Bilbao, a Spanish city in the North, is waiting to be unraveled! After living in Bilbao for almost a year, I have fallen in love with this part of the basque country. Living in Bilbao is incredible, and it is definitely a place worth visiting. Whether you are passing through or it is your destination, there is a ton to do in this magical place! Bilbao has everything you may want – a city, mountains, beaches, and easy transportation to nearby places. It also cherishes the Basque culture which is an essential aspect of Northern Spain. Along with its rich culture, it has incredible architecture and an important history. One of the most iconic landmarks in Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry. This avant-garde museum is celebrated for its titanium-clad structure and houses a remarkable collection of contemporary art. The art museum is one of the must-do experiences when visiting this part of the Basque Country. Start planning your trip to Bilbao today!
Where to Stay in Bilbao
There are a lot of wonderful places to stay in Bilbao, but there are specific areas that will likely lead to a more enriching experience! The area for your accommodation depends on what you want to experience during your visit, it may be a fútbol game, concert, or you’re just passing through. Choosing where to stay in Bilbao also depends on your preferences, budget, and your goals.
Casco Viejo (Old Town): This historic neighborhood is full of charm with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Casco Viejo is always hustling and bustling and there’s a good chance you will find a live basque street performance. This is a pretty popular area for tourists! Staying here puts you close to many of Bilbao’s top attractions, including a walk to the Guggenheim Museum and the Santiago Cathedral. There’s a large range of accommodation options from hotels to hostels. Below are my suggestions of places to stay in Casco Viejo:
Ensanche (New Town): Ensanche offers a more modern and upscale atmosphere compared to the Old Town. This area includes Moyua, Abando, and Indautxu which is the other main area of the city of Bilbao.
1. Abando has a popular shopping street and if you go over the bridge, you will be in Casco Viejo.
- Hotels: The Artist Grand Hotel of Art, Radisson Collection Bilbao
- Hostel: LATROUPE La Granja (Abando) – This is honestly the main hostel people stay in while in Bilbao! It’s very popular and is in a fantastic location!
2. Moyua has wonderful restaurants as well as the Guggenheim Museum. Hotel Carlon is located in the Moyua Plaza. I see this as the center of Bilbao as this is the circle that breaks into 8 different directions. It feels like it brings you to every part of the city and the metro is super close. On a nice day, the circle is busy with people soaking in the sun.
- Hotel: Hotel Carlton (Moyua)
3. Indautxu is located just west of the city center. It is a bustling neighborhood known for its shopping streets, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a convenient area to stay in, but a longer walk to Casco Viejo.
- Hotels: Catalonia Gran Vía Bilbao (Indautxu), Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao (Indautxu)
Overall, the Ensanche area is home to many shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. It’s a great choice if you prefer a more contemporary setting and easy access to amenities.
Note: In general, it is recommended to avoid the San Francisco area as that neighborhood has higher crime rates for robberies.
When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, public transportation, dining options, and the overall atmosphere of the neighborhood. Additionally, read reviews and check amenities to ensure the accommodation meets your needs and preferences.
When to Go to Bilbao
The best time to visit Bilbao, Spain, largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Bilbao is known for its rainy weather and it’s important to know that there is always a chance of rain in this part of Spain. Here’s a general idea of what to expect for the different seasons:
Spring (March to May): Spring is a delightful time to visit Bilbao, as the weather begins to warm up, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor activities. Temperatures are mild, ranging from around 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C), making it pleasant for sightseeing and exploring the city’s parks and gardens. There is still a large chance of rain, but on a sunny day, it is perfect to go on a hike or to the coast in Gexto. My sister visited in March and it rained a lot, but the temperature was perfect! Get a glimpse of her trip here.
Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Bilbao, thanks to its warm weather and lively atmosphere. Temperatures typically range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the city’s beaches along the coast. However, it can get crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher during this time.
