Bilbao's architectural landscape tells the story of its transformation from industrial port to cultural powerhouse, featuring iconic contemporary structures alongside historic treasures.
Frank Gehry's titanium-clad masterpiece is an architectural icon that revolutionized Bilbao. The building's flowing, organic forms shimmer along the riverbank, creating a stunning interplay of light and reflection. Beyond its extraordinary exterior, the museum houses world-class contemporary and modern art exhibitions. The Puppy sculpture by Jeff Koons at the entrance has become a beloved symbol. The museum's impact was so profound it coined the term 'Bilbao Effect' for urban regeneration through culture and architecture.
Santiago Calatrava's elegant white footbridge spans the Nervión River with its distinctive arched design. The name means 'white bridge' in Basque, and its curved walkway and translucent glass floor panels create a unique crossing experience. Completed in 1997, it symbolizes Bilbao's modern transformation. The bridge offers excellent photo opportunities and connects the old town with modern districts. Its graceful, asymmetrical form has become an iconic element of Bilbao's skyline.
This cultural center, designed by Philippe Starck, is housed in a converted wine warehouse from 1909. The interior features 43 distinctive columns, each with unique designs by artists and designers. The glass floor atop these columns creates a dramatic multi-level space. The center hosts exhibitions, cinema, fitness facilities, and a stunning rooftop terrace with city views. It's a perfect example of Bilbao's ability to repurpose industrial heritage into vibrant cultural spaces.
This Neo-Baroque theatre from 1890 is Bilbao's premier performing arts venue. Named after composer Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, the 'Spanish Mozart', its ornate façade features sculptures and elaborate decorations. The interior boasts luxurious red velvet, gold leaf, and beautiful frescoes. It hosts opera, ballet, theatre, and concerts throughout the year. Located near the Old Quarter, it represents Bilbao's cultural sophistication during the Belle Époque era.
Beyond the Guggenheim, Bilbao offers diverse museums celebrating Basque culture, fine arts, maritime heritage, and contemporary creativity.
One of Spain's most important art museums, featuring over 10,000 works spanning from the 12th century to contemporary art. The collection includes masterpieces by El Greco, Goya, Velázquez, and Zurbarán, alongside Basque artists. Modern galleries showcase works by Francis Bacon, Antoni Tàpies, and Eduardo Chillida. The museum's beautiful building sits in Doña Casilda Park. Its comprehensive collection offers an excellent complement to the Guggenheim's contemporary focus, providing art historical context from medieval to modern times.
Located in the Old Quarter, this museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Basque culture and history. Exhibits cover traditional crafts, maritime activities, rural life, religious artifacts, and the unique Basque language. The ethnographic collection includes traditional clothing, fishing equipment, and household items. Archaeological finds trace the region's ancient inhabitants. Interactive displays explain Basque traditions, festivals, and social customs. It's essential for understanding the distinct cultural identity that defines this region.
Celebrating Bilbao's relationship with the sea and the Nervión River, this indoor-outdoor museum explores shipbuilding, port operations, and maritime trade. Located on the former Euskalduna shipyard, exhibits include historic vessels, navigation instruments, and dockyard machinery. The outdoor area features cranes and industrial equipment. Interactive displays explain how the port transformed Bilbao into an industrial powerhouse. The museum beautifully contextualizes the city's evolution from fishing village to major European port.
Bilbao's religious architecture reflects centuries of devotion, from Gothic cathedrals to baroque churches, each telling stories of faith and community.
Bilbao's Gothic cathedral, dating from the 14th century, is dedicated to Saint James the Apostle. Located in the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter), it features a beautiful façade, elegant cloister, and serene interior. The cathedral sits on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Its slender tower and Gothic arches showcase medieval craftsmanship. Inside, admire the Renaissance altarpiece and chapels with religious art. The peaceful cloister offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets outside.
