Bilbao
Western Europe · Spain
Did you know?
- Casco Viejo is known for its seven streets.
- Basquery is a brewpub with eight beers on tap.
- Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum opened in 1997.
See also
Santander
Spain43.47°N 3.80°W · 15 m
San Sebastián
Spain43.32°N 1.98°W · 6 m
Logroño
Spain42.47°N 2.45°W · 384 m
Overview
Bilbao is a base for exploring Basque culture and language. Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum became a landmark in the city's transformation.
Languages: Catalan, Basque, Galician, Spanish
Why go?
Bilbao is the largest city in Spain's Basque Country, with a population of about 350,000 (metro over 1 million). It is perhaps the best place to experience the ancient Basque culture and language, and has undergone a remarkable transformation following the opening of Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum in 1997.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Bilbao Airport (BIO) is served by European and low-cost carriers like Vueling, Volotea, easyJet, British Airways, and Air France. ALSA buses connect Bilbao to Santander. The main train station is Estación Abando (RENFE) with an impressive stained glass atrium.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting around
Taxis are available via Taxi Bilbao (phone: 944 10 21 21). The Artxanda Funicular offers spectacular views of the city and the Barik card can be used for cheaper fare.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
When to go
Mild and rainy climate; temperatures rarely below freezing or above 25°C. The city's main festival, Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande), begins the first Saturday after August 15 and lasts 9 days.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay
Budget accommodations include Bilbao Akelarre Hostel (dorms from €17-21) near the Guggenheim, Ganbara Hostel in the old town's Seven Streets area, and Albergue Bilbao youth hostel with double rooms. University dorm Resa San Mamés is also available for IYHA members.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Food and drink
Pintxos (Basque tapas) are a must-try; top bars include Aritz (multiple pintxo contest winner) and Kasko. Craft beer can be found at Basquery brewpub with eight beers on tap. Tap water is safe to drink. Vegetarian and vegan options at Malatesta and La Camelia.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Things to do
Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum (€16 adults, free for under 18), the Puppy flower sculpture outside, and the Museum of Fine Arts (free until major renovation complete). Walk through Casco Viejo's seven streets, climb Mallona stairs for views, or take the Artxanda Funicular. For sports, watch Athletic de Bilbao play at San Mamés stadium.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Safety
Basque Country has one of Europe's lowest crime rates (33.4 per 1000). Avoid the San Francisco area. Be politically sensitive: avoid referring to Basque Country as Spain, and avoid wearing Spanish symbols in some bars.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Connectivity
Bilbao has 5G coverage from all Spanish carriers as of June 2022.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go next
From Bilbao, ALSA buses go to Santander. The Vizcaya Bridge (UNESCO World Heritage) is a short trip west of the city.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- eat
Agape
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Aritz
Was once one of the best Pintxos bars in Bilbao, quite out of the way (almost hidden really in a very small, one way street away from the main thoroughfares). Ask for it and you will be given directions. It is worth the walk since they have won the local Pintxo contests for ages. It's worth going to this street though because there are dozens other pintxos bars.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Bilbao Cafe bar
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Buddah Palace
Indo-nepali restaurant with vegetarian options,
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Charley Bar
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Copper Deli
Convenient for the Museo de Bella Artes. Meat based, Vegetarian & Vegan dishes. Craft beers in bottles.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
El Globo
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Fernando
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Safety
Basque Country has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe (33.4 per 1000). Avoid San Francisco area.
Water
Tap water is safe to drink, also from outdoor taps if not marked 'No Potable'.