Route
Three nights in a city that honours the past and embraces the future. You'll stroll from the medieval streets of Casco Viejo to the ultra-modern architecture along the Nervión River.
Rhythm
A relaxed city break without any rush. You alternate museum visits with strolling through local markets and endless sessions in the best pintxos bars. Everything is perfectly accessible on foot.
Highlights
The iconic Guggenheim Museum, of course, but also the atmospheric Mercado de la Ribera market hall. The real icing on the cake? An evening of pintxos hopping in traditional Basque bars.
Accommodation
You will stay in a stylish hotel in the city centre. Whether you want to visit the river, dive into a museum or grab a bite to eat, everything is within a few minutes' walk.
Profile
The ultimate match for lovers of art, bold architecture and world-famous Basque cuisine.
Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao
You arrive in Bilbao and are transferred to your hotel. On the way, you cross the Puente de Vizcaya, the oldest suspension bridge in the world still in use. A suspension structure allows both vehicles and passengers to pass between Portugalete and Getxo without hindering shipping. The bridge, accessible by lift, offers a magnificent view. After checking in, enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing or a sporting activity such as sailing, canoeing or surfing. The options are endless on the coast.
Day 2: The historic centre and the Guggenheim Museum
The original city was formed by the seven streets that make up the centre of the old quarter. On the right bank of the Nervión River, you will discover the historic centre full of beautiful buildings and monuments. Your next stop is Spain's largest covered market, La Ribera. With its three floors, it is even the largest covered market in Europe. It is the perfect place to buy fresh produce such as meat, fish, vegetables and fruit. After lunch, Bilbao's most famous museum, the Guggenheim Museum, is on the agenda. It is a museum of modern and experimental art and is Bilbao's main attraction. The building is a work of art in itself, but a visit to the art collection inside is also well worth it.
Day 3: Ensanche, Nervion River and Pintxos
The Ensanche district in Bilbao has become the financial and commercial centre and is the most cosmopolitan part of the city. The main street, Gran Vía, is lined with shops, banks and stately homes. Spend a morning strolling around here to see some of the beautiful buildings and do some shopping. In Bilbao, you are never far from the water. Along the Nervion River, you can walk past some of the quietest places and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You cannot go to the Basque Country without trying the famous pintxos. These are the Basque version of tapas, small snacks served in taverns or bars. Each bar has its own specialities, so it's worth going from bar to bar and trying a few pintxos in each one. A guide will take you to the best places!
Day 4: Back home
Your city trip is over. Today you return home with lots of wonderful memories.
Frequently asked questions about this city trip to Bilbao
Why is Bilbao so popular for city breaks?
Bilbao combines modern architecture with Basque gastronomy and a historic centre. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao brought the city international fame and made Bilbao an important destination for art lovers.
What should you definitely do during a city break to Bilbao?
Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, stroll through the old quarter of Casco Viejo and sample pintxos in local bars. The Mercado de la Ribera is also highly recommended.
When is the best time for a city trip to Bilbao?
The best months are April to June and September to October. During this period, the climate in Bilbao is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city on foot.
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