What to Do in Bilbao: 24 Hours to Eat, Drink & Explore

Bilbao, nestled in Spain’s Basque Country, had long been on my travel list, yet I always let nearby San Sebastián overshadow it. Big mistake. Huge.

Like Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman, realizing what the snooty saleswomen missed out on, I finally made the short trip from San Sebastian on a recent European EV road trip—and wow, was I the one missing out.

Even in just 24 hours, I packed in a lot—strolling through the downtown core, exploring Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, soaking in city views, and of course, visiting the world-famous Guggenheim Museum.

With incredible food, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture, Bilbao left a lasting impression.

Whether you’re planning a short visit or wondering what to do in Bilbao for 3 days, this guide has you covered, from must-see spots to the best day trips from Bilbao and where to stay.

Where is Bilbao & How to Get There

Before diving into all the great things to do in Bilbao and sharing my experience from my amazing visit, let’s look at where it’s located and how to get there.

📍 Where is Bilbao?

Located in northern Spain, Bilbao is the largest city in the province of Biscay and the Basque Country as a whole. It sits along the Nervión River, about 16 kilometers (10 miles) inland from the Bay of Biscay.

Historically a major port city, Bilbao has evolved from an industrial hub into a center for art, architecture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination.

How to Get to Bilbao – Travel Tips

Bilbao is well-connected and easy to reach by various means of transportation:

🚗 By Car – Bilbao tucked away in the north west corner of Spain close to the France boarder but accessible by major roads.

• From San Sebastián: ~1 hour via the AP-8 highway (or longer via the scenic coastal route).
• From Madrid: ~4 hours via the A-1 and AP-68 highways.
• From Bordeaux, France: ~2.5 hours via the A63 and AP-8 highways.

🚆 By Train – Bilbao’s Abando Indalecio Prieto Station offers train connections to major Spanish cities:

• Madrid to Bilbao: ~5 hours via Renfe services.
• Barcelona to Bilbao: ~6.5 hours via Renfe.

✈️ By Plane – Bilbao Airport (BIO) is located 12 km (7.5 miles) north of the city center, with frequent domestic and international flights.

One of the highlights of my drive from San Sebastián to Bilbao was a stop at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an iconic coastal site that’s well worth a detour. It also one of the best day tours from Bilbao, but more on that below.

A Brief History of Bilbao

Bilbao was founded in 1300 by Diego López V de Haro, Lord of Biscay. Thanks to its strategic location, the city quickly became an important commercial hub, facilitating trade between Spain and northern Europe.

The 19th and early 20th centuries saw Bilbao become an industrial powerhouse, leading to rapid urbanization.

However, the late 20th century marked a shift toward cultural and architectural rejuvenation, spearheaded by the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997, which transformed Bilbao into a global tourist destination.

Best Area to Stay in Bilbao

The best area to stay in Bilbao depends on your travel style, whether you’re looking for modern luxury, historic charm, or a lively atmosphere.

The city is compact and walkable, with great public transport, so no matter where you stay, you’ll have easy access to its top attractions.

Abando – Near the Guggenheim Museum

For a sleek and modern stay, Abando is the top choice, especially for those who want to be close to the Guggenheim Museum. This area is home to high-end hotels, stylish restaurants, and easy access to the Nervión River.

The museum’s striking architecture dominates the skyline, and you can stroll along the riverfront promenade to discover more contemporary art and design in the city. It’s also well connected to other parts of Bilbao, making it convenient for exploring.

Casco Viejo – Bilbao’s Old Town

If you prefer a more historic and atmospheric setting, Casco Viejo (the Old Town) is the best place to stay. This area is full of charming boutique hotels and lively pintxos bars, making it perfect for food lovers.

The narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings, medieval churches, and hidden plazas, giving it an old-world feel. You’ll be within walking distance of attractions like the Mercado de la Ribera and Santiago Cathedral, as well as plenty of traditional Basque restaurants.

Indautxu – A Lively, Central Neighborhood

For a balance of culture, nightlife, and convenience, Indautxu is a great option. Located near Gran Vía, Bilbao’s main shopping street, this district is bustling with locals and offers a mix of trendy cafés, bars, and cultural spots like the Azkuna Zentroa.

It’s a great choice for those who want to experience the city’s daily life while still being within walking distance of major sights. Plus, it has excellent metro connections for day trips outside the city.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique experience, from modern riverfront luxury to historic charm and vibrant city life. No matter which one you choose, Bilbao’s compact size makes it easy to explore them all during your stay.

