Things to Do in Bilbao
Bilbao has transformed itself from a gritty industrial port into one of Spain’s most exciting cities. Titanium curves now rise where shipyards once stood, and pintxos bars spill onto every corner. Plus, the Basque food scene here rivals anywhere in the country. So whether you’re chasing art, architecture, or simply a good glass of txakoli, here are the best things to do in Bilbao.
Marvel at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Start with the building that changed this city forever. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao opened in 1997, and its titanium curves still stop visitors in their tracks. Architect Frank Gehry designed the structure to catch the light differently throughout the day. Inside, you’ll find contemporary art alongside striking pieces like Richard Serra’s “The Matter of Time.” Outside, Jeff Koons’ giant flower-covered Puppy greets visitors at the entrance. Since this museum draws crowds year-round, booking tickets online ahead of your visit saves considerable queuing time.
Get lost in Casco Viejo
Next, wander into Bilbao’s atmospheric medieval quarter for a change of pace entirely. Casco Viejo centres on Las Siete Calles, the seven original streets that formed the city in the fourteenth century. Narrow lanes wind past glassed-in balconies, quirky shops, and countless pintxos bars. At its heart sits Plaza Nueva, a handsome neoclassical square lined with arcaded cafés. The Santiago Cathedral also stands nearby, with its Gothic cloisters and carved wooden doors. Give yourself a couple of hours here, since it’s easy to get pleasantly lost among the alleyways.
Go pintxos hopping in Plaza Nueva
Naturally, no trip to Bilbao feels complete without a proper pintxos crawl. Plaza Nueva buzzes every evening with locals ordering small bites alongside a glass of wine or txakoli. Traditional pintxos here feature cod, anchovies, Iberian ham, or grilled peppers atop crusty bread. The trick is to order one dish per bar, then move along to the next spot. Toothpicks pile up on your plate as a running tally of what you’ve eaten. It’s a proper Basque tradition, and it’s every bit as fun as it sounds.
Shop and snack at Mercado de la Ribera
For a taste of daily Bilbao life, head down to the riverside market hall. Mercado de la Ribera holds the title of Europe’s largest covered food market, and it’s worth a visit just for the building itself. Stained glass windows and Art Deco details frame the bustling stalls below. Vendors sell everything from fresh fish to local cheese, olives, and cured meats. A dedicated pintxos section on the ground floor overlooks the river, perfect for a casual lunch. Come mid-morning, when the market feels liveliest and stalls are freshly stocked.
Cross the Zubizuri footbridge
Afterwards, continue your riverside walk towards one of Bilbao’s most photographed landmarks. The Zubizuri footbridge was designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, and its curved white form spans the Nervión River gracefully. Its name means “white bridge” in Basque, referencing the pale steel arch overhead. Glass paving panels line the walkway, though they can turn slippery when wet, so watch your step. At night, subtle lighting makes the whole structure glow above the water. It’s a lovely spot to pause and take photos before continuing your riverside stroll.
Ride the Artxanda Funicular
For the best view over Bilbao, hop aboard this charming little cable car. The Artxanda Funicular has carried passengers up Monte Artxanda since 1915, and the short ride still delights visitors today. Within three minutes, you’ll reach a hilltop platform overlooking the entire city and its winding river. On clear days, you can spot the Guggenheim’s titanium roof glinting far below. Walking trails and a couple of restaurants await at the top, perfect for a relaxed break. Tickets are inexpensive and available directly at the base station, so there’s no need to book ahead.
Explore the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Beyond contemporary art, this excellent museum rewards a proper visit too. The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum houses seven centuries of paintings, from Old Masters to twentieth-century Basque artists. Works by Goya, El Greco, and Gauguin all feature within its elegant galleries. Compared to the Guggenheim, crowds here tend to be noticeably thinner, making for a relaxed visit. The surrounding Doña Casilda Park also makes a lovely spot for a stroll afterwards. Combined tickets covering both the Guggenheim and this museum offer decent savings if you plan to visit both.
Visit the Puente Colgante in Getxo
A short metro ride from the centre brings you to one of the world’s oldest transporter bridges. The Puente Colgante, also called the Bizkaia Bridge, has ferried passengers and cars across the Nervión since 1893. This UNESCO World Heritage Site connects the towns of Getxo and Portugalete via a suspended gondola. Braver visitors can walk across the upper walkway, nearly fifty metres above the water. Views stretch out towards the Bay of Biscay on clear days. Afterwards, Getxo’s elegant seafront promenade makes a pleasant spot for a coastal walk.
Discover Azkuna Zentroa
Back in the city centre, this striking cultural hub occupies a former wine warehouse. Azkuna Zentroa was redesigned by Philippe Starck, who kept the building’s forty-three original columns, each with a different design. Inside, you’ll find a cinema, library, exhibition spaces, and a rooftop swimming pool with a glass floor. Free exhibitions rotate regularly, covering everything from photography to contemporary design. The building’s central atrium alone is worth a look, even if you don’t stay long. It’s a great rainy-day option, and entry to most areas costs nothing at all.
Take a day trip to San Sebastián
Finally, if you have an extra day, head east to one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal cities. San Sebastián sits roughly an hour from Bilbao by bus or car, making it an easy day trip. La Concha Bay curves in a perfect crescent, ranked among Europe’s finest urban beaches. The old town here holds its own legendary pintxos scene, arguably rivalling Bilbao’s own. Climb Monte Igueldo for sweeping views back across the bay and coastline. For more inspiration on exploring the wider Basque Country, our guide to best day trips from Bilbao covers plenty of other options.
Bilbao proves that reinvention can be beautiful. Between titanium museums, medieval alleyways, and pintxos bars on every corner, this city rewards curious travellers generously. Take a few days here, follow the river, and let the Basque appetite for good food and bold design guide your visit. You’ll leave already planning your return.