How to Experience the Best of Bilbao in Just 3 Days
Last Updated on 03/06/2026 by Mayi
Are you planning a trip to Bilbao and wondering what to do? You’re in the right place! I recently spent a long weekend in Bilbao, the largest city in the Spanish Basque Country, and I’ve compiled a list of things to do in Bilbao to help you plan your trip. In this guide, you will find recommendations on what to do in Bilbao for 3 days, as well as suggestions for where to stay and eat.
Let’s explore this three-day itinerary featuring the best things to do in Bilbao.
What to Do in Bilbao in 3 Days
Located between France and Spain, on the other side of the Pyrénées, Bilbao is a charming city that has transformed from an industrial hub into a cultural hotspot since the opening of the stunning Guggenheim Museum in 1997. This museum is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful contemporary art museums in the world.
Why Visit Bilbao?
In addition to the Guggenheim Museum, the capital of the Spanish Basque Country is definitely worth a visit for its charming old town, picturesque squares brimming with traditional pintxos restaurants (the Basque version of tapas), and its innovative architecture. I was pleasantly surprised by the architectural diversity in the city centre. The streets present a blend of styles: one side features the historic old town with its narrow, winding streets, while the other showcases neighborhoods adorned with colorful street art as well as modern avant-garde architecture seen in Abando.
Bilbao Itinerary – Day 1: Friday
When planning what to do in Bilbao for 3 days, it’s a good idea to spend the first day getting oriented in the city. We flew from London and arrived in Bilbao in the early afternoon. If you are arriving around the same time, here are some suggestions for things to do in Bilbao.
Afternoon – Strolling Through the Old Town
The first thing you do after you have dropped your bag at your accommodation is to visit the historic centre. The neighbourhood is called Casco Viejo, but you will sometimes hear about the Siete Calles, “the seven streets”, simply because of the number of pedestrian streets there.
Though damaged by floods in 1983, the Old Town was restored while preserving its historic charm. Expect colourful facades, elegant sculptures, and vibrant local shops with a peaceful atmosphere despite the bustle. In the evening, on the other hand, the atmosphere becomes party-like, with locals gathering in the locals’ “tapas taverns”.
Here are some top things to do and see in Casco Viejo, the Old Town district.
Admire Place Arriaga and its theatre
The Arriaga Theater, built at the end of the 19th century, is one of the most elegant buildings in Bilbao. It is located in the square of the same name, right next to the river.
Inspired by the Paris Opera Garnier, this building is worth a visit. If time permits, you can attend a performance during your stay. You can book a visit here or check out the performance dates here.
Visit the Santiago de Bilbao Cathedral
Located at the heart of Casco Viejo, the Santiago de Bilbao Cathedral is difficult to miss. Built in a Gothic style, although its facade and tower are in neo-Gothic style, the cathedral is dedicated to St James, the patron saint of Bilbao. You can admire the facade to the fullest when you are in the small square.
Note that entry to the cathedral costs €5, which includes an audio guide and access to the San Antón Church.
📍Done Jakue Plazatxoa, 1, Ibaiondo, 48005 Bilbao
Visit the Biblioteca Central de Bidebarrieta
I discovered this library by chance while wandering around Casco Viejo. The building caught my eye with its beautiful architecture, and I was curious to see the interior. I was pleasantly surprised to find a stunning interior, especially the staircase.
Inside, you will find reading rooms reminiscent of some French libraries. The building is designed in an eclectic style and is worth a visit to admire its beautiful ceiling, frescoes, auditorium, stained glass, and other decorations. Plus, entry is free.
📍Calle Bidebarrieta, 4., 48005 Bilbao
Enjoy a Different Dining Experience at Ercilla Hotel
If you are staying in or near the heart of Bilbao, consider booking a dinner at the restaurant inside the Ercilla Hotel. Whether you’re a guest or just passing by, this stylish spot offers a dining experience that blends comfort, quality, and local charm.
We enjoyed a casual dinner and were pleasantly surprised by how delicious the classic combination of steak and fries was. It offers a different vibe compared to the buzzing pintxos bars and traditional restaurants that define the Basque culinary scene, making it worth a try for anyone looking to switch things up.
Bilbao Itinerary – Day 2 – Saturday
Morning – The Best of Contemporary Art at the Guggenheim Museum
A true symbol of Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum has transformed the city into a city focused on art, culture and design. Regardless of your interest in contemporary art, this museum, featured on many postcards and souvenirs, is a must-visit destination in Bilbao.
