Bilbao 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Bilbao Itinerary:

Day 1:

Hotel Recommendations:

  • Luxury: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao, Hotel Carlton Bilbao
  • Boutique: Hotel Miró, Hotel Areatz
  • Budget: Pension Bilbao, Hostal Arriaga

Things to know about Bilbao:

  • Bilbao is a city in northern Spain known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delicious Basque cuisine.
  • Language: While Spanish is the official language, you’ll find that many people in Bilbao also speak Basque (Euskara). Don’t worry if you don’t know any; most locals are bilingual and will understand English or have a Basque-speaking friend who can help.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
  • Thing to do: Take a stroll through the Casco Viejo (Old Town) and enjoy its charming streets, plazas, and pintxos bars.
  • Food Recommendation: Bilbao’s Casco Viejo is renowned for its delicious and affordable pintxos, so indulge in this local tradition.

Restaurant Recommendations:

  • For a traditional Basque experience:

    • Gorka Izagirre: Delicious and creative pintxos in a cozy setting (Casco Viejo).
    • Casa Marcelo: Authentic, classic pintxos bar with a focus on fresh seafood.

  • For modern cuisine:

    • Nerua: Fine dining restaurant within the Guggenheim Museum, offering a unique “Basque-Japanese” fusion experience.
    • Mina: Michelin-starred eatery known for its innovative culinary approach (modern Basque cuisine).

Day 3:

  • Activity: Hike up to the top of Mount Artxanda for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Transportation tips:

  • The Bilbao metro is a convenient and efficient way to get around the city.
  • Consider using public transport for travelling within the Casco Viejo as it’s relatively compact and easily walkable.

Day 4:

  • Explore the Guggenheim Museum: Immerse yourself in the iconic building and its world-class collection of modern and contemporary art.

Day 5:

  • Day Trip to San Sebastián: Enjoy the beautiful beaches, charming Old Town (Parte Vieja), and delicious pintxos (a Basque culinary tradition) in this coastal city, famous for its gastronomic scene.

Day 5:

  • Casas Viejas: Explore the historic district and visit the [Mercado de la Ribera, one of the oldest markets in Europe] (https://www.bilbao.eus/en/)

Day 6:

  • San Sebastián and its culinary delights: Enjoy a day trip to San Sebastián, indulging in its renowned pintxos bars and the beautiful beaches.
  • Day 5: Stroll through the Casco Viejo and experience the vibrant pintxos culture with its unique atmosphere.

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Bilbao’s Culinary Scene: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Old Town (Casco Viejo), savoring the delicious flavors of traditional Basque cuisine and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
  • **Explore the culinary delights of Bilbao by taking a food tour

Other Activities:

  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bilbao: Enjoy live music, dancing, and late-night drinks in the city’s bars and clubs.
  • Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: This architectural marvel is a must-see for any art enthusiast.

Tips for Bilboa:

  • Don’t miss the Casco Viejo: The heart of the city offers charming streets, historic architecture, and traditional Basque cuisine at its finest.

  • Enjoy a pintxo crawl in the Old Town: This is a great way to experience the variety and deliciousness that this culinary tradition has to offer.

  • Explore the Caspian Sea:

Things to know:

  • The Guggenheim Museum: A modern architectural masterpiece, the museum is a major tourist attraction.**
  • Visit the Mercado de Ribera: This historic market in Bilbao offers a variety of fresh seafood and local produce.
  • Explore the Bilbao Art District:

Enjoy the [beautiful beaches](https://www.viamichelin.com/places/spain-1-spain/es/ and enjoy a day out: