4 Days of Fun and Culture in Bilbao, Spain

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Bilbao, Spain.

22 April 2023

Bilbao, located in northern Spain, is a vibrant city filled with stunning architecture, museums, parks, and delicious cuisine. Don't miss visiting the iconic Guggenheim Museum, exploring the old town's narrow streets, or tasting the local delicacies at the bustling food markets. Whether you're seeking art, culture, or cuisine, Bilbao offers an unforgettable vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Check in at the stylish Hotel Carlton for a comfortable stay in the heart of the city
  • Stroll through the charming Casco Viejo, the medieval old town with narrow alleys and historic buildings
  • Visit the iconic Santiago Cathedral and browse the antique shops and quirky boutiques nearby
  • Enjoy a pintxo bar crawl in Plaza Nueva, sampling the delicious Basque tapas like txistorra and gildas
  • Catch a stunning sunset from the Artxanda funicular, which offers panoramic views of the city and river
Day 2

Art and Culture Tour

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Café Iruña, a historic café with ornate decor and delicious pastries
  • Explore the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, with its striking architecture and impressive art collection
  • Visit the Azkuna Zentroa cultural center, housed in a transformed wine warehouse, for exhibitions, cinema and theater
  • Discover the unique Euskal Museoa, a museum dedicated to the fascinating Basque Culture and history
  • Enjoy a traditional Basque lunch at Restaurante Gure Toki, known for its authentic atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes
Day 3

Surfing and Coastal Adventures

  • Take a day trip to the nearby surf town of Mundaka, with its world-class surf breaks and scenic coastline
  • Rent a surfboard and wetsuit and hit the waves, or try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking
  • Explore the charming village and visit the Gothic-style Santa Catalina church and the picturesque port
  • Take in the stunning views from the nearby lighthouse and enjoy a picnic on the beach
  • savor the freshest seafood at Restaurante Portuondo, known for its grilled fish and paella by the sea
Day 4

Wine Tasting and Basque Gastronomy

  • Visit the nearby Rioja wine region for a day of wine tasting and vineyard tours
  • Sample the award-winning Rioja vintages and learn about the wine-making process
  • Enjoy a gourmet lunch at a winery, with delicious Basque cuisine paired with the finest wines
  • Return to Bilbao and indulge in a pintxo feast at Zubiburu, a cozy bar with innovative daily specials
  • End the trip on a high note with a nightcap at the trendy Café La Granja 1894, a local favorite for cocktails and live music.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Bilbao

This city in the north is like the Peter Pan of the Basque region; it never seems to age! With its ever-evolving landscape, Bilbao is surely a sight to behold.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Bilbao Bliss: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

A family trip to Bilbao, Spain promises a delightful blend of cultural and recreational experiences. Known for its world-class museums, the city offers attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum, where kids can appreciate contemporary art through interactive exhibits. Families can also explore the charming Casco Viejo (Old Town) with its narrow streets, scenic plazas, and delicious pintxos (Basque tapas) that cater to even the pickiest eaters.

Fall in Love with Bilbao: A 5-Day Romantic Getaway

Discover the beauty of Bilbao on a romantic trip by exploring the historic streets, admiring the architecture and enjoying exquisite Basque cuisine. Visit the famous Guggenheim Museum and stroll in the lush greenery of the Parque de Doña Casilda. Fall in love with the city's vibrant cultural scene, charming atmosphere and stunning vistas of the Nervión River.

Bilbao Bash: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

Bilbao is a vibrant and cultural city in the northern part of Spain, serving as a perfect destination for budget travelers. The Guggenheim Museum, a symbol of this city, is a must-see as well as the Casco Viejo district, which is bustling with street performers and delicious pintxos. Travelers can save a fortune on food and drink by exploring the local markets and enjoying the benefits of the thriving Basque cuisine.

4 Days of Fun and Culture in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao, located in northern Spain, is a vibrant city filled with stunning architecture, museums, parks, and delicious cuisine. Don't miss visiting the iconic Guggenheim Museum, exploring the old town's narrow streets, or tasting the local delicacies at the bustling food markets. Whether you're seeking art, culture, or cuisine, Bilbao offers an unforgettable vacation.