The area surrounding the museum is filled with art galleries, antique shops, and photo studios, highlighting the importance of art in the city. As you explore the city, you’ll encounter numerous artistic establishments.
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim’s monumental structure of titanium, limestone, and glass is a stunning example of futuristic architecture. Inside, the museum showcases a remarkable blend of art and architecture, featuring installations by renowned artists such as Fujiko Nakaya, Anish Kapoor, Yves Klein, Louise Bourgeois, and Jeff Koons.
Among the permanent displays, two notable installations are located outside the museum that are worth taking a few minutes to appreciate.
See Maman, the iconic spider by Louise Bourgeois
Located in the museum’s exterior plaza, you’ll discover a striking giant spider sculpture by French visual artist Louise Bourgeois. This intriguing piece allows visitors to walk around its legs and examine its body, particularly the marble egg sac it carries.
See Puppy by Jeff Koons
At the entrance of the Guggenheim Museum, you’ll encounter a massive floral sculpture. What I initially thought was a cat is actually a sitting 43-foot-tall Terrier Puppy! Crafted from stainless steel and covered in colorful flowers, this beautiful sculpture provides a welcoming sight as you arrive at the museum grounds.
- ⏳ Visit duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- 📍 Avenida Abandoibarra, 2, 48009 Bilbao
- 🎟️ Entry: €15 (full price) | €7.50 (reduced)
- 🕒 Open: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 7 PM
- 🔗 Reservation recommended
Self-guided architectural tour of Bilbao
A guided tour is one of the best ways to discover a new city. Bilbao offers a variety of guided tours that allow you to explore the city from a local’s perspective while experiencing its way of life and cuisine. One particularly interesting tour highlights the city’s architecture and urban transformation.
The tour begins in the heart of the Old Town and takes you toward the cutting-edge district of Abandoibarra, home to some of the city’s most iconic modern architecture. Your first stops include the historic Bilbao Town Hall, designed by Joaquín Rucoba and expanded by IMB in 2010, as well as Oteiza’s thought-provoking sculpture, Variante ovoide de desocupación de la esfera.
As you continue along Campo Volantín, take a moment to admire the elegant Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, before heading to the striking Isozaki Atea Towers, which rise prominently in the skyline.
Next, marvel at the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry—feel free to explore its interior. Don’t miss the captivating outdoor sculptures: Maman by Louise Bourgeois and Puppy by Jeff Koons. Nearby architectural highlights include the serene Pedro Arrupe Footbridge and the soaring Iberdrola Tower, designed by César Pelli.
After this, visit the Euskalduna Palace, a remarkable cultural venue designed by Soriano and Palacios. Spend some time in the nearby parks, such as Parque Doña Casilda Iturrizar, a beautiful space combining Romantic and French garden styles, featuring ponds, fountains, and a pergola. Finally, stop by the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao.
Finally, finish your tour with a visit to the Casa Montero, known as Bilbao’s own “Gaudí House.” This Art Nouveau gem, designed by Luis Aladrén, features flowing forms and natural motifs that echo the spirit of Gaudí himself.
Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Bilbao is home to more than just the Guggenheim Museum; there are several other fascinating museums worth exploring. Among them are the Basque Ethnological Museum and the Bilbao Museum of Fine Arts, the latter being the second most visited museum in the city. This museum is a great addition to your itinerary in Bilbao.
It features permanent exhibitions that showcase works by Basque, Spanish, and European artists. Notable artists represented include Goya, Zurbarán, El Greco, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Francis Bacon.
Located in a neoclassical building, the Museum of Fine Arts is nestled within Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, adding to its charm and appeal.
- 📍 Museo Plaza, 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbao
- 🎟️ Entry: Free
- 🕒 Open: Monday – Sunday, 10 AM – 8 PM (except Tuesdays)
- 🔗 Reservation recommended
Do a Pintxos Crawl Through the Old Town
Still wondering what to do in Bilbao for three days or how to wrap up your day? A pintxos crawl is the perfect solution. These Basque-style tapas are small in size but big on flavor, and there’s no better place to sample them than in Casco Viejo.
