On the banks of the river Nervion, you will find a charming port city that is a wonderful combination of ancient and contemporary art and architecture.
Bilbao is a vibrant and delightful city and a wonderful vacation goal. The city is known best for the phenomenal Guggenheim Museum which was designed by the brilliant architect Frank Gehry. The museum, which was inaugurated in 1997, together with massive investment in tourism by the authorities, made Bilbao a flourishing and popular travel destination in and out of Spain.
This itinerary will show you how to maximize your visit to Bilbao and will lead you to all the most important sights and activities in this lovely city. From the fabulous Artxanda viewpoint, through Guggenheim and Basque museums to Mercado de la Ribera, Bilbao Cathedral, and the magical medieval neighborhood Casco Viejo. Make sure you will not miss the delicious pintxos!
Bilbao is a vibrant and delightful city and a wonderful vacation goal. The city is known best for the phenomenal Guggenheim Museum which was designed by the brilliant architect Frank Gehry. The museum, which was inaugurated in 1997, together with massive investment in tourism by the authorities, made Bilbao a flourishing and popular travel destination in and out of Spain.
This itinerary will show you how to maximize your visit to Bilbao and will lead you to all the most important sights and activities in this lovely city. From the fabulous Artxanda viewpoint, through Guggenheim and Basque museums to Mercado de la Ribera, Bilbao Cathedral, and the magical medieval neighborhood Casco Viejo. Make sure you will not miss the delicious pintxos!
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1
9 places
Artxanda funicular, Bilbao
1
08:30 - 09:00
Ascend the Artxanda Funicular for panoramic views of Bilbao. A scenic ride to a hilltop oasis, offering breathtaking perspectives of the city's skyline and surrounding mountains.
Artxanda viewpoint, Bilbao
2
09:00 - 10:00
The Artxanda Viewpoint, atop Mount Artxanda, promises spectacular vistas. Capture Bilbao's beauty and the Nervion River winding through the city. An ideal spot for photographers and those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes.
La Salve Bridge, Bilbao
3
11:00 - 11:30
La Salve Bridge, a modern architectural marvel, welcomes visitors to Bilbao. Its iconic design, especially the Guggenheim's titanium structure beneath, creates a stunning entry into the city. A symbol of Bilbao's contemporary transformation.
Salbeko Zubia, 48009 Bilbo, Bizkaia, SpainGuggenheim Museum Bilbao, Bilbao
4
11:30 - 14:30
Explore the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a cultural beacon renowned for its avant-garde architecture and cutting-edge art exhibitions. An architectural masterpiece by Frank Gehry, it houses a diverse collection of contemporary art.
Puppy, Bilbao
5
View the charming flower puppy, just in front of the Guggenheim Museum. The eye-catching puppy was created by Jeff Koons, and it's one of the most famous symbols of modern Bilbao.
Zubizuri, Bilbao
6
15:30 - 16:00
Zubizuri, meaning "White Bridge," is a modern pedestrian bridge in Bilbao. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, its curvilinear structure and iconic white tiles create a striking contrast against the Nervion River, offering a memorable urban landmark.
Zubizuri, 48001 Bilbao, Vizcaya, SpainBook now
Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro, Bilbao
7
16:00 - 17:00
Gran Vía, Bilbao's main artery, pulses with life. Lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, it's perfect for strolls and immersing in the city's dynamic ambiance.
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Plaza Moyua, Bilbao
8
17:00 - 17:30
At the heart of Bilbao, Plaza Moyua is a bustling square surrounded by shops and architectural gems. A meeting point and starting place for city exploration, it captures the essence of urban life.
Federico Moyúa Plaza, Bilbo, Bizkaia, SpainBook now
Azkuna Zentroa, Bilbao
9
18:00 - 19:00
Azkuna Zentroa, once a wine warehouse, is now a cultural center. Its undulating rooftop and diverse events make it a symbol of Bilbao's architectural and artistic revival.
2
7 places
Begoñako Basilika, Bilbao
1
10:00 - 11:00
Begoñako Basilika, atop Mount Artxanda, is a pilgrimage site with panoramic views. Its Baroque architecture and the revered image of the Virgin Mary make it a cultural and spiritual landmark, inviting visitors to witness Bilbao from a sacred vantage point.
Basque Museum, Bilbao
2
11:30 - 13:00
Discover the rich Basque heritage at the Basque Museum. From prehistoric artifacts to contemporary exhibits, it offers a comprehensive journey through the region's history, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Mercado de la Ribera, Bilbao
3
13:30 - 14:30
Mercado de la Ribera, Europe's largest covered market, is a sensory delight. Famed for its fresh produce, seafood, and lively atmosphere, it's a gastronomic haven reflecting Bilbao's culinary prowess.
Bilbao Cathedral, Bilbao
4
14:30 - 16:30
Bilbao Cathedral, dedicated to St. James, is a Gothic masterpiece. Its stunning architecture, intricate chapels, and serene cloister make it a spiritual and historical gem at the heart of the city.
Plaza Nueva, Bilbao
5
16:30 - 17:30
Plaza Nueva, a historic square, exudes charm with its neoclassical arches and lively ambiance. Famed for its bars, it's an ideal spot for savoring pintxos, immersing in local culture, and enjoying Bilbao's social scene.
Plaza Nueva, 48005 Bilbao, Vizcaya, SpainVideo
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Casco Viejo, Bilbao
6
17:30 - 19:30
Casco Viejo, Bilbao's Old Town, is a maze of narrow streets and vibrant squares. Famous for its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and eclectic shops, it's a captivating blend of tradition and modernity.
Casco Viejo, Bilbao, Biscay, SpainBook now
Teatro Arriaga, Bilbao
7
The Arriaga antzokia (or Teatro Arriaga in Spanish) is Bilbao's opera house. It was built in Neo-baroque style by architect Joaquín Rucoba in 1890, the same architect that built the city hall. It is named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, known in his time as the "Spanish Mozart".
The theatre was rebuilt in 1985 after severe flooding in August 1983 destroyed it.
The theatre was rebuilt in 1985 after severe flooding in August 1983 destroyed it.