Where to Stay in Bilbao – My Pick

For my stay, I chose Hesperia Bilbao in the Abando neighborhood. This modern hotel is just steps from the Guggenheim Museum, located along the Nervión River.

Renowned for its colorful, glass-paneled façade, it offers rooms with enclosed balconies that provide stunning city views

A great perk for electric vehicle travelers is the availability of EV charging stations, making Bilbao an easy stop on a road trip. The breakfast spread at my hotel was one of the best I had during my European journey, featuring a variety of local and international dishes.

If you’re searching for places to stay in Bilbao Spain, with both convenience and comfort, Hesperia Bilbao is an excellent choice, offering a prime location and great amenities.

Be sure to check out my full Hesperia Bilbao Hotel review for all the details!

Additional Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Pensión Boutique Caravan Cinema – A stylish yet affordable option in Casco Viejo, featuring unique cinematic-themed rooms.
• Mid-Range: Sercotel Ayala – A modern and comfortable hotel located in Indautxu, offering spacious rooms and a great breakfast selection.
• Luxury: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao – A five-star hotel offering luxurious amenities and spectacular views of the Guggenheim Museum, situated in Abando.

What to Do in Bilbao for a Day or Two

With logistics out of the way and your bearings set, let me share my tips on what to do in Bilbao along with what to eat in Bilbao.

Mid-Day Arrival and Exploring the City

I arrived in Bilbao around midday after a sweaty but rewarding climb up the steps at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. After freshening up, I headed out to explore.

First, I crossed the Zubizuri Bridge, an architectural gem that immediately caught my attention. Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the bridge—whose name means “White Bridge” in Basque—features a sleek, curved design resembling a sail.

Completed in 1997, its glass tile walkway and sweeping arch make it a striking landmark over the Nervión River.

As I made my way across, I couldn’t help but take in my first impressions of Bilbao. Despite its industrial past, the city is incredibly green—far more than I expected. One of the most unique touches was the overgrown grass along the streetcar tracks, blending urban infrastructure seamlessly with nature.

Bilbao is a surprisingly beautiful city, with a fascinating mix of historic buildings and modern architecture. Many older structures retain their original facades, while contemporary construction integrates effortlessly into the cityscape.

Public art is also everywhere, adding color and character to the streets. Sculptures, murals, and installations dot the pathways, making the walk as much an artistic journey as a scenic one.

Walking through downtown on my way to the Old Town (Casco Viejo) gave me a true sense of Bilbao’s dual identity—a city that embraces both its modern transformation and its deep-rooted history.

Afternoon: Casco Viejo and Pintxos

Once in Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s historic Old Town, I wandered through its narrow, cobbled streets, lined with centuries-old buildings, charming boutiques, and traditional Iberian ham butchers.

This part of the city is the beating heart of Bilbao’s history, dating back over 700 years. It was once surrounded by medieval walls, remnants of which can still be seen today.

One of the most striking landmarks here is the Santiago Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church that has stood in the Old Town for centuries.

Built in the 15th century and dedicated to St. James (Santiago), the patron saint of pilgrims, the cathedral is an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Its intricate façade, arched cloisters, and grand interior make it a must-visit.

Nearby, San Nikolas Eliza, a beautiful Baroque-style church built in the 18th century, stands near Plaza Nueva at the entrance to Casco Viejo.

Dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Bari, the patron saint of sailors, its ornate façade and twin bell towers make it one of the most striking religious landmarks in Bilbao. The church’s interior is just as impressive, featuring intricate altarpieces and sculptures that reflect the artistic heritage of the Basque Country.

After soaking in the history, I made my way to Plaza Nueva, a lively neoclassical square and the perfect spot to enjoy pintxos and drinks. Unlike the more compact Old Town of San Sebastián, Casco Viejo in Bilbao is much larger, offering endless places to explore.

The mix of historic sites and vibrant local life makes it an ideal place to spend an afternoon hopping between bars, tasting everything sweet Basque Cheesecake to savoury Gildas (olive, anchovy, and pepper skewers) paired with txakoli (a crisp Basque white wine).

I could have easily spent an entire day wandering, sipping, and eating my way through Casco Viejo, discovering hidden pintxos bars and soaking in the local atmosphere. If you’re wondering about the best area to stay in Bilbao, Casco Viejo is a fantastic choice for those who love history, culture, and nightlife.

On my way out of the Old Town, I couldn’t resist stopping for even more pintxos and drinks—because, well, Spain.