Perched on a hill overlooking Bilbao, this 16th-century basilica is dedicated to the Virgin of Begoña, the city's patron saint. The Gothic structure features a striking tower and beautiful interior with a revered image of the Virgin. Pilgrims climb the stairs or take the elevator to reach this spiritual landmark. The basilica offers panoramic views of Bilbao and the surrounding mountains. It's an important pilgrimage site and hosts the annual Feast of Begoña celebrations in August.
Bilbao's plazas and streets pulse with life, from the historic Casco Viejo's narrow lanes to grand avenues lined with Belle Époque architecture.
This neoclassical arcaded square in the Old Quarter is the heart of Bilbao's social life. Built in 1849, its symmetrical porticos house traditional pintxo bars, restaurants, and shops. The square hosts the Sunday flea market where vendors sell antiques, books, and collectibles. It's the perfect place to experience txikiteo (bar-hopping for pintxos). The elegant architecture creates an intimate atmosphere, especially lively on weekends. Street musicians and festive crowds make it Bilbao's most vibrant gathering spot.
Bilbao's main boulevard and upscale shopping street, stretching from Plaza Circular to Plaza Sagrado Corazón. Lined with Belle Époque buildings, international boutiques, banks, and cafés, it showcases the city's commercial elegance. The wide sidewalks are perfect for strolling past elegant architecture. High-end fashion brands, department stores like El Corte Inglés, and local shops cater to all tastes. The avenue connects several important plazas and serves as the modern city's backbone.
An elegant pedestrian street connecting the Old Quarter with the Ensanche (expansion district). Jardines de Albia, at its end, is a charming Victorian-era garden square surrounded by cafés and the Café Boulevard, a historic meeting place for intellectuals and artists. The gardens offer benches under plane trees, perfect for a rest. The area represents Bilbao's 19th-century expansion and retains its Belle Époque charm with ornate buildings and refined atmosphere.
Each of Bilbao's districts has its own character, from the medieval Casco Viejo to the modern Abandoibarra riverfront and bohemian Bilbao La Vieja.
The Seven Streets (Siete Calles) form Bilbao's medieval heart, a labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with pintxo bars, traditional shops, and historic buildings. This atmospheric district dates to the 14th century and preserves authentic Basque character. Discover hidden plazas, artisan workshops, and centuries-old churches. The area is packed with local life, street vendors, and markets. By day, explore shops and monuments; by night, join locals bar-hopping. It's the soul of Bilbao, where tradition thrives amidst modernity.
This revitalized riverfront district symbolizes Bilbao's transformation. Once industrial docklands, it now hosts the Guggenheim Museum, modern offices, luxury residences, and cultural venues. The riverside promenade offers pleasant walks with public art installations. Contemporary architecture contrasts with the river and mountains beyond. The area includes parks, bridges, and the Euskalduna Conference Centre. It's a showcase of urban regeneration, demonstrating how Bilbao reimagined its waterfront into a world-class cultural quarter.
The city's multicultural, bohemian neighborhood across the river from the Old Quarter. Once working-class and industrial, it's now a vibrant area with street art, alternative culture, ethnic restaurants, and independent shops. The neighborhood has an authentic, edgy character with immigrant communities adding diversity. Steep streets climb the hillside offering city views. It's becoming increasingly popular with artists and young professionals, creating a dynamic, evolving atmosphere distinct from tourist-focused areas.
Green spaces provide peaceful retreats within the urban landscape, from riverside paths to hillside parks with panoramic vistas.
Bilbao's main urban park, a romantic 19th-century garden featuring a large pond with ducks and fountain, tree-lined paths, and seasonal flowerbeds. The 85,000-square-meter park offers shaded benches, playgrounds, and spacious lawns. It's home to the Fine Arts Museum and hosts outdoor concerts and events. The elaborate wrought-iron gates, ornamental bridges, and Belle Époque kiosks create an elegant atmosphere. Perfect for picnics, jogging, or peaceful strolls, it's a beloved green refuge in the city center.
