Bilbao 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Bilbao’s Old Town

Morning

  • Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO) and take a taxi or bus (A3247) to the city center ( approx. €30-40, 20-30 minutes)
  • Check-in at Hotel Carlton or similar in the heart of Bilbao’s Old Town

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Cathedral of St. James (free admission) and explore the surrounding streets
  • Wander through the historic Siete Calles (Seven Streets) neighborhood, lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants
  • Stop by the Mercado de la Ribera, a beautiful market offering local produce and snacks

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Casa Rufo, serving traditional Basque cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the Nervión River and admire the city’s nightlife

Day 2: Guggenheim Museum and Abandoibarra

Morning

  • Visit the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (€15, free on Wednesdays from 5 pm to 8 pm)
  • Explore the stunning architecture and modern art exhibitions

Afternoon

  • Take a short walk to the nearby Abandoibarra, a scenic waterfront area with great views of the city
  • Visit the Bilbao Maritime Museum (€6) to learn about the city’s maritime history

Evening

  • Dine at El Txomín, serving innovative Basque cuisine
  • Enjoy a drink at Café Bar Bilbao, a local institution with great views of the river

Day 3: Getxo and the Coast

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Bilbao’s Puente de la Salve to Getxo ( approx. €5, 15 minutes)
  • Explore Getxo’s charming old town and harbor area

Afternoon

  • Visit the stunning Beach of Ereaga, with crystal-clear waters and scenic views
  • Enjoy lunch at La Arenaza, serving fresh seafood and local dishes

Evening

  • Return to Bilbao and enjoy dinner at Bistro Guggenheim
  • Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront promenade, Paseo del Arenal

Day 4: Muxika and the Countryside

Morning

  • Take a bus from Bilbao’s Termibus Station to Muxika ( approx. €2-3, 30 minutes)
  • Visit the picturesque Muxika Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and forests

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming town of Muxika, with its medieval architecture and scenic views
  • Enjoy lunch at a local txokos (Basque cider house), such as Txokoletxea

Evening

  • Return to Bilbao and enjoy dinner at El Mesón de la Villa
  • Take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere at the Plaza Nueva

Day 5: Vizcaya and the Basque Coast

Morning

  • Take a bus from Bilbao’s Termibus Station to Vizcaya ( approx. €2-3, 30 minutes)
  • Visit the stunning Casa de Juntas, a beautiful Baroque palace

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming town of Vizcaya, with its picturesque harbor and old town
  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurante El Puerto, serving local seafood dishes

Evening

  • Return to Bilbao and enjoy dinner at Zelaia
  • Take a stroll along the Paseo del Arenal, enjoying the city’s evening atmosphere

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Mercado de la Ribera
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to Bilbao Airport (BIO) for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • Bilbao is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • The official language is Basque, but most locals speak Spanish and some English
  • Tap water is safe to drink in Bilbao
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with rain and sunshine possible at any time of year

Transportation

  • Bilbao has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses (€1-2) and tramways (€1-2)
  • Taxis are widely available, but more expensive than public transport
  • Walking is also a great way to explore the city, with many attractions within walking distance

Tips

  • Try to learn some basic Basque phrases, such as “kaixo” (hello) and “eskerrik asko” (thank you)
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting churches or cultural events
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Basque cuisine, including pintxos (small bites) and txuleta (a type of steak)

Other Things of Interest

  • The Fiestas de Bilbao, a lively festival celebrating the city’s patron saint
  • The Bilbao BBK Live music festival, featuring international and local acts
  • The Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, showcasing an impressive collection of fine art