Key Takeaways:
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Bilbao blends Basque culture, cutting-edge architecture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable year-round experience.
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The city offers riverside strolls, world-class museums, mountain hikes, and bustling markets in every season.
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This guide shows you the best things to do whether you’re visiting in winter, summer, or anytime in between.
Bilbao is a dynamic city in northern Spain that has transformed from an industrial hub into one of Europe’s most exciting cultural destinations. Set along the Nervión River and surrounded by green hills, it offers a fascinating mix of traditional Basque heritage and bold modern architecture. Known internationally for the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao also charms visitors with its historic Old Town, inventive cuisine, and vibrant street life. Whether you’re here for food, art, nature, or festivals, this Basque gem delivers incredible experiences all year long.
Table of Contents
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Tour the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
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Wander the Casco Viejo (Old Town)
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Take the Funicular to Mount Artxanda
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Enjoy Pintxos Hopping in Plaza Nueva
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Stroll the Riverside Promenade and Zubizuri Bridge
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Explore the Azkuna Zentroa Cultural Center
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Hike in Pagasarri Natural Park
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Attend the Aste Nagusia Festival
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Discover Bilbao’s Maritime Museum
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Watch a Performance at Teatro Arriaga
1. Tour the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
No trip to Bilbao is complete without visiting the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a modern art masterpiece that has become the symbol of the city’s transformation. Designed by Frank Gehry, its shimmering titanium curves draw visitors in before they’ve even stepped inside. The museum’s interior features large-scale installations and contemporary works by both Spanish and international artists. It’s open year-round and consistently delivers thought-provoking exhibits across multiple mediums.
Outside the museum, the public art is just as impressive. You’ll find Jeff Koons’ towering Puppy sculpture made entirely of flowers and Louise Bourgeois’ giant spider, Maman, near the riverbank. The riverside location adds to the experience, offering great views and plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, the Guggenheim offers a powerful introduction to Bilbao’s bold creative spirit.
2. Wander the Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Bilbao’s Casco Viejo is the heart of its historic center, filled with narrow alleys, colorful buildings, and centuries of local life. Also known as the “Seven Streets,” this area is home to traditional shops, pintxos bars, and cultural landmarks that provide a glimpse into the city’s roots. You can spend hours here simply wandering, discovering artisan boutiques, or enjoying a coffee in one of its charming plazas. It’s one of the best areas to explore on foot, no matter the season.
Highlights include the Gothic-style Santiago Cathedral, the Mercado de la Ribera (Europe’s largest covered market), and quaint bookstores and galleries. On weekends, street performers and pop-up events keep the atmosphere lively. The Old Town is especially magical in the evening, when the lights glow softly and locals fill the streets for a paseo. Whether it’s your first time in Bilbao or your fifth, Casco Viejo always offers something new to love.
3. Take the Funicular to Mount Artxanda
For sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains, hop aboard the Artxanda Funicular — a charming cable railway that runs year-round. The short ride whisks you from the city center to a scenic overlook in just minutes. Once at the top, you’ll find panoramic viewing decks, parks, and walking trails that make for a peaceful afternoon escape. It’s an easy way to experience Bilbao’s natural beauty without leaving the city.
There’s also a restaurant and a few food stands where you can enjoy local dishes with an incredible backdrop. Whether you go during the day for sunshine or in the evening to catch the lights of the city, the vistas are worth the ride. The funicular itself has a nostalgic charm, operating since 1915 and still offering affordable, frequent trips. If you enjoy combining sightseeing with a bit of nature, Mount Artxanda is a must.
4. Enjoy Pintxos Hopping in Plaza Nueva
In the Basque Country, pintxos are more than just snacks — they’re a lifestyle, and Plaza Nueva is one of the best places in Bilbao to enjoy them. This elegant square, located in the Old Town, is surrounded by bars serving a variety of bite-sized creations perched on slices of bread. Locals often hop from one bar to another, ordering a drink and one or two pintxos at each stop. It’s a fun and flavorful way to dine, especially in the evenings or on Sundays when the square fills with life.
Every pintxo bar has its specialties — from marinated anchovies to chorizo-stuffed peppers and inventive vegetarian bites. The vibe is lively but welcoming, and bartenders are usually happy to recommend their best creations. You don’t need a reservation or a set plan — just let your taste buds guide you. Pintxos hopping is social, delicious, and a highlight of any trip to Bilbao.
5. Stroll the Riverside Promenade and Zubizuri Bridge
Bilbao’s revitalized riverfront is one of its greatest assets, and the promenade stretching along the Nervión River is ideal for walking, cycling, or just soaking in the scenery. One of the most striking features is the Zubizuri Bridge — a sleek white footbridge designed by Santiago Calatrava that arcs gracefully across the water. The entire area has been transformed into a beautiful public space, complete with sculptures, green spaces, and shaded benches. It’s the perfect place to relax between museum visits or before dinner.
The promenade connects many of the city’s top attractions, including the Guggenheim, Euskalduna Palace, and the Isozaki Atea towers. You’ll pass joggers, families, and couples strolling hand-in-hand, giving the area a relaxed but vibrant feel. In spring and summer, flower beds bloom and pop-up events often line the path. No matter when you visit, the riverside walk offers some of the best photo ops in the city.
