Bilbao 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning

  • Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO) and take a taxi or bus (A3247) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Carlton or NH Collection Bilbao
  • Start your day at Plaza Nueva, a charming square in the old town surrounded by cafes and shops
  • Visit the nearby Bilbao Cathedral (La Catedral de Santiago), a beautiful Gothic-style church

Afternoon

  • Head to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a world-renowned art museum designed by Frank Gehry
  • Take a stroll along the Nervión River and enjoy the city’s modern architecture
  • Stop for lunch at La Ribera Market, a historic market offering a variety of local food and drinks

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Basque cuisine at Restaurante El Puerto, known for its seafood dishes
  • Explore the lively Casco Viejo neighborhood, filled with bars, restaurants, and shops

Transportation

  • Bilbao has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro line
  • You can purchase a Bilbao Card, which includes free admission to many attractions and unlimited public transportation

Tips

  • Be prepared for rain, as Bilbao is known for its lush green surroundings and occasional rainfall
  • Try to learn some basic Basque phrases, such as “kaixo” (hello) and “eskerrak” (thank you)

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, a fine arts museum featuring an impressive collection of European art
  • Stop by the Teatro Arriaga, a beautiful 19th-century theater hosting various performances

Afternoon

  • Explore the Euskal Herria Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Basque Country
  • Take a break at Café Bar Bilbao, a cozy spot with delicious coffee and pastries

Evening

  • Enjoy a flamenco show at El Mesón de la Villa, a traditional tavern in the old town
  • Dine at Restaurante Kasko Gatza, offering innovative Basque cuisine

Day 3: Day Trip to the Coast

Morning

  • Take a train from Bilbao’s Abando Station to Getxo (approximately 30 minutes)
  • Visit the beautiful Getxo Beach, with its picturesque harbor and stunning views

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming fishing village of Portugalete, known for its colorful houses and lively atmosphere
  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurante El Puerto de Getxo, serving fresh seafood dishes

Evening

  • Return to Bilbao by train and enjoy a relaxed evening in the city
  • Try some traditional Basque tapas at Bar El Globo

Day 4: Nature and Adventure

Morning

  • Take a bus from Bilbao’s Termibus Station to Mount Artxanda (approximately 30 minutes)
  • Hike up the mountain for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape

Afternoon

  • Visit the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a protected area with diverse flora and fauna
  • Stop by the Oma Forest, featuring stunning murals created by artist Agustín Ibarrola

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurante El Mesón de la Villa, offering traditional Basque cuisine
  • Explore the lively nightlife of Bilbao, with many bars and clubs to choose from

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

Morning

  • Visit the Mercado de los Antiguos, a historic market offering local products and souvenirs
  • Explore the trendy Indautxu neighborhood, known for its boutique shops and art galleries

Afternoon

  • Spend your last hours in Bilbao shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
  • Depart from Bilbao Airport (BIO) or continue your journey to other destinations in Spain

Transportation

  • Taxis, buses, and trains are readily available for transportation between locations
  • Consider purchasing a Bilbao Tourist Travel Pass, which includes unlimited public transportation and discounts at various attractions

Tips

  • Be sure to try some of the local cider, known as “sidra” in Basque
  • Don’t forget to purchase some traditional Basque souvenirs, such as espadrille shoes or txapela hats