If you’re wondering, “Is Bilbao worth visiting?” let me stop you right there—the answer is an emphatic yes. And I say that as someone who grew up in Vizcaya, watching Bilbao transform from a gritty industrial port into one of the most exciting cities in Spain.

Bilbao today is a perfect mix of old and new—a city where medieval streets meet futuristic architecture, where world-class museums sit next to bustling pintxos bars, and where the wild Basque coastline is just a short drive away. But unlike Barcelona or Madrid, Bilbao has never been overrun with tourists. It’s a place that still feels local, authentic, and deeply Basque—and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

I know this city inside out, and I want to take you beyond the typical tourist checklist. Sure, you can’t come to Bilbao without visiting the Guggenheim, but the true magic of the city lies in its hidden bars, its centuries-old traditions, and the places you won’t find in guidebooks.

A Brits Perspective as to Whether Bilbao is Worth Visiting

And here’s where things get interesting—I’m British, which means I get to experience Bilbao from both sides. I’ve had the privilege of growing up here, but I also see the city from a foreigner’s perspective. I can appreciate the quirks that might not be obvious at first glance—why dinner at 9:30 PM is completely normal, why locals are fiercely proud of being Basque first and Spanish second, and why pintxos-hopping is an art form, not just a way to eat.

So, if you’re looking for a real guide to Bilbao—one that goes beyond the usual tourist spots and dives into the city’s best food, hidden gems, and authentic experiences—you’re in the right place. Let’s explore Bilbao the way the locals do.

Disclaimer! All of my blogs may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase I may receive a small amount of commission for the referral at no extra cost to you. This commission is what allows me to continue creating guides to help travellers plan their next trip!

A Brief History of Bilbao: From Industry to Innovation

Bilbao wasn’t built to be beautiful. It was founded in 1300 as a working city—a small but strategic port that quickly became one of Spain’s most important trade hubs. For centuries, ships filled with iron ore, wool, and goods from across Europe passed through its docks, fuelling the city’s growth. But it was the Industrial Revolution that truly shaped Bilbao into what it became in the 19th and 20th centuries—a powerhouse of shipbuilding, steel production, and manufacturing.

The Industrial Past vs. Bilbao’s Modern Revival

The Bilbao of my childhood was a far cry from the vibrant, culture-filled city you see today. Back then, it was grey, gritty, and full of factories. The river was a murky shade of brown, the air carried the scent of industry, and tourists? Hardly any. It was a place where people worked hard, and the city’s aesthetic was purely functional.

Then came the big transformation. The decline of heavy industry in the late 20th century forced Bilbao to reinvent itself. The city traded factories for cutting-edge architecture, a thriving cultural scene, and urban renewal projects that made it a model for city regeneration. Today, it’s a modern, creative, and foodie-friendly destination—but one that still carries the hardworking spirit of its industrial past.

The Guggenheim: Not a Rollercoaster, But a Game-Changer

I still remember the day they announced that Bilbao was getting a Guggenheim Museum. As a kid, my imagination ran wild as I drove past, watching the structure take shape—I pictured a futuristic theme park full of rollercoasters, flashing lights, and high-speed thrills. Then the reality hit: it was an art museum. What a letdown.

But, as it turns out, the Guggenheim changed everything. When it opened in 1997, Bilbao was still in the midst of its post-industrial slump. The city needed a reinvention, and Frank Gehry’s futuristic, titanium-clad masterpiece was exactly that. Suddenly, Bilbao was on the map. Tourists started coming. Restaurants flourished. The city cleaned up its waterfront, opened new cultural spaces, and transformed itself into a destination.

Now, I fully appreciate how one single building helped revive an entire city. Even if it wasn’t the theme park I originally hoped for.

The Basque Identity: Why Bilbao is NOT Your Typical Spanish City

Here’s something you need to know before visiting Bilbao: this isn’t Spain. Well, technically, it is. But ask any local, and they’ll proudly tell you they’re Basque first, Spanish second.

The Basque Country (Euskadi) is one of Spain’s most unique regions—linguistically, culturally, and politically. The Basque language (Euskera) is one of the oldest (and most mysterious) languages in Europe, completely unrelated to Spanish, French, or any other language. Bilbao’s food, traditions, and even its attitude feel distinctly different from Madrid or Barcelona.

The people here are fiercely independent, with a deep-rooted pride in their heritage. Historically, the Basques were known as expert sailors, traders, and even whalers—venturing as far as Newfoundland long before most Europeans even knew it existed. This independent spirit has led to political tensions over the years, but today, Bilbao is a peaceful, progressive city that balances tradition with innovation.

So, if you arrive expecting flamenco, sangria, and late-night fiestas—think again. Bilbao is about pintxos, txakoli, and a deep love for the sea and the mountains. It’s Spain, but on its own terms. And that’s exactly why it’s so fascinating.

Best Time to Visit Bilbao: When to Experience the City at Its Best

If you’re still wondering, “Is Bilbao worth visiting?” let me make it simple—yes, but when you visit can make all the difference. Unlike the scorching summers of southern Spain, Bilbao has a mild, Atlantic climate, which means plenty of green landscapes (and yes, the occasional rain shower). Whether you’re here for food, festivals, or outdoor adventures, there’s a perfect time to visit, depending on what you want to experience.

Spring (March-May): Bilbao in Bloom

Spring is one of the best times to visit—the city shakes off the winter chill, and the parks and riverside come alive with fresh greenery.

Why visit in spring?

• Fewer tourists than in summer
• Mild temperatures (around 15-20°C)
• Perfect for exploring Casco Viejo, hiking, and coastal day trips

Heads up: Spring showers are common, so bring a raincoat.

