Bilbao 3 Day Itinerary

Bilbao in 3 Days: An Itinerary for Art & Culture Lovers

This itinerary is designed for a visitor who wants to experience the best of Bilbao’s art and culture. It focuses on hitting key attractions related to these interests, but you can always tailor it based on your preferences!

Day 1: Architectural Wonders & Basque Flavors

  • Morning:

    • Start with the Guggenheim: Immerse yourself in the iconic architecture of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and its world-renowned modern art collection. Allow at least 3 hours to explore the museum’s unique exhibits and admire the stunning Frank Gehry design.

  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Basque cuisine for a taste of the local flavor.

    • Option 1: Restaurante Begoña for a delicious and authentic lunch experience.
    • Option 2: Cascorro offers a modern take on Basque tapas.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the Old Town (Casco Viejo): Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, discover the architectural gems like the Catedral de Santiago and the Plaza Nueva, and soak in the vibrant history of this area.
    • Enjoy pintxos: Indulge in Bilbao’s famous “pintxos” (Basque tapas) scene at a variety of “bares” (bars) in the Casco Viejo. This is a must-do experience for any visitor!

Things to know:

  • The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is closed on Mondays.
  • Lunch:
    • Many restaurants offer prix fixe menus for lunch, which are a great way to sample local cuisine at a reasonable price.
  • Dinner: Experience the “Bilbao Effect” with a delicious meal at the Mercado de la Ribera, enjoying fresh seafood and tapas in a lively atmosphere.

Transportation:

  • Getting around: Walk within Casco Viejo, use public transportation (metro, bus) for longer distances within the city.

Tips:

  • Walk the Paseo del Nervión: This scenic promenade is perfect for an evening stroll.
  • Enjoy a traditional Basque meal with a view of the river.

Things to see:

  • The Casco Viejo: Wander through the maze-like streets, marvel at the historic architecture and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Catedral de Santiago: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and the beautiful views from the tower.

Day 2: Basque Traditions & Modern Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) to learn about the region’s rich artistic heritage, then explore the museum’s surroundings at your leisure.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Guggenheim’s architecture: Take a guided tour or simply wander around and admire the unique curves and shapes.

  • Visit the Plaza Nueva: Enjoy the vibrant energy of this bustling square in the heart of Bilbao.

  • Lunch: Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Bilbao’s pintxos bars.

Things to see:

  • The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Explore the museum’s unique architecture and explore modern art from around the world.
  • Plaza de los colores: The colorful buildings and shops reflect the vibrant culture of the Basque Country.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Basque cuisine: Enjoy a delicious “pintxos” tour, sampling the diverse flavors of this region.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delightful dinner at El Botín, known for its traditional Basque cuisine and charming atmosphere.

Things to see:

  • The Guggenheim Museum’s architectural masterpiece: The museum is home to a variety of unique and thought-provoking art exhibits, but it’s the building itself that’s worth seeing.
  • Traditional “pintxos” at Bilbao’s famous Casco Viejo (Old Town): Enjoy the deliciousness of these small snacks with your dinner!

Things to know:

  • Many pintxos bars in Bilbao are open late into the night, perfect for a casual evening meal and drinks.

Things to know:

  • Casco Viejo (Old Town): This is the historic heart of Bilbao, a maze of charming streets with beautiful architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to wander and find unique places to eat.

Day 3: Day trip to San Sebastián or Santander

  • Morning: Enjoy a relaxing morning exploring the “pintxos” culture at your own pace.
  • Lunch: Sample the local delicacies in one of the many small restaurants and bars in San Sebastián, which is known for its culinary scene.

Things to do:

  • Take a scenic train ride from San Sebastián to the Guggenheim, enjoying the views along the journey.

  • Enjoy the Basque cuisine in San Sebastián’s vibrant food scene.

  • Explore the beautiful beaches and parks of San Sebastián.

Stay at:

  • Hotel Gran Bilbao: This 4-star hotel offers modern amenities and a great location for exploring the city.
  • Petit Palace Areatza: A stylish, centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

Things to know:

  • San Sebastián: Enjoy the charm of this coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culinary scene.
  • Bilbao: Bilbao’s Old Town, or “Casco Viejo” in Basque, is a must-visit area with historical architecture and many restaurants offering traditional Basque cuisine.

