Top Attractions in Bilbao: A Comprehensive Guide

Bilbaois the largest city in the Basque Country of northern Spain  Moreover, it’s a vibrant and culturally rich destination that has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades.  From a gritty industrial port to a bustling metropolis, Bilbao now boasts a unique blend of traditional Basque culture and cutting-edge modernity.  Whether you are an art lover, a foodie or a history enthusiast, Bilbao offers a wealth of attractions to explore.  Here’s my comprehensive guide to the top attractions in Bilbao.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

No visit to Bilbao would be complete without a trip to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.  Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this masterpiece of contemporary architecture is one of the most famous buildings in the world.  In addition, the museum’s striking titanium curves and innovative design make it a work of art in itself.  Inside, you will find an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.  Featuring works by artists such as Richard Serra, Jeff Koons and Mark Rothko.  Don’t miss the towering “Puppy” sculpture by Jeff Koons that greets visitors at the entrance.

Read about things to do in Valencia.

Casco Viejo (Old Town)

Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, or Old Town, is a charming maze of narrow streets and historic buildings that date back to the medieval period.  Firstly, stroll through the cobblestone streets and discover a wealth of attractions.  For example, the Santiago Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church that is the city’s oldest building.  In addition, the Plaza Nueva, a beautiful neoclassical square, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some traditional Basque pintxos (small snacks) at one of the many bars and cafes.  Lastly, don’t miss the Ribera Market, the largest covered market in Europe, where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce.

Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao)

Azkuna Zentroa, formerly known as Alhóndiga Bilbao, is a cultural and leisure center housed in a beautifully restored wine warehouse.  Designed by French architect Philippe Starck, the building features a stunning mix of old and new architectural elements.  Inside, you’ll find a wide range of activities and attractions.  For example, art exhibitions, a cinema, a fitness center and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.  Moreover, the center also hosts various cultural events, such as concerts, theater performances and workshops.

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Bilbao Cathedral

The Santiago Cathedral is located in the heart of the Old Town.  Of course, it’s a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.  This beautiful Gothic-style cathedral, dedicated to Saint James, dates back to the 14th century and is an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.  Admire the stunning stained glass windows, the intricately carved choir stalls and the impressive main altar.  Finally, the cathedral’s peaceful cloister is a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

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Zubizuri Bridge – Attractions in Bilbao

The Zubizuri Bridge is also known as the “White Bridge” or “Calatrava Bridge,”.  Indeed, a striking pedestrian bridge designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.  The bridge’s unique arched design and glass walkway make it one of Bilbao’s most recognizable landmarks.  What’s more, the Zubizuri Bridge connects the Campo Volantín area with the Uribitarte district, offering beautiful views of the Nervión River and the surrounding cityscape.

San Mamés Stadium

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to San Mamés Stadium, home of Athletic Club Bilbao, is a must.  Known as “La Catedral” by fans, this modern stadium is one of the most iconic football venues in Spain.  Take a guided tour to explore the stadium’s facilities, including the locker rooms, the press room and the museum, which showcases the club’s rich history and achievements.  If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live match and experience the electric atmosphere of a Basque football game.

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Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is another cultural gem in the city, featuring a diverse collection of artworks that span from the medieval period to the contemporary era.  What’s more, the museum’s impressive collection includes works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Goya, and Francis Bacon, as well as a significant selection of Basque art.  The museum is set in a beautiful building that combines classical and modern architectural elements, making it a delight to explore both inside and out.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, Bilbao’s largest green space.  In fact, this beautiful park is often referred to as “El Parque de los Patos” (The Park of the Ducks).  It features lush gardens, tree-lined paths and a picturesque lake filled with ducks and swans.  Additionally, the park is also home to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll before or after your museum visit.  Thus, relax on a bench, enjoy a picnic or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Funicular de Artxanda – Attractions in Bilbao

For the best panoramic views of Bilbao, take a ride on the Funicular de Artxanda.  This charming funicular railway takes you to the top of Mount Artxanda, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Basque countryside.  At the summit, you will find a park with walking trails, picnic areas and a lookout point with binoculars.  Consequently, it’s an ideal spot for taking photos and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

La Ribera Market

La Ribera Market is a vibrant and bustling marketplace located in the heart of Bilbao.  As the largest covered market in Europe, it offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood and local delicacies.  Moreover, the market’s beautiful Art Deco design, with its stained glass windows and intricate ironwork, adds to the charm of the shopping experience.  Whether you’re looking for ingredients to cook a meal or simply want to sample some traditional Basque flavors, La Ribera Market is a must-visit destination.

Bilbao Maritime Museum

Situated on the banks of the Nervión River, the Bilbao Maritime Museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s maritime heritage.  Furthermore, the museum is located on the site of the former Euskalduna shipyards and features both indoor and outdoor exhibits.  Explore the history of shipbuilding in Bilbao, learn about the city’s role as a major port and discover the stories of the people who worked on the ships.  Finally, the museum also offers interactive displays and activities for children, making it a great family-friendly attraction.

Plaza Moyúa

Plaza Moyúa, also known as Plaza Elíptica, is a central square in Bilbao that serves as a hub for the city’s main shopping and business districts.  Indeed, the square is surrounded by elegant buildings, including the stunning Hotel Carlton and the headquarters of BBVA Bank.  At the center of the square, you will find a beautiful fountain and meticulously maintained gardens.  Thus, providing a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.  Plaza Moyúa is also a major transportation hub, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Bilbao.

Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro

The Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro is Bilbao’s main shopping avenue.  Indeed, offering a wide range of high-end boutiques, department stores and international brands.  Stroll along this bustling street and discover everything from fashion and jewelry to electronics and gourmet food.  The Gran Vía is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Palacio de la Diputación and the Azkuna Zentroa.  Whether you’re in the mood for some retail therapy or simply want to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Gran Vía is a must-visit destination.

Vizcaya Bridge

Firstly, to get to Vizcaya Bridge you must take the metro to Portugalete.  Vizcaya Bridge is a bridge designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel.  In fact, it links Portugalete with Las Arenas.  If the fact that Gustave Eiffel’s students designed this isn’t enough for you to visit then maybe the fact that it’s a UNESCO site will persuade you.  Moreover, it was designed so that it could transport people and cargo between the 2 locations.  Transporting these whilst not blocking the big cargo ships which also use this route.  Today, you can be transported over the Nervion river for less than a euro.  On the Las Arenas side of the bridge you’ll see lots of majestic buildings.

Did you know the Dom Luis I Bridge in Porto was also designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, as was the Santa Justa lift in Lisbon.

Enjoy the Attractions of Bilbao

Bilbao is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors of all interests.  From world-class museums and historic landmarks to vibrant markets and scenic parks.  Ultimately, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore in this dynamic Basque city.  Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Bilbao promises to captivate and inspire you with its unique charm and endless discoveries.  Next, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Bilbao’s attractions.

How to Travel from from Bilbao to Bordeaux by Bus

From Bilbao I took the Flixbus direct to Bordeaux.  In fact, the service takes only 6 hours and stops for 30 minutes at a service station on route.  Additionally, if you wish to see San Sebastian, the Flixbus picks up and drops off passengers here too.  As always there are plug sockets and free WiFi for the whole journey.

Bordeaux to Toulouse by bus