Wander through the narrow streets and hit a few of the city’s best pintxos bars. Start around Calle del Perro or the iconic Plaza Nueva, where the pintxos scene is especially vibrant. Order a couple of bites and pair them with a glass of txakoli (a slightly sparkling white wine) or a zurito (small beer), then move on to the next spot. You can also join a Basque Food Tour with a Guide.
- Café Bar Bilbao – Located on Plaza Nueva, this traditional pintxos is a local favourite.
- Baster – Vibrant little bar with tasty pintxos.
- Gure Toki – A great selection of pintxos within a lively setting.
- Sorginzulo – Another Plaza Nueva spot, it’s always buzzing, with an excellent choice of pintxos.
Bilbao Itinerary – Day 3 – Sunday
Morning – Half-day trip to Getxo
Although Bilbao does not have a beach, sandy shores are just 20 minutes away. On our last day in Bilbao, we spent the morning exploring the coastal town of Getxo, known for its beautiful natural landscapes, expansive beaches, cliffs, and charming coastal village atmosphere.
After taking the metro, we began exploring the Hanging Bridge, the Bizkaia Bridge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 19th century, stands 45 meters high and spans 160 meters. As the first and oldest shuttle gondola bridge, it offers a unique way to cross the Nervión Estuary, connecting the towns of Portugalete and Getxo.
You can cross the estuary via the gondola for €0.55 per person, or take the pedestrian walkway for a fee of €10 per person, which provides panoramic views of the estuary. Alternatively, you can travel by boat for just €0.50 per person.
There are many dining options along the quays on the Portugalete side, making it a great spot to grab snacks or drinks.
In Getxo, you can enjoy the fresh air at one of the many beaches, such as Ereaga, La Galea, or Azkorri. I highly recommend strolling along the waterfront, passing the Churruca monument, until you reach Las Arenas beach. If you have the time, continue along the waterfront to admire the stunning beachfront houses.
You can catch the Neguri station or Algorta station metro to return to central Bilbao.
Got a Few Hours Left in Bilbao? Here’s How to Make the Most of Them
If you’re wrapping up your 3-day trip to Bilbao but still have a few hours—or even half a day—to spare before heading out, don’t wait for your departure. Here are a few laid-back, memorable ways to soak up the last moments of your Basque adventure:
Ride the Artxanda Funicular for Panoramic Views
Hop on the Artxanda Funicular and head up the hillside for a stunning view of Bilbao, which is especially magical at sunset. At the top, you’ll find a peaceful park and a handful of restaurants—perfect if you want to enjoy one final meal with a view before saying goodbye to the city.
Coffee & Culture at Azkuna Zentroa
Tucked inside a former wine warehouse, Azkuna Zentroa is a cultural gem that many visitors miss. Don’t let its plain exterior fool you—inside, you’ll discover quirky art installations, a cinema, a library, boutique shops, and even a rooftop terrace. It’s an ideal place to explore a few exhibitions and unwind with a good coffee. Alternatively, you can try a hot drink at any of the city’s cafes and tea rooms. We loved Naked & Sated Bilbao, which is located near the Guggenheim Museum.
Stroll Along the Nervión River
If the weather’s on your side, take a relaxing walk along the Nervión River. Start in Casco Viejo and head north toward the Zubizuri Bridge. From there, follow the east bank until you reach La Ribera Market. The market reopens between 5 PM and 8 PM on weekdays (except Mondays), and it’s a great spot to browse local produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and more. Don’t miss the lively food hall where you can sip local wines, nibble on pintxos, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Practical Information about Bilbao
Where to Stay in Bilbao
Bilbao offers a wide range of accommodations that are suitable for all budgets. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to stay in the Abando district or Casco Viejo. Here are some options for where to stay in Bilbao:
Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection by Marriott
Located in the heart of Bilbao, between the Guggenheim Museum and the Old Town, this 4-star hotel combines 70s glamour with modernity. The stylish rooms have amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Nespresso coffee machines, and bathrobes. Additionally, it features a lovely rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, perfect for enjoying sunset drinks.
💰 From €140 [Book your accommodation here]
Meliá Bilbao
This 5-star hotel is situated in the city center, nestled between the Guggenheim Museum and Euskalduna Palace. Meliá Bilbao boasts elegant and spacious rooms with a modern design and a top-floor open-air pool.
💰 From €135 [Book your accommodation here]
Radisson Collection Bilbao
Located in the city center, between the Guggenheim Museum and the Old Town, this hotel is ideal for exploring Bilbao on foot. The elegant and spacious rooms offer a modern aesthetic.
