Bilbao is a city that stands out for its remarkable transformation from an industrial port to a contemporary hub of creativity, cuisine, and culture. The cityscape is defined by the striking Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, an architectural marvel that announced Bilbao's revival to the world. The elegant Nervión River winds through lively neighborhoods and green parks, while the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town) offers a maze of narrow streets, bustling markets, and centuries-old churches.
Among the main attractions, the Guggenheim takes center stage, both for its world-class modern art collection and awe-inspiring titanium curves. Wanderers will love the Riverside Promenade, the graceful Zubizuri bridge, and the Azkuna Zentroa cultural center. Food lovers flock to the local pintxos bars in Plaza Nueva, where inventive snacks are displayed along with fresh Basque cider. The nearby Fine Arts Museum and soaring Santiago Cathedral add even more depth for culture seekers.
Bilbao's vibrant energy is matched by its laid-back Basque lifestyle. Locals enjoy slow afternoons over coffee in elegant cafés and evenings huddled around pintxos counters, swapping stories. The city’s tram and metro make it easy to navigate, and neighborhoods like Indautxu and Abando are popular for both visitors and locals due to their central locations and stylish hotels. From contemporary dining to lively markets and classic bakeries, there are plenty of culinary adventures waiting at every corner.
Spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit, with mild weather and lively festivals that showcase Basque music, dance, and gastronomy. For a deeper experience, pop into a traditional sidrería in the surrounding hills or take a day trip to the nearby coast. Whether it's art, food, or a taste of local life, Bilbao manages to feel both cutting-edge and warmly familiar.
Among the main attractions, the Guggenheim takes center stage, both for its world-class modern art collection and awe-inspiring titanium curves. Wanderers will love the Riverside Promenade, the graceful Zubizuri bridge, and the Azkuna Zentroa cultural center. Food lovers flock to the local pintxos bars in Plaza Nueva, where inventive snacks are displayed along with fresh Basque cider. The nearby Fine Arts Museum and soaring Santiago Cathedral add even more depth for culture seekers.
Bilbao's vibrant energy is matched by its laid-back Basque lifestyle. Locals enjoy slow afternoons over coffee in elegant cafés and evenings huddled around pintxos counters, swapping stories. The city’s tram and metro make it easy to navigate, and neighborhoods like Indautxu and Abando are popular for both visitors and locals due to their central locations and stylish hotels. From contemporary dining to lively markets and classic bakeries, there are plenty of culinary adventures waiting at every corner.
Spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit, with mild weather and lively festivals that showcase Basque music, dance, and gastronomy. For a deeper experience, pop into a traditional sidrería in the surrounding hills or take a day trip to the nearby coast. Whether it's art, food, or a taste of local life, Bilbao manages to feel both cutting-edge and warmly familiar.
Expected Weekly Budget
$950–$1300 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Explore the exhibitions and sculptures at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Sample pintxos and txakoli wine in the Old Town's taverns
- Stroll along the Nervión River and cross the Zubizuri bridge
- Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes (Fine Arts Museum)
- Enjoy shopping and people-watching in the Gran Vía district
- Relax in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
- Tour the iconic San Mamés Stadium
- Ride the funicular to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views
Notable Sites
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao
- Casco Viejo (Old Town)
- Zubizuri Bridge
- Plaza Nueva
- Santiago Cathedral
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
- Azkuna Zentroa
General Advice
Bilbao is well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy urban adventures, art, and culinary exploration. The city blends a safe, walkable center with efficient public transport, making it easy to see major sites and discover local favorites. Book accommodations early if visiting during festivals, and be sure to try the local Basque specialties. Most people speak Spanish, but learning a few Basque phrases is appreciated by locals.
Security & Safety
Bilbao is considered a safe city for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. However, as in any urban area, keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas like Casco Viejo and on public transport. Pickpocketing is rare but can occur in crowded settings, so use a cross-body bag and avoid displaying expensive items.
Travel Tips
- Purchase a Barik card to use public transport (metro, trams, buses) easily and at a discount.
- Try pintxos in multiple bars—locals often do a 'pintxo crawl' rather than dine in one place.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring; many streets in the Old Town are cobbled and hilly.
- Expect restaurants to close during mid-afternoon hours and open for dinner later in the evening (after 8pm).
- Carry some cash for small purchases in markets and pintxos bars.
