2025 Bilbao Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

#solotrip Traveling solo through Spain was an unforgettable adventure. I started in Barcelona, where I wandered through the Gothic Quarter, admired Gaudí’s masterpieces, and enjoyed tapas at a bustling market. The city’s energy was contagious, and watching the sunset from Park Güell was pure magic. Madrid felt more traditional but just as vibrant. The Prado Museum was a highlight, and strolling through Retiro Park offered a peaceful break from the city’s rush. At night, I joined a small group for a flamenco show—an intense, emotional experience. Bilbao was a different world, blending Basque culture with modern art. The Guggenheim Museum’s architecture was stunning, and pintxos (small Basque-style tapas) in the Old Town were a must-try. For solo travelers, Spain is safe and well-connected by high-speed trains. Eating alone is no problem—just grab a seat at the bar, and you might end up chatting with locals. Each city had its own charm, making this solo trip truly special.

I stayed in northern Spain for a month in October. I spent a few nights in the city center on the weekend and booked a hotel. This time I booked the gran hotel domine bilbao, which is right opposite the Guggenheim Museum. The location is great. 💕 It’s within walking distance of the bilbao Chinese ceiling Grand Canal restaurant. It only takes 2 minutes🤤 Remember to go to the rooftop to drink and check in at night👍Take first-class photos # Spain # Northern Spain #bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum is a museum dedicated to contemporary art, the museum in Spain is rich in artistic character, and the art it exhibits is very special, like a big spider, and a colorful dog. #OverseasTravel #OverseasTravel

Bilbao is a stunning city located along the northern coast of Spain, surrounded by lush greenery, scenic views, and a beautiful coastline. If you’re looking to explore Bilbao by foot, especially along its coastal routes, there’s plenty to enjoy. Below is a walking guide for a coastal exploration that combines natural beauty, architecture, and local charm. 1. Starting Point: Bilbao’s Old Town (Casco Viejo) Start your journey in Casco Viejo (the Old Town) and explore its narrow streets and iconic sites like the Plaza Nueva, the La Ribera Market, and the Santiago Cathedral. While this isn't directly on the coast, it’s a great place to begin your walk. 2. Walk Along the River Nervión As you exit the Old Town, head towards the River Nervión, which runs through the heart of Bilbao and leads out to the bay. Along the riverbanks, you'll find lovely walking paths and plenty of spots to enjoy views of the city’s unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. Ruta de los Puentes (Bridge Walk): Cross over various bridges that connect different parts of the city. The most notable is the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, which is a futuristic footbridge that connects the Ensanche area with the Abando district. 3. Walk to the Guggenheim Museum From the river, you can head west towards the Guggenheim Museum, one of Bilbao's most famous landmarks. The museum is located near the water, and its sweeping curves and titanium exterior are a sight to behold. The Guggenheim Park around the museum offers a great spot for a stroll, and you can enjoy views of the River Nervión. Tip: Take a moment to admire Puppy, the giant floral dog sculpture near the museum’s entrance. 4. Follow the Coastal Path towards Getxo Continue your walk from the Guggenheim towards the Getxo district. The path will take you along the Nervión River, past industrial areas and towards the open sea. Estuary of Bilbao: As you approach Getxo, you’ll pass the Estuary of Bilbao, which connects the river to the Bay of Biscay. The coastline here becomes more scenic, with cliffs and beaches ahead. 5. Getxo and the Beaches Getxo is a charming coastal town and a great place to relax, with its lovely beaches and beachfront promenades. From the Neguri neighborhood, you can continue along the coastal path to enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. Playa de Ereaga: This beach is a popular spot for locals, with plenty of cafes and bars along the promenade. You’ll get a good view of the Puerto Deportivo de Getxo, a harbor filled with yachts. Puente Colgante (Vizcaya Bridge): As you walk along the coast, you'll also encounter the Puente Colgante, the world’s oldest transport bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It connects Getxo to the town of Portugalete across the river and offers great views of the coastline. 6. Return via the Coastal Path or Take the Metro You can either retrace your steps or take the metro from Getxo back to Bilbao. The Bilbao Metro is quick and efficient, with se

