- Travel Enthusiast
- Sep 5
- 7 min read
Updated: Sep 6
THE 8 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BILBAO - SPAIN
Bilbao combines bold design with Basque tradition, creating a city that feels both modern and deeply rooted in its culture. The Guggenheim, Casco Viejo, and the ritual of a pintxos crawl are just a few of the experiences that give it its unmistakable character.
This guide highlights 8 of the best things to do in Bilbao, Spain – from iconic landmarks to local flavors and views you won’t forget.
Want to make the most of your time? We’ve also created a day-by-day Bilbao itinerary that brings together all the highlights – perfect for planning your trip.
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EXPLORE THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
The Guggenheim is more than a museum – it’s Bilbao’s symbol of transformation. Designed by Frank Gehry, the titanium curves shimmer differently depending on the light, making it just as much of an artwork as the pieces inside.
Outdoors, you’ll come across Jeff Koons’ Puppy, a giant West Highland terrier covered in thousands of flowers, and Louise Bourgeois’ Maman, a 9-meter-high spider that towers over the riverside. Inside, vast spaces showcase contemporary and modern art, with highlights like Richard Serra’s steel installation The Matter of Time, where you can walk between enormous spirals.
Tip 1: Go early to enjoy both the exterior and interior before the crowds. Even if modern art isn’t your thing, the building and sculptures outside are worth the visit.
Tip 2: Booking tickets online in advance is strongly recommended.
STROLL THROUGH CASCO VIEJO (OLD TOWN)
The Casco Viejo is where Bilbao’s story began, and wandering its streets is still one of the city’s most enjoyable experiences. Known as the Seven Streets, this compact area is a lively mix of colorful buildings, artisan shops, and tiny bars filled with chatter.
Landmarks include the Santiago Cathedral, built in the 14th century, and Plaza Nueva, an arcaded square that comes alive with pintxo bars spilling onto the terraces. Don’t miss the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets, where stalls are filled with fresh seafood, cheeses, and local produce. It’s a perfect place to stop for a bite at one of the food counters.
Natural walking route – The easiest way to see the highlights without feeling rushed is to start at Teatro Arriaga, wander through the Siete Calles, pause at Plaza Nueva, visit the Santiago Cathedral, and finish at the Ribera Market and San Antón Bridge.
Tip: Curious to learn more about the Casco Viejo? A guided walking tour is a great way to hear the stories behind its streets, explore key landmarks, and uncover details you’d probably miss on your own.
WALK ALONG THE NERVIÓN RIVER
The Nervión River curves right through Bilbao, and walking along its promenade is one of the simplest ways to take in the city. The route between the Casco Viejo and the Guggenheim is especially scenic, lined with modern architecture, striking bridges, and plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the view.
Highlights include the Zubizuri Bridge, Santiago Calatrava’s sleek white footbridge, and Isozaki Atea, a pair of glass towers that reflect the changing light over the water. The riverside path is flat and easy, inviting you to enjoy the riverfront whenever you like.
Tip: Go in the evening when the buildings light up and reflect on the river – it’s one of the most atmospheric moments to see Bilbao.
GO ON A PINTXOS CRAWL
Bilbao’s food culture is legendary, and nothing represents it better than a pintxos crawl. A pintxo (pronounced peen-cho) is the Basque take on tapas – small, creative bites usually served on bread, often skewered with a toothpick. They can be simple, like tortilla española or the classic Gilda (olive, anchovy, and pepper), or more elaborate, like squid with black ink aioli, grilled mushrooms with garlic, or salt cod with roasted red pepper.
For a lively experience, head to Calle Ledesma, known for its stylish pintxo bars, or Plaza Nueva, where dozens of options line the arcades. Each bar has its specialties – from seafood to modern, gourmet twists. The joy is in moving from place to place, sampling one or two pintxos at each stop.
Tip: Don’t order a full spread at the first place – the fun is in the variety. Start with one pintxo and a drink, then move on. If you want to discover the hidden gems, consider joining a guided pintxos tour.
RIDE THE FUNICULAR TO MOUNT ARTXANDA
When you need a break from the city streets, Mount Artxanda is the perfect escape. The funicular takes just three minutes and brings you to a viewpoint with panoramic views of the Guggenheim, the river, and the red-roofed houses fading into the green hills.
At the top, you’ll find a park with walking paths, sculptures, and wide-open spaces to relax. It’s a favorite spot for locals to jog, picnic, or just take in the view, and the fresh air makes it a refreshing contrast to the busy streets below.
Tip 1: Catch the funicular from Plaza del Funicular, just a short walk from the old town and the Guggenheim. It runs every 15 minutes throughout the day, from early morning until late evening, so you won’t be waiting long.