Fall (September to November): Fall is another excellent time to visit Bilbao, as the weather remains mild, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. Temperatures range from around 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C ), making it comfortable for exploring the city’s attractions and attending cultural events. Plus, you can experience the beauty of fall foliage in the surrounding countryside. This is honestly my favorite time in Bilbao. It was warm still in October in 2023. I was able to go to the beach and hike, while also not being overly hot and the city was not too crowded.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Bilbao is relatively mild compared to other parts of Europe, but it can still be chilly and rainy. Temperatures typically range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). While you won’t find snow in the city itself, nearby mountains offer opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Winter is also a great time to experience Bilbao’s indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries, without the crowds. The atmosphere is less ideal during this time so I would recommend it a bit less. If you decide to come in the winter, you can plan less time.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Bilbao depends on your interests and priorities. If you prefer mild weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the spring or fall. If you want to experience the city’s vibrant summer atmosphere and outdoor activities, then summer might be the ideal time for your trip.
Who Should Go to Bilbao
The short answer for who should go to Bilbao is EVERYONE! It truly is a special experience for literally any person that wants to visit. Bilbao is an attractive destination for various types of visitors. If you fit into any of the below categories, it means you need to add Bilbao to your travel list:
Art and Culture Enthusiasts: Bilbao has the Guggenheim Museum which is a must-visit if you cherish contemporary art. Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s impressive collection and its striking architectural design. Additionally, Bilbao boasts other cultural attractions, such as the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Azkuna Zentroa Cultural Center, or the Palacio Euskalduna for a live concert. Additionally, the Basque culture is everywhere so you are guaranteed to learn some Euskara while visiting.
Food and Wine Connoisseurs: The Basque Country is renowned for its culinary scene, and Bilbao is no exception. Travelers with a passion for food and wine will delight in exploring the city’s pintxo bars. At these, you can sample delicious Basque tapas. The traditional restaurants serve local specialties like bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic and olive oil sauce) and txakoli (a crisp white wine).
Outdoor Adventurers: Surrounding Bilbao is a stunning natural landscape waiting to be explored. Bilbao is part of the Northern Camino route so hikers of all kinds are always passing through. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture into the nearby mountains for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. AllTrails is a perfect app for finding trails in the area. Additionally, you can head to the coast toward Getxo to enjoy water sports like surfing and kayaking. Furthermore, the nearby Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks. I have never visited this area as it is easier to visit by car, but is less than 2 hours by public transportation.
Fútball Fans: Bilbao is home to the Athletic Club Bilbao team, one of Spain’s oldest football clubs. Futball enthusiasts can attend a match at the San Mamés Stadium and experience the passionate atmosphere of Spanish futball firsthand. If you can not go to a game, the bars are always filled with locals cheering on the team. This is a wonderful part of the atmosphere and this year (2024), Athletic Bilbao won the King’s Cup in Spanish football. The city was filled with Atheltic Club flags and the whole city became a family of fans.
As you can see, Bilbao is a versatile destination that appeals to travelers with diverse interests, from art and culture to outdoor adventure and food. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city!
Why You Should Go to Bilbao
I may be biased, but I absolutely love Bilbao. It has a certain magic that not every Spanish town has. Bilbao perfectly blends culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Other than Bilbao itself being wonderful, it is close to other towns like San Sebastian, Burgos, Vitoria, and more which make it a nice base. Surrounding Bilbao are stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking and coastal exploration. In Bilbao, every corner offers a new delight, making it an unforgettable destination for art lovers, food enthusiasts, and nature seekers alike!
What to Do in Bilbao
At this point, you are now convinced that you HAVE to go to Bilbao! As mentioned, there are SO many things to do in Bilbao that you will be busy every day. Below are suggestions for different things you can do while visiting Bilbao:
1. Visit the Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is a must-visit while in Bilbao. This is iconic and well-known all around the world. The museum is stunning from the outside and inside. Fun fact, the summer before moving to Spain, the 2023 Tour de France (110th edition) started in Bilbao, Spain. It was my first sneak peek of the city and I was in awe of the Guggenheim structure. It truly is a piece of art.
