Discover the Best of Bilbao, a City Full of Charm

Bilbao
Jorge Fernández Salas, Unsplash
February 10
Written by Elena Kostas

Explore Bilbao and discover the top attractions and things to do in this incredible city.

Discover Bilbao, a city full of charm and life, located in the province of Bizkaia in the Basque Country, Spain. Known for its impressive architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, Bilbao is a perfect destination to explore.

In Bilbao, you can visit iconic attractions like the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece that houses an impressive collection of contemporary art. You can also stroll through the Casco Viejo, the historic heart of the city, with its narrow streets filled with shops, bars, and traditional restaurants.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Bilbao Estuary, where you can enjoy boat rides and admire the beauty of the landscape. And of course, indulge in the delicious Basque cuisine, known for its pintxos and traditional dishes.

In summary, Bilbao offers a perfect blend of history, culture, art, and gastronomy. Don't miss it!

1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Museums and Art Galleries
people walking on gray concrete building during daytime
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao / Piotr Musioł, Unsplash

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one of the most iconic places in Bilbao and a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of contemporary art. Located on the banks of the Nervion River, this impressive building designed by Frank Gehry is a true architectural icon.

In addition to its stunning titanium and glass facade, the interior houses a valuable permanent collection and temporary exhibitions by renowned international artists.

Since its opening in 1997, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao has been recognized as one of the top cultural destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year.

2. Casco Viejo of Bilbao

Historical Monuments and Architecture
brown concrete building during the day
Casco Viejo of Bilbao / Carlos Torres, Unsplash

The Casco Viejo of Bilbao, also known as the Seven Streets, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the city. Its narrow and picturesque streets, full of shops, bars, and restaurants, will transport you to another era.

One of the main attractions of the Casco Viejo is the Santiago Cathedral, an impressive Gothic construction dating back to the 14th century. Its facade and stained glass windows are true works of art.

In addition, you must visit the Plaza Nueva, a lively space surrounded by historic buildings where you will find numerous bars and restaurants to enjoy Basque cuisine.

3. Bilbao Estuary

Natural Spaces and Parks
people walking on the bridge over the river during the day
Bilbao Estuary / Eduardo Kenji Amorim, Unsplash

Bilbao Estuary is one of the highlights of the city of Bilbao, in the Basque Country, Spain. Located at the mouth of the Nervión River, this estuary offers a unique experience for nature and industrial landscape lovers.

Bilbao Estuary is famous for its avant-garde architecture and rich history. Take a stroll along its shores and enjoy the view of old docks and factories, while marveling at the symbiosis between industry and nature. You'll also find plenty of activities to do, such as boat trips and guided tours.

Bilbao Estuary is a perfect place to spend the day in contact with nature and explore the history and culture of the region. Don't miss this unique gem in the heart of Bilbao.

4. Fine Arts Museum

Museums and Art Galleries

Things to do in Bilbao? Visit the Fine Arts Museum, a must-see for art and culture lovers. Housed in a majestic building in the city center, the museum boasts an extraordinary collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned national and international artists. From Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary creations, the Fine Arts Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of art.

In addition to the impressive permanent collection, the museum also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions that explore different artistic movements. This way, each visit to the Fine Arts Museum is a unique opportunity to discover new perspectives and expand our knowledge of art.

Don't miss the chance to visit the Fine Arts Museum during your stay in Bilbao. Immerse yourself in the world of art and be captivated by the beauty and creative expression of these outstanding artists.

5. Euskalduna Palace

Historical Monuments and Architecture

Euskalduna Palace is a prominent tourist attraction located in Bilbao. With its stunning architecture and focus on culture and events, it is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

This magnificent building, situated on the banks of the Bilbao estuary, offers an unparalleled visual and cultural experience. Its bold and contemporary design makes it a unique architectural gem in the city.

Euskalduna Palace is internationally recognized for hosting a wide variety of events, such as concerts, theatrical performances, and exhibitions. No matter when you visit Bilbao, you will always find something interesting and exciting happening at this incredible venue.

6. Arriaga Theatre

Entertainment and Pop Culture

Arriaga Theatre is a landmark in Bilbao and a must-visit for theater and architecture lovers. Built in the 19th century and recently renovated, the theater offers a unique experience that combines history with contemporary culture.

Arriaga Theatre hosts a wide range of productions, from classic plays to concerts and special events. Its impressive facade and beautiful interior are a testament to Bilbao's rich historical and cultural heritage.

In addition to enjoying high-quality performances on stage, visitors can also take guided tours of the theater to learn about its history and explore its different spaces. Immerse yourself in the magic of Arriaga Theatre and discover why it is considered one of Bilbao's cultural treasures.

7. Basilica of Begoña

Historical Monuments and Architecture

The Basilica of Begoña is one of the most emblematic places in Bilbao, located in the heart of the city. It is a religious monument of great importance for the people of Bilbao and visitors.

Built in the 16th century, the Basilica of Begoña stands out for its impressive Basque Gothic architecture and its neo-Gothic facade added in the 19th century. Its interior houses beautiful details in carved wood and a magnificent image of the Virgin of Begoña.

From the Basilica of Begoña, visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Nervion River. In addition, the surroundings around the basilica are ideal for walking and enjoying the tranquility.

8. Doña Casilda Park

Natural Spaces and Parks

Doña Casilda Park is one of the most emblematic green spaces in Bilbao. With an extension of XX hectares, this park is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.

In addition to its beautiful gardens, Doña Casilda Park is home to numerous species of trees and plants, creating an ideal environment for walking and enjoying nature.

In this park you will also find a great variety of birds, making it a perfect place for bird watching enthusiasts.

9. Artxanda Funicular

Outdoor Activities and Sports

The Artxanda Funicular is a must-visit tourist attraction in Bilbao. It connects the city with Mount Artxanda, offering a unique ride and spectacular panoramic views.

The funicular journey is a fun and thrilling experience for all visitors. As the funicular ascends the slope of the mountain, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bilbao and its natural surroundings.

Once at the top, you can enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes that surround the mountain. Additionally, at the top of Mount Artxanda, you will find numerous viewpoints, leisure areas, and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.

10. San Mamés Stadium

Entertainment and Pop Culture

San Mamés Stadium: A must-visit place in Bilbao for football lovers. Known as 'The Cathedral', San Mamés Stadium is the home of Athletic Club, one of the most beloved teams in Spain. This impressive stadium has a rich history and modern architecture, making it a unique tourist attraction.

The passion of football: San Mamés Stadium is a temple for football fans. With a capacity of over 53,000 spectators, this place overflows with energy and excitement during matches. Whether you are a fan of Athletic Club or simply want to experience watching a football game in one of the best sports facilities in Europe, San Mamés is the perfect place to enjoy this famous sport.

An unforgettable visit: In addition to matches, San Mamés Stadium offers guided tours that allow you to explore every corner of this sports venue. You can admire the field from the stands, visit the locker rooms, the tunnel to access the pitch, and even step on the sacred turf. It's a unique experience that football enthusiasts should not miss when visiting Bilbao.

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