Bilbao
Basque Country, Spain• Population: 346,000
About Bilbao
Cultural and economic hub of Basque Country, known for the iconic Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry that sparked urban renewal. This dynamic city transformed from an industrial port into a cultural hotspot, balancing avant-garde architecture with 700-year-old medieval streets in Casco Viejo. Famous for world-class Basque cuisine, pintxos bars, and one of Europe's highest densities of Michelin-starred restaurants. Features contemporary landmarks like Norman Foster's Metro stations and Calatrava's Zubizuri bridge alongside historic sites. A progressive, walkable city that embraces sustainability, accessibility, and Basque cultural pride.
With 4 beautiful beaches nearby, Bilbao is also a perfect destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
Top Attractions in Bilbao
Art Museum
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Fine arts museum with over 7,000 works from the 12th century to modern, including Basque artists like Zuloaga and Chillida, Spanish masters like Goya and Sorolla, and European art. Set on the edge of Doña Casilda Park.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Iconic Frank Gehry-designed contemporary art museum featuring titanium-clad architecture, modern art exhibits, and outdoor sculptures like Jeff Koons' Puppy and Louise Bourgeois' Maman. Sparked the 'Bilbao effect' of urban renewal when opened in 1997.
Where to Stay in Bilbao
Luxury Hotels (5★)
Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao
Modern 5-star luxury hotel directly opposite Guggenheim Museum. Features towering atrium sculpture by Javier Mariscal and rooftop terrace restaurant with museum views. Sleek minimalist design throughout.
Hotel Carlton
Iconic 5-star grand hotel opened in 1926 with Beaux-Arts architecture. Features magnificent stained-glass dome lobby, marble staircase, and has hosted figures like Einstein and Hemingway. Prime Plaza Moyúa location.
More Accommodation Options
Bilbao offers 6 hotels across all price ranges, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
Browse all hotels in Bilbao →Beaches Near Bilbao
Ereaga Beach
Urban beach in Getxo, 20 minutes by metro. Historic beach with 19th-century seaside promenade and mansions. More sophisticated atmosphere.
Las Arenas Beach
Connected to Ereaga Beach in Getxo, near the Vizcaya Bridge. Popular for beach sports and evening walks. Easy metro access.
Plentzia Beach
Golden sandy beach 30 minutes by Metro Line 1 from Bilbao. Family-friendly with calm waters in a sheltered bay. Popular summer destination for locals.
Sopelana Beach
Two beaches (Barinatxe and Arrietara) known for surfing, 25 minutes by metro from Bilbao. More waves than Plentzia, popular with younger crowd.
Where to Eat in Bilbao
Azurmendi
Contemporary Basque
3 Michelin star restaurant by Chef Eneko Atxa, 15km from Bilbao. World's top 50 restaurant with elaborate tasting journey (~€250) celebrating Basque terroir. Pioneer in sustainability with LEED-certified building.
Bar Gure Toki
Modern Pintxos
Contemporary pintxos bar in Plaza Nueva known for creative preparations and quality ingredients. Award-winning pintxos that blend traditional flavors with modern techniques. Popular with food enthusiasts.
Café Bar Bilbao
Traditional Basque Pintxos
Iconic pintxos bar in Plaza Nueva known for authentic atmosphere and quality bites at €2-3 each. Classic offerings include bacalao croquettes and gilda skewers. Lively standing-room scene popular with locals.
Casa Rufo
Basque Grill
Hidden gem restaurant inside old deli shop with rustic setting. Renowned for perfectly grilled Txuletón (Basque ribeye) and traditional dishes. Menú del día ~€25 lunch, dinner à la carte ~€40 pp.
Etxanobe Atelier
Creative Haute Cuisine
Fine dining restaurant by chef Fernando Canales in city center. Creative interpretations of Basque cuisine with artistic presentation. Tasting menus and à la carte options in elegant setting.
La Viña del Ensanche
Gastro Tavern
Historic 1927 bar in Abando with standing pintxos area and seated gastro-pub. Celebrated for premium Iberian ham and creative small plates. Pintxos ~€3, plates €8-15. Blends tradition with innovation.
2 more restaurants to explore
Where to Stay in Bilbao
Find the perfect place to stay in Bilbao. Browse hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals across the city. Use the map to find accommodations near your preferred attractions.
Tours & Activities in Bilbao
Quick Facts
- Region
- Basque Country
- Population
- 346,000
- Coordinates
- 43.2630°N, -2.9350°W
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Upcoming Events
Fiestas del Pilar
October 12