Tip 2: Go up in the late afternoon and stay through sunset. Watching the city glow as the lights reflect on the river is one of Bilbao’s simplest pleasures.
VISIT THE BILBAO FINE ARTS MUSEUM
Often overshadowed by the Guggenheim, the Museo de Bellas Artes deserves just as much attention. Its collection spans from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, including Spanish masters like El Greco, Goya, and Sorolla, as well as international artists like Gauguin and Bacon. It’s a fascinating journey through European art, with a focus on Basque painters who capture the spirit of the region.
The museum is located right next to Doña Casilda Park, one of Bilbao’s main green spaces. You can stop at the park before or after your museum visit to enjoy its shaded paths, fountains, and benches.
Tip: Entry is free on certain days (often Wednesdays), and the museum is quieter in the morning. Check the official website for up-to-date details on exhibitions and free-entry times.
EXPERIENCE SAN MAMÉS STADIUM
Nicknamed La Catedral, San Mamés is more than a football stadium – it’s a symbol of Bilbao’s identity. Home to Athletic Club, one of Spain’s most historic teams, the stadium combines striking modern design with deep-rooted traditions. You can take an audio-guided tour that leads you behind the scenes to the locker rooms, players’ tunnel, pitch, and through the rich exhibits in the Athletic Club Museum, which highlight the club’s history and Basque philosophy.
The stadium is located on the edge of the city center, just a short walk from the river. Its striking architecture makes it an impressive sight even if you don’t go inside, especially when lit up at night.
Tip: Don’t miss the Athletic Club shop next to San Mamés, where you’ll find everything from official jerseys to memorabilia that celebrates Bilbao’s football tradition.
TAKE A TRIP TO THE BASQUE COAST
The Basque coastline is home to dramatic cliffs, fishing villages, and cultural landmarks that make it an easy and rewarding day trip from Bilbao. Highlights include:
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe – a striking islet reached by a winding bridge and 241 steps, crowned by a hermitage. It’s instantly recognizable as Dragonstone from Game of Thrones.
Mundaka – a colorful seaside town with a lively harbor and estuary views, best known for its world-class surf.
Gernika – rich in Basque history and symbolism, home to the Casa de Juntas and the iconic oak tree, as well as the story behind Picasso’s famous painting.
Bermeo – a traditional fishing port with brightly painted houses and a strong maritime heritage.
Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve – a protected estuary of wetlands, forests, and wildlife, offering a quieter glimpse of the region’s natural beauty.
Tip: If you want to experience the coast without planning the logistics, a guided tour from Bilbao is the easiest way. It typically combines Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka, and Gernika into one trip, giving you a mix of landscapes, seaside charm, and history in a single day.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is Bilbao, Spain worth visiting?
Bilbao is absolutely worth visiting. Once an industrial hub, it has transformed into a city where cutting-edge architecture, world-class art, and Basque traditions coexist. The Guggenheim put it on the map, but its lively old town, riverside walks, and renowned food culture make it a destination that surprises far beyond its famous museum.
What not to miss in Bilbao?
The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s undisputed icon, as captivating for its architecture as for the art inside. The Casco Viejo is another must, with centuries-old streets, lively squares, and pintxo bars that set the city’s rhythm. Food is part of the story too, with a pintxos crawl and the Mercado de la Ribera among the best ways to experience it. If you have time, ride the Artxanda Funicular to take in views that reveal Bilbao’s contrast of old and new from above.
Is Bilbao cheap or expensive?
Bilbao sits somewhere in the middle. Pintxos and drinks are surprisingly affordable, and public transport offers good value. Museums and hotels raise the bill a little, especially in peak season, but the city remains less costly than Madrid or Barcelona, while not as budget-friendly as smaller cities in the south.
Which is nicer, Bilbao or San Sebastian?
They offer different charms. Bilbao feels urban and creative, with bold architecture, celebrated museums, and a strong local rhythm. San Sebastian is more polished, with golden beaches, elegant boulevards, and a culinary scene that’s hard to rival. Just an hour apart, many travelers experience both – Bilbao for culture and energy, San Sebastian for seaside beauty and world-class dining.
START YOUR ADVENTURE
These 8 best things to do in Bilbao, Spain, highlight the city’s unique mix of cutting-edge design, rich Basque culture, and unforgettable food. From the Guggenheim’s iconic curves to pintxos crawls through Casco Viejo, Bilbao is a city that rewards both curiosity and appetite. Take your time, and you’ll quickly see why it has become one of Spain’s most distinctive cities.
