Easter is the perfect time to discover the transformation of the capital of Bizkaia through the eyes of children. If you are looking for family plans that combine culture, adventure and tradition, Bilbao at Easter offers an endless agenda with no room for boredom.
To make sure your stay is perfect, check out these tips for travelling to the Basque Country and make sure you don’t forget to bring anything.
Museums to enjoy with children: art and football indoors
Bilbao’s museums have designed interactive experiences that turn learning into a game. It is the ideal choice if “sirimiri” (drizzle) makes an appearance:
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: beyond its architecture, it features specific exhibitions such as Mark Leckey at Easter. And the city rose up in all its splendour, a magnet for young design lovers. It is also free of charge for children under the age of 18.
- AC Museum (Athletic Club Museum): no family visit is complete without learning about the history of the local team. The San Mames Tour and its Museum is one of the activities most appreciated by children, who can feel like lions touring the changing room and the pitch. It is an immersive experience that combines technology and sporting passion.
- Museum of Fine Arts: free workshops during the holidays, ideal for children to experiment with artistic techniques.
Outdoor adventure: parks and living nature
Bilbao is a green city that invites you to burn energy. If the weather is fine, here are the highlights of your route:
- Doña Casilda Park: the lungs of the centre, with ducks, swings and extensive areas to run around.
- Artxanda Funicular: going up in this historic method of transport is an adventure for children that is topped off with the best views of the city.
- Karpin Abentura: located in the Enkarterri, this animal recovery centre is a perfect educational excursion to teach children about respect for wildlife.
If you have more days, don’t hesitate to explore the 10 most beautiful villages in Bizkaia for an unforgettable rural getaway.
Events and festivals: Basquefest and much more
The city comes alive with the Basquefest. It is the golden opportunity to get to know the Basque culture through exhibitions of rural sport (Herri Kirolak) that leave children speechless, or shows such as Gure Zirkua.
Furthermore, the cultural centres in the heart of Bilbao also focus on the children:
- Azkuna Centre: this multi-purpose space offers a special programme for children at Easter, where they can enjoy creative activities, art exhibitions and storytelling sessions designed to stimulate their imagination.
- Arriaga Theatre and Campos Theatre: their agendas usually include puppet shows and adaptations of classic stories at family-friendly times.
- Muelle de Ripa: the fishing school offers free practical classes to learn how to cast a rod in the middle of the river estuary.
Gastronomy for little gourmets
The pintxo routes through the Old Town or La Ribera Market enable children to choose what they fancy the most.
- Typical sweets: don’t leave without having a butter bun or a “carolina”.
- Eating at the Stadium: for a unique experience, the restaurants at San Mames offer adapted menus in a spectacular setting where children can eat with views over the pitch at “The Cathedral”.
Final tips for your trip to Bilbao
To get around the city without complications, the metro is your best ally; see our guide on how to get around Bilbao. And if you are looking for the best place to rest, San Mames is one of the best areas to stay in due to its good connections and leisure activities.
