Here’s an in-depth guide to the best things to do in Bilbao, blending culture, architecture, gastronomy, and local charm.
1. Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s most famous landmark and one of the most influential buildings of modern architecture. Designed by Frank Gehry, it is a spectacular structure made of titanium, glass, and limestone. The museum’s collection focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring works by international artists such as Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Mark Rothko, and Richard Serra. The outdoor area around the museum is equally impressive, displaying large-scale sculptures like Jeff Koons’ floral “Puppy” and Louise Bourgeois’ “Maman.” Even if you are not an art enthusiast, the Guggenheim’s architecture and setting beside the Nervión River make it a must-visit.
2. Explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town)
The Casco Viejo, or Old Town, is the historic heart of Bilbao. It is composed of narrow, winding streets that date back to medieval times. The area is filled with small shops, traditional taverns, and lively squares that showcase the local way of life. Key attractions include the Santiago Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and the Plaza Nueva, a charming square lined with restaurants and pintxo bars. Casco Viejo is ideal for walking, tasting local food, and discovering the city’s traditional atmosphere.
3. Experience Bilbao’s Cuisine and Pintxos Culture
Bilbao is part of Spain’s Basque Country, one of the world’s top culinary regions. The city’s food scene ranges from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual pintxo bars. Pintxos are small, flavorful bites served on bread and are a central part of Basque dining culture. Visitors can enjoy a “pintxos crawl” through areas like Calle Ledesma or Plaza Nueva, sampling local specialties such as cod, Iberian ham, and grilled prawns. For fine dining, restaurants like Azurmendi and Nerua Guggenheim offer exceptional tasting menus that blend creativity with Basque tradition. The La Ribera Market is another excellent stop for local produce, meats, and seafood.
4. Walk Along the Nervión River and Abandoibarra
The area around the Nervión River has been completely transformed from an industrial zone into a modern urban space. The Abandoibarra district is a pleasant area for walking, jogging, or relaxing by the water. Along the promenade, visitors can see several architectural landmarks such as the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, and the Isozaki Atea Towers. This riverside walk offers beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset, and connects many of Bilbao’s main attractions.
5. Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Located near the Guggenheim, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is one of Spain’s best art museums. Its collection spans from the Middle Ages to contemporary works, featuring Spanish masters such as El Greco, Goya, and Zuloaga, as well as international artists. The museum provides a quieter and more classical counterpoint to the Guggenheim’s modern focus and is ideal for art lovers seeking a comprehensive view of European art history.
6. Discover the Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao)
The Azkuna Zentroa is a cultural and leisure center housed in a renovated wine warehouse redesigned by Philippe Starck. The building combines historical architecture with modern design, featuring exhibition spaces, cinemas, a library, restaurants, and even a swimming pool with a glass floor. It is a hub of creativity and social activity, offering a glimpse into Bilbao’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity.
7. See the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante)
The Vizcaya Bridge, located in the nearby town of Portugalete, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest transporter bridges. Built in 1893, it allows cars and pedestrians to cross the river using a suspended gondola. Visitors can also walk across the upper walkway for panoramic views of the estuary and the surrounding towns of Getxo and Portugalete. It is a fascinating example of 19th-century engineering that remains in daily use today.
8. Enjoy the Beaches and Coastal Towns
Bilbao is close to the Basque coastline, which offers beautiful beaches and scenic seaside towns. Sopelana and Getxo are popular for surfing and coastal walks, while Plentzia is known for its calm bay and seafood restaurants. These towns are easily reachable by metro from the city center, making them ideal for a half-day or full-day trip. The combination of city and sea gives visitors a diverse experience within a short distance.
9. Hike or Take the Funicular to Mount Artxanda
Mount Artxanda provides one of the best panoramic views of Bilbao and the surrounding hills. You can reach the summit by hiking or by taking the funicular railway, which departs near the Guggenheim Museum. At the top, there are several viewpoints, a park, and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. This is a perfect spot for photography and to appreciate the city’s unique geography.
10. Experience Basque Culture and Festivals
Bilbao hosts several festivals throughout the year that reflect its cultural richness. The most famous is Aste Nagusia, or Semana Grande, which takes place in August and features parades, concerts, fireworks, and street performances. Throughout the year, you can also find smaller events celebrating Basque music, dance, and sports. For nightlife, neighborhoods like Indautxu and Casco Viejo offer a variety of bars and live music venues where you can experience Bilbao’s friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
11. Explore Shopping and Local Design
Bilbao offers both traditional and modern shopping experiences. The Casco Viejo is filled with independent boutiques selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and local fashion. For a more contemporary experience, Gran Vía is the main commercial street, home to international and luxury brands. Visiting local markets such as Mercado de la Ribera is also recommended for regional products like cheese, ham, and wines.
12. Take Day Trips from Bilbao
The city’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Basque countryside and coast. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic island connected by a stone bridge, is one of the most famous sights in the region. The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offers hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking in a beautiful natural setting. The historic town of Guernica, known for Picasso’s painting and its significance in Basque history, is another worthwhile visit.
Conclusion
Bilbao is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Once an industrial port, it has transformed into a cultural and architectural hub known for its art, gastronomy, and design. Visitors can admire world-class museums, enjoy exceptional food, explore lively old streets, and experience the natural beauty of the Basque coast. Whether you are interested in art, history, food, or outdoor activities, Bilbao offers an enriching and diverse experience that reflects the creativity and pride of the Basque Country.