6. Explore the Azkuna Zentroa Cultural Center
Housed in a former wine warehouse, Azkuna Zentroa is one of the most dynamic cultural spaces in Bilbao. Redesigned by French architect Philippe Starck, the building now includes galleries, a rooftop pool, a cinema, cafes, and rotating art exhibitions. It’s a multifunctional venue that blends old architecture with contemporary design and creativity. Locals use it as a community hub, and visitors will find something interesting no matter when they visit.
The programming is diverse — from photography shows and indie film screenings to yoga sessions and design fairs. Even if you’re not attending an event, the building itself is worth exploring. The interior columns, each uniquely decorated, create a striking visual effect. If you’re looking for an offbeat, creative space to spend an afternoon, Azkuna Zentroa delivers inspiration and culture in one place.
7. Hike in Pagasarri Natural Park
For travelers who love the outdoors, Pagasarri Natural Park offers some of the best hiking trails around Bilbao. Just a short distance from the city center, it’s accessible via public transportation and provides a scenic escape into the Basque countryside. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both seasoned hikers and casual walkers. Along the way, you’ll be treated to lush forests, stone paths, and views over Bilbao and the surrounding valleys.
One popular route leads to a mountain hut at the summit where hikers often stop for a traditional Basque meal and a drink. On weekends, the trails are filled with friendly locals and the occasional dog walker. It’s a great way to experience the green, hilly terrain that frames the city — especially in spring or fall when the weather is crisp and pleasant. Bring good shoes, water, and your camera — you’ll want to capture the landscape.
8. Attend the Aste Nagusia Festival
Every August, Bilbao bursts into celebration for Aste Nagusia — the city’s biggest and most beloved festival. Over nine days, locals and visitors come together for fireworks, street theater, concerts, parades, and endless pintxos. The event kicks off with the launch of “Marijaia,” a symbolic figure who represents joy and freedom, and ends with her ceremonial farewell. It’s a party that takes over the entire city and showcases Basque traditions in full color.
Even if you’re not a festival person, Aste Nagusia is hard to resist. There’s something for everyone — from children’s activities and pop-up bars to traditional dancing and nighttime firework shows. The energy is contagious and the city becomes more vibrant than ever. Booking accommodations early is key, as thousands of people travel to Bilbao just for this celebration.
9. Discover Bilbao’s Maritime Museum
Set along the estuary where Bilbao’s shipbuilding industry once thrived, the Maritime Museum gives visitors a hands-on look at the city’s nautical heritage. Exhibits range from traditional fishing techniques to full-scale ship models and the history of Bilbao’s port. The museum is interactive and modern, with outdoor docks that display restored vessels visitors can climb aboard. It’s a fun and educational stop that’s open year-round.
The museum is especially good for families and travelers looking for a unique indoor experience on rainy days. Its riverside location also makes it easy to pair with a walk along the nearby promenade. With bilingual signage and kid-friendly displays, it offers a clear and engaging story of how water shaped Bilbao’s identity. Whether you’re into history or just want to see something different, this museum surprises and informs.
10. Watch a Performance at Teatro Arriaga
Teatro Arriaga is Bilbao’s most prestigious theater, an opulent 19th-century building inspired by the Paris Opera House. It hosts a rich calendar of events, from classical concerts and ballets to Basque-language plays and modern productions. Stepping inside feels like entering a different era, with velvet seats, golden balconies, and grand staircases. The experience of watching a live show here is as memorable as the performance itself.
You don’t have to be fluent in Spanish or Euskera to enjoy a night out — many performances include musical or visual elements that transcend language. Tours of the theater are also available for those interested in its architecture and history. Located right by the river, it’s easy to plan an evening show followed by a walk or late-night pintxo crawl. Teatro Arriaga brings elegance and culture to any visit, especially if you’re looking to elevate your night.
What to do if you have kids?
Bilbao is a surprisingly kid-friendly city, with plenty of open spaces, museums, and interactive activities. The Maritime Museum and Azkuna Zentroa offer engaging exhibits and open areas for movement, while riverside parks and playgrounds let children run freely. The funicular ride to Mount Artxanda is a hit with kids, and pintxos bars often serve simple bites that little ones will enjoy. Families can also take advantage of child-friendly walking trails or boat rides along the estuary. Getting around is easy with strollers, and locals are generally very welcoming to families with children.
Where can I find free events in Bilbao Spain taking place this weekend?
For up-to-date info on free events happening in Bilbao this weekend — from outdoor concerts and museum nights to food markets and cultural festivals — check out https://planmyweekend.ai. This AI-powered platform instantly pulls local experiences based on your interests and travel dates. Skip the endless Google searching and find everything from yoga in the park to street performances and art fairs in just a few clicks. It’s the easiest way to plan a fun, low-cost weekend in Bilbao.
Final thoughts
Bilbao is a city that constantly surprises — where historic charm meets cutting-edge art, and natural beauty lives just steps from buzzing streets. With its vibrant festivals, scenic views, world-class museums, and laid-back pintxos culture, it’s a destination that offers something in every season. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, you’ll find yourself wanting more time to explore, eat, hike, and celebrate. Bilbao doesn’t just impress — it inspires, and you’ll leave with memories that last long after your trip ends.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
