Bilbao 7 Day Itinerary

Bilbao 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Check-in at the Hotel Carlton Bilbao or similar, centrally located for easy access to main attractions.
  • Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum (opening hours: 10 am - 8 pm) and marvel at its modern architecture and contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Walk along the Nervion River and cross the Zubizuri Bridge.
  • Have dinner at La Viura (Calle San Francisco, 5), a cozy Basque restaurant offering traditional dishes.
  • Tips: The museum is free on Sunday afternoons!

Day 2: Old Town & Foodie Tour

  • Visit the historic Old Town (casco viejo) and explore its charming streets filled with pintxo bars.
  • Stop by the San Antón Market for a quick snack and local products.
  • Book a Bilbao Food Experience tour to learn more about Basque cuisine.
  • In the evening, have dinner at Azurmendi (Avenida AZCA, 5), a Michelin-starred restaurant with a focus on sustainability and innovative dishes.

Day 3: Day Trip to San Sebastián

  • Take a train from Bilbao-Abando Station to San Sebastián (1 hour ride).
  • Explore the beautiful beaches of La Concha and Ondarreta.
  • Visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about Basque culture and history.
  • Have lunch at some of San Sebastian’s famous pintxo bars, such as La Cepa or Bar Zeruko.
  • Return to Bilbao in the evening.

Day 4: Green Spaces & Attractions

  • Visit the Euskalduna Conference Center and Concert Hall, an architectural gem inspired by Basque whirlpools.
  • Explore the Metropolis Park and enjoy its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful fountains.
  • Stop by the Artxanda Funicular (opening hours: 10 am - 9 pm) for panoramic views of Bilbao from Mount Artxanda.
  • Have dinner at La Vina de la Granja (Calle Sagastibelza, 6), known for its traditional Basque dishes and friendly service.

Day 5: Day Trip to Getaria & Deba

  • Take a train from Bilbao-Abando Station to Getaria (1 hour ride).
  • Visit the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe chapel, perched atop a rocky islet accessible by a flight of steps.
  • Explore the charming town of Getaria and try some fresh fish at Txipian (Calle Mayor, 26).
  • Continue to Deba (15 minutes by train) for a relaxing afternoon at its beautiful beach.
  • Return to Bilbao in the evening.

Day 6: Modern Art & Shopping

  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (opening hours: 10 am - 8 pm), showcasing works from the 13th century to the present.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Siete Calles and Zorrotzaurre, filled with independent boutiques, galleries, and street art.
  • Have lunch at El Verdugo (Calle Vergara, 51), a popular spot for its Basque dishes and lively atmosphere.
  • In the evening, unwind at a local bar or cafe in the Old Town.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
  • If time allows, visit any attractions you may have missed during your stay.
  • Depart from Bilbao Airport (BIO) or continue your journey elsewhere in Spain.