Overview 🏛️ Location: Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain Opened: October 18, 1997 Architect: Frank Gehry Type: Contemporary Art Museum Highlight: The Guggenheim Bilbao is renowned not only for its groundbreaking architecture but also for its world-class collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by both Spanish and international artists. Museum Highlights ✨ The Building: Frank Gehry’s Architectural Masterpiece 🏗️ Design: The museum’s design is iconic, characterized by flowing curves, organic shapes, and titanium-clad surfaces. The building itself is considered a work of art. Exterior: The museum is located along the Nervión River, and the exterior is covered in irregular titanium sheets, reflecting light in different ways throughout the day. The Puppy Sculpture 🌸: Outside the museum, you’ll find Puppy, a giant sculpture by Jeff Koons made of flowers. It’s one of the most recognizable pieces in the museum’s collection. Permanent Collection 🖼️ The museum’s permanent collection includes works of modern and contemporary art from a wide range of genres, including: Minimalism: Art that uses simple, geometric forms, often with industrial materials. Abstract Expressionism: Featuring artists like Mark Rothko and Clyfford Still. Pop Art: Works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Conceptual Art: Thought-provoking pieces that engage with political, social, and cultural themes. Basque Art: The museum also showcases Basque artists and their contributions to modern art. Temporary Exhibitions 🎨 The Guggenheim Bilbao hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, including solo shows, retrospectives, and thematic group exhibitions. These exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see. Past exhibitions have featured major artists such as David Hockney, Anselm Kiefer, and James Turrell. Major Art Installations 💡 Richard Serra’s "The Matter of Time": This is a major installation inside the museum, consisting of a series of huge, curved steel sculptures that visitors can walk through. It's one of the most iconic installations in the collection. Jeff Koons’ "Tulips": Another well-known piece, a giant, shiny sculpture of colorful tulips. What to See and Do 🧐 Explore the Galleries 🖌️ The museum is divided into different galleries, each dedicated to a specific theme or type of art. Be sure to take time to explore the galleries on both the upper and lower floors. The curatorial design and layout encourage visitors to engage with the artwork in different ways. Walk Through the Atrium 🌿 The central atrium is enormous, with glass walls and a vast, open space that creates a feeling of openness and light. It’s an architectural marvel in itself, and it serves as a natural gathering point for visitors. Interactive Art and Digital Experiences 📲 The museum often features digital art or interactive exhibits where visitors can engage with the artwork in innovative ways. Some exhibitions allow you to interact through augmented reality.

1. Pintxos 🍢 Small tapas-style dishes typically served on skewers or slices of bread. They can range from simple bites to elaborate creations. A must-try when in Bilbao! 2. Basque Cheesecake (Tarta de Queso) 🍰 A rich, creamy cheesecake with a slightly burnt top, famous for its smooth texture and delicious flavor. Perfect for dessert! 3. Txangurro (Spider Crab) 🦀 A Basque delicacy, usually served as a crab meat filling in its shell, often with a splash of brandy and baked to perfection. 4. Marmitako 🍲 A traditional Basque tuna and potato stew, usually made with fresh fish caught from the Bay of Biscay. Comfort food at its finest. 5. Idiazabal Cheese 🧀 A traditional Basque cheese made from sheep’s milk. It's firm, smoky, and perfect with a glass of Basque cider. 6. Basque Cider (Sidra) 🍏 A tangy, slightly sparkling drink made from fermented apples. Often poured from a height for a refreshing experience. 7. Basque Lamb (Cordero) 🍖 Tender lamb, typically roasted or grilled, is a staple in Basque cuisine. Known for its rich flavor and juicy texture. 8. Churros with Chocolate 🍫 Crispy fried dough served with a thick, warm chocolate sauce for dipping. A perfect snack or dessert. 9. Sidrería (Cider House) 🍻 Traditional Basque cider houses where you can experience local cider and enjoy a hearty meal of grilled meats and seafood.