💰 From €148 [Book your accommodation here]
Hotel Tayko Bilbao
With an industrial-chic style, Tayko Bilbao is close to the Old Town and its tapas bars. It also features two excellent restaurants: Ola, a Michelin-starred venue, and Bodega, which hosts one of the finest wine cellars in Bilbao.
💰 From €153 [Book your accommodation here]
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art
Facing the Guggenheim Museum, this hotel features an imposing glass and steel structure that appeals to both business travelers and architecture enthusiasts. For the best experience, consider booking a room with a view of the Guggenheim.
💰 From €162 [Book your accommodation here]
🔗 More hotel options available
How Long Should You Visit Bilbao?
Bilbao is a vibrant city home to the renowned Guggenheim Museum, a charming Old Town, and delightful pedestrian streets filled with an array of pintxos bars. There are plenty of things to do in Bilbao. It is recommended that you spend at least two days there to fully appreciate what the city has to offer.
However, if you only have 1 day in Bilbao, you can still explore the city in a day by focusing on two main areas: the Casco Viejo and the vicinity of the Guggenheim Museum. If you have more days to spare, consider extending your trip to 3 days in Bilbao, including day trips to nearby destinations like Getxo, San Sebastián, and Guernica.
Getting to Bilbao
By Plane:
Bilbao, the vibrant heart of Spain’s Basque Country, is easily accessible by air. Bilbao Airport (BIO) offers direct flights to numerous European destinations, making it convenient for international travellers. Located just 12 kilometres from the city centre, the airport is well-connected by bus, taxi, and car rental services.
By Train:
For those exploring Spain by rail, Bilbao’s central train station, Bilbao-Abando (Estación del Norte), connects major cities and regions, including local Euskotren services linking Bilbao with destinations across the Basque Country. Services from Barcelona take over six hours while services from Madrid take just under five hours.
By Bus:
Buses offer an affordable and efficient way to reach Bilbao, especially from nearby cities and regions. The Bilbao Intermodal station serves as the city’s main bus hub, with companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus operating frequent routes from Spain and beyond. Regional services also make reaching Bilbao easier from other Basque towns and coastal areas.
By Car:
Driving to Bilbao is a scenic and flexible option, particularly for travellers coming from Madrid or northern Spain. The country’s well-maintained highways make the journey smooth, and renting a car is easy, with agencies available in airports and major cities. If you’re looking to save on rental costs, consider picking up your vehicle in the city centre rather than at the airport.
DiscoverCars is a great resource for comparing rental prices and securing the best deals. It aggregates options from major international providers and smaller local agencies, often revealing more competitive rates.
How to get from Bilbao Airport
Reaching the city centre from Bilbao Airport (BIO) is quick and hassle-free. The most budget-friendly option is the A3247 airport bus, which departs from the arrivals area on the first floor. Just follow the “Bus Bilbao” signs, and you’ll find ticket machines to purchase a ticket for €3 per trip. The journey takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your hotel location. The bus operates daily from early morning until late at night, ensuring a reliable connection to the city.
Taxis and private transfers are available at the airport as a more convenient and direct option. While pricier, they provide a convenient door-to-door service straight to your accommodation.
Getting Around Bilbao
Despite being a sizable city, Bilbao is very walkable, especially if your accommodation is centrally located. Many of the top attractions, including the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, and the riverside promenades, can be easily explored on foot.
However, public transport is your best bet if you plan to visit areas beyond the city centre, such as Getxo and the stunning Basque coastline. Bilbao has an efficient system that includes:
- Metro: Bilbao’s metro system has three lines connecting different districts. Fares start at €1.65, depending on the number of zones travelled. The Bilbao Metro website has more details.
- Bus: Two bus companies, Bilbobus (city routes) and Bizkaibus (regional routes), provide extensive coverage. Check their websites for schedules and fares.
- Tram: Euskotren operates a convenient tram line that runs through key areas of the city. A single ticket costs €1.50.
Additional Trip Planning Support?
For maps, travel advice, or recommendations on where to go next, stop by Bilbao’s Tourist Office, conveniently located in Plaza Biribila, just across the bridge from Casco Viejo. The friendly staff can provide up-to-date information and help tailor your visit to make the most of your time in Bilbao.📍Plaza Biribila, 1, Abando, 48001 Bilbao.
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