Enjoy a cultural Spanish city break with these things to do in Bilbao

It is safe to say that art has shaped this city into what it is today. While it may have started with the Guggenheim since then Bilbao has now become home to more architectural wonders such as Philippe Starck’s 2010 Azkuna Zentroa, Cesar Pelli’s glass Iberdrola tower,  Zaha Hadid’s Zorrozaurre and Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Bizkaia Aretoa hall. Yet there is more to Bilbao than grand buildings. Its museums are a treasure trove of cultural highlights and these are our favourites.

We cannot talk about Bilbao without mentioning this museum. A global icon and the centrepiece of Bilbao’s cultural identity, this is a must-visit for any art lover. You can visit this titanium-clad structure, designed to resemble a futuristic ship docked on the banks of the Nervión River, at any time of day. However, it becomes truly magical at sunset, when golden hues reflect off its surface. Take time to admire the museum from the outside and take a photo of the Instagrammable “Puppy” sculpture by Jeff Koons and the mesmerising "Maman" spider sculpture by Lousie Bourgeois. Inside, world-class contemporary art exhibitions, featuring works by renowned artists such as Mark Rothko, Anish Kapoor, and Gerhard Richter, among others, await.

If modern art is not your thing, the Bilbao Fine Art Museum houses an expansive collection of art that spans centuries. Stroll through its halls and admire how the morning light gently illuminates the classical masterpieces and contemporary works. Expect to find works from famous artists like El Greco, Goya and Bacon. The museum's proximity to the surrounding Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park adds to its serene and relaxing atmosphere making this a memorable cultural experience to enjoy while discovering the things to do in Bilbao.

While not a gallery but a cultural space, Azkuna Zentoa is one of the best things to do in Bilbao. Once a wine warehouse until renowned designer Philippe Starck got his hands on it and transformed the space into what it is today. Its striking interior features 43 uniquely decorated columns, each a work of art, supporting a contemporary space that houses a cinema, library, exhibition halls, and even a rooftop swimming pool with a glass floor. 

Whether you’re attending an art exhibit, catching a film, or simply marvelling at the architectural fusion of old and new, nothing shows the city’s creative heart quite like Azkuna Zentroa. It is no wonder that it has quickly become one of the top Bilbao tourist attractions.

El botxo (the name given to the city by its residents) is surrounded by mountains, making it the perfect destination for different, and very high, perspectives. If you are adventurous and not afraid of heights, then take note of these three options.

Enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the city from Mount Artxanda. Accessible by foot, car or cable car, you will come across an area where sports, food and nature are the main focus. This is the perfect plan for gazing at Bilbao from above and enjoying the views of the entire city from the overlook with friends, family or your other half.

Only for the most daring, a 61-metre height is what stands between you and one of the best views of the city. Vizcaya Bridge, which separates the municipalities of Portugalete and Getxo, is a must-see on a trip to Bilbao because of the perspective and also the sensation of feeling like the king of the world above the Nervión River.

After visiting one of the most famous museums in the world, we suggest checking out the Bilbao city centre from the terrace at the Guggenheim. In addition to the breathtaking views, you can also enjoy the local cuisine whilst filling up before continuing your trek to every corner of the city.

The Zubizuri Bridge is a star attraction in Bilbao. Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this elegant, arched footbridge connects the banks of the Nervión River with its sleek glass walkway and distinctive curves. This is a perfect place to enjoy stunning views of the city and river, the Zubizuri is not just a practical crossing but also a symbol of Bilbao’s modern transformation. 

Part of exploring a city is discovering its food and flavours, which is why it is practically a requirement to taste the local dishes and specialities that you will love and want to try over and over again. If you want to know what to do in Bilbao, start off by conquering the palate. How about a pintxopote to whet your appetite?

You can’t visit Bilbao without doing a pintxos tour, known as a Txikiteo through the city’s bars. The perfect combination is trying one or two at each bar to try them all like a local. We suggest a pintxopote, a Basque happy hour, through the historic quarter. 

You can look forward to two or three hours of non-stop food and drinks from Plaza Nueva and the surrounding streets. If you prefer something quieter, Bilbao’s hotels serve an extensive array of irresistible pintxos. As a bonus, one of these could be your perfect accommodation for resting after a “tough” day eating your way through the city’s streets.

