Bilbao in 3 days: what to see day by day
Ready-to-use 3 days itinerary for Bilbao: 16 places grouped geographically into walking routes (17 h 55 min of pure visiting time) with opening hours and places to eat along the way.
1 day · 2 days · 3 days · Things to do in Bilbao
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Day 1 · 5 h 55 min visiting · approx. 550 m walking between stops
- Simón Bolívar — 10 min visit. The obelisk commemorating Simón Bolívar is a historical landmark, not a recreational area like the neighboring parks.
- Santiago Cathedral Basilica — 45 min visit (approx. 100 m from previous stop). The Gothic cathedral is part of the Way of St. James, offering a deep historical atmosphere, unlike the modern Guggenheim Museum.
- Plaza Barria — 1 h 30 min visit (approx. 260 m from previous stop). Its neoclassical architecture provides a backdrop for the bustling heart of social life, perfect for evening tapas.
- Plaza Nueva — 1 h visit (approx. 0 m from previous stop). This neoclassical arcaded square is the heart of the Old Town with a weekly flea market and numerous pintxos bars.
- Arriaga Theatre — 30 min visit (approx. 190 m from previous stop). As a representative neo-baroque theater by the river, it offers an active repertoire of cultural events, unlike the Guggenheim Museum.
- Arriaga antzokia — 2 h visit (approx. 10 m from previous stop). 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.
Where to eat along the route (Day 1)
- 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.
Day 2 · 5 h 45 min visiting · approx. 1.3 km walking between stops
- 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.
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum — 2 h 30 min visit (approx. 490 m from previous stop). 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 (approx. 830 m from previous stop). A modern, white pedestrian structure designed by Santiago Calatrava, it is an architectural attraction offering a unique backdrop for photos.
Where to eat along the route (Day 2)
- Atelier Etxanobe — It presents high-class cuisine with a modern approach to Basque flavors, requiring prior reservation unlike casual cafes.
- Nerua — Located in the Guggenheim Museum, it is famous for its refined, modern Basque cuisine, requiring reservations and appropriate attire.
Day 3 · 6 h 15 min visiting · approx. 3.8 km walking between stops
- 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.
- San Anton zubia — 15 min visit (approx. 60 m from previous stop). This is one of the oldest historic bridges in Bilbao, offering views of the river and San Antón church, unlike Zubizuri.
- Basílica de Begoña — 1 h visit (approx. 880 m from previous stop). It dominates the city, being an important pilgrimage site with panoramic views, unlike San Anton eliza located by the river.
- Azkuna Zentroa — 1 h 30 min visit (approx. 1.8 km from previous stop). 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 (approx. 760 m from previous stop). A classic city park with fountains and a pond offering peaceful relaxation in the center, in contrast to the Simón Bolívar obelisk.
- Iturrizar Doña Casilda parkea — 1 h visit (approx. 40 m from previous stop). Unlike the dry greenery of Simón Bolívar, this park features a large pond with swimming ducks and swans.
- Euskalduna Palace — 1 h visit (approx. 260 m from previous stop). This modern palace serves as a congress center and auditorium for concerts and operas, unlike museums or the traditional Arriaga Theater.
Where to eat along the route (Day 3)
- Pura Brasa — It specializes in Spanish-style grilled dishes, delivering intense meat flavors from fresh ingredients.
- Starbucks — As a global chain, it provides a standardized coffee menu and Wi-Fi access, regardless of local specialties.
Things to do in Bilbao — all places with visit times
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