Bilbao Bliss: A 2-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover Bilbao: Where rich culture and family fun effortlessly merge.

19 July 2023

Bilbao, located in the heart of Spain’s Basque Country, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. From its striking contemporary architecture to its world-class museums, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum, there are endless cultural experiences to enjoy. Families can also explore the beautiful beaches nearby, indulge in delicious Basque cuisine, and participate in outdoor activities like hiking or biking in the stunning surrounding countryside.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Bilbao's Vibrant Culture

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Iruña, a charming café known for its legendary churros and to-die-for coffee.
  • Embark on a cultural adventure at the renowned Guggenheim Museum, where the stunning architecture is as captivating as the art within its walls.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Casco Viejo, Bilbao's charming old town, and get lost in its narrow streets bursting with charming shops and pintxos bars.
  • Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of Basque cider at a traditional sagardotegi, where the cider is poured from great heights, showcasing the Basque passion for drama even in drinking!
  • Immerse yourself in local history at the Museo de Bellas Artes, home to an impressive collection of Spanish art spanning centuries.
  • Feast on delectable Basque cuisine at Restaurante Mina, where each dish is a culinary masterpiece blending traditional flavors with modern techniques.
Day 2

Natural Wonders and Gastronomic Bliss

  • Start your morning with a visit to the stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an iconic hermitage perched on a rugged island reached by crossing a breathtaking stone bridge.
  • Energize yourself with a hearty pintxos crawl in Plaza Nueva, savoring an array of small bites such as gilda (anchovies, guindilla pepper, and olive) or tortilla de patatas.
  • Hop on a funicular up Mount Artxanda to witness a panoramic view of Bilbao's skyline, a perfect vantage point for capturing Insta-worthy photos.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Pastelería Don Manuel, an iconic bakery known for its mouthwatering pastries like the indulgent pantxineta.
  • Treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood feast at Restaurante Zortziko, where Michelin-starred chef Daniel Garcia crafts exquisite dishes showcasing the riches of the nearby Bay of Biscay.
  • End your day with a leisurely evening stroll along the vibrant Gran Vía, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Bilbao and its blend of tradition and modernity.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bilbao by plane is to fly to Bilbao Airport, which is located approximately 12 kilometers north of the city center. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Bilbao from cities across Europe and beyond.

Car

Traveling by car is a convenient way to explore the Basque Country, including Bilbao. Visitors can rent a car from major cities such as San Sebastian or explore the area on a self-guided road trip.

Train

While there are no direct train services to Bilbao from other parts of Europe, travelers can take a high-speed train to nearby cities such as San Sebastian or Vitoria-Gasteiz and then transfer to a local train or bus bound for Bilbao.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Bilbao, travelers can take a ferry from the UK or France to Santander or other port cities in northern Spain and then travel to Bilbao by train or bus.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel to Bilbao from other cities in Spain and beyond. Major bus companies such as ALSA and Eurolines offer services to Bilbao from cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris.

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Bilbao, located in the heart of Spain’s Basque Country, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. From its striking contemporary architecture to its world-class museums, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum, there are endless cultural experiences to enjoy. Families can also explore the beautiful beaches nearby, indulge in delicious Basque cuisine, and participate in outdoor activities like hiking or biking in the stunning surrounding countryside.

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