Bilbao 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Modern City & Guggenheim Museum

  • Morning:

    • Check-in at your hotel (Recommended: Hotel Carlton, centrally located with a historic charm)
    • Start your day with breakfast at Bar Sport known for its traditional Basque cuisine.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Spend a few hours exploring the contemporary and modern art exhibitions.
    • Have lunch at Café Ibai, located inside the Guggenheim, offering a variety of dishes with a view of the museum’s sculptures.

  • Evening:

    • Take a leisurely walk along the Rio Vizcaya and admire the modern architecture and bridges.
    • Dine at La Viña for traditional Basque dishes in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Discover Old Town & Local Culture

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Casco Viejo (Old Town) and discover its charming streets, historic buildings, and lively plazas.
    • Enjoy breakfast at Barrika offering delicious Basque dishes with an innovative twist.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore San Antonio Church and the Artxondoa Palace.
    • Have lunch at Zeruko, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its contemporary Basque cuisine.

  • Evening:

    • Take a stroll along Siete Calles (Seven Streets) in Casco Viejo, lined with tapas bars and shops.
    • Enjoy dinner at Txuleta for traditional Basque dishes in a casual setting.

Day 3: Nature & Surroundings

  • Morning:

    • Take a day trip to the nearby Green Belt of Bilbao, a network of parks and green spaces perfect for hiking or biking.
    • Have a packed lunch from one of the many bakeries in town (Recommended: Pukas for their traditional pastries).

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the picturesque town of Lekeitio, just 30 minutes away, famous for its fishing harbor and seafood.
    • Have dinner at La Cobija, a cozy restaurant in Lekeitio offering fresh seafood dishes.

Things to Know:

  • Bilbao uses the Euro as currency.
  • Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many locals also speak Basque.
  • The city’s public transportation system consists of buses and trams (Bizkaibus and Euskotren). Consider getting a Bilbao Card for unlimited travel during your stay.
  • Tapas are a must-try! They are small dishes that can be shared among friends, usually served with drinks.
  • The Basque Country is famous for its cider houses (sagardotegi). Try a traditional cider house experience for lunch or dinner.

Tips:

  • Dress comfortably, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Visit the Guggenheim Museum earlier in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the exhibitions without rush.
  • Be prepared for occasional rain showers. Carry an umbrella or waterproof jacket.
  • Enjoy the local culture and take your time to immerse yourself in Bilbao’s unique charm!