Bilbao, in northern Spain, was once an industrial center, but today is better known for its thriving arts and cultural scene. Come to visit world-class museums, dine at sophisticated restaurants or head out into the surrounding countryside.
Start your visit by climbing the Mallona stairs from Plaza Unamuno to Parque Etxebarria or take the Artxanda funicular railway to enjoy some of the best views in the city.
Many travelers come to Bilbao to see the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, one of the most renowned art institutions in Europe. The remarkable modern building, with its curved glass and titanium walls, houses art from the mid 20th century to today. Other art attractions include the Fine Arts Museum and the Basque Museum. Bilbao also has a full annual program of cultural events featuring many important exhibitions and performances. See some of these events at the Palacio Euskalduna, a striking modernist building in the city center.
The city is revered not just for its modern architecture, but also for its buildings dating back to the 14th century. Visit the Gothic-style Cathedral of St. James and the Alhondiga, a complex containing a library, several bars and restaurants, a cinema and a rooftop pool with a glass floor.
Bilbao is known for its sophisticated dining scene, with a host of Michelin-starred restaurants. Try local cuisine such as baby squid and lamb stew.
As well as art and food, Bilbao is a city keen on sport. In town there are 18.5 miles (30 kilometers) of cycling lanes, as well as many swimming pools, gyms and parks. Around Bilbao there are nature reserves and hiking trails, as well as several nearby golf courses.
Rent a car and drive out of town to enjoy the countryside or coast surrounding the city. There are traditional fishing villages along the nearby bay. Further down the coast you’ll find picturesque and quiet beaches. An inland route will take you to hiking trails through mountainous scenery. Check the weather forecast before planning your beach day, as the mild climate brings more rain than in other parts of the peninsula.
Bilbao
Where to stay in Bilbao
Bilbao City Centre
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Palacio de la Diputación Foral de Vizcaya are top sights in Bilbao City Centre, and you should be sure to explore the fascinating museums. Hop aboard the metro at Moyua Station or Abando Station to see more sights in the area.
Bilbao Old Town
Museums, shopping, and theaters highlight some notable features of Bilbao Old Town. Make a stop by Santiago Cathedral or Plaza Nueva while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Arriga Tram Stop or Casco Viejo Station to get around town.
Abando
Abundant dining options, interesting museums and stunning river views are just a few top things to explore in Abando. A visit to Guggenheim Museum Bilbao or Plaza Moyua might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at Moyua Station or Indautxu Station to get around town.
Ibaiondo
While you're in Ibaiondo, take in top sights like Ribera Market or Santiago Cathedral, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Atxuri Tram Station or Ribera Tram Stop.
Casco Viejo
Discover the most colorful part of Bilbao, where you can explore historical churches like San Antón and San Nicolás, shop at Mercado de la Ribera, and enjoy local taverns. Easily accessible via Casco Viejo station and public elevators.
San Francisco
You'll enjoy the bars and theaters in San Francisco. You might want to make time for a stop at Ensanche or Bay of Biscay.
Reviewed on Apr. 25, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 23, 2024
Reviewed on Apr. 23, 2024
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Reviewed on Dec. 14, 2023
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Popular places to visit
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Investigate a vast collection of modern and contemporary art both inside and outside one of the most recognizable buildings in Bilbao.
San Mames Stadium
Join local soccer fans and shout your support for a well-known European team that calls this spectacular stadium its home.
Plaza Nueva
Feast on an appetizing variety of local gourmet dishes while marveling at the architectural splendor of this popular city plaza.
Plaza Moyua
Take time out in this attractive city plaza and contemplate the beauty and majesty of the architecture of the surrounding historical buildings.
Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall
Attend a conference, concert or dramatic performance, go on a guided tour and browse an eclectic collection of art at this riverside venue.
Ribera Market
Bring your shopping bags for three floors of market stalls at this centuries-old fresh produce market in the city’s historical quarter.
Things to do
From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo and Gernika Tour
From Bilbao: Loyola, Getaria, Zarauz and San Sebastian Tour
La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour - 2 Wineries & Picnic Lunch (From Bilbao)
Visit Marques de Riscal & Picnic in Vineyard from Bilbao
5-day Private Tour Northern Spain (from Bilbao or Santiago)
Reviews of Bilbao
4/5 - Good
Nice city. A little hectic vibe compared to other Spanish cities. Expensive compared to other cities in North of Spain. Really not that much to see as a tourist (I don't find Guggenheim museum that interesting). Just your average size European city.
5/5 - Excellent
Didn't miss the hordes of tourists seen in other cities.
4/5 - Good
Bilbao is beautiful, clean. People are friendly and warm.
5/5 - Excellent
Bilbao is so pretty, especially the river and the old buildings. Pintxos are also amazing.
4/5 - Good
We were only in Bilbao for one night, it is a beautiful old city rich in history. We were there because it is the nearest airport to Haro (1 hr bus ride away) which is the mecca of the Rioja wine region.
5/5 - Excellent
Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim was even more beautiful than we expected ... & the art exhibits were excellent
