Bilbao has become one of the most surprising cities in northern Spain, leaving its industrial past behind to establish itself as a destination for architecture, art and food. For first-time visitors, this guide covers the essentials for planning a smooth trip. In just a few decades, the city has managed to reinvent itself without losing its Basque identity, which makes the visit even more interesting for travelers seeking authenticity.
Getting there and getting around
Bilbao Airport is connected to the city center by bus, a quick and affordable ride. Within the city, the metro and tram cover the main tourist areas well, though the historic center and the riverside also lend themselves to long walks, especially between the Casco Viejo and the area around the Guggenheim Museum.
Neighborhoods worth knowing
The Casco Viejo, or old town, is Bilbao's historic heart, with narrow streets, traditional tapas bars and the Cathedral of Santiago. Along the river, the city shows a more contemporary face, with the Guggenheim Museum standing as the ultimate symbol of this urban transformation. The more central Abando district works well as a base for exploring both sides of the city.
Where to stay
Bilbao offers accommodation for different travel styles. IO is worth considering for those wanting a central base, while Pension Manoli represents a simpler, more traditional type of accommodation, popular among travelers on a tighter budget. Those who prefer a more homely atmosphere might look at Mendez ostatua, an option with a more personal touch.
Views over the city
For anyone wanting to see Bilbao from a different angle, it is worth seeking out viewpoints on the outskirts of the city, such as Arraiz Behatokia, an observation point that offers views over the river and the hills surrounding Bilbao, a good plan for a quieter afternoon away from the center.
Basque food
- Try pintxos in the tapas bars of the Casco Viejo, a great way to experience the city at the table
- Visit the Mercado de la Ribera, one of the largest covered markets in Spain
- Set aside time for a longer, unhurried meal, Basque style
- Mix cultural visits with breaks at traditional bars along the river
Day trips from Bilbao
Bilbao is also a good starting point for day trips along the Basque coast, with nearby towns known for their beaches and cliffs. Getxo, for example, is a short metro ride away and offers a coastal landscape quite different from the urban center, ideal for anyone wanting to combine city and nature in the same trip. These excursions fit well into a multi-day itinerary, especially for travelers staying in a central, well-connected area. Travelers who prefer a quieter plan can also spend an afternoon along the river without leaving the city, taking advantage of the relaxed atmosphere that characterizes this part of Bilbao and its surrounding streets.
Ready to plan your trip to Bilbao? Browse the available accommodation options on TravelGuest and find the ideal base for discovering the Basque Country's capital at your own pace.