Evening: A Cinematic Bar, Riverside Walk, and a Guggenheim Sunset

I finally pulled myself away from the endless pintxos, only to be pulled into one of the most unique bars in Bilbao—Kubrick. Dedicated to legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick, this stylish bar is filled with nods to his most famous films, including A Clockwork Orange, The Shining, and 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Located on a pedestrian street with views of the Ría de Bilbao, it was the perfect place to enjoy a drink in a setting as cinematic as the director’s work.

From there, I took a leisurely walk along the river, passing several impressive public art displays along the way. Once again, I was struck by how walkable and pedestrian-friendly Bilbao is—it’s not just a city to visit, but one that feels incredibly livable.

I ended my walk at the Guggenheim Museum, stopping to admire several outdoor (and free) art installations that have become city icons.

The most famous is Puppy, a 12-meter-tall (40-foot) floral sculpture of a dog by artist Jeff Koons, covered in thousands of colorful flowers. Another standout is

Fog Sculpture #08025 (1998) by Fujiko Nakaya, a mesmerizing installation that releases a thick mist at scheduled times, creating an eerie, dreamlike effect around the museum’s waterfront.

As the sun began to set, I grabbed a seat at the outdoor café next to the museum, watching the golden light reflect off the Guggenheim’s shimmering titanium exterior while sipping an Aperol Spritz and enjoying live music. It was the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable day in Bilbao.

Of course, the evening didn’t end there. The nearby streets are lined with bars and restaurants, and I found myself hopping between a few for more pintxos and drinks. I had planned to try Txuletón, the famous Basque-style aged steak, but I had already filled up on pintxos—a warning for anyone planning to save room for dinner!

I wrapped up the night with a stroll through Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and across Plaza Moyúa, a grand circular plaza known for its elegant architecture and landscaped gardens.

Finally, I crossed the Pedro Arrupe Footbridge, which offers fantastic nighttime views of the Guggenheim Museum, before heading back to my room at the Hesperia Bilbao—completely satisfied with my one perfect day in the city.

Morning: A Scenic Jog, Guggenheim Visit, and One Last Look at Bilbao

Refreshed and inspired by the beauty of Bilbao and its inviting riverside trails, I started my morning with a brisk jog along the Nervión River. Despite the heavy breathing, the views were undeniable—there are definitely worse places to feel out of shape.

The combination of sleek modern buildings, lush green spaces, and reflections on the water made for an incredibly scenic route.

After my run, I showered up and enjoyed one last coffee on my enclosed balcony, taking in the quiet morning views before heading down for a great breakfast at the hotel. With a spread of fresh pastries, Iberian ham, cheeses, and fresh juices, it was the perfect way to fuel up for my final morning in Bilbao.

I then walked over to the Guggenheim Museum, this time heading inside—and it did not disappoint. Home to over 250 pieces of contemporary art, the museum hosts a mix of permanent exhibits and rotating installations. Some of my personal favorites included:

• The exhibit on Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara, known for his striking, rebellious characters that blend innocence with attitude.
• The Matter of Time, a giant steel maze-like installation by Richard Serra that allows visitors to walk through its winding, towering curves, creating an immersive experience in both art and space.

Though I only had a rushed hour and a half, I highly recommend allowing more time—or even taking a guided tour of the Guggenheim to fully appreciate the artwork, history, and architecture of this iconic museum.

Before leaving the city, I drove up to Mount Artxanda Lookout, the perfect spot to take in one last panoramic view of Bilbao.

From here, you can see the entire city, the river, and the surrounding green hills, a stunning reminder of Bilbao’s unique blend of urban and natural beauty. You don’t need a car to get here—the Artxanda Funicular provides a quick and scenic ride up (check tickets here).

With one last deep breath of fresh Basque air, I said my goodbyes to Bilbao. Leaving felt bittersweet, but I took solace in knowing I’d uncovered a true gem—much like when I once overlooked Porto, Portugal, only to later discover it would become one of my favorite European cities. Bilbao now joins that list. I will be back.

From there, I hit the road toward my next stop—and country number 81—Andorra. Stay tuned for that adventure.

Why Bilbao Deserves More Than 24 Hours

While 24 hours in Bilbao provides a fantastic introduction, I quickly realized that the city has so much more to offer. Between its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, thriving food scene, and stunning natural surroundings, I barely scratched the surface. Next time, I’d love to explore more of Bilbao’s cultural side, dive deeper into its gastronomy, and take a few day trips to experience the best of the Basque Country.

