Bilbao for Lovers: A Romantic Day Trip
Fall in love with Bilbao, Spain, a city filled with vibrant culture and charming romance.
22 April 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Bilbao, Spain offers a wonderful romantic getaway with exquisite architecture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Couples can savor the local flavors at the traditional pintxos bars, stroll through the charming old town, and marvel at the iconic Guggenheim Museum. With breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay, Bilbao is a charming destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and romance.
Day trip plan
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- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café Iruna, with its charming decor and outdoor seating.
- Head to the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece showcasing international contemporary art.
- Stroll hand in hand through the romantic Casco Viejo, or "Old Quarter," with its narrow streets, lively atmosphere, and charming buildings.
- Stop for some pintxos, the Basque region's version of tapas, at Bar Victor Montes in Plaza Nueva.
- Take a scenic funicular ride up Mount Artxanda for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- End the day with dinner and drinks at Bistró Guggenheim, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine in a beautiful setting just steps away from the museum. Don't miss their signature cocktail, the Basque Martini.
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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.