Although pintxos are the highlight of local cuisine, there is always room for dessert. Traditional Basque sweet treats include meringue tarts known as Carolinas, butter rolls or Bollos de Mantequilla and rice pastries are the most popular, but we suggest giving in to the many sweet alternatives the city has to offer.

Imagine a cross between a steakhouse and a cider house and you have a Sagardotegiak a Basque cider restaurant and bar. Made from locally sourced apples and recipes that date back generations, cider is taken very seriously here, just like in Asturias. Yet, don’t expect anything fancy. This is a casual affair where good food, good cider and even better company combine for a fun and memorable afternoon and evening. Expect to find traditional dishes on the menu such as cod omelettes, grilled t-bone steaks and ewe’s milk cheese. Admire the massive barrels of cider that line the walls and the skill of pouring the cider into the glass. Dining in a sagardotediak is an experience to remember.

There are certain things that a Bilbao resident must do at least once in a lifetime, and what better way is there to feel like a local than to experience them for yourself? While the city is famous for its gastronomic heritage and bohemian art scene, football fans will know it for its football team, Athletic de Bilbao. 

If there is one thing that defines Bilbao, it’s the Athletic de Bilbao, the city’s football team and an example of the values that represent the city and its people. When in Bilbao, San Mamés Stadium (known internationally as the cathedral of football) is a required stop because of the great atmosphere it has to offer. And even if you are not a football fan, you can always explore the area around the stadium or the Pozas district to enjoy the vibe on game day.

The Old Town, or Casco Viejo, is not just one of the things to do in Bilbao for tourists. It is the heart and soul of the city, brimming with history, charm, and vibrant local life. Take time to enjoy its narrow, windy streets lined with colourful buildings, lively bars, quirky shops and cute cafés. Its centre, Plaza Nueva is famous for being the best place to enjoy Basque tapas or pintxos - washed down with local txakoli wine, of course. 

The Gothic-style Santiago Cathedral is the oldest church in the city and a major landmark in the Old Town. The Mercado de la Ribera should also be added to your Bilbao sightseeing list. This riverside market offers local produce and dishes and is a fantastic way to familiarise yourself with the regional cuisine.

One of the most iconic and unusual things about Bilbao is the amount of greenery surrounding the city. If you are eager to explore the natural beauty of the Basque region but don’t want to venture too far from the city, add these things to do in Bilbao to your list - you won’t be disappointed.

One of Bilbao’s most famous mountains is Pagasarri and any self-respecting local must make their way to the top (on foot) at least once in their life. If you are adventurous and determined, then this is the perfect plan for you. In addition, the effort has a reward because from the top you can enjoy some of the most beautiful and unforgettable views of the city.

The twin, semi-urban beaches Arrietara-Atxabiribil, located near the municipality of Sopela, are a haven for nature lovers. With dramatic cliffs that frame the golden sands and echo the gentle ebb and flow of the waves, this is the perfect escape from city life. Enjoy a stroll along the pristine shoreline, soak up the sun, or even enjoy a relaxing Gin & Tonic at one of the nearby beachside bars. Whether you’re unwinding or soaking in the stunning natural surroundings, Arrietara-Atxabiribil is the ideal spot to recharge before diving back into Bilbao’s vibrant energy.

Anywhere in the world, sunsets are one of the best gifts of travelling. Bilbao is no exception, and sunsets in the capital of Biscay are an essential part of visiting the city.

If you are looking for memorable things to do in Bilbao, then this is the perfect place for gazing at one of the best sunsets in the Basque Country. Located in the municipality of Getxo, this huge cliff that has been transformed into a coastal promenade is great for getting away from everything whilst enjoying the sunset. As you wait for the sun to go down, you can visit the Aixerrota windmill and the Galea fortress, two emblematic spots in the area.

Since Bilbao is a city of bridges, these sunset recommendations couldn’t omit one of the strategic viewpoints for watching a sunset in the heart of the city. Located near the Guggenheim, from here you can admire how the estuary, the city’s architecture and the sun come together to create a magical sunset. A rewarding view after a day enjoying all the fun things to do in Bilbao.