A hillside park built on the site of former military barracks, offering spectacular views over Bilbao and the surrounding mountains. The park features terraced gardens, walking paths, sports facilities, and children's play areas. Its elevated position makes it ideal for sunset photography. The green space includes native trees and landscaped areas. It's popular with locals for jogging and family outings. The panoramic vistas provide excellent orientation for understanding Bilbao's geography nestled in the valley.
Accessible by funicular, Mount Artxanda offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Bilbao, the valley, and surrounding peaks. The mountaintop features walking trails, picnic areas, and restaurants with terraces. The views are particularly stunning at sunset and at night when the city lights twinkle below. The funicular ride itself is charming, climbing steeply from the river. It's a must-visit for understanding Bilbao's dramatic geography and capturing memorable photographs of the entire cityscape.
From pintxo tours to river cruises, guided experiences help visitors discover Bilbao's culture, cuisine, and hidden corners with expert insights.
Experience Bilbao's legendary pintxo culture with a guided tour through the best bars. Sample creative miniature dishes paired with txakoli (local wine) or beer while learning about Basque culinary traditions. Expert guides explain regional ingredients, cooking techniques, and the social ritual of txikiteo (bar-hopping). Tours typically visit 4-6 bars in the Old Quarter or Ensanche, tasting 8-12 different pintxos. It's the perfect introduction to Basque gastronomy and local social customs in a fun, informal setting.
A self-guided or organized walk along both banks of the Nervión River, showcasing Bilbao's transformation. The route connects major landmarks including the Guggenheim, Zubizuri Bridge, Ribera Market, and Maritime Museum. See how industrial heritage has been reimagined with modern architecture and public art. The promenade features sculptures, gardens, and interpretation panels. Walking the river offers perspective on the city's evolution from port to cultural destination. The flat, pleasant path is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Explore Bilbao on two wheels with guided cycling tours covering major sights and hidden corners. Routes typically include the riverfront, Old Quarter, modern districts, and viewpoints. Electric bikes make hillier sections accessible. Guides share insights about architecture, history, and local life while stopping at key landmarks. Tours operate year-round and provide a fun, efficient way to cover significant ground. The city's growing bike infrastructure and relatively compact size make it ideal for cycling exploration.
Learn to prepare traditional Basque dishes in hands-on cooking workshops. Classes cover classics like bacalao al pil pil (cod), marmitako (tuna stew), or pintxos. Professional chefs teach techniques using local ingredients, followed by enjoying your creations with wine. Many classes include market tours to select fresh produce. It's an immersive cultural experience that lets you take Basque flavors home. Classes accommodate all skill levels and often emphasize the social importance of food in Basque culture.
Bilbao's location provides easy access to stunning coastal towns, medieval villages, and dramatic Basque landscapes within an hour's journey.
A breathtaking islet connected to the mainland by a dramatic stone bridge with 241 steps. The hermitage atop the rocky outcrop dates to the 10th century. The location gained fame as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones. The coastal views are spectacular, with waves crashing against cliffs. The challenging walk rewards visitors with stunning vistas and the island's mystical atmosphere. Ring the hermitage bell three times for good luck. Located about 35km from Bilbao, it's accessible by car or organized tour.
An elegant coastal city renowned for La Concha Bay, one of Europe's most beautiful urban beaches. The Belle Époque architecture, world-class pintxo bars, and Michelin-starred restaurants make it a gastronomic capital. Stroll the seaside promenade, climb Monte Urgull for views, or relax on the beach. The Old Town buzzes with pintxo bars and traditional cider houses. Just one hour by bus from Bilbao, San Sebastián offers a perfect contrast of beach sophistication to Bilbao's industrial heritage.
