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

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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Day

Love in Bilbao

  • 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.

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.

More travel plans

Bilbao Budget Day Trip: Culture and Cuisine

A trip to Bilbao, Spain on a limited budget can still be full of culture and excitement. Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum for a small fee, take a stroll through the old town of Casco Viejo and enjoy tapas and local wine in the bars and restaurants, and take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation to explore the coastline and nearby towns.

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 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.

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

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.