If you’re planning your next trip and want to know what to see in Bilbao in 2 days, you’ve come to the right place. Bilbao is a city you feel at every step, a perfect blend of avant-garde titanium and the iron of its industrial past. In 2025, the capital of Biscay stands out as an unmissable destination where gastronomy, culture and a passion for sport come together in an exceptional way. If you only have 48 hours, this route has been designed not to miss a thing and to experience the city like a true “lion”.
Plan your 2-day visit to Bilbao
Where to stay in Bilbao: most convenient areas
Choosing the right area is essential to get around easily:
- Historic heart: hotels such as Hotel Abando or NYX Hotel Bilbao are ideal options in the Old Town for those looking for a local atmosphere and proximity to pintxos bars.
- Design and modernity: near the Guggenheim Museum, Vincci Consulado de Bilbao offers contemporary architecture right by the river. If you’re looking for comfort and a central location, San Mamés, one of the best areas to stay in Bilbao, is also an excellent option, offering quick access to transport, museums and leisure areas.
How to get from the airport to the city centre
Bilbao Airport is just 12 km from the city. You can take the A3247 bus line (around €3, 25 minutes), with stops at Moyúa or Gran Vía. If you prefer convenience, a taxi takes around 15 minutes (between €20–€25), or you can book a private transfer with a driver waiting for you in arrivals. For more details and options, see how to get from Bilbao Airport to the city centre and San Mamés.
Day 1: avant-garde Bilbao and red-and-white passion
Morning: views from Above and Modern Art
Start with a traditional breakfast (a coffee with a bollo de mantequilla (butter bun) at Basquery) and take the Artxanda Funicular (cable car). From its viewpoint you’ll enjoy the best panoramic view of the city. On the way back down, head to the Guggenheim Museum, Frank Gehry’s iconic masterpiece, to greet Puppy and explore its art collection. If you’d like to continue discovering Bilbao through its collections, the
AC Museoa San Mamés Collection brings together unique and original items from the early 20th century that tell the story of Athletic Club.
Midday: the Cathedral of Football
No visit is complete without stepping inside San Mamés Stadium. To make the most of your time, we recommend:
- Museum + Guided Tour: the most immersive way to explore the locker rooms and pitch.
- Museum + Audio-Guided Tour: ideal if you prefer to go at your own pace.
- Lunch: enjoy fine Basque cuisine at San Mamés Jatetxea or a more informal meal with pitch views at La Campa de los Ingleses.
Afternoon: riverside Walk and Stop at Azkuna Zentroa
Stroll through the Abandoibarra area, admiring the outdoor sculptures, until you reach Azkuna Zentroa, a former wine warehouse transformed by Philippe Starck into a major leisure and cultural centre.
Day 2: tradition, history and local flavours
Morning: Begoña and the Old Town
Visit the Basilica of Begoña, patron saint of Biscay, and walk down the Mallona Steps to the Old Town (Seven Streets). Here, history can be felt in Santiago Cathedral and every cobbled corner.
Midday: la Ribera Market and pintxos
La Ribera Market is the largest covered market in Europe and the perfect place to sample fresh local produce. Afterwards, enjoy a route of traditional Basque dishes around Plaza Nueva. Be sure to try bacalao al pil-pil or chipirones en su tinta at iconic bars such as El Globo or Víctor Montes.
Afternoon: museums and farewell
End your visit at the Maritime Museum to understand Bilbao’s seafaring past. If you still have energy, a 30-minute trip will take you to the magical chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. You can find more ideas and must-see stops in our guide to the top 10 places to see in Bilbao and the surrounding area.
Final tips for your visit
- Check the San Mamés Museum opening times in advance to avoid queues.
- Feel the excitement: if your trip coincides with a match, try to buy tickets to experience the roar of San Mamés.
- A unique gift: if you’d like to take a piece of Bilbao home, the Museum and Tour Gift Voucher is the perfect present for any football fan.
In Bilbao, the industrial past and technological future go hand in hand; but it’s in San Mamés where the city’s heart truly beats. We look forward to welcoming you to the Cathedral!
