In the heart of the Basque Country reside an enticing 14-century port city, that is world famous for its art museums, impressive bridges, and the Semana Grande festival. While the city was always the economic and cultural center of the Basque Country, it got a major boost in 1997 when the Guggenheim Museum was inaugurated. The striking museum, designed by Frank Gehry, become an immediate sensation and attract travelers from all over the globe who wished to visit the remarkable museum on the bank of the river Nervion. Many investments were made to adjust the city to the Increased tourism in Bilbao, and the outcome is gorgeous.
Bilbao is bridging between the ancient and the modern in an admirable way and is very much immersed in art. It has a wonderful ancient monument and original gothic style side by side with remarkable modern bridges and museums.
This 3-day itinerary will show you the best and most important places in Bilbao. How to explore the city, to skip the line, and will provide you with a map and walking and transit directions.
Bilbao is bridging between the ancient and the modern in an admirable way and is very much immersed in art. It has a wonderful ancient monument and original gothic style side by side with remarkable modern bridges and museums.
This 3-day itinerary will show you the best and most important places in Bilbao. How to explore the city, to skip the line, and will provide you with a map and walking and transit directions.
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1
6 places
La Salve Bridge, Bilbao
1
09:00 - 10:00
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
2
10:00 - 13:00
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
3
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.
Fine Arts Museum, Bilbao
4
13:30 - 15:30
Bilbao's Fine Arts Museum boasts a rich collection spanning centuries. From Old Masters to modern works, it's a cultural haven. Discover Spanish and Basque art in an elegant setting.
Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro, Bilbao
5
16:00 - 17:30
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
6
17:30 - 18:30
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
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.
3
7 places
Casilda Iturrizar parkea, Bilbao
1
10:00 - 11:00
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a splendid public park that resides next to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. The park is named after Casilda Iturrizar (1818 – 1900), who donated the land and was a prominent philanthropist in the city.
Within the park, there is a duck pond with various species of waterfowl. The park is nicknamed Parque de los Patos (Duck's park) by the locals because of this pond.
There is also a cybernetic fountain that offers sound and light shows during the holidays, surrounded by a shaded walkway (called a pergola) as well as a large space where concerts can be held.
Within the park, there is a duck pond with various species of waterfowl. The park is nicknamed Parque de los Patos (Duck's park) by the locals because of this pond.
There is also a cybernetic fountain that offers sound and light shows during the holidays, surrounded by a shaded walkway (called a pergola) as well as a large space where concerts can be held.
Itsasmuseum, Bilbao
2
11:00 - 12:30
A wonderful museum for children and adults, Itsasmuseum Bilbao is an all-family fun. The large museum is aiming to expose visitors to the rich maritime culture of Bilbao and Bizkaia. And it does so with fantastic exhibitions, indoor and outdoor, and also activities from the nearby river.
Azkuna Zentroa, Bilbao
3
13:00 - 14:00
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.
Bilbao La Concordia Station, Bilbao
4
14:00 - 14:30
The Bilbao-Concordia railway station, also known as La Concordia Station, known as Santander Station, is a terminal railway station in Bilbao. The station was opened in 1902 and currently serves as the terminus station for several narrow-gauge regional and metropolitan railway services operated by Renfe Feve, a division of the state-owned Spanish railway company Renfe. The Bilbao-Abando railway station, also operated by Renfe and that offers medium and long-distance services is located in close proximity.
It is a singular building of modernist style, considered an outstanding example of Belle Époque architecture in Bilbao.
It is a singular building of modernist style, considered an outstanding example of Belle Époque architecture in Bilbao.
Zubizuri, Bilbao
5
15:00 - 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
Artxanda funicular, Bilbao
6
17:00 - 17:30
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
7
17:30 - 19:00
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.