Organising a one-day trip to Bilbao with children may seem like a challenge, but the capital of Bizkaia is a surprisingly convenient and welcoming city for families. With smart planning, it is possible to combine culture, outdoor games and passion for football without anyone ending up exhausted.
If you are on a tight budget, check out these 12 cheap plans in Bilbao to get the most out of the capital of Bizkaia.
Morning: history in the Old Town and views from up high
The best way to start the day is immersing yourself in the “Siete Calles” (Seven Streets). The Old Town is a safe pedestrianised labyrinth where children can explore freely.
- Plaza Nueva: the ideal place for a quiet breakfast while the children play in the open space. Here, many bars offer miniature versions of their cuisine, perfect for children.
- Artxanda Funicular: just a few minutes on foot, on the other side of Zubizuri Bridge, you will reach the funicular. Going up Mount Artxanda is an adventure in itself and offers the best panoramic views of the city. It is the perfect place for children to run around in the fields.
Midday: giant art and nature in the centre
Back in the centre, strolling along the river estuary leads to the city’s most visual icon:
- Guggenheim Museum: you don’t have to go inside for the kids to be amazed. Outdoor sculptures, such as Puppy (the giant flower dog) and Mama (Louise Bourgeois’ spider) are a must for fun family photos.
- Doña Casilda Park: known as “the duck park”, is the green lung of Bilbao. There are large playgrounds and a pond where children can rest before the afternoon’s big treat.
The visit that is a must: San Mames Stadium
No route of what to do in Bilbao is complete without a visit to “The Cathedral”. San Mames Stadium is a symbol of identity that fascinates all ages with its modern architecture and history. To make the most of your visit to the stadium, consult our guide on how to visit San Mames on the tour or on a match day, ensuring that you choose the option that best suits your family’s schedule.
- AC Museum and Tour: The guided tour is fully interactive. Children can visit the changing rooms, step onto the pitch and enjoy multimedia experiences in the museum that will make them feel like real lions.
- Watching a match: If your visit coincides with a league match day, experiencing the atmosphere in the stands is an unrivalled community experience. Remember to buy your Athletic Club tickets in advance to get seats for all the family.