You are the “Iron & Ink Traveler,” a seeker of beauty forged in contrast — drawn to places where grit meets grace. In Bilbao, a once-industrial city now brimming with art, cuisine, and quiet rebellion, you're on a mission to follow the threads of transformation. 8:00 AM – Awakening at the Nervión River 📍Zubizuri Bridge | ⏱️ 30 mins Icons: 🌉☀️🖋️ Stand on Santiago Calatrava’s gleaming white footbridge as the city stirs. Below you, the river mirrors the skyline — old shipyards, new museums. Whisper your name into the wind: “I am the Ink, Bilbao is my page.” 8:30 AM – Pintxos & Poetry 📍Café Iruña | ⏱️ 1 hr Icons: ☕🥖📝 Built in 1903, this café feels like a slice of Moorish Andalusia, hiding in Basque Country. Try tortilla de patatas or a pintxo with Iberian ham. You write a few words in your notebook — “Steel softened by saffron.” 9:30 AM – Art Strikes Back 📍Guggenheim Museum | ⏱️ 1.5 hrs Icons: 🏛️🐶🎨 Frank Gehry’s titanium curves hold masterpieces by Rothko, Serra, and Bourgeois. Outside, Puppy, Jeff Koons’ floral dog, watches the world like a gentle guardian. Ink Traveler’s Vision: The building itself feels alive, like it might take flight. 11:30 AM – Riverside Walk to Casco Viejo 📍7 Streets (Zazpi Kaleak) | ⏱️ 1 hr Icons: 🚶♂️🏘️🎭 Wander through Bilbao’s Old Town. Hear echoes of revolution, read stories in stone balconies, smell roasted peppers wafting through narrow lanes. Hidden Gem: Peek into Librería Cámara — an old bookshop filled with Basque legends and indie zines. 1:00 PM – Lunch at La Olla de la Plaza Nueva 📍Plaza Nueva | ⏱️ 1.5 hrs Icons: 🍷🥘🏛️ Sit under arcades, sip txakoli (sparkling Basque wine), and order a ración of bacalao al pil-pil. This square has seen duels, protests, and poets — and now, you. 2:30 PM – Quiet Art at Museo de Bellas Artes 📍Doña Casilda Park | ⏱️ 1 hr Icons: 🖼️🌳🕰️ Less famous than Guggenheim but deeply powerful. Goya, El Greco, and Basque painters line these walls. The air is calmer here — perfect for reflection. Iron & Ink Note: Every city has a silent gallery. This is Bilbao’s. 4:00 PM – Green Escape in Doña Casilda Park 📍Near Bellas Artes | ⏱️ 45 mins Icons: 🌳🦆☁️ Feed the ducks, sketch the fountains, or lie under a chestnut tree. You’ve traveled far. Let Bilbao hold you for a moment. 5:00 PM – Cable Car Ascent to Artxanda 📍Funicular de Artxanda | ⏱️ 1 hr Icons: 🚡🌄📷 Take the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of Bilbao’s rebirth — the cranes, the Guggenheim, the Casco Viejo domes. Ink Traveler’s Journal: “From above, the city looks like a wound healed by art.” 6:30 PM – Aperitivo Hour in Abando 📍Calle Ledesma | ⏱️ 1 hr Icons: 🍸🍤💬 Classy, buzzing, full of locals. Sip vermouth, nibble on anchovy-stuffed olives, and eavesdrop on conversations in Basque and Spanish. The energy? Electrified elegance. 8:00 PM – Dinner at Azurmendi (or local fave: Bascook) 📍Fine Dining or Neo-Basque | ⏱️ 2 hrs Icons: ⭐🍽️🌟 If you’re feeling bold (and have a reservatio

Bilbao, a city located at the entrance to the Basque region known for its gourmet cuisine, offers not only delicious food but also a rich art experience! At the Guggenheim Museum, you'll be greeted by the famous Puppy at the entrance. This museum is filled with contemporary art pieces, featuring vibrant and cheerful colors that will lift your spirits! What's more, the restaurant inside the museum is a Michelin-starred establishment! There are both a fine dining restaurant and a casual bistro, so you can choose based on your budget and plans. Reservations are a must! Take a stroll to work up an appetite and embark on a journey to discover delicious food!

