Let’s unveil the allure of Bilbao, a northern Spanish gem brimming with culture, art, and a vibrant energy that will captivate your heart. Nestled within the Basque Country, Bilbao has emerged from its industrial past to become a beacon of contemporary art and revitalization. Get ready to immerse yourself in its unique blend of rich history and modern flair! bilbao spain
Before embarking on your Bilbao adventure, let’s highlight its claim to fame – the breathtaking Guggenheim Museum. A masterpiece by Frank Gehry, this architectural wonder transformed the city and put Bilbao firmly on the global art map.
Getting to Bilbao spain
Bilbao is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Whether you prefer the speed of flying or a more scenic train journey, getting to Bilbao is simple and convenient. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Plane: Bilbao Airport (BIO) offers flights from major European cities. Major Airlines Flying to Bilbao: Iberia, Vueling, Lufthansa, KLM and Air France among others.
Train: Bilbao has excellent train connections to major cities in Spain and throughout Europe. RENFE is the national rail company of Spain. Main Train Stations in Bilbao: Bilbao Abando Station (Main Station) and Bilbao Concordia Station
Bus: Bilbao’s main bus station, Termibus, offers regional, national, and international routes. Many bus companies provide services to and from Bilbao. Popular Bus Companies are ALSA and Flixbus.
Driving: For those who love a good road trip, driving to Bilbao is a great choice, especially if you’re exploring more of Spain and its surroundings. In that case, renting a car is a good solution.
By Ferry: You can reach Bilbao by ferry from Portsmouth (United Kingdom). Brittany Ferries offers this service.
Bilbao City Transportation: Bilbao has a modern metro system, a tram network, and reliable bus routes, making it easy to get around once you’ve arrived.
Essential Things to Check Off Your List
Now, let’s dive into the must-do experiences that define Bilbao:
Bask in the Glory of the Guggenheim Museum
Dedicate ample time to exploring this architectural marvel. Prepare to be amazed by its modern and contemporary art collection.
Historic Charm in Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Lose yourself in the narrow, bustling streets of the Old Town. Discover hidden plazas, traditional shops, and lively bars serving up delectable pintxos (Basque tapas).
Mercado de la Ribera
Experience the bustling atmosphere and sample fresh local produce at this vibrant riverside market.
Funicular de Artxanda
Take the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city.
Foodie Paradise: Pintxos and Txikiteo
Bilbao is a culinary playground! Embrace the Basque tradition of pintxo-hopping and txikiteo (bar-hopping for small wines and bites).
Riverside Ambiance Along La Ría
Bilbao’s resurgence centers around its revitalized riverfront. Stroll along La Ría, admire iconic bridges, and perhaps even enjoy a boat tour.
San Mamés Stadium
Football fans will enjoy a tour of the iconic stadium of Athletic Club Bilbao.
Checklist Tips bilbao spain
- Plan Ahead: Book tickets to the Guggenheim in advance, especially during peak season.
- Learn Basic Basque: A few Basque words like “Kaixo” (hello) and “Eskerrik Asko” (thank you) go a long way.
- Comfortable Shoes: Bilbao’s historic center is best explored on foot.
- Savor the Experience: Don’t rush! Take the time to enjoy the city’s atmosphere and its unique flavors.
Expanding Your Horizons: Day Trips from Bilbao
Venture beyond the city limits to uncover even more treasures of the region:
Mystical Gaztelugatxe
A dramatic islet connected to the mainland by a winding footbridge, topped by a picturesque hermitage. Game of Thrones fans may recognize this spot!. Getting There: Bus from Bilbao or a combination of train and bus. Driving is also an option for greater flexibility.
San Sebastián (Donostia)
A gorgeous seaside city with stunning beaches (like La Concha), world-class pintxos, and a charming Old Town. Frequent buses and trains from Bilbao make for an easy and scenic trip.
Biarritz, France
A chic French coastal town famous for its surfing, elegant architecture, and upscale atmosphere. Bus or train from Bilbao with a change at the French border.
Gorgeous Coastal Getaways
Explore charming fishing villages and pristine beaches along the Basque coast.
Wine Tasting in La Rioja
Embark on a wine lover’s pilgrimage to the world-renowned wine region of La Rioja.Rolling vineyards, charming villages, and world-renowned wineries where you can sample delicious Rioja wines. Indulge in its finest vintages.
Gorbeia Natural Park
Lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes perfect for hiking and enjoying beautiful Basque nature. Getting There: Public transport options are limited, making a rental car the most practical choice.
Where to Stay in Bilbao spain
Finding the ideal accommodation is just as important as exploring the city. Here’s where the budget-conscious, the comfort-seekers, and the luxury lovers will find their perfect haven:
Budget-Friendly Finds
Bilbao offers vibrant hostels and guesthouses for the savvy traveler. Check out:
- Botxo Gallery – A modern hostel in the heart of the Casco Viejo. Offers a mix of dorms and private rooms, plus a lively social atmosphere.