- Make time for a funicular ride to Mount Artxanda for views and fresh air.
- Book major museum tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
- Consider day trips to coastal towns like Getxo or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe for a change of scene.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in March 2024
We visited Bilbao on a rainy weekend and still loved every minute. The Guggenheim was mind-blowing—spent half a day just wandering the galleries and enjoying the river views. Pintxos bars in Plaza Nueva were a highlight for sure. Slightly pricey, but the food was worth it.
Traveled here in October 2023
Absolutely fell in love with the energy of Casco Viejo. It’s a great mix of old and modern, and everyone was so friendly. We joined a pintxos crawl with some locals and got to try things I never would have ordered by myself. Can’t wait to come back.
Visited in July 2023
Bilbao was lively and full of art, but super crowded during the summer holidays. The tram system was easy to figure out, and the food scene lived up to the hype. I wish the weather had been a little cooler—plan for heat if you visit in July.
Stayed in February 2024
Traveling with kids, we found plenty to do—Doña Casilda Park was great for our toddler, and the aquarium held their attention for hours. Loved walking along the river at sunset. Finding vegetarian options took a bit of effort, but still doable.
Visited in December 2023
Came just before Christmas and the city was twinkling with lights! The old town had a really cozy vibe and the Basque desserts were fantastic. Public transport made it simple to get everywhere. Pack an umbrella though—weather changes fast.
Traveled here in April 2024
As an art lover, the Fine Arts Museum and Guggenheim were incredible—every gallery had something unique. Tried traditional Basque cider for the first time and it was an experience. Wish we had more days to explore the nearby coast.
Visited in November 2023
I stayed in the Indautxu neighborhood and liked being a little away from the heavier crowds. Loved grabbing coffee and a pastry each morning. City felt safe, though some street construction made walking less smooth in spots.
Visited in May 2024
San Mamés Stadium was a must for any football fan! The tour was fun and the staff were really knowledgeable. Bilbao’s modern architecture surprised me in a good way—lots of cool buildings and street art.
Visited in September 2023
We went to Bilbao for a culinary getaway, and wow—every meal was a highlight. Whether at a fancy restaurant or tiny pintxos bar, the flavors were amazing. Loved how accessible the city is and how you can walk most places comfortably.
Traveled here in August 2023
The Guggenheim is really impressive but lines were long in peak season and it felt a bit touristy. Some museums closed for siesta, which caught us off guard. Still, the walk along the river was lovely in the evenings.
Visited in January 2024
Came as a solo traveler and felt completely at ease. The hotel staff everywhere spoke good English and were helpful. Enjoyed the modern public spaces and took the funicular up to Mount Artxanda for stunning city views.
Visited in April 2024
Four days in Bilbao were just right for us to see the main sights and relax a bit. The food was top notch, especially the seafood. Favorites: Mercado de la Ribera and wandering around the bridges at night.
Stayed in May 2024
We did a day trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and it was totally worth it—gorgeous scenery and a nice break from the city. Back in Bilbao, the nightlife was lively but felt safe even late at night.
Visited in June 2024
Traveling with teens, we all found something to love. They enjoyed the quirky architecture and the massive spider sculpture outside the Guggenheim. Public transport was efficient, although some tram stops took a bit to figure out.
Traveled here in March 2024
I was on a business trip but managed to sneak in a visit to the Fine Arts Museum and Casco Viejo. The mix of old and new architecture is really striking. Easy city for short visits—would recommend it to colleagues.
Visited in December 2023
Fast and reliable metro made getting around a breeze. Weather was chilly, yet the city was inviting and festive. If you’re in town at Christmas, check out the markets for local gifts.
Stayed in February 2024
Spent hours people-watching from café terraces near Plaza Nueva. The blend of Basque and global influences in art and food was impressive. We got rained on a bit, but it didn’t spoil the fun.
Traveled here in June 2024
Loved visiting the Azkuna Zentroa—super cool space and interesting events. The old quarter is photogenic and has great shopping. Sometimes hard to find menus in English, but friendly staff helped out.
Visited in January 2024
We booked last minute for a winter getaway and didn’t regret it. The museums are awesome and even on gray days there’s lots to do. Don't skip the funicular ride, especially at sunset.
Stayed in August 2023
The city was livelier than expected, but I found some of the main sights a little overhyped. Still, the local markets had great energy and the Basque wine scene is fun to explore. Good city for a long weekend.
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