Blick auf den Nervión-Fluss mit modernen Gebäuden und Grünflächen. Bilbao, Baskenland, Spanien.

Bunte Häuserfassaden entlang des Nervión-Flusses bei Sonnenschein. Bilbao, Baskenland, Spanien.

Things to do and see in Bilbao

Top sights, highlights and exclusive tips from travel experts

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What should you do in Bilbao?

Bilbao in northern Spain is a port city surrounded by green, mountainous countryside. As the capital of the Basque Country, Bilbao is a center of industry and politics. Probably the most famous building in the city is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 1997. There are numerous pubs and restaurants in the alleyways of the old town. Don't miss the pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, on a pub crawl. With Tourlane, you can book your flights, transfers, accommodation and guides all in one place! Our travel experts will put together your perfect travel package according to your travel tastes and preferences.

Guggenheim Museum

Art museum designed by Frank Gehry

Monte Artxanda

Take the funicular to the viewpoint

Puente de Vizcaya

Oldest transporter bridge in the world

Which sights to explore in Bilbao?

1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

The surreal, shimmering Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s signature landmark and one of the most celebrated modern art museums in the world. Designed by Canadian-American architect Frank O. Gehry, its deconstructivist curves transformed Bilbao into a global cultural hub when it opened in 1997. Outside, Louise Bourgeois’ towering spider sculpture welcomes visitors before they enter the museum’s galleries, which focus on contemporary installations, large-scale works, and video art. A visit to Bilbao simply isn’t complete without experiencing the Guggenheim.

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2. Monte Artxanda

For one of the best viewpoints in Bilbao, head up to Monte Artxanda. The historic funicular — in operation since 1915 — whisks you from the city center to the summit in just three minutes. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of downtown Bilbao, the Ría de Bilbao, and the surrounding green hills. If you prefer to hike, the ascent takes around half an hour and is a rewarding way to see the city from above.

3. Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s Old Town, is the city’s lively historic core. Known as the “Siete Calles” (Seven Streets), it’s filled with pintxo bars, cafés, restaurants, and small shops. In the evenings, this is the place to savor Basque cuisine — taste your way through pintxos paired with local wines. Casco Viejo is also home to top sights, including the Gothic Bilbao Cathedral and the elegant Plaza Nueva, framed by graceful porticoes.

4. Puente de Vizcaya

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vizcaya Bridge is the world’s oldest transporter bridge and a masterpiece of industrial-era engineering. Inaugurated in 1893, it was designed by Alberto de Palacio, a collaborator of Gustave Eiffel — a connection reflected in its iron structure. Locals call it the Puente Colgante (“hanging bridge”). Crossing between Portugalete and Getxo is a unique experience and a memorable way to explore both riverfront towns.

5. Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao

One of Spain’s foremost fine arts museums, the Museo de Bellas Artes houses an exceptional collection spanning the 12th century to today. Works by El Greco, Goya, Sorolla, and Basque artists offer a rich introduction to the region’s cultural heritage. It’s an excellent complement to the Guggenheim for travelers who want a broader artistic perspective.

6. Ribera Market

Europe’s largest covered market, Mercado de la Ribera, sits beside the river and offers a lively blend of fresh produce, seafood, pintxos counters, and local specialties. It’s an ideal place to taste Bilbao’s culinary scene, meet local vendors, or enjoy a relaxed lunch by the water.

7. Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao)

Once a wine warehouse, the Azkuna Zentroa is now a striking cultural center redesigned by French designer Philippe Starck. With its eclectic columns, event spaces, rooftop pool, and rotating exhibitions, it’s a hub for art, music, film, and community life in Bilbao.

8. Doña Casilda Park

This classic urban park, often called Bilbao’s “green heart,” offers shady walking paths, fountains, sculptures, and a peaceful duck pond. It’s a refreshing place to unwind between sightseeing stops and sits right next to the Museo de Bellas Artes.

9. Bilbao Cathedral

Located in the Casco Viejo, the 15th-century Cathedral of Santiago is dedicated to St. James the Apostle. Its Gothic interior, cloister, and ornate chapel spaces tell the story of Bilbao’s medieval past. It’s also an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

10. Zubizuri Bridge

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Zubizuri (“White Bridge”) is a striking pedestrian bridge that arcs across the river with clean, contemporary lines. Its glass walkway and elegant curve make it a popular stop for photography and riverfront strolls.