🌊 In-Depth Guide to Galicia + Basque Country & Beyond✨ 🚗 Transport Tips: Rent a car in Madrid/Barcelona for maximum freedom! Northern Spain's mountainous roads are best explored by wheels🚙~ One-way drop fees are pricey, so loop routes save money! 🗺️ 4-Day Itinerary: 𝘿𝙖𝙮1: Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum → Pintxos in Old Town → Overnight in San Sebastián 𝘿𝙖𝙮2: La Concha Bay → Cantabria's Altamira Cave Paintings 𝘿𝙖𝙮3: Asturias' "Window to Nature" cliffs → Medieval Oviedo 𝘿𝙖𝙮4: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral → Sunset at Cape Finisterre "End of the World"🌅 🌟 Must-Visit Spots: ▫️ Bilbao｜Guggenheim Museum (Titanium-clad futuristic marvel📸) ▫️ San Sebastián｜La Concha Bay (Europe's most stunning bay! Heart-stopping blue💙) ▫️ Asturias｜"God's Bridge" natural arch (Straight out of Game of Thrones⚔️) ▫️ Galicia｜Santiago Pilgrimage Route finale (Ancient cobblestone path radiates spirituality✝️) 🍴 Foodie Hits: ✔️ Basque pintxos (La Viña's cheesecake = heaven!🧀) ✔️ Galician octopus Pulpo a la gallega (Paprika + olive oil = perfection🐙) ✔️ Asturian cider Sidra (Watch servers pour from heights – epic🍎) 📦 Packing List: ✅ EU adapter + car charger ✅ Windproof jacket (Atlantic gales are no joke🌪️) ✅ Hiking shoes (Nature spots demand walks) ✅ Spanish translation app (English is scarce in small towns) 💡 Fun Facts: ❗ Cape Finisterre ("Land's End") was considered Europe's edge by Romans ❗ Altamira Caves require bookings 3 months ahead! ❗ Asturian cider is Spain's strongest – drink responsibly🍻 ✨ Northern Spain is an emerald secret, blending Atlantic wildness with medieval charm. Save this guide for your spontaneous escape!💚

In the north of Bilbao, there is a lot to explore along the waterfront. Nice walking sites for a cozy weekend on the sea 🐟🚤 Day 1 🛬 Arrival, walk along Nervión River, explore Casco Viejo (Old Town), pintxos dinner Day 2 🖼 Visit Guggenheim Museum, stroll the Zubizuri Bridge, chill in Doña Casilda Park Day 3 🏞 Ride up Artxanda Funicular for panoramic views, explore Bilbao La Vieja, shopping in Gran Vía Must-Visit Attractions 🐶 Guggenheim Museum – iconic architecture + modern art

Beautiful museum. A lot of stars, a lot of really great paintings and sculptures. Not many people even on week-ends. Must visit when is Bilbao. Easy to book ticket with help of trip.com

Beautiful view from the bridge connecting the new and old parts of Bilbao

Bilbao is one of the largest cities in northern Spain. It is characterized by stylish streets and unique and stunning modern architecture. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in the first photo is a masterpiece in itself✨. It was designed by the famous Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry. Audio guides (in English) are available for rent at the ticket counter! 📍Location: Abandoibarra Etorb., 2, 48009 Bilbo, Spain 🕰️Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (closed on Mondays) Bilbao's streets are an interesting city where modern and historical elements coexist🇪🇸. The food is also delicious, so I highly recommend it✨ #Spain #Bilbao

Bilbao is an underrated location but trust me it got very beautiful and unreal scenic views . And the best part is it is super affordable