A historic town immortalized by Picasso's anti-war masterpiece. The Basque Parliament meets under the sacred Oak of Gernika, a symbol of Basque freedom. Visit the Peace Museum documenting the 1937 bombing and its aftermath. The Assembly House preserves Basque political traditions. Monday is market day, when farmers sell local produce. The town combines historical significance with insights into Basque identity and self-governance. It's about 30 minutes from Bilbao and offers a moving, educational experience.
Coastal fishing villages offering authentic Basque charm. Bermeo, the larger town, has a working port, colorful houses, and excellent seafood restaurants. Visit the fisherman's museum and harbor. Nearby Mundaka is world-famous for its left-hand surf break, attracting surfers globally. The medieval old town sits above the beach. Both villages showcase traditional Basque coastal life away from tourist crowds. They're about 40 minutes from Bilbao and can be combined in one trip for varied coastal experiences.
The Basque Country's capital, about an hour south of Bilbao, known for its well-preserved medieval old town and quality of life. The almond-shaped historic center features Gothic cathedral, Las Arquillos walkway, and charming plazas. Vitoria-Gasteiz was European Green Capital in 2012, surrounded by a green belt of parks. The ARTIUM Museum houses an excellent Basque and Spanish contemporary art collection. The city offers a more relaxed pace than Bilbao, with excellent tapas bars and local atmosphere. It's perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Best Overall: May-June & September-October offer pleasant weather (18-24°C), fewer crowds, and vibrant city life. Spring brings blooming parks while autumn features harvest season and cultural events.
Summer (July-August): Warmest weather (22-28°C) but also peak tourist season. Expect crowds at major attractions and higher accommodation prices. Many locals vacation elsewhere. Coastal day trips are most enjoyable.
Winter (November-March): Mild temperatures (8-14°C) with frequent rain. Museums and indoor attractions are less crowded. Cheaper accommodation rates. The city's cafe culture thrives. Pack waterproof clothing.
Special Events: Aste Nagusia (Great Week) in mid-August is Bilbao's biggest festival with nine days of concerts, fireworks, and celebrations. Book accommodations months in advance if visiting during this time.
| Month | Avg Temp | Rainfall | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan-Mar | 9-14°C | High | Low |
| Apr-Jun | 14-22°C | Moderate | Moderate |
| Jul-Aug | 20-26°C | Low | High |
| Sep-Oct | 16-22°C | Moderate | Moderate |
| Nov-Dec | 10-14°C | High | Low |
Metro: Modern, efficient system with two main lines serving the metropolitan area. Line 1 connects the airport to the city center and coastal towns. Single tickets cost €1.70; rechargeable Barik card offers discounts. Trains run 6am-11pm weekdays, until 2am weekends. Stations designed by Norman Foster feature distinctive glass entrances ('Fosteritos').
Tram (Euskotren): Connects Atxuri station with Basurto via the Old Quarter and Abandoibarra, passing the Guggenheim. Convenient for tourists visiting major attractions. Same ticket system as metro.
Buses (Bilbobus): Comprehensive network covering areas not served by metro/tram. Useful routes: A1 (circular route around Old Quarter), 13/18 (Artxanda), 58 (coastal areas). Single fare €1.40.
Funiculars: Artxanda Funicular climbs from river level to mountain viewpoint (€1.15). Short but scenic rides.
Creditrans Card: Rechargeable card (€3 deposit) offers better value for multiple journeys. Works on all public transport. Available at metro stations and tobacco shops.
Walking: Central Bilbao is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Most attractions are within 30 minutes' walk of each other.
Bilbao Bizkaia Card: Includes unlimited public transport plus museum discounts for 24/48/72 hours (€10-€20).
Taxis: Metered and readily available. White with red stripe. Uber not available but Cabify operates in Bilbao.
Airport Transfer: Bilbao Airport (BIO) is 12km from center. Bizkaibus A3247 runs every 20-30 minutes to Termibus station and city center (€1.45, 20 minutes). Taxis cost approximately €25-30.