2. Stroll along the river at Paseo del Arenal
Walking along the Nervión River is an essential experience in Bilbao. It is often crowded with locals and tourists just absorbing the atmosphere. On Sundays, there is a market that is a can’t-miss experience. Vendors are selling flowers, little gadgets, and antiques. Additionally, sometimes you will see Basque rowing, or trainera. This is a traditional form of rowing originating in the Basque Country. The boats have a crew of 13 oarsmen with 6 pairs and one person alone. In the night, you will sometimes see them training and it is truly incredible!
3. Explore the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town)
I have always loved going to Casco Viejo as it feels like you have stepped back in time. The buildings have a more traditional feel and align with the image of ‘Spain.’ The narrow cobblestone streets are fun to roam and it’s nice to pop into various shops. Plaza Nueva is always bustling with various pintxo spots. You can also eat at Mercado de la Ribera for fresh produce. The market allows you to eat indoors or outdoors and sample multiple different foods from different places. This can get crowded but is a fun place to check out. The public library in Casco Viejo is also a must-see. As well as the Bizkaiko Arkeologia Museoa. On a nice day, you can walk up the steps from Casco Viejo to the Etxebarri Park. This is a wonderful place for a picnic or to walk around.
4. Ride the Artxanda Funicular for panoramic views
The Artxanda Funicular is a fun ride to wonderful views of Bilbao! The panoramic views are stunning and allow you a little park to walk around with as well as the red Bilbao signs. This is a popular spot for tourists, but it is truly fun to ride up and see the views. Another option is to hike to the top which allows you to walk through little parks and enjoy nature a bit more. In the winter, they have a winter light show up here.
5. Attend a fútball match at the San Mamés Stadium
As mentioned earlier, the fútbol (soccer) culture in Bilbao and overall, all of Spain, is beyond incredible. Whether or not you can attend a game, touring the stadium is definitely something to add to your list. If you have a trip planned to Bilbao, make sure to research if there is a home game or an away game. If there is an away game, Bilbao will be bustling with excitement and every bar will be playing the game. You will see red and white everywhere. This energy encompasses you and makes you feel like you are a part of the community. Game nights are busy and exhilarating.
6. Wander Through Iturrizar Parkea
The Iturrizar Parkea was one of the first places I fell in love with while in Bilbao. This park is always filled with people walking around and the whimsical fountain takes you into a state of peacefulness and calmness. This park has been open since 1907 and it has a great area to walk around, a pergola, and fountains. The fountain in the pergola lights up at night and is always fun to visit. If visiting at night, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, but I do love seeing the night show and recommend it if you want a calm night!
7. Essential Day Trips
There are a lot of different places you can go to from Bilbao, but there are two essential day trips you need to make if the weather is good. The first one is to the coastal town of Getxo for its beaches and cliffs. This area is magical with lots of beaches and surfing. There are also fantastic hikes along the coast here. On a sunny day, you will see many people at the beaches. There are multiple stops you can go to that will guarantee you a good time. You can easily hop on a metro to get to any town in Getxo. This is very simple and will take around an hour from Bilbao’s center.
The second day trip is San Sebastian which has become well-known all over the world. San Sebastian, also known as Donostia in Basque, is a coastal city located in the Basque Country. It is known for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine. The city has three picturesque beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It is very easy to take a bus to San Sebastian from Bilbao. If you’re visiting Bilbao, adding a day trip or an overnight in San Sebastian is essential!
Bilbao is Calling You!
Bilbao is my home away from home and will always hold a special place in my heart. After spending a year here, I have learned how beautiful the Basque culture is while also improving my Spanish, trying new foods, and putting myself out of my comfort zone. I promise you, Bilbao will forever be etched in your heart. You are guaranteed to have an authentic experience and to feel like you are part of something bigger than just a vacation. It’s time to start planning your trip to the North of Spain!
Not all those who wander are lost -TTT
