Bilbao in 2 days: a complete itinerary with art, architecture and pintxos

Bilbao in 2 days? Yes, in just two days you can feel the creative pulse of the Basque capital, from the imposing Guggenheim to the historic streets of the Casco Viejo. This itinerary is designed for curious travelers who want to explore Bilbao with intensity, but also with time to savor every pintxo, every view, every unexpected corner.

Bilbao is one of those cities that surprises you on arrival and wins you over as you explore it. Modern and industrial, but also traditional and welcoming, it is the perfect example of how a city can reinvent itself through culture and art.

Did you know that Bilbao is one of Europe's most awarded cultural destinations and has already been named Best European City by the Urban Land Institute?

In this 2-day Bilbao itinerary, I share with you the main points of interest, gastronomic suggestions, unmissable experiences and even a few secret stops. Whether it's your first time in Bilbao or a rediscovery, this guide will help you enjoy the best of the city with a curious, local eye.

My experience in Bilbao

The first time I visited Bilbao was in January 2023, when I went to record one of the first episodes of the first season of Cine Travel. I've always been curious about this city in the Basque Country, especially the Guggenheim Museum Bilbaowhose futuristic architecture has forever transformed the image of the city.

🎬 Cine Viagens in Bilbao
I recorded an episode about this city for my Cine Tendinha feature. In it, I explore Bilbao's connection to the world of cinema and the experience of visiting the Guggenheim. Watch the full episode here.

It was also on this trip that I stayed again in a capsule hotel (I had already stayed the first time in AmsterdamBut this time I stayed in a futuristic capsule hotel.) But this time I stayed in a futuristic capsule hotel, the Opti Rooms Bilbao. Which I'll talk about in the accommodation section.

A bit of historical context

Basque Country

Euskadi is the name in euskera (the Basque language) to Basque Country, an autonomous community in the north of Spain.

• Euskadi or Euskal Autonomia Erkidegoa is made up of three provinces:

  • Biscay (Bizkaia), where Bilbao (Bilbo) is located

  • Guipuzcoa (Gipuzkoa), where San Sebastián (Donostia) is located

  • Alava (Araba), whose capital is Vitoria-Gasteiz (also the administrative capital of Euskadi)

The term Basque Country can also refer to a wider cultural region, which includes parts of Spain and France (the so-called French Basque Country), but Euskadi refers specifically to the Spanish autonomous community.

Euskadi has its own government (the Basque Government), extended competences in areas such as health, education, culture and security (with its own police - the Ertzaintza), and is one of the most autonomous regions of the Iberian Peninsula.

A Basque language (euskera) is one of the official languages, along with Castilian. It is one of the oldest and most enigmatic languages in Europe, with no direct relationship to other known languages.

Bilbao

Founded in the 14th century, Bilbao grew up as an important commercial port, especially linked to the steel and shipbuilding industries. During the 20th century, it was a city marked by pollution and urban decay, but in recent decades it has undergone an impressive cultural and architectural revitalization.

The construction of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997 was the turning point: it brought not only tourism but also a new urban pride. Today, Bilbao is a worldwide example of urban regeneration, without ever losing its Basque soul.

2-day itinerary in Bilbao - the capital of the Basque Country

Day 1: Bilbao's creative revolution

Morning

During these 2 days in Bilbao, I recommend starting at the city's ex-libris: the Guggenheim Museum. This building designed by Frank Gehry is a landmark of contemporary architecture. I spent three hours inside the museum. You should also spend time outside - the flowering Puppy, the Spider and the building itself are worth a lot of photos - and then dive into the modern and contemporary art exhibitions.

He then walks along the Nervión Riverwhere the city opens up into modern avenues, public sculptures and cafés with terraces. Continue to Zubizuri Bridgedesigned by Santiago Calatrava.

Afternoon

Lunch in the Abandowhere you'll find everything from modern taverns to more sophisticated restaurants. Next, visit the Museum of Fine Artswith an excellent collection ranging from El Greco to Goya and Francis Bacon.

In the evening, relax in the Doña Casilda Parka green oasis between the museums and the modern center.

Night

Explore Indautxu area or return to the waterfront for dinner with a view of the illuminated Guggenheim. Try the typical pintxos accompanied by txakoli (Basque white wine). Places like La Viña del Ensanche are good bets.

Summary of day 1

• Guggenheim Museum
• A stroll along the river,
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Doña Casilda Park
• Pintxos for dinner

Day 2: Tradition, flavors and history in Casco Viejo

Morning

Start the day at Old Townthe old quarter with its narrow streets and authentic atmosphere. Visit the Ribera MarketIt's the perfect place to try local flavors. You can have breakfast there or buy typical products to bring back.