What to Buy:
Shopping Areas:
Gran Vía: Main shopping boulevard with international brands (Zara, Massimo Dutti, H&M) and El Corte Inglés department store. Mix of high street and designer boutiques.
Calle Elcano (Indautxu): Fashion district with Spanish and international designer boutiques, shoe stores, and specialty shops.
Casco Viejo: Traditional shops selling Basque products, gourmet foods, vintage items, and artisan crafts. Browse Somera street for unique finds.
Ribera Market: Europe's largest covered market. Buy fresh produce, fish, meat, cheese, and prepared foods. Open Monday-Saturday mornings. Ground floor: fresh products; upper floor: restaurants.
Zubiarte Shopping Center: Modern mall near Guggenheim with 50+ stores, restaurants, and cinema.
Sunday Markets: Plaza Nueva hosts antiques and collectibles market. San Mamés area has flea market with vintage items and crafts.
Bargaining: Not customary in shops or markets. Prices are fixed. However, friendly conversation with small shop owners may occasionally result in small discounts on multiple purchases.
VAT Refund: Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refund on purchases over €90.15 from stores displaying 'Tax Free' signs. Request refund form at purchase.
Opening Hours: Typically 10am-2pm and 5pm-8:30pm Monday-Saturday. Many shops close Saturday afternoons. Large stores and shopping centers open continuously 10am-9pm including some Sundays.
Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande) - Mid-August: Bilbao's biggest celebration lasting nine days. The festival begins when 'Marijaia', a smiling female figure with raised arms, appears. Events include traditional Basque sports, bullfights, concerts, fireworks over the river, street parties, and open-air txosnas (temporary bars). The entire city celebrates with music, dancing, and festivities day and night.
Bilbao BBK Live - Early July: Major international music festival held at Kobetamendi mountain with stunning views. Attracts top rock, indie, and electronic acts. Three-day camping and concert event drawing music fans across Europe.
Santo Tomás - December 21: Traditional festival celebrating Basque rural culture. Plaza Nueva and other squares host stalls selling talo (corn flatbread) with chorizo or cheese, local cider, and produce. Locals dress in traditional Basque costume. Farmers showcase products.
Carnaval - February/March: Week-long celebration before Lent with costume parades, music, and parties. Neighborhoods host competitions for best costumes.
Easter Week (Semana Santa) - March/April: Religious processions throughout the city, particularly in the Old Quarter. Solemn yet beautiful tradition.
Bilbao Night Marathon - October: Unique nighttime marathon through illuminated city streets. Also includes 10K and fun runs.
Zinebi (International Documentary & Short Film Festival) - November: One of world's oldest competitive short film festivals, showcasing innovative cinema.
Durango Fair - December: Nearby Durango hosts annual Basque Book and Record Fair, celebrating Basque language and culture with concerts and cultural events.
National Holidays: New Year's Day (Jan 1), Epiphany (Jan 6), Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day (May 1), Assumption (Aug 15), National Day (Oct 12), All Saints (Nov 1), Constitution Day (Dec 6), Immaculate Conception (Dec 8), Christmas (Dec 25).
Morning (9:00-13:00): Start at the Guggenheim Museum when it opens at 10am (arrive 9:30 to avoid queues). Spend 2-3 hours exploring the architecture and collections. Walk through the adjacent sculpture park and photograph Puppy. Stroll along the Abandoibarra riverfront.
Lunch (13:00-14:30): Dine at the Guggenheim's Michelin-starred restaurant or find pintxo bars nearby in the Indautxu neighborhood.
Afternoon (14:30-18:00): Walk to Azkuna Zentroa to see Philippe Starck's columns and rooftop terrace. Continue to Doña Casilda Park for a rest, then visit the Fine Arts Museum for complementary classical art.
Evening (18:00-22:00): Cross Zubizuri Bridge at sunset. Walk to Gran Vía for early evening shopping or café time. Dinner in the Ensanche area.
