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Things to do in Bilbao

12 places · 12 h 55 min of sightseeing · 3 days

How many days do you need in Bilbao?

12 places add up to 12 h 55 min of pure sightseeing. At 6 hours a day, not counting walking and meals, that's 3 days.

The best-known places in order, as long as they fit into 6 hours of sightseeing a day. Sightseeing only, without walking and meals — build the day-by-day plan with opening hours and the route in a RouteMarket notebook.

1 day — 5 h 25 min

2 days — 11 h 55 min

3 days — 12 h 55 min

Top sights

Ordered by how well known each place is. Data: OpenStreetMap and Wikipedia.

Simón Bolívar — 10 min visit. The obelisk commemorating Simón Bolívar is a historical landmark, not a recreational area like the neighboring parks.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao — 3 h visit. It is distinguished by Frank Gehry's futuristic architecture and collections of contemporary art, which sets it apart from traditional city buildings. Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–19:30 · Mon closed.
Santiago Cathedral Basilica — 45 min visit. The Gothic cathedral is part of the Way of St. James, offering a deep historical atmosphere, unlike the modern Guggenheim Museum.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum — 2 h 30 min visit. It offers a rich art collection, from works by old masters to contemporary art, dedicated to lovers of painting and sculpture. Hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–20:00 · Mon closed.
Zubizuri — 15 min visit. A modern, white pedestrian structure designed by Santiago Calatrava, it is an architectural attraction offering a unique backdrop for photos.
San Anton eliza — 30 min visit. Picturesquely situated by the river, this Gothic church is one of Bilbao's most recognizable symbols seen on postcards.
Arriaga antzokia — 2 h visit. This impressive neo-Baroque theater, unlike the Museum of Fine Arts, offers dynamic performances, operas, and concerts. Hours: Horario de Taquilla: Mon–Tue,Sat–Sun 11:30–14:00,17:00–19:00 · Wed–Fri 11:30–14:00,17:00–20:00.
Arriaga Theatre — 30 min visit. As a representative neo-baroque theater by the river, it offers an active repertoire of cultural events, unlike the Guggenheim Museum.
Euskalduna Palace — 1 h visit. This modern palace serves as a congress center and auditorium for concerts and operas, unlike museums or the traditional Arriaga Theater.
Basílica de Begoña — 1 h visit. It dominates the city, being an important pilgrimage site with panoramic views, unlike San Anton eliza located by the river.
San Anton zubia — 15 min visit. This is one of the oldest historic bridges in Bilbao, offering views of the river and San Antón church, unlike Zubizuri.
Iturrizar Doña Casilda parkea — 1 h visit. Unlike the dry greenery of Simón Bolívar, this park features a large pond with swimming ducks and swans.
Azkuna Zentroa — 1 h 30 min visit. A former wine warehouse transformed into a modern center with a rooftop pool and cinema, offering a wide range of recreation.
Doña Casilda Park — 1 h visit. A classic city park with fountains and a pond offering peaceful relaxation in the center, in contrast to the Simón Bolívar obelisk.
Plaza Barria — 1 h 30 min visit. Its neoclassical architecture provides a backdrop for the bustling heart of social life, perfect for evening tapas.
Gran Vía Don Diego López de Haro — 1 h 30 min visit. This is the main shopping street full of shops and boutiques, ideal for shopping, in contrast to city squares.
Salbeko Bridge — 10 min visit. It offers a unique perspective on the Guggenheim Museum, while also serving pedestrian and vehicular traffic, unlike the Zubizuri bridge.
Euskal Museoa — 1 h 30 min visit. It focuses on the history and culture of the Basque Country, presenting unique exhibits from archaeology to ethnography.
Plaza Nueva — 1 h visit. This neoclassical arcaded square is the heart of the Old Town with a weekly flea market and numerous pintxos bars.
Itsasmuseum Bilbao — 2 h visit. This maritime museum, located by the river, showcases the history of the port and navigation, while also being an ideal place for families. Hours: Mon closed · Tue–Sun 11:00–19:00.
Moyúa Square — 15 min visit. Surrounded by historic architecture, its circular shape with a fountain distinguishes it as a central landmark in the city.
Erriberako Merkatua — 1 h 30 min visit. This is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, offering fresh produce and pintxos bars, unlike open squares.
Mercado de la Ribera — 1 h 15 min visit. The historic market hall by the river offers fresh produce and pintxos bars under one roof, unlike open squares.
Bilbao City Hall — 20 min visit. A neo-baroque government building picturesquely situated by the river, its administrative function sets it apart from neighboring cultural institutions.

Where to eat

Iruña — This historic place, serving traditional Basque dishes, offers an elegant setting for tasting classic local flavors.
Café Iruña — It is famous for its long history and rich, traditional decor, offering a unique atmosphere of old Bilbao, unlike fast-food establishments.
Zortziko — This place stands out for its exquisite Basque cuisine, often awarded Michelin stars, offering top-level experiences.
Nerua — Located in the Guggenheim Museum, it is famous for its refined, modern Basque cuisine, requiring reservations and appropriate attire.
Zarate — It is famous for its fresh seafood and fish, offering elegant meals for those seeking marine delicacies.
Mina — This Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern Basque cuisine with a unique view of the Nervión River.
Atelier Etxanobe — It presents high-class cuisine with a modern approach to Basque flavors, requiring prior reservation unlike casual cafes.
Restaurante Griego — It offers traditional Greek cuisine, providing an excellent alternative to the local flavors of Bilbao.

What to see in Bilbao in one day?

Simón Bolívar, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Santiago Cathedral Basilica, Zubizuri, San Anton eliza, Arriaga Theatre, San Anton zubia.

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