1 day in Bilbao

Table of Contents

Bilbao, located in the Basque Country of northern Spain, is a vibrant city known for its unique blend of traditional Basque culture and modern architecture.

Santander to Bilbao

How to get from Santander to Bilbao

Catch a bus from the bus station. Please make sure that you book the tickets in advance on the website or at the station at least a day before. I have made a mistake of thinking that you can purchase it from driver, but unfortunately you can’t and because the seats are reserved, we had to go the next day, as there were no tickets available. It will cost you roughly 34.90€ for two people for return ticket.

Where to eat in Bilbao

Bilbao offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Basque cuisine to international flavours.

Breakfast in Bilbao

I have not done a lot of research before visiting in terms of food, however on our way to explore the city we discovered a lovely little cafe that had amazing breakfast deals. <BERTIZ> I got a croissant with butter and cappuccino for less than 4€.

Keep in mind that breakfast in Spain is often a lighter meal compared to lunch or dinner. Breakfast hours can vary, but typically, Spaniards enjoy their first meal of the day between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. If you’re an early riser or have specific breakfast preferences, it’s a good idea to check the opening hours of the places you plan to visit in Bilbao.

Food market in Bilbao

Bilbao is home to several food markets where you can experience the vibrant local food culture and enjoy fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of regional specialties. One of the most notable food markets in Bilbao is the “Mercado de la Ribera,” which is often considered one of the largest indoor markets in Europe.

Best lunch in Bilbao

Food markets are the places that I love visiting. Bilbao has a beautiful food market and the best thing about it – it has a section where you can get a drink and taste some of the amazing tapas and pintxos. Prices start from €1.50 per portion. They also have outside area, so if the weather is nice you can enjoy amazing tastes and sunshine.

Remember that Spanish dining times can be different from what you might be accustomed to. Lunch in Spain is typically served between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM, and dinner is later, often starting around 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM. It’s a good idea to make reservations at popular restaurants, especially during peak dining hours. Enjoy your meal in Bilbao!

Explore the city of Bilbao

Bilbao has amazing signage. You don’t need google maps to tell you where to go. Take a stroll along the river and get lost in narrow streets, visit traditional Basque pintxos bars, and admire the medieval architecture.

Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

The museum’s exterior is a work of art in itself. You can admire the building’s unique design from the outside, including its massive steel spider sculpture called “Maman” by Louise Bourgeois, which is located near the entrance. The surrounding grounds are also beautifully landscaped and provide a scenic backdrop for the museum.

If you enjoy art, looking for some inspiration, want to see amazing architecture and a place where you can relax, visiting Guggenheim museum is worth it. Book your tickets online as this way you will avoid queueing. The cost is €16. When visiting the museum, make sure you are not carrying a rucksack, as it will be required to be left in the cloak room.

The museum is primarily an art museum, and it houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. While the collection is not as extensive as some other Guggenheim museums, it features a diverse range of artworks from the mid-20th century to the present day, including pieces by renowned artists like Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, Anish Kapoor, and Yves Klein.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao hosts a rotating series of temporary exhibitions, which often showcase cutting-edge contemporary art and special thematic exhibitions. These exhibitions can vary widely and are a highlight for many visitors.

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

Located near the Guggenheim, this museum features an extensive collection of Spanish and Basque art, including works by renowned artists like Goya and El Greco.

Parque de Doña Casilda Iturrizar

This beautiful park is a relaxing spot to unwind, with walking paths, a pond, and sculptures.

Day trips

Bilbao is a great base for exploring the Basque Country. Consider taking day trips to nearby towns like San Sebastián, Vitoria-Gasteiz, or the picturesque coastal village of Getxo.

Remember to check the opening hours and availability of attractions and restaurants, as they may vary depending on the season and local events. Bilbao is a diverse and dynamic city that offers a unique blend of culture, art, and cuisine, making it a fantastic destination for travelers.

Bilbao useful links

If you are looking to book experiences in Bilbao, GetYoutGuide is the company that I would recommend. I always book my tours with them. Click on the widget below to browse.