Go to New Plazasurrounded by arcades with pintxos bars. Don't miss Santiago CathedralGothic style, discreet but charming.

Afternoon

Have lunch in one of the taverns in Casco Viejo and then take the Artxanda funicular for panoramic views over the city. On the way down, take the opportunity to stroll to the elegant Abando area, where you'll find the imposing Church of St. Vincent Martyr. Its neo-Gothic tower lights up at dusk, creating the perfect backdrop for pre-dinner photos.

On your way back to Casco Viejo, you can pass by the Bidebarrieta Library or pay a quick visit to Church of San Antón, next to the bridge of the same name - one of the symbols of Bilbao's coat of arms.

Night

End your visit with a special dinner in a restaurant serving contemporary Basque cuisine. If you want something more informal, follow pintxos trail between Plaza Nueva and the parallel streets.

Summary of day 2

• Old Town
• Ribeira Market
• Santiago Cathedral
• Artxanda funicular
• Dinner with a local atmosphere

Basque gastronomy: between pintxos and signature flavors

Bilbao is a true paradise for lovers of good food. Basque gastronomy is considered one of the best in the world, and it's not hard to see why: fresh ingredients, respect for tradition and a creativity that transforms simple dishes into true experiences.

What are pintxos?

The pintxos (or pinchos(in Castilian) are small portions of food served on slices of bread or small plates, often held together with a toothpick. They are the soul of the Basque Country's informal cuisine - ideal for snacking, sharing and experiencing various flavors in one meal. They are mainly found on counters in bars and taverns, and the idea is to go from place to place, sampling one or two pintxos at each stop. To accompany it, we often order a glass of txakoli, the region's typical lightly sparkling white wine.

In Bilbao, the pintxos they're not just food - they're a way of socializing, celebrating the end of the day or discovering local flavours in good company.

Where to try good pintxos in Bilbao?

• La Viña del Ensanche - A modern classic. It combines tradition with creativity and has excellent Iberian ham.

• Café Iruña - Historic and with Moorish decor. Great for a different atmosphere.

• El Globo - Very popular with the locals. Hard to go wrong here!

• Sorginzulo (in Plaza Nueva) - Great location and great variety.

• Baster - Alternative, young and with good vegetarian options.

Beyond the pintxos

If you want a more elaborate experience, Bilbao is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants and spaces that reinvent Basque cuisine with a contemporary twist:

• Nerua - Inside the Guggenheim, it's ideal for a special lunch.

• Zortziko - Sophistication and tradition go hand in hand.

• The Bost - More relaxed, but creative and tasty.

If you're a fan of seafood, don't miss the bacalao al pil-pil or the kokotxaslocal delicacies that surprise even the most demanding palates.

Where to stay in Bilbao

Bilbao has accommodation options for every style of traveler, from charming hotels in the Casco Viejo to modern lodgings in the New Town. During my stay, I opted for something different: I stayed at the Optimi Rooms Bilbaoa futuristic and surprisingly comfortable capsule hotel.

I had already tried this type of accommodation in Amsterdam, but in Bilbao the experience was even more innovative. The capsules are spacious, with adjustable lighting, USB sockets, a mirror, a safe and even an integrated television. Everything is clean, quiet and thought out in detail to ensure comfort and privacy - ideal for those traveling alone or looking for an economical alternative without giving up a good night's sleep.

What's more, the location is excellent: just a few minutes from the Guggenheim Museum and with good access to the historic center and the pintxos area.

Want to know what it's like to sleep in a capsule hotel in Bilbao? Read my full article on Optimi Rooms Bilbao (coming soon).

Useful tips

• The pintxos you eat at the counter and pay per unit. Ask before you order.

• The Bilbao Bizkaia Card it can pay off if you visit several museums and use transportation.

• Many museums are closed on Mondays.

• Most Bilbaínos speak Castilian, but Euskera is the Basque language and you'll see many bilingual signs.

Best time to visit Bilbao

Bilbao can be visited all year round, but the experience changes greatly depending on the season.

Spring (March to May) is one of the best times: the days get longer, the temperatures are milder and the city comes alive with cultural events. Ideal for walking and enjoying the parks and riverbanks.

Summer (June to August) brings pleasant temperatures - they rarely exceed 30 °C - and many traditional festivals, such as the Bilbao Big Week (Aste Nagusia)in August. However, it is also the season with the most tourists and the highest prices.

Fall (September and October) is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds. The golden hues invade the parks and the weather remains inviting. It's a great time to explore the city calmly and enjoy pintxos without rushing.

Winter (November to February) is the coldest and wettest season, with short days and some wind. Still, it's possible to enjoy the city from a more intimate perspective, especially if you like museums, gastronomy and cozy atmospheres. Prices also tend to be lower.

