Visiting Bilbao is much more than just strolling through its streets or enjoying an Athletic Club match. The city combines history, modern architecture, the estuary, gastronomy, and the passion of its people. Learning how to get around Bilbao is essential to enjoy all this without stress- especially if you are travelling with children or as a family. With this guide, every journey becomes part of the adventure.
Explore Bilbao on foot: the city at your own pace
The best way to experience Bilbao is walking. Thanks to its size and well- connected streets, it is easy to get from one place to another without using any transport, and you can also discover corners that cannot be seen from a car or a bus. After a tour of San Mames, you can go walking from the stadium to the Old Town, stopping at cafes and pintxo bars.
Some tips for families:
- Choose less busy times to enjoy the city without crowds.
- Take breaks in squares and parks, such as Doña Casilda, where children can play and run around.
- Wear comfortable shoes and use lightweight pushchairs when walking on steep or cobbled streets.
Walking allows you to experience the city up close, from the joy of the fans after a victory to the daily rhythm of its streets. Every step becomes a memory.
Getting around Bilbao by public transport: metro, tram and bus
Bilbao has a modern public transport system that makes life easier for both locals and visitors. Learning how to get from Bilbao Airport to the city centre or San Mames, and how to use the metro, tram or bus to get around Bilbao, will save you time and help you enjoy the city more.
Bicycles and sustainable mobility: discover Bilbao by bike
If you want to add a touch of adventure to your visit, renting a bicycle is an excellent option. Bilbao has safe routes and well-marked cycle lanes, ideal for families and sports enthusiasts.
Bilbaobizi, the city’s bicycle loan system, offers a convenient, economical and environmentally friendly way to explore Bilbao. There are also bicycles designed to carry children, making family outings even more enjoyable.
Exploring Bilbao by bicycle is not only healthy, but it also allows you to stop off at pintxo bars, viewpoints, or parks, combining sport, gastronomy and culture on every ride.
Taxis and private transport: instant comfort
For longer journeys or when travelling with children, taxis are the ideal option. Their white colour with a red stripe makes them easy to spot, and many allow pushchairs.
If you’re looking for a touch of exclusivity, minicabs or chauffeur-driven cars are perfect. Sharing a taxi after a match at San Mames can be as enjoyable as the stadium experience itself, especially if you’re travelling with friends or family.
River transport: Bilbao from the estuary
One of the most special ways to explore Bilbao is from the water. Boat trips allow you to see the city from a unique perspective, combining nature, history and modern architecture.
- Short trips around the city centre: ideal for families and children.
- Longer trips to Getxo and the Hanging Bridge: perfect for a full day of discovery.
- Boats: accessible for pushchairs and people with reduced mobility, ensuring that no one is left out of the experience.
Many visitors highlight that sailing the estuary after a match creates a sense of calm and connection with the city that few other tours offer.
Practical advice for families
To get around Bilbao easily and enjoyably, choose short, direct routes and avoid long distances. Plan stops at playgrounds and parks so children can play and rest; check public transport timetables and the availability of public toilets. Give preference to the metro or tram for short stays, but if your visit is longer, consider renting bicycles or a car.
Keep in mind that how you get around the city depends on your needs and free time, but with a good plan, every trip can be a pleasant, fun, and safe experience for the whole family.
Experience Bilbao and San Mames to the fullest
Exploring Bilbao is not just about getting around- it’s about experiencing the city with all your senses. After enjoying some of the VIP experiences offered by San Mames and how to get to the stadium, or attending a match, stroll through the Old Town, savour a pintxo, visit a viewpoint or take a boat trip. Each journey becomes a unique experience that combines football, culture and gastronomy.
To plan your trip, discover what to see in Bilbao and make the most of every corner of the city.