Morning (9:00-13:00): Explore Casco Viejo starting at Plaza Nueva. Visit Santiago Cathedral and the Basque Museum. Wander the Seven Streets discovering shops and hidden corners. Browse Ribera Market for local products and atmosphere.
Lunch (13:00-15:00): Pintxo-hopping in Plaza Nueva try 3-4 bars sampling different specialties with txakoli wine.
Afternoon (15:00-18:00): Take the Artxanda Funicular to the mountaintop viewpoint. Enjoy panoramic views and walk the trails. Descend and visit Basílica de Begoña if time permits.
Evening (18:00-22:00): Return to Old Quarter for evening pintxo tour on different streets. Experience the buzzing nighttime atmosphere.
Morning (9:30-13:00): Visit the Maritime Museum to understand Bilbao's port history. Walk the riverside promenade toward the Euskalduna Conference Centre. Explore the modern waterfront development.
Lunch (13:00-14:30): Seafood restaurant near the Maritime Museum or Ribera Market area.
Afternoon (14:30-18:00): Explore Bilbao La Vieja neighborhood, seeing street art and multicultural character. Cross back to walk Gran Vía, stopping at Jardines de Albia. Visit Arriaga Theatre exterior.
Evening (18:00-22:00): Cooking class or food tour (book in advance), or independent pintxo exploration in Indautxu neighborhood.
Morning (8:00-13:00): Take early bus to San Sebastián (1 hour). Arrive and head to La Concha Beach. Walk the promenade to Monte Igueldo funicular for views. Descend and explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja).
Lunch (13:00-15:00): Pintxo bar-hopping on Calle Fermín Calbetón and surrounding streets San Sebastián's pintxo scene rivals Bilbao's.
Afternoon (15:00-18:30): Beach time or visit Aquarium and San Telmo Museum. Walk to Zurriola Beach to see surfers. Climb Monte Urgull for harbor views.
Evening (18:30-20:00): Return bus to Bilbao. Rest or light dinner.
Morning (8:00-13:00): Early departure for San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (book time slot in advance). The scenic coastal drive takes 45 minutes. Climb the 241 steps to the hermitage. Photograph the dramatic coastline. Allow 2-3 hours total.
Lunch (13:00-14:30): Stop in Bermeo for fresh seafood lunch at the harbor.
Afternoon (14:30-17:30): Visit Mundaka to see the famous surf break and charming town. Alternative: visit Gernika for Peace Museum and historical sites.
Evening (17:30-22:00): Return to Bilbao. Final evening in Casco Viejo for farewell pintxos and shopping for souvenirs. Reflect on your Basque experience.
Tips for All Itineraries:
Guggenheim Museum: Best time: Morning (soft light) or evening (golden hour). Capture the titanium curves from multiple angles from across the river for full facade, from Zubizuri Bridge for perspective, up close for abstract details. The reflective surfaces create different moods throughout the day. Include Puppy sculpture for iconic composition. Blue hour brings stunning artificial lighting.
Zubizuri Bridge: Best time: Sunset and blue hour. Santiago Calatrava's white bridge glows beautifully at dusk. Shoot from either bank for architectural lines, or from the bridge itself for river views with buildings reflected. Long exposure at night captures light trails and reflections.
Artxanda Viewpoint: Best time: Sunset and night. The ultimate panoramic view of entire Bilbao valley. Capture the city lights twinkling at dusk. Clear days offer views to the mountains. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for optimal light. Bring tripod for night shots.
Casco Viejo Streets: Best time: Morning or late afternoon. The narrow Seven Streets create atmospheric frames with overhead balconies. Plaza Nueva's arcades offer symmetrical compositions. Capture colorful building facades, hanging laundry, and street life. Early morning has fewer people.
Ribera Market: Best time: Mid-morning (9:30-11:00). Vibrant colors of fresh produce, fish stalls, and vendor interactions. The Art Nouveau architecture provides beautiful interior. Respect vendors ask permission for portraits.