- Pensión Basque – A charming guesthouse with simple and clean rooms in a great location, close to the Guggenheim.
- Bilbao Metropolitan Hostel by Bossh Hotels – Located slightly outside the center, but with excellent metro connections. Bright, modern rooms and social spaces.
Mid-Range Comfort
Opt for stylish hotels with a touch of Basque character and good amenities.
- Hotel Ilunion Bilbao – Contemporary hotel near the San Mamés Stadium, with comfortable well-equipped rooms and a great breakfast.
- Cosmov Bilbao Hotel – Stylish, design-focused hotel close to the Guggenheim. Minimalist rooms and a relaxed ambiance.
- Hotel Tayko Bilbao – Chic boutique hotel set in a renovated historic building. Rooms feature exposed brickwork and delightful traditional balconies.
A Touch of Luxury
Indulge in Bilbao’s upscale hotels featuring rooftop terraces, spas, and top-notch service.
Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao – Luxurious 5-star hotel directly across from the Guggenheim. Features a rooftop terrace with stunning views, a spa, and sophisticated dining.
Hotel Carlton – Historic 5-star hotel in a prime central location. Elegant rooms, renowned restaurant, and classic luxury service.
Meliá Bilbao – Sleek and modern 5-star hotel near the Guggenheim. Spacious rooms, a city-view spa, and excellent Basque dining options.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best areas to stay in:
| Neighborhood | Best For | Vibe | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casco Viejo (Old Town) | History buffs, foodies, those seeking a lively atmosphere | Historic charm with narrow streets, beautiful plazas, traditional architecture, vibrant pintxos scene | Central location, walking distance to attractions, authentic Bilbao experience | Can be noisy at night, accommodations slightly pricier |
| Abando | Modern travelers, luxury seekers, museum enthusiasts | Upscale, home to the Guggenheim Museum, wide avenues, designer shopping, fine dining | Convenient for the Guggenheim, elegant atmosphere, good transport links | Less historic character than Casco Viejo, generally more expensive |
| Ensanche | Shoppers, families, those seeking balance of convenience and a bit of everything | Central, expanded area with mix of shops, restaurants, residential areas, parks | Excellent shopping, good variety of accommodation options, wider streets | Less traditional Basque character compared to Casco Viejo |
| Deusto | Budget travelers, students | Relaxed neighborhood across the river, home to the University of Deusto | More affordable accommodation, good selection of bars and cafes, quieter setting | Requires public transport to reach main tourist areas |
| Bilbao La Vieja | Hipsters, art lovers, those seeking something alternative | Formerly run-down, now revitalized; known for street art, vintage shops, trendy bars | Unique atmosphere, interesting shops and cafes, close to Casco Viejo | May feel a bit grittier in some parts, not as central as other neighborhoods. |
Good to Know
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Planning Tips
Embarking on your Bilbao trip requires a dash of preparation. Consider these helpful tips:
Best time to visit Bilbao
The best time to visit Bilbao depends on your preferences and what you want to prioritize during your trip. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:
Summer (June – August)
- Pros: Warmest temperatures (usually around 70s-80s °F / low 20s-mid 20s °C in the day), long sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches nearby. Festival season with events like BBK Live and Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande).
- Cons: This is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodations might fill up quickly. Some occasional heatwaves can occur.
Spring (April – May) & Fall (September – October)
- Pros: Pleasant weather (temperatures usually in the 60s °F / around 15-20 °C), shoulder-season crowds are smaller, often better deals on flights and accommodations. Beautiful fall foliage in October.
- Cons: Chance of rain showers (Bilbao does receive a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year).
Winter (November – March)
- Pros: Cheaper accommodation prices, fewer tourists, opportunity to experience a different, quieter side of Bilbao. Some cultural events and Christmas markets take place.
- Cons: Cooler temperatures (highs around 50s °F / 10-15 °C), rainy days are frequent. Some businesses might have reduced hours.
Overall Best Times
For the best balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and affordable prices, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September) are generally considered the ideal times to visit Bilbao.
Factors to Consider
- Festivals and Events: If you are interested in specific festivals like BBK Live (July) or Semana Grande (August), those dates will dictate your best travel time.
- Weather Preferences: If you love warm, sunny days, summer might be best despite the crowds. If you don’t mind occasional rain and cooler temperatures, the shoulder seasons are fantastic.
- Budget: Winter will likely offer the most affordable options, but you might need to pack for rain and colder weather.
Weather Considerations
Pack for the occasional Atlantic drizzle. Bilbao enjoys a milder climate than other Spanish cities, yet layers are always advisable.
Is Bilbao expensive to visit?
Bilbao is generally more affordable than cities like Barcelona or Madrid, offering a good balance of quality and value.
Is Bilbao safe?
Bilbao consistently ranks as one of Spain’s safest cities.
Final thougths about Bilbao
Bilbao, a city once synonymous with industry, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Filled with art, culture, and delectable cuisine, it’s easy to see why Bilbao is a gem waiting to be discovered. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Basque Country getaway and let Bilbao win you over!