How to Spend One Day in Bilbao, Spain

Are you wondering how to spend one day in Bilbao, Spain? With great architecture, world-class art, fantastic food and a vibrant nightlife, Bilbao is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or a leisurely stroll around the city’s historic streets, this guide will help you plan the perfect day trip to Bilbao.

Morning: Explore Bilbao’s Old Quarter

Start the day off by exploring the old quarter of Bilbao. Here you will find some of the city’s oldest buildings and churches. Stroll along the narrow cobbled streets and admire the old-world architecture. Bilbao is known for its beautiful churches, so be sure to visit the Church of San Nikolás de Bari, a gothic church dating back to 1450. After exploring the old quarter, head over to the Ensanche area of the city. This neighborhood is where many of Bilbao’s modern-day attractions are located.

Mid-Morning: Visit the Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is a must-see when visiting Bilbao. This iconic building was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Spend at least two hours exploring the museum and take in the stunning architecture on its exterior. Don’t forget to check out the impressive sculpture garden which is home to some unique works.

Afternoon: Sample Local Cuisine

Bilbao is renowned for its excellent cuisine. The city’s local food scene is focused on seafood, so be sure to try some at one of the many restaurants around town. Head to La Trasca or Zuatzu tavern and sample some of their delicious dishes. If you have time in the afternoon, go on a gastronomic tour of Bilbao with Euskal Gastronomia. The tour will take you around the city’s various restaurants and bars, offering you an insight into Basque cuisine and culture.

Evening: Party in Bilbao

After a busy day exploring the city, why not head out for a night on the town? Bilbao has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Ibrik is one of the city’s most popular spots and plays music from all over the world while Galia is well known for its signature cocktails. For a more relaxed evening, grab a beer at Oldcomer’s Bar and sit back and enjoy some live music.

Art & Culture in Bilbao

In addition to its great food scene, Bilbao is also home to some amazing art and culture. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate its collection of works from renowned international artists such as Goya and Picasso. After that, head over to the Alhondiga Cultural Centre which is home to an array of exhibitions and events year-round. No trip to Bilbao would be complete without a visit to some of its iconic sights, such as the Funicular de Artxanda, Santiago Cathedral or Plaza Nueva.

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track, take a day trip to Urdaibai Nature Reserve which is just an hour away from Bilbao. This breathtaking landscape is filled with soaring mountains, deep canyons and expansive wetlands – perfect for nature lovers.

At the end of your day, be sure to grab dinner at one of Bilbao’s top restaurants before you head off for the night. From traditional Basque cuisine to haute dining experiences, there’s something for everyone. For more information on planning your perfect one day in Bilbao, Spain-holiday.com has all you need to create unforgettable memories.

Insider’s Guide to Spending One Day in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque Country, located in northern Spain. Known as an industrial city, Bilbao is a fascinating mix of old world charm and modern innovation. This insider’s guide will help you to plan your 24 hours in Bilbao, filled with local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Morning: Discovering the Local History

Start your day by visiting the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, located on the banks of the Nervion River. This stunning museum displays modern and contemporary art in an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. You can explore its 19 galleries and several permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Afterward, take a short walk to visit the Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao. Stroll through its narrow streets and visit the Mercado de la Ribera, a bustling market hall where you can taste the local specialities, like pintxos, Basque-style tapas, or fresh seafood.

Afternoon: Cultural Experiences and Genuine Basque Cuisine

After lunch, take a cab to the Mount Artxanda for a stunning view of the city. On the way back, stop at the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao, located in the Doña Casilda Park. The museum houses a vast collection of Basque, Spanish, and European paintings, sculptures, and art objects, dating from the 13th to the 21st century.

Then head to the nearby Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center built on the grounds of an old wine warehouse. The center offers a range of activities from workshops to concerts, and an indoor swimming pool. You can also enjoy a coffee break in the rooftop cafe while taking in the view of the city.

For dinner, head to one of the traditional Bilbao taverns, like El Globo, and try the local delicacies like bacalao al pil-pil (codfish in garlic and olive oil) or txipirones en su tinta (squid in ink sauce). Pair it with the excellent local wines, such as Rioja or Txakoli, and finish off with some traditional dessert like pantxineta (puff pastry and cream).

Evening: Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

As the day winds down, explore some of Bilbao’s hidden gems. Stroll along the riverbanks, and take in some of the street art and graffiti in the river park under Zubizuri bridge. Then, head to the city center and visit the Art District, filled with small galleries and boutiques.

Finish off your day in Bilbao by visiting the Basque-style pubs, known as txikiteo. Try to blend in with the locals and enjoy some pintxos and drinks while chatting with the friendly people. Some of the favorite spots include the Plaza Nueva or the Calle Ledesma area.

Final Words

One day may seem short for a city like Bilbao, but with these insider tips, you can make the most of it. Whether you’re interested in art, history, local cuisines, or just exploring the city streets, Bilbao has something for everyone. Follow this itinerary and discover the authentic beauty of this vibrant city.