Do you have 4 days to explore Bilbao and its surroundings? You’re in luck! That’s more than enough time to enjoy this vibrant city and its many nearby treasures. The capital of Bizkaia will surprise you with its perfect blend of contemporary art, traces of its industrial past, cutting-edge gastronomy and breathtaking green landscapes.
Forget the rush, here’s an itinerary that combines city and nature, plus a full immersion into Bilbao’s unique atmosphere. Lace up your shoes… we’re off!
Day 1.- The Heart of Bilbao: Guggenheim, Old Town, Artxanda
Guggenheim: A Modern Art Icon
Begin your adventure at the city’s cultural epicentre and one of Bilbao’s most internationally recognised landmarks: the Guggenheim Museum. This spectacular titanium structure, designed by Frank Gehry, transformed Bilbao into a world-class destination when it opened in 1997.
Spend the morning exploring its temporary exhibitions and permanent installations, including the iconic Puppy: the giant flower-covered dog that welcomes visitors at the entrance.
Old Town (Casco Viejo): Bilbao’s Best Pintxos
At midday, head to the Casco Viejo, the city’s historic quarter and birthplace of Bilbao, a labyrinth of “Seven Streets”. Don’t miss Plaza Nueva, a hotspot for traditional Basque pintxos. And make sure you try a classic gilda (anchovy, chilli pepper and olive)!
Artxanda: Bilbao’s Most Panoramic Viewpoint
Spend the afternoon saying goodbye to Bilbao from above, literally. Take the Artxanda funicular up to the summit, where you’ll enjoy the finest panoramic views of the city and the estuary.
Day 2.- Coastal Getaway: Getxo & Sopelana
Getxo: Seafront Promenade and Coastal Charm
Take Metro line 1 to Getxo, just 20 minutes from Bilbao. Visit the Old Port of Getxo, declared a Cultural Heritage Site, and walk down to Ereaga Beach, where you can enjoy a great meal at one of the local restaurants.
Sopelana: Dreamlike Beaches and Cliffs
In the afternoon, hop back on the metro and continue to Sopelana, just 10 minutes from Getxo. Walk along Sopelana Beach, one of the best in the Basque Country, and enjoy the stunning views of the Bizkaia coastline.
Day 3.- San Mamés and the Authentic Spirit of Bilbao
AC Museoa & San Mamés Tour: History, Emotion and Football
Bilbao beats to the rhythm of Athletic Club, more than just a football team, it’s a way of life. If you can, plan your visit to coincide with a home match and experience the unmatched atmosphere of a game at San Mamés.
Explore AC Museoa, Athletic Club’s interactive museum, where more than 125 years of history are brought to life through trophies, vintage kits and countless stories that reveal what makes this club truly unique.
Complete your visit with the San Mamés Tour, which takes you through the locker rooms, players’ tunnel, pitchside area and press room.
Access AC Museoa and the San Mamés Tour through gates 19 and 20.
Official Store and Gastronomy at San Mamés
Don’t leave without picking up a red-and-white souvenir at the official Athletic store inside San Mamés, located between gates 26 and 0.
And don’t worry about where to eat: the stadium offers three top-quality dining options: San Mames Jatetxea, La Campa de los Ingleses, and Geuria!
Day 4.- Day Trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
If there’s one place that captures the magic of the Basque Country, it’s San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a small hermitage perched on a rocky islet, connected to the mainland by 241 steps that seem to float above the sea.
From Bilbao, drive about 35 km to Bermeo and follow the signs to the Gaztelugatxe parking area. The walk to the top takes around 30 minutes, and the views of the Cantabrian Sea are nothing short of spectacular.
Once at the summit, ring the bell three times and make a wish, it’s tradition!
Fans of Game of Thrones will recognise this stunning location as Dragonstone, Daenerys Targaryen’s stronghold.
Before heading back to Bilbao, stop in Bermeo or Bakio to enjoy fresh fish or a glass of local white wine, txakoli.
Take note and enjoy four unforgettable days in Bilbao and its surroundings, with an essential red-and-white touch!
And if you only have one day… don’t worry! Here’s our ideal plan to enjoy Bilbao in just 24 hours!