La Salve Bridge with Spider Sculpture: Best time: Any, but evening for drama. Louise Bourgeois's Maman spider sculpture beside the Guggenheim creates surreal compositions. Shoot from below for imposing perspective. Include bridge and museum for context.
Nervión River Promenade: Best time: Golden hour. Walk the riverside capturing bridges, modern buildings reflected in water, and public art installations. The Isozaki Towers provide striking geometric forms. Look for reflections on calm days.
Begoña Basilica: Best time: Afternoon. The hilltop church offers city views and beautiful facade. Capture stairs leading up for leading lines. The elevated position provides urban landscape opportunities.
Etxebarria Park: Best time: Sunset. Alternative viewpoint with less tourist crowds than Artxanda. Terraced gardens provide foreground interest for cityscape compositions. Panoramic views of mountains framing the city.
Arriaga Theatre: Best time: Evening with illumination. Neo-Baroque facade photographs beautifully when lit at night. Capture details of sculptural elements. The riverside location offers composition options.
Instagram Hotspots:
Photography Tips:
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Plug Types: Type C (two round pins, Europlug) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips, also called 'Schuko')
Adapters Needed:
Where to Buy Adapters: Available at airport, electronics stores, department stores (El Corte Inglés), and many convenience shops. Hotels sometimes provide adapters on request.
Voltage Converters: Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras, tablets) are dual-voltage (110-240V) check your device. If labeled 'INPUT: 100-240V', you only need a plug adapter. Hair dryers, curling irons, and other heating devices often require voltage converters unless specifically dual-voltage.
USB Charging: Increasingly common in hotels and cafés. Bring USB cables for direct charging when possible.
Pro Tip: Bring a multi-port USB charger and compact power strip with your home plug then you only need one adapter for multiple devices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Desserts & Sweets:
Drinks:
Dining Tips:
Top Pintxo Bar Areas:
Food Markets:
Vegetarian Options: Basque cuisine is traditionally meat/seafood focused, but pintxo bars always have vegetarian options like grilled peppers, mushroom dishes, tortilla, and cheese. Ask for 'vegetariano'.
Dietary Restrictions: Inform restaurants of allergies ('alérgico a...'). Celiacs can find 'sin gluten' options increasingly available.
The official tourist card providing unlimited public transport (metro, tram, buses, funiculars) plus discounts at museums, restaurants, shops, and tours. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Includes Guggenheim Museum discount, Fine Arts Museum entry, and various attraction deals. Purchase at tourist information offices, online, or at airport. Best for: visitors using public transport extensively and visiting multiple paid attractions. Prices: 24h (€10), 48h (€15), 72h (€20).
https://www.bilbaoturismo.net/BilbaoTurismo/en/bilbao-bizkaia-cardMuseum pass covering Guggenheim Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Bilbao Museum with one combined ticket at reduced rate. Valid for one year from first visit, allowing you to visit museums on different days. Ideal for art enthusiasts wanting to explore multiple collections. Provides flexibility compared to single-day passes. Best for: visitors staying several days who want in-depth museum experiences. Purchase at participating museums.
https://www.guggenheim-bilbao.eusRechargeable public transport card offering discounted fares on metro, tram, and buses. €3 refundable deposit. Each trip costs less than single tickets, and you can share one card with travel companions for zones 1-2. Add credit at machines in metro stations. Best for: budget travelers using public transport multiple times without needing museum discounts. More economical than tourist cards if only transportation is needed.
https://www.barakaldo.eus/en/transporte-publico/creditrans-barikIf day-tripping to San Sebastián, this card offers discounts at attractions, restaurants, and shops in Donostia/San Sebastián. Available as 24h or 72h pass. Includes public transport discounts and tourist information access. Can be worthwhile for full-day visits to maximize savings on meals and activities. Best for: dedicated San Sebastián day-trippers planning multiple paid activities and meals there.
https://www.sansebastianturismo.com