway, provides the trains that run to Bilbao. The city has two central stations: Abando Indalecio Prieto (Bilbao Abando) and Concordia.
Driving, take highway A8/E70. But don’t drive in town – parking’s limited downtown. Keep your car at your hotel.
iii. What’s the Best Way of Getting Around Bilbao?
The small old town is walkable. Cars are banned, so main sights can be visited on foot. Bilbao also has a modern metro system.
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Travel Planning Guide for Bilbao Spain
Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Spain
Buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Therefore, enjoy your holiday in Bilbao stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Visitors Coverage Insurance.
Renting a Car in Spain
Indeed, renting a car in Bilbao is easy and is a great way to explore Spain freely. Consequently, I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.
Finding the Perfect Accommodation
The best way to book your accommodation in Spain is with Booking.com. In fact, it’s my go to site to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Booking Flights to Spain
Lastly, for air travel, I recommend booking your flight with Omio. Moreover, it has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights to visit Bilbao.