Personal tipI visited Bilbao in January and, despite the cold, it was a magical experience. The city was less busy and the contrast between the gray of the streets and the lights of the bars created a very cinematic atmosphere.

How to get from the airport to the center of Bilbao

Bilbao Airport (BIO) is about 12 km from the city center and it is very easy to get to the central area.

By bus (the most practical and economical option)

The bus A3247 of the Bizkaibus company connects the airport to Plaza MoyúaIt takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get to the heart of Bilbao. It departs approximately every 20 minutes, between 5:20 and 00:00, and costs around 3€ per route. Tickets can be bought at the terminal or directly from the driver. This was the option I chose, and I found it very practical and functional.

By cab

A cab ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes and costs between 25€ e 30€depending on traffic and the time of day. It's a practical option if you have luggage or are in a group.

By rental car

If you plan to explore the Basque Country beyond Bilbao, renting a car can be advantageous. The airport has several car rental companies available in the terminal.

Extra tipThe A3247 bus has luggage space and is comfortable - a great way to start discovering Bilbao without stress.

Travel insurance: is it worth it for Bilbao?

Yes, especially if you're coming from outside the European Union. Travel insurance may seem like an unnecessary extra, but it's one of the smartest decisions you can make - especially when it comes to health, delays, cancellations or even lost luggage.

Even traveling from Europe with European Health Insurance CardPrivate insurance offers additional cover: legal assistance, extension of stay in the event of illness, flight cancellations, theft and much more.

Tip: I usually travel with Heymondo because it has complete coverage, 24-hour service and a super practical app to manage everything online. You even get a discount if you use this affiliate link - a good way to travel more peacefully and still support my work.

How to get around Bilbao (hassle-free)

Bilbao is a compact and well-organized city, which makes it very easy to get around, even for first-time visitors.

On foot

The best way to explore Old TownYou can walk to the Guggenheim and the riverside area. The distances are short and the route is pleasant - with plenty of nooks and crannies to discover without rushing.

Bilbao Metro

Designed by Norman FosterThe metro is clean, modern and easy to use. It only has 3 lines, which makes navigation simple. Ideal for getting to outlying areas such as Portugalete or Getxo.

Electrical (tram)

The surface streetcar (Euskotren Tranbia) passes several tourist attractions, including the Guggenheim, Casco Viejo and the train station. It's a good option if you want to get around comfortably and without rushing.

City buses

The bus network is extensive and covers practically the entire city, although it is less intuitive for tourists. If you use the Bilbao Bizkaia Cardbuses are included.

Artxanda funicular

As well as being a tourist attraction, it is also a local means of transportation. It takes you to the Artxanda viewpoint with incredible views over the city.

Local tip: o Bilbao Bizkaia Card includes metro, streetcars, buses and even some discounts at museums and attractions. If you plan to visit several points or are short on time, it could be worth it.

Useful links

• Visit Bilbao - official website

• Guggenheim Museum

• Museum of Fine Arts

Did you know... (Curiosities)

• The city of Bilbao was the setting for the movie "007 - The World Is Not Enough", with a chase scene on the river Nervión next to the Guggenheim. (I talk about this in the episode of CineViagens that I recorded in Bilbao.)
• The name "Bilbao" (in Castilian) and "Bilbo" (in Basque) refer to the same city - yes, just like the name of the hobbit Bilbo Baggins!
• Euskadi is the name in euskera (the Basque language) to Basque Country, an autonomous community in the north of Spain.

Discover more activities in Bilbao with GetYourGuide👇

 

 

Useful expressions in Euskera (Basque language)

Although most inhabitants of Bilbao speak Castilian, Euskera is the ancestral language of the Basque Country and is very present in signage, schools and cultural life. Using a word or two can be a great way to show respect and interest in the local culture.

Here are some useful expressions:

• Kaixo - Hello

• Agur - Goodbye

• Eskerrik asko - Thank you

• Mesedez - Please

• Barkatu - Sorry / Excuse me

• Bidaia on! - Have a good trip

• Pintxo bat, mesedez - A pintxo, please

• Zenbat da? - How much does it cost?

Tipdon't worry if the pronunciation seems difficult - the Bilbaín people appreciate any attempt to speak their language!

You may also be interested in

If you liked this tour of Bilbao, take a look at other articles that might inspire you:

• 3-day itinerary in Barcelona: The best of the city

• Madrid in 3 days: history, art and tapas around every corner

See you soon, Bilbao

Bilbao is one of those cities that doesn't shout to be seen - it whispers. Every corner has a story, every plate a memory and every bridge a symbol of renewal. Visiting Bilbao in two days is enough for the city to win you over, but not to say goodbye for good. Because Bilbao stays.

Bidaia on! (Boa Viagem)