Great view, great city and great food! Bilbao was amazing

#springwander Bilbao surprised me in the best way! 🇪🇸 The Guggenheim Museum (€13) was a must-see—its architecture alone is stunning, and the modern art inside was fascinating. Strolling along the Nervión River was so peaceful, and the Casco Viejo (Old Town) had charming streets with great pintxos bars. 🍤 The views from Mount Artxanda were unbeatable, and a ride on the funicular was worth it! Bilbao has such a cool mix of tradition and modernity. 🏙️🎨 #Bilbao #BasqueCountry #Pintxos #Guggenheim #CityViews #SpainTravel

#solotrip Bilbao surprised me with its mix of modernity and tradition. I started at the Guggenheim Museum, admiring its futuristic architecture and stunning art exhibitions. Even if you don’t enter, the giant Puppy sculpture and the shimmering titanium curves of the building are worth the visit. From there, I wandered through the Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s old town, full of charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively pintxos bars. I couldn’t resist trying a few pintxos with a glass of txakoli, the local sparkling white wine. A must-see is the Ribera Market, perfect for tasting Basque flavors. Later, I took the funicular to Mount Artxanda for a panoramic view of the city. Bilbao is very solo traveler-friendly—safe, compact, and with excellent public transport. Eating alone is easy in pintxos bars, and locals are welcoming. Whether you love art, food, or scenic walks, Bilbao has it all!

Athletic Bilbao Stadium Stadium tour costs 15 euros

#getgoing2025 Guggenheim Museum Bilbao The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is an architectural and cultural marvel located in the Basque city of Bilbao. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and opened in 1997, the museum is celebrated for its innovative design and cutting-edge modern and contemporary art exhibitions. Key Features: 1. Iconic Architecture: • The museum’s titanium-clad, curvaceous structure is a masterpiece of modern architecture, resembling a ship as a nod to Bilbao’s maritime heritage. • Its location along the Nervión River adds to its dramatic presence. 2. World-Class Art: • Houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by artists like Jeff Koons, Louise Bourgeois, and Richard Serra. • The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing leading global artists. 3. Outdoor Installations: • Iconic sculptures include “Puppy” by Jeff Koons, a massive flower-covered dog, and Louise Bourgeois’ “Maman”, a towering spider sculpture. • The reflective “Fog Sculpture” by Fujiko Nakaya enhances the museum’s riverside ambiance. 4. Cultural Impact: • The Guggenheim has revitalized Bilbao, turning it into a global cultural destination, a phenomenon known as the “Bilbao Effect”. Tips for Visiting: • Book tickets online to skip queues, especially during peak seasons. • Allow 2-3 hours to explore both the indoor galleries and outdoor installations. • Visit in the evening to see the building beautifully illuminated. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and architecture lovers, offering a perfect blend of innovation, culture, and beauty.

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips Bilbao is a lively city in the Basque Country in the north of Spain, the architecture, lifestyle and cuisine are very different from the rest of Spain. It is very easy to reach as there is an airport very close to the city center where you can find buses going downtown every 30 minutes. A little extra when traveling in Bilbao is visiting the nearby city of San Sebastian on the coast, just 40 minutes away by bus or train.

