Bilbao in 2 Days - Itinerary & Things to Do

🤩 My reflection

Honestly, I initially booked the trip to Bilbao only because the closest flight from Amsterdam to San Sebastián landed there, and of course it has the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. But it turned out to be a bigger city than I expected, with its own set of sights and a charming old town. I wouldn’t call it a “must-visit” city, but I think we made the right decision by merging it into our San Sebastián itinerary.

We were also excited to experience our very first 3* Michelin restaurant. It began with a garden-style entrance where appetizers were served in picnic baskets. We were then welcomed into the kitchen, greeted in Basque, before moving to another garden-inspired space with dishes shaped like flowers and leaves but made as intricate courses. Finally, we were seated at our table for a continuous flow of incredible dishes. Yes, I had to sell a kidney to pay for it (€315 per person!), but it’s not something we do every day.

In this guide, you’ll find a complete 2-day Bilbao itinerary, including must-see sights and practical travel tips. The route is designed based on location proximity to minimize travel time and help you see as much as possible in a short stay.

✍🏻 Itinerary

Day 1

Morning:

• Casco Viejo - Bilbao’s historic old town with narrow streets and charming

• Catedral de Santiago - Gothic-style cathedral in the heart of Casco Viejo

• San Nikolas Eliza - Charming church nearby with traditional Basque architecture

• Las 7 Calles - The original streets of Bilbao full of shops and pintxos bars

Lunch:

• Mercado de la Ribera - Large riverside market offering fresh food and local specialties

Afternoon:

• Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro - Bilbao’s main shopping and business street, perfect for a casual stroll

• Areatzako Kioskoa - Decorative riverside kiosk and popular photo spot

• Teatro Arriaga Antzokia - Historic theater inspired by Paris’ Palais Garnier

• Puente del Arenal - Main bridge connecting Casco Viejo to the riverside promenade

• Nervión River Promenade - Scenic walkway along the river with views of bridges and city life

Dinner: Azurmendi (3* Michelin restaurant)

Day 2

Morning:

• Puente Zubizuri - Iconic white pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao - World-famous contemporary museum with striking architecture

• Puppy - Giant flower-covered dog sculpture at the museum entrance

Afternoon:

• Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park - Peaceful green park ideal for a break

• Bilbao Fine Arts Museum - Top museum featuring classical and modern Spanish art

• Azkuna Zentroa - Modern cultural center with exhibitions and rooftop views (During our visit, there was a very interesting free exhibition, so it’s worth checking what’s on)

If you still have time

• Artxanda Funicular - Short ride up the hill for panoramic city views

• Iralabarri Las Casas de Colores - Colorful hillside houses (which we think it doesn't worth the visit)

🔗 All travel links

Accommodation:

Hotel Indautxu - You can book here (It was a nice and clean hotel; but I recommend for you to book somewhere closer to the old town center)

Tours:

Free walking tour - You can book here