Things to do:

  • San Sebastián: Explore the beautiful beaches of La Concha and Zurriola, visit the charming Parte Vieja (Old Town) and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.
  • San Sebastián:
    • Visit the Mercado de la Ribera: Experience the bustling heart of Bilbao’s culinary scene.

Things to do in San Sebastián:

  • Enjoy a “pintxos” crawl: Sample the diverse flavors of this popular Basque tradition. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy a variety of “pintxos” with your group.
  • Explore the Mercado de la Ribera: The oldest market in Spain, it’s a great place to see the local producers and sample fresh ingredients.

Guesthouse vs. Hotel:

  • Consider visiting the “pintxos” scene at a variety of bars and restaurants: San Sebastián is known for its vibrant “pintxos” culture.

Things to see in Santander:

  • The Palacio de la Magdalena: A beautiful palace with stunning gardens.
  • The Playa de El Sardinero: A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing and watersports.
  • Take a “pintxos” tour": Experience the vibrant “pintxos” culture of San Sebastián and enjoy a variety of delicious “bites” at local bars.

Things to do in the afternoon/evening:

  • Visit the Mercado de la Esperanza: A great place to experience the traditional food market.
  • Take a walk through the Parque de la Ciudadela: Enjoy the views and pick up some fresh ingredients for your next “pintxos” adventure.

Things to enjoy:

  • The variety of “pintxos” available in the Basque region (try the anchovies at the Mercado de la Esperanza)
  • The vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness of Santander.

Things to do in a day trip:

  • Explore the city’s beaches: Santander boasts beautiful beaches like Playa del Sardinero and Playa de la Magdalena.
  • Experience the “pintxos” culture: Enjoy a variety of delicious “pintxos” at the numerous bars and restaurants in the city center, or along the scenic Paseo del Puerto.

Enjoy “Pintxos” in your “day trip”:

  • Taste the local flavors: Try “pintxos” from different regions of Spain.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere: Santander is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning architecture.

Things to do in the evenings:

  • Enjoy a variety of pintxos at the Mercado de la Esperanza: The “Mercado de la Ribera” is a popular spot for enjoying the local cuisine after a day exploring the city.

  • Visit different “pintxos” bars for a unique and delicious experience.

  • Dine on traditional Basque food: Enjoy a leisurely evening at a tapas bar, savoring the flavors of pintxos and other local delicacies.

  • Explore the city’s nightlife: Enjoy a lively night out in one of the many “pintxo” restaurants and bars in the area.

Things to remember:

  • This is just a suggestion for a 3-day trip.
  • Remember to check opening hours for individual places before visiting.

Enjoy the variety of “pintxos”:

  • Explore different “pintxos” styles:

  • Try a variety of pintxos, including:

  • Classic Basque Pintxos: Experience the unique and flavorful world of Basque cuisine.

  • Seafood specialties are fresh and delicious: Enjoy fresh seafood “pintxos” like anchovies on toast (pan con tomate) or “pintxos” featuring local fish.

  • Bring cash: Not all “pintxos” bars in Bilbao accept credit cards, so bring enough euros for a few “rounds” of “pintxos” at the “old town”.

Day 1: Explore the Guggenheim and its surroundings!

  • Bring an appetite: The “pinchos” experience is about enjoying small bites and a variety of tastes.

  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll**:

  • Enjoy the stunning architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the “Casco Viejo” (Old Town)

Enjoy the classics:

  • Things to do:

    • Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Explore the world-renowned museum, home to innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art.
    • Experience traditional “pintxos” in the vibrant “old town”: Enjoy a variety of “pintxos,” such as pintxos bars with delicious Basque tapas options.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious “pintxos” at the Mercado de la Ribera:

  • Explore the different types of “pintxos” available: From traditional “pintxos” to modern interpretations, there’s a world of flavors to discover.

Things to do in Bilbao:

  • Enjoy a day trip from Bilbao to explore the diverse “pintxos” culture:

  • Sample pintxos at various locations:

    • Explore the variety of “pintxos” available at the Mercado de la Ribera.**

  • Experience “pintxos” culture with a visit to a traditional “pintxos” crawl:

  • Enjoy the “vibrant” nightlife and “cultural” experiences in Bilbao’s “old town”:

This itinerary is just a starting point. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and time constraints. Enjoy the vibrant “pintxo” culture!