Bilbao is the economic centre of the Basque Country. The Guggenheim Museum sparked a transformation of the old docks into riverside promenades, parks and new architecture.
It is friendly, compact and more affordable than San Sebastián.
Climate: Mild and wet, green all year.
Visiting Bilbao
How long: 2 days
Don’t miss
- Guggenheim Museum
- Casco Viejo and Plaza Nueva
- La Ribera market
- Artxanda funicular viewpoint
- Getxo and Sopelana beaches by metro
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
What to eat
- Pintxos in Plaza Nueva
- Bacalao al pil-pil
- Bilbao’s steakhouses (asadores)
Classic places to eat
- Café Iruña: Pintxos morunos (spiced skewers). A tiled café in Jardines de Albia, open since 1903.
Tip: Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) in August is nine days of free concerts, fireworks and street food.
Plan a visit
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A perfect first day
- Morning: the Guggenheim Museum and the riverside walk.
- Afternoon: lunch in the Casco Viejo’s Siete Calles.
- Evening: pintxos around Plaza Nueva.
Easy day trips
Where to stay as a visitor
For central hotels.
For the old town.
More of Bilbao
Fiestas
Living in Bilbao
Best for: Professionals wanting a well-run city with good food at fair cost.
Neighbourhoods and areas
Central, elegant, shops.
Historic, lively.
University district across the river.
Seaside suburb with international schools.
Pros
- Excellent quality of life
- Good public transport
- Cheaper than San Sebastián
Cons
- Rain
- Basque used in schools and some jobs
Cost tiers compare places within Spain (€ = among the cheapest, €€€€ = among the most expensive). Rents change quickly: check current listings for the exact area before you decide.
Thinking of moving?
Get your personal paperwork list for visas, NIE, padrón and more.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Bilbao?
2 days is enough for the main sights: guggenheim museum, casco viejo and plaza nueva, la ribera market. Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) in August is nine days of free concerts, fireworks and street food.
Is Bilbao expensive to live in?
On our scale it is high (€€€). Rents are above the Spanish average.
How do I get to Bilbao?
By air: Bilbao (BIO), 20 minutes by bus. By rail: Trains to Madrid about 5h; metro to the beaches.
Have you been to Bilbao?
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