Here’s what I missed—and what you can do if you have 2 or 3 days in Bilbao to truly appreciate everything this incredible city has to offer.

What to Do in Bilbao for 2 Days

If you have two full days, you can experience both Bilbao’s historic charm and modern culture, with time for a scenic escape.

Day 1: History & Architecture

• Explore Casco Viejo, stopping at Santiago Cathedral and sampling pintxos at Plaza Nueva.
• Visit the Guggenheim Museum, exploring both outdoor sculptures and interior exhibits.
• Stroll along the Nervión River, taking in street art and stopping at Kubrick Bar for a drink.
• Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant such as Nerua.

Day 2: Views & Culture

• Take the Artxanda Funicular to Mount Artxanda Lookout for panoramic views of Bilbao.
• Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, home to an impressive collection of Spanish and European art.
• Wander through the Ensanche district, Bilbao’s modern shopping and dining hub.
• Join a food & wine tour, tasting the best Basque flavors with a local guide (book a tour here).

What to Do in Bilbao for 3 Days

With an extra day, you can add more cultural experiences or take a scenic day trip.

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

• Take a boat cruise along the Nervión River, offering a unique perspective of the city.
• Visit Azkuna Zentroa, a former wine warehouse transformed into a cultural hub by designer Philippe Starck.
• Explore the Ribera Market, Bilbao’s bustling indoor food market, perfect for sampling fresh seafood and local specialties.
• Experience a Basque cooking class, learning how to make pintxos and other traditional dishes.
• End your trip at San Mamés Stadium, home to Athletic Club Bilbao, one of Spain’s most historic football teams.

Day Trips from Bilbao – Best Excursions Beyond the City

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip from Bilbao to explore the Basque countryside, coastline, or wine regions.

• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe – A stunning coastal hike to the famous Game of Thrones filming location.
• La Rioja Wine Region – Join a day tour from Bilbao to visit world-renowned wineries and taste Spain’s finest wines (book here).
• San Sebastián – A foodie paradise just over an hour away, perfect for a pintxos tour.
• Vitoria-Gasteiz – The Basque capital, known for its medieval old town and vibrant wine scene.
• Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve – A scenic nature escape with beaches, hiking trails, and birdwatching.

Each of these day trips adds depth to your Bilbao visit, offering a wider perspective on the rich culture, history, and landscapes of the Basque Country.

What to Eat and Drink in Bilbao

Bilbao is a food lover’s paradise, with a culinary scene deeply rooted in Basque traditions while embracing modern flavors. The city is best known for its pintxos, the Basque version of tapas—small, flavorful bites often served on a slice of bread and secured with a toothpick.

You’ll find them in almost every bar, especially in Casco Viejo and Plaza Nueva, where locals hop from bar to bar sampling specialties like Gilda (anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper skewers), bacalao (salt cod), and txangurro (spider crab). Don’t miss la tortilla de patatas, Bilbao’s take on the classic Spanish omelet, often served warm and extra creamy.

For those looking for a heartier meal, Bilbao is famous for txuletón, a massive aged beef steak grilled to perfection and best enjoyed at a traditional asador (grill house). Seafood lovers should try kokotxas (hake or cod cheeks), often prepared in a garlic and parsley sauce, or marmitako, a comforting Basque tuna stew.

And no visit to Bilbao is complete without indulging in Basque cheesecake, a burnt, caramelized cheesecake that originated in nearby San Sebastián but is beloved throughout the region.

Pair these delicious bites with txakoli, a slightly sparkling, dry white wine poured from a height to enhance its crispness. Red wine lovers will appreciate Rioja Alavesa wines, produced in the Basque region, while beer drinkers can enjoy a zurito, a small draft beer commonly ordered alongside pintxos.

For something stronger, try Patxaran, a traditional Basque sloe liqueur, perfect for rounding off a meal. Whether you’re hopping between pintxos bars, enjoying a fine dining experience, or sipping wine along the Nervión River, Bilbao’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its culture.

Final Thoughts: So Much More to Explore

I’m honestly kicking myself for waiting so long to visit Bilbao, especially with San Sebastián so close. This city exceeded all expectations, with its stunning blend of history, modern architecture, and world-class cuisine.

Whether you’re visiting for a day, two days, or three days, there’s plenty to see, eat, and experience. Don’t make the same mistake I did—plan your Bilbao trip now!

🔗 Book Your Stay at Hesperia Hotel Bilbao Today!

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