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

#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

🌊 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.

#SummerTripEvent Residencia Universitaria Resa San Mamés Termibus, Gurtubay Kalea, 1, Basurto-Zorroza, 48013 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain I personally like residence hotels, so I searched and found this one that was cost-effective and located right above the bus terminal, so it was very convenient when going to other cities or going to the airport bus stop.

#SummerTripEvent #Bilbao #GuggenheimMuseum #ModernArchitecture Address Abandoibarra Etorb., 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain The only purpose of visiting Bilbao: Fall in love with the charm of modern architecture at the Guggenheim Museum

#SummerTripEvent #Pinchos #SpainTravel #Basque #Bilbao Address Poza Lizentziatuaren Kalea, 45, Abando, 48011 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain Even if you go alone, you can eat the pinchos you want without feeling burdened, and the atmosphere is also good for drinking wine.

#SummerTripEvent #Bilbao #SpainTravel #ArtMuseumRecommendation The collection is not that big, so it is a good idea to visit it after visiting the Guggenheim. #Goya #Picasso #ElGreco If you are interested in modern art, I recommend the art museum! Address Museo Plaza, 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain

#SummerTripEvent Begoñako Andra Maria Kalea, 38, 48006 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain A quiet place to pray and admire art in a Gothic style building, and it's also great for public transportation in the city. #Bilbao