Getting started: About Bilbao
- Bilbao is a port city on the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean, and a notable city in Northern Spain and the Basque Country.
- Today’s Bilbao features an urban planning structure recognized on an international scale.
- This port city on the Bay of Biscay enjoys a typically mild climate throughout the year, with minimal temperature fluctuations across the seasons.
- The city, once a prominent maritime and industrial center, has become a lively cultural hub.
- Bilbao’s captivating streets, historical and natural attractions, and vibrant entertainment scene present a terrific travel itinerary.
When to visit Bilbao
Bilbao’s summer season, between June and September, is considered an ideal time to visit the city, as well as the beaches and natural areas in Bilbao. A number of delightful local events also take place during the summer, so there are even more things to do in Bilbao during that season. If cooler weather and a calmer atmosphere are more appealing, consider visiting the city during the fall or winter instead.
Places to visit in Bilbao
In addition to the must-see historical destinations in Bilbao, Bilbao vacation guides spotlight the city’s many museums, cathedrals, and theaters, along with its charming old streets and avenues, and natural areas like valleys and parks. For sports fans, the city is home to the renowned Athletic Bilbao soccer team and the club’s home stadium, San Mamés. Keep reading for more travel suggestions for Bilbao and its surroundings!
The Guggenheim Museum
Built in 1997, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a top-ranked destination on any list of the best places to visit in Bilbao. The result of a partnership between the Basque Institutions and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao houses a permanent exhibition assembled from all the works in the Guggenheim collections. The Frank Gehry-designed building, made of titanium, limestone, and glass, overlooks the Nervión River. The 24,000-square-meter complex includes 9,000 square meters of exhibition space.
The Cathedral of Santiago
Dedicated to the Apostle Santiago, the Gothic-style Cathedral of Santiago was erected during the late 14th to early 15th century and designated in 1931 as a significant part of Spain’s historical and artistic heritage. The cathedral holds a unique position among the historic sites of Bilbao, and is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Basque Country. Set in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Santiago is a must-see on any cultural tour of Bilbao.
Basilica of Begoña
The Basilica of Begoña holds a significant position in the cultural landscape of Bilbao: the structure is dedicated to La Amatxu, one of the city’s most revered figures. Like the Cathedral of Santiago, the 16th-century Basilica of Begoña showcases the grandeur of gothic architecture; the Basilica of Begoña today also bears enhancements introduced in subsequent centuries. In front of the basilica is an area where visitors can purchase items such as calendars and postcards.
Azkuna Zentroa
Considered a prominent art and entertainment hub, the modernist-style Azkuna Zentroa features a collection that ranges from sculptures to various art objects, and from paintings to illustrations. The center embraces local and international perspectives and supports the creation of original knowledge through art and artists.
Plaza Nueva
Opened in 1851 after 65 years of construction, the landmark Plaza Nueva is in the heart of Bilbao’s historic district. The square is set within a series of graceful, arcaded buildings that contain various shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. On Sundays, the square hosts a street market where vendors sell books, records, coins, minerals, crafts, and much more, presenting one of the liveliest shopping spots in Bilbao.
San Antón Bridge and the Church of San Antón
The San Antón Bridge and Church of San Antón are also considered essential historical buildings to visit in Bilbao. Dating to the 15th century, both structures stand out as emblematic of Bilbao — in fact, they are depicted on the city’s coat-of-arms. The two structures, with the Nervión River flowing beneath the bridge, present an evocative picture that becomes even more captivating in the evening light.
Arriaga Theater
Ranking among the top places to visit in Bilbao, the Arriaga Theater opened in 1890, featuring a design inspired by the Paris Opera. The theater is named for Spanish composer Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga. Restored in 1986, the Arriaga Theater retains many of its period furnishings and carpets. The theater’s program runs throughout the year and includes opera, ballet, and theater performances, as well as concerts and cultural events.
Doña Casilda Park
The lung of Bilbao, Doña Casilda Park, covers an area of around 100,000 square meters and is the city’s largest green space. Established over a century ago, the park features walking paths and pergolas, as well as museums, sports facilities, and playgrounds. Notably, it contains nearly 2,000 trees. It’s a popular tourist destination in Bilbao, particularly for families traveling with children.
Erriberako Merkatua
Spotlighting the vibrant culinary heritage of the Basque Country, Erriberako Merkatua (also called La Ribera Market) is a genuine gastronomic and historical treasure in the heart of Bilbao. Featuring an Art Deco style exterior, the market has been in operation since 1928. Today, in addition to stalls offering seafood and other products, the market houses dining and drinking facilities, plus a café with a terrace and river views.
San Mamés Stadium
San Mamés Stadium stands as a landmark in the heart of Bilbao — a venue where football has been celebrated for more than a century. France Football Magazine reports that San Mamés, a venue for Euro 2021, is considered among the 30 most exciting stadiums in the world. San Mamés Stadium serves as the home ground for Athletic Bilbao, the soccer team representing the Basque Country in Spain, and stands out as a premier destination in Bilbao for sports fans. Stadium tours are available, and there’s also a museum.
Dining in Bilbao
That Spain is one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations may whet your appetite to visit Bilbao — Basque cuisine is distinguished by its high quality and skillful deployment of local produce. It should be noted, also, that Bilbao is home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants. The area’s proximity to the sea has inspired standout seafood dishes. Some iconic Bilbao dishes include the following:
- Marmitako (traditional stew with tuna and potatoes)
- Kokotxas (traditional cod stew with a green sauce)
- Piperrada (spicy stew of green peppers, onions, and tomatoes)
- Idiazabal (a hard cheese made with sheep’s milk)
- Pantxineta (traditional Basque dessert of puff pastry and almond crème)
Do ensure that your meals contain ingredients suitable for your diet.
Transportation in Bilbao
Urban transportation in Bilbao
The center of Bilbao is small and many tourist attractions are easily accessible by foot or bicycle. In fact, with careful planning, you can cut the walk between tourist attractions to 15-20 minutes. Bilbao’s public transportation network includes metros, trams, and buses.
Transportation from Bilbao Airport to the city center
Bilbao Airport is approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. Public buses operate between the airport and the city center. Taxis and private transfer vehicles are also available.
Useful tips for Spain and Bilbao
- Socket type: C and F
- Currency: Euro
- Emergency: 112
- Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Madrid: +34 913 103 904
- Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Barcelona: +34 93 317 92 31
