What to do in Bilbao in 2 or 3 days?

Are you wondering why go to Bilbao for your next vacation? How long should I plan to visit Bilbao? Or what to do in Bilbao over a weekend? We have selected for you the most famous places to discover in the capital of Biscay, the most pleasant neighborhoods to walk around in this city and the nicest sites for family fun in Bilbao.

Photos of the article © Guide to the Basque Country

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Famous places in Bilbao

We have selected for you the essential places of Bilbao, to discover this city of history and modernity! To appreciate its two facets, here are the most famous places in Bilbao:

The Guggenheim Museum: An impressive museum, which brings together works of different artistic styles.
The Spider sculpture: This huge spider sculpture is an extraordinary work, from the imagination of the talented Louise Bourgeois!
The Zubizuri Bridge: This modern and unusual bridge is one of the emblematic sites of the city. Like a sail, it stretches between Uribarte and Campo Volantin, above the Ria Bilbao.
The Isozaki Towers: These are two twin towers 83 meters high, symbolizing a gateway to Bilbao.
Santiago de Bilbao Cathedral: This monument bears witness to the long history of Bilbao. The site dates from the 14th century and tells us about the time of the pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Its Gothic architecture is remarkable, especially in its cloister.

The Guggenheim Museum, the museum of contemporary culture in Bilbao. Read our article to prepare your visit to this must-see museum in Bilbao.

Which neighborhoods to visit in Bilbao on foot?

Following the Spanish economic crisis, the old industrial city was completely renovated in the 80s. Bilbao is today a city where it is pleasant to walk around. Each neighborhood has its own atmosphere. We take you on a walking tour of the city of Bilbao:

The Casco Viejo, the old town and the historic heart of Bilbao: Its old and colorful buildings have an incomparable charm. It's a must!
The Ensanche district , in the Abando district: This is the green city of Bilbao! Its many green spaces and its proximity to the river make it a green lung, very popular with families.
The Begoña district and its religious heritage: basilica, Saint-Jacques cathedral… It is an old district steeped in tradition.
Deusto, the student district: This district is dynamic, lively and cultural. You will appreciate its exhibition centre, its tapas bars and other trendy addresses.
The Indautxu district: Lively , friendly and festive, it is home to many restaurants. It is the ideal place for a Pintxos Tasting.

We take you on a getaway to Bilbao, the “museum city”. Read our article to prepare your visit to Bilbao.

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Visit Bilbao with the family

When the city was redeveloped, the development of tourism was a priority. So that everything is planned to facilitate family holidays in Bilbao, with many services, car-free accessibility, local shops... Some activities are really to be preferred with children:

Take a tour of the covered market in the Erribera district: It is covered so you can walk there in all weathers. And you will find local products and something to please the whole family.
Climb aboard the Artxanda Funicular: It offers you an exceptional panorama of Bilbao. It is easily accessible for children and the walk on the heights of the city is exotic.
Walk along the banks of Ria Bilbao: You will enjoy a pleasant and refreshing environment in summer. The paths are well maintained and there are all the necessary equipment for your leisure activities.
See Puppy, the Guggenheim Museum's Flower Dog: Puppy is a monumental dog sculpture, standing in the museum square. It is a floral and colorful composition that makes it unusual and very attractive for children.
Enjoy the playgrounds in the city parks: There are 5 good-sized parks in Bilbao. They are all well equipped to allow you to have fun as a family.

How to visit Bilbao, all practical information

Here is some practical information to make your stay in Bilbao easier:

Arriving by plane in Bilbao and reaching the city is surprisingly easy. Shuttle and bus are at your disposal so that your stay begins in all serenity!
Getting around Bilbao on foot, by public transport or by bike: whatever your choice, everything is planned so that you can get around without a car.
For accommodation in Bilbao, we recommend Casco Viejo to be closer to the entertainment. In contrast, San Frantzisko is a quieter residential area.
If you are looking for a cheap place to eat in Bilbao, we recommend the Pintxos to taste in the trendy districts of Indautxu and Deusto! In the Casco Viejo you will find all types of restaurants, from the local brasserie to the gourmet restaurant.

You are now ready to visit the city of Bilbao in two or three days! We wish you wonderful visits and discoveries in the Spanish Basque Country.