Bilbao 6 Day Itinerary

Bilbao: A 6-Day Basque Adventure

Things to Know:

  • Language: Spanish and Basque (Euskara). Basic Spanish phrases will be helpful. Many people in tourist areas speak English.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, while winter is rainy.
  • Safety: Bilbao is generally safe for tourists. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Transportation:

  • Bilbao Airport (BIO): Well-connected with flights from across Europe. The airport has a metro line (Line A) that connects directly to the city center (approx. 30 minutes).
  • Metro Bilbao: Efficient and affordable way to explore the city.
  • Bus: Extensive bus network covering the city and surrounding areas.
  • Walking: Bilbao is a walkable city, especially the old town (Casco Viejo)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Carlton: Stylish 4-star hotel in the heart of the city, close to the Guggenheim Museum.
  • Petit Palace Areatza: Boutique hotel with modern rooms and a rooftop terrace offering city views.
  • Apartamentos Bilbao La Vieja: Comfortable apartments in a historic building in the Casco Viejo, perfect for longer stays.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Guggenheim Marvels

  • Morning: Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO), take the metro Line A to the city center and check into your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry. Admire its unique architecture and impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious pintxo dinner in the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Try traditional Basque snacks like gilda, pintxo de tortilla, or bacalao al pil pil.

Day 2: Old Town Charm & Funicular Views

  • Morning: Wander through the charming streets of the Casco Viejo, visiting historical landmarks like the Cathedral of Santiago, the Plaza Nueva, and the Mercado de la Ribera.
  • Afternoon: Ride the Funicular de Artxanda to the top of Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of Bilbao. Enjoy a coffee or a light meal at one of the summit’s cafes.

Day 3: Contemporary Art & Basque Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, showcasing a diverse collection from Spanish masters to contemporary artists.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Basque culture at the Euskalduna Palace. Attend a concert or performance, or explore its exhibitions and workshops.
  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional Basque dinner at Restaurante Zortziko known for its excellent seafood dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Day 4: Coastal Beauty & Seaside Delights

  • Day Trip: Take a bus or train to the nearby coastal town of Getxo. Visit the picturesque Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge), an engineering marvel spanning the Nervion River estuary.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the sandy beaches of Getxo and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Day 5: Hiking & Nature Escape

  • Morning: Hike through the scenic Parque Natural de Uribe-Kosta. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, lush forests, and charming villages.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby town of Lekeitio, known for its traditional fishing port and beautiful sandy beaches.

Day 6: Farewell & Departure

  • Morning: Stroll through the Casco Viejo for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Bilbao Airport (BIO) or continue exploring other parts of Spain.

Tips:

  • Bilbao Card: Purchase this tourist card for discounts on transportation, museums, and attractions.
  • Pintxo Crawl: Join a guided pintxo tour to discover the best bars and bites in the Casco Viejo.
  • Learn Basic Basque Phrases: Impress locals by greeting them with “Kaixo” (hello) or “Eskerrik asko” (thank you).
  • Embrace the Basque Culture: Attend a traditional festival, listen to Basque music, or learn about their unique history and language.