What to visit in Bilbao Things to do and see on your vacation in the Basque Country
In the north of Spain, you’ll discover Bilbao, a port city bursting with charm, dynamic and cosmopolitan, cradle of the Spanish Basque country. Still little known to the general public, it’s a surprising city with great potential and a tourist offer to suit everyone. How do I get to Bilbao? What activities are available in this Spanish city? Or how much should you budget to visit Bilbao? We tell you all about it in our article dedicated to the capital of the Basque country, Bilbao.
When to visit Bilbao? Climate, temperature, rainfall and weather in Bilbao
Bilbao has the advantage of a mild, pleasant climate all year round. Ideal for sightseeing, you’ll have a great time here from January to December. In the Basque capital, maximum temperatures range from 14°C in winter to 27°C in summer. This makes for a pleasant stay, with plenty of opportunities for activities such as sightseeing, surfing and hiking in the Basque hinterland.
As for rainfall, the months from May to September are generally the wettest. That’s why, for a perfect visit to the region, we advise you to plan your trip to Bilbao between October and April. Always remember to take a look at the weather forecast before booking your activities, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
| Month | Max (°C) | Min (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 13 | 5 |
| February | 14 | 6 |
| March | 15 | 7 |
| April | 17 | 9 |
| May | 19 | 11 |
| June | 22 | 14 |
| July | 24 | 16 |
| August | 25 | 16 |
| September | 23 | 15 |
| October | 20 | 12 |
| November | 16 | 8 |
| December | 14 | 6 |
What to do in Bilbao, top 5 activities not to be missed during your family holiday
In the past, Bilbao was just a stopping-off point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. But since the economic crisis of the ’80s, this ambitious city has decided to give itself a facelift, displaying a modern and attractive facade for visitors and families wishing to enjoy a pleasant vacation. The tourist offer has been expanding for several years.
From old quarters with their typical architecture, to modern avenues with majestic buildings, world-famous museums and a wide range of activities, Bilbao is sure to impress.
We’ve selected 5 must-do activities for you to enjoy during your visit to Bilbao:
Zubizuri bridge in Bilbao (Calatrava bridge)
The Zubizuri bridge is an imposing metal structure designed by the architect “Calatrava”, which spans the Nervion river, linking Uribarte to Campo Volantín with a breathtaking view over the water. This famous bridge is shaped like an inclined arch, supported by metal tie rods, giving it such an atypical appearance. Lovers of architecture and photography can spend a few minutes contemplating it.
Visit the famous Guggenheim Museum
A symbol of the city of Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum is the region’s main attraction, attracting over 500,000 visitors every year. We recommend that you book a guided tour of the museum with an English-speaking guide, to discover its secrets and appreciate its atypical architecture.
This imposing, modern building, designed by Frank Gehry, the famous architect who introduced the deconstructivist style, is an architectural monument. With its focus on pictorial art, the museum is sure to delight lovers of modern and contemporary art. Works by great artists such as Richard Serra, Jeff Koons and others are on display.
Composition 8 de Vassily Kandinsky
Kandinsky is often considered a pioneer of abstract art, and “Composition 8” is one of his best-known works. This painting, composed of geometric shapes and vibrant colors, reflects his search for harmony through abstract compositions. If you like cubic and abstract art, we recommend booking a guided tour during your vacation in Bilbao.
Femme aux cheveux jaunes de Pablo Picasso
This painting by Picasso depicts Marie-Thérèse Walter, his muse and lover at the time. It’s an intimate portrait, showing his cubist style, but with softer, more sensual elements. The Guggenheim houses several works by Picasso, making him one of the pillars of the permanent collection. If you love Picasso and his works and are planning a visit to Madrid, we recommend the Reina Sofia Museum and its magnificent Guernica.
Sans titre de Mark Rothko (1952-1953)
Rothko is famous for his expansive, meditative color fields. His abstract works seek to express deep human emotions.
L'antzokia Arriaga in Basque or Teatro Arriaga in Spanish
Also known as the “Arriaga Theatre”, this Mecca of Spanish Basque culture invites you to attend a wide range of shows, including music, poetry, plays, comedy and opera.
You’ll also appreciate the museum’s atypical architecture, as well as its long red carpet that leads you to the various performance halls.
We advise you to check the program directly on the official website to reserve your tickets.
Discover Bilbao Cathedral
Let’s move on to the religious side of Bilbao. In the heart of the old town, you’ll come face to face with one of the region’s oldest buildings, “Bilbao Cathedral”, where pilgrims from all over the world come to pray.
Address: Done Jakue Plazatxoa, 1, Ibaiondo, 48005 Bilbo, Bizkaia
Kafe Antzokia, Basque cultural center in Bilbao
During the day, Kafe Antzokia is a simple café in the heart of Bilbao’s city center, while in the evening, it transforms itself into a temple of nocturnal entertainment, where quality shows and concerts take place all year round. We recommend that you visit this cultural center during your stay in Bilbao, as it’s a great way to immerse yourself in Basque culture.
Where to go for a walk in Bilbao?
Nowadays, Bilbao is a tourist destination with a multitude of cosmopolitan neighborhoods, where it’s pleasant to stroll or cycle around the city, and where many services and shops are available.
Let’s take a look at the main places to visit in this Spanish city:
Indautxu neighborhood
The Indautxu district is a festive and friendly area, home to many trendy restaurants.
Deusto district
Known as “the student district”, it is characterized by its cultural wealth (museums, exhibition centers, etc.).
Bilbao's historic center
Casco Viejo: the historic city center, famous for its ancient buildings.
What to do around Bilbao
Near Bilbao, don’t miss the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a natural haven perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Visit the coastal town of Getxo, with its beaches and famous Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Guernica, discover the Peace Museum and the town’s symbolic tree. For wine lovers, a trip to La Rioja will immerse you in Spanish wine culture.
Finally, Butrón Castle, with its medieval allure, is a must-see.
How to visit Bilbao: useful information
Eating out: the city’s trendy Indautxu and Deusto districts offer a wealth of restaurants and bars.
Accommodation: two districts are ideal for staying close to the action: San Frantzisko and Casco Viejo.