Bilbao Travel Guide: tips and things to do

Bilbao, located in northern Spain in the Basque Country, is a dynamic city that has transformed itself from an industrial hub into one of Spain’s most modern and culturally rich destinations. Today, it offers a perfect blend of contemporary architecture, historic charm, world-class gastronomy and a vibrant urban atmosphere.

With its iconic landmarks, lively old town and renowned culinary scene, Bilbao is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience both tradition and innovation in one place.

Main attractions

The city’s most famous landmark is the Guggenheim Museum, a striking example of modern architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Its titanium structure has become a global symbol of Bilbao’s transformation and houses contemporary art exhibitions.

Art lovers should also visit the Fine Arts Museum, which features an impressive collection spanning from classical to modern works.

The Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, is the historic heart of Bilbao. Its narrow streets are filled with traditional buildings, shops, bars and cultural landmarks such as the Santiago Cathedral and the Arriaga Theatre.

The Ribera Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe, is a great place to experience local life and sample fresh regional products.

For panoramic views of the city, take the Artxanda Funicular, which offers a scenic ride up to one of Bilbao’s best viewpoints.

Other notable sights include the Euskalduna Palace, a major venue for concerts and events, the Church of Begoña, an important religious site, and the modern Calatrava Bridge, known for its elegant design.

Culture and atmosphere

Bilbao is known for its strong cultural identity and lively social scene. The city hosts a wide range of cultural events, including theatre performances, concerts, exhibitions and festivals throughout the year.

The Casco Viejo is the center of social life, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the city’s famous food culture and nightlife. The atmosphere is especially vibrant in the evenings, with bustling streets and lively bars.

Festivals

Bilbao celebrates several major festivals each year. Carnival, held in February, brings colorful parades, costumes and street celebrations.

Holy Week takes place in March or April and features traditional religious processions through the city.

The most important celebration is Aste Nagusia (Big Week), which begins in August and includes concerts, cultural events, fireworks and festivities that take over the entire city.

Food and gastronomy

Bilbao is a paradise for food lovers, especially those interested in Basque cuisine. The city is famous for its pintxos, small and creative dishes typically served in bars.

The best place to experience this tradition is in the Old Quarter, particularly around the Seven Streets area, where visitors can enjoy bar hopping while tasting a wide variety of flavors paired with local wines.

Bilbao also offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, making it a key destination for both classic and avant-garde gastronomy.

Weather

Bilbao has an oceanic climate influenced by the nearby Cantabrian Sea. Temperatures are generally mild throughout the year, with average highs of around 13°C in January and 26°C in August.

Rainfall is relatively frequent, so it is advisable to be prepared for occasional showers regardless of the season.

Getting there

• By plane

Bilbao Airport is located about 5 kilometers from the city center and offers connections to many national and European destinations.

• By train

The main train station, Bilbao-Abando, connects the city with major destinations across Spain.

• By bus

The Termibus station provides regional, national and international bus routes and is conveniently located in the city.

• By ferry

Bilbao’s port offers ferry connections to destinations such as Portsmouth in the United Kingdom.

Getting around

Bilbao is easy to explore on foot, especially in the central areas. The city also has an efficient and modern metro system that connects key areas and surrounding neighborhoods.

In addition, a network of urban buses operates throughout the city, including night services on weekends, making it easy to get around at any time.