Bilbao, in northern Spain, was once an industrial centre, 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 travellers 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 programme 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 centre.
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 kilometres) 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 Travel Guide
Where to stay in Bilbao
Bilbao City Centre
Bilbao City Centre is highly notable for its fascinating museums, and you might want to visit top sights like Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Palacio de la Diputación Foral de Vizcaya. See more of Bilbao by jumping on the metro at Moyua Station or Abando Station.
Bilbao Old Town
Museums, shopping and theatres 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
Ample dining options, fascinating museums, and beautiful 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
If you're spending time in Ibaiondo, check out sights like Ribera Market or Santiago Cathedral and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Atxuri Tram Station or Ribera Tram Stop.
Casco Viejo
Museums, theatres and historical sites highlight some notable features of Casco Viejo. Make a stop by Plaza Nueva or Museum of Archaeology Bizkaya while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Casco Viejo Station or Arriga Tram Stop to get around town.
San Francisco
You'll enjoy the bars and theatres in San Francisco. You might want to make time for a stop at Ensanche or Bay of Biscay.
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2024
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Reviewed on 22 Apr 2024
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.
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.
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.
Reviews of Bilbao
4/5 - Good
Pleasant city, surrounded by mountains and with great culture and gastronomy
5/5 - Excellent
Great weekend city plenty to see , bus tour good to find locations and hop off when you want . Old town great with lovely Christmas lights , stalls and local wines and pintox.. Guggenheim well worth a visit
4/5 - Good
Gugenheim museum excellent. Food very good. Funicular is a must as is the Old town.
5/5 - Excellent
Guggenheim/ worth a trip
5/5 - Excellent
Wet - take an umbrella- everybody carries one.
5/5 - Excellent
The food and wine were excellent the walk by the river was fantastic