Planning to visit Spain for Christmas? Check out our guide to the top Christmas markets in Spain for 2024/25 🎄 🎅 Whether you choose the bustling nights of Madrid, the lively traditions of Barcelona, or the historical charm of Granada, each Christmas market offers unforgettable winter memories ❄️ - 1⃣️ Barcelona Santa Llúcia Market ⛪ Location: Plaza next to Barcelona Cathedral 📅 Dates: Until December 23, 2024 💃 Highlights: You can buy Catalan-style decorations like the Caganer 💩. On-site activities include dance and music performances, making it an ideal choice for family trips. 2⃣️ Madrid Christmas Market 🏙️ Location: Plaza Mayor 📅 Dates: Until December 31, 2024 🎨 Highlights: Nativity scene statues and handicraft stalls. The square is full of history, and the surrounding restaurants offer authentic Spanish cuisine. 3⃣️ Bilbao Christmas Market 🛳️ Location: Ripa Dock 📅 Dates: Until January 7, 2025 ⛸️ Highlights: Unique handicrafts and food, such as the traditional Christmas dessert Intxaursaltsa and Txakoli wine 🍷. The children's area features facilities like an ice slide. 4⃣️ Salamanca Christmas Market 🏙️ Location: Plaza de Anaya 📅 Dates: Until January 5, 2025 🎠 Highlights: A carousel next to the cathedral. At night, the "Magic Garden Tour" light show is held at Huerto de Calixto y Melibea ✨. 5⃣️ Granada Christmas Market 🏙️ Location: Plaza Bib-Rambla 📅 Dates: Until January 5, 2025 🎨 Highlights: A Christmas market recommended by National Geographic. Close to the cathedral in the old town, it showcases local artisans' handicrafts, such as Granada ceramics, wood carvings, and Andalusian embroidery 🧵. It also features Andalusian Christmas specialties 🍴, such as Roscón de Reyes, Polvorones, and mantecados. After visiting the Alhambra, you can come here to experience the Christmas atmosphere 🎅 6⃣️ Palma (Mallorca) Christmas Market 🚶‍♂️ Location: Plaza Mayor, Rambla Avenue, and Parc de les Estacions 📅 Dates: Until January 7, 2025 🎄 Highlights: Plaza Mayor features classic Christmas stalls; on Rambla Avenue, you can find craft stalls and 4 churro and candy stalls 🍬; Parc de les Estacions has a giant Christmas tree, and last year it was the most popular Christmas destination 🎉 Practical Tips 💡 1. Plan your time and location wisely: Most markets are open from 10/11 am to 9 pm, and some markets are closed on Christmas and New Year's Day, so check and plan ahead. 2. Each market has its own unique culture and style, so why not visit a few different places to experience different festive atmospheres? 3. Dress warmly: Especially in northern and mountainous cities, it can get quite cold at night 🥶, so we recommend wearing warm clothes 🧣. - Do you have any other Christmas activities in Spain to recommend? Leave your Christmas plans or recommendations in the comments section ✨

This museum, located in Bilbao, Spain, specializes in modern and contemporary art. It is situated next to the Nervion River. The museum features both permanent and special exhibitions by domestic and international artists. The main exhibition until recently was by Yoshitomo Nara. Many of his works were displayed in the spacious area on the first floor. Additionally, works by Yayoi Kusama were exhibited on the upper floors, showcasing pieces by Japanese artists. I once visited here a long time ago to see Guernica (I was very young then and don't remember it at all).

#0yentripnovember Finally, we arrived at our destination, Bilbao. The symbol of Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry. When I visited, a Yayoi Kusama retrospective was being held. It's no wonder that there are red polka dots floating on the water's edge.

To bilbao

#SummerTripEvent #Bilbao #SpainTravel Come buy ham at Carnicería J. Artola butcher shop Poza Lizentziatuaren Kalea, 47, Abando, 48011 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain The friendly owner and staff explained passionately, and the ham and cheese I bought were really delicious!

#SummerTripEvent #CafeRecommendation #SpainTravel #Bilbao Colón de Larreátegui K., 13, Abando, 48001 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain The interior is pretty and the beer and food are delicious. Order at the bar table and pay in advance, and take a break while enjoying delicious tapas and beer or coffee and cake.

#100WaysOfTravel , the hotel itself is quite a good existence in such a city. The front desk service is warm; the hotel is in a good location. The front door faces the famous Guggenheim Museum, and the back door can reach the shopping street within a long walk, and there are many restaurants around. There are slippers and an electric kettle in the guest room, which meets the requirements of Chinese people. The terrace on the seventh floor of the hotel has a beautiful view, and the breakfast content is also very rich, which is worth recommending.