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, I'm still not a big fan. But I think we made the right decision by merging it into our San Sebastián itinerary.
✍🏻 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)
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.
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
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