Summer (June – August): Festivals, Sunshine & Crowds

Summer in Bilbao is warm but rarely unbearably hot, with temperatures hovering around 25°C. While the city never feels too packed, this is the most tourist-heavy season, especially in August when Spaniards take their holidays. Although having said that, most locals leave the city in August, balancing the numbers out.

Why visit in summer?

• Long daylight hours (great for late-night pintxos-hopping)
• The beaches near Bilbao are at their best
• Aste Nagusia Festival (August): The biggest party of the year, complete with fireworks, concerts, and giant dancing figures

Downsides:

• Accommodation prices go up in peak summer.

• The city itself isn’t as lively in August since many locals leave for vacation.

Autumn (September – November): The Local’s Secret Best Time to Visit

If you want the best mix of great weather, fewer crowds, and a more local experience, this is the time to visit Bilbao.

Why visit in autumn?

• Warm temperatures linger into September (20-25°C)
• Less rain than spring
• Fewer tourists, more locals—you won’t be elbowing your way to the pintxos bar.
• Perfect time for Rioja wine tours and coastal hikes

Pro tip: September is arguably the best month—it still feels like summer, but the crowds have disappeared.

Winter (December – February): Cozy, Cultural & Crowd-Free

Winter in Bilbao is mild compared to most of Europe, but it’s also the rainiest time of year. While you won’t be lounging on the beach, it’s a great season for foodies and culture lovers.

Why visit in winter?

• The best time for pintxos tours, museums, and cosy bars
• No tourist crowds—feels like you have the city to yourself
• Cheapest accommodation prices of the year

What to expect: Rainy days and temperatures around 8-15°C. If you’re lucky, you’ll get crisp, clear days, but if I am realistic, chances are you will get Zirimiri!

Zirimiri: The Rain That Defines Bilbao

If you visit Bilbao, there’s one weather phenomenon you will likely experience—zirimiri. It’s not quite rain, but it’s not not rain either. It’s that fine, misty drizzle that lingers in the air, soaking you slowly but steadily, the way a sponge absorbs water.

Unlike a proper downpour that lets you know it means business, zirimiri is sneaky. You step outside thinking, Ah, it’s barely raining, I’ll be fine without an umbrella—only to realise 15 minutes later that your hair is damp, your clothes feel oddly clammy, and the city has taken on an atmospheric, foggy glow.

Bilbao wouldn’t be Bilbao without zirimiri. It’s what keeps the surrounding hills lush and green, what adds to the city’s moody charm, and why locals have perfected the art of shrugging off the rain and heading to a pintxos bar anyway. Forget bulky raincoats—a light, waterproof jacket and a good attitude are all you need to embrace it like a true Bilbaíno.

How to Get to Bilbao: Planes, Trains & Buses

Getting to Bilbao is easier than ever, thanks to its well-connected airport, high-speed trains, and extensive bus network. Whether you’re flying in, arriving by rail, or taking the scenic route by road, here’s everything you need to know about reaching the Basque Country’s most exciting city.

Flying to Bilbao: The Easiest Way In

If you’re coming from outside Spain, the fastest and easiest way to reach Bilbao is by flying into Bilbao Airport (BIO). It’s the largest airport in northern Spain and offers direct international flights from major European cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Lisbon. If you’re coming from further afield, you’ll likely need a connection in Madrid or Barcelona.

How to Get from Bilbao Airport to the City Centre

Bilbao Airport is just 12 km from the city centre, and getting into town is quick and painless:

• A3247 Airport Bus (Best Budget Option)

•  Runs every 20 minutes from 06:00 to 00:00.

• Stops at: Gran Vía (Moyúa Square) and Bilbao Intermodal (main bus station).

• Journey time: ~25 minutes.

• Cost: €3.00 (pay on board).

• Pro tip: If your hotel is near Casco Viejo (Old Town), get off at Moyúa and walk from there.

• Taxi (Most Convenient Option)

• Fixed fare: ~€25-30 to the city centre.

• Takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Available 24/7 outside the terminal.

• Rental Car (Best for Exploring the Basque Country)

• Bilbao Airport has several car rental agencies. I always book through RentalCars.com to guarantee the best value! I recently got a car for 3 weeks for just £57! ClickRent is one of the options that RentalCars.com will provide you with. I highly recommend them!

• Best if you plan day trips to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, La Rioja, or San Sebastián.

• Private Transfer (Luxury Option)

• Pre-booked transfers start at €35-40.

• Ideal for groups or if you prefer a stress-free arrival.

Getting to Bilbao by Train

Bilbao’s main train station, Estación de Abando (Bilbao-Abando), connects the city with Madrid, Barcelona, and other major Spanish destinations.

High-Speed Trains to Bilbao

From Madrid:

• Train: Alvia high-speed service (RENFE).

• Duration: ~4 hours.

• Cost: From €25-60, depending on the ticket class and how early you book.

From Barcelona:

• Train: Alvia high-speed service (RENFE).

• Duration: ~6.5 hours.

• Cost: From €35-70.

From San Sebastián:

• Train: Euskotren or RENFE Cercanías.

• Duration: ~2.5 hours.

• Cost: From €8-15.

From France (Bordeaux, Biarritz, or Hendaye):

• No direct trains, but you can take the TGV to Hendaye and then a local Euskotren to Bilbao (~2.5 hours total).

Getting to Bilbao by Bus

If you’re travelling from other Spanish cities or nearby countries, buses can be a great budget-friendly option.

Bilbao Intermodal (Main Bus Station):

• Located in San Mamés, well-connected to the metro, tram, and buses.

• Serves long-distance routes across Spain and to France & Portugal.

Bus Routes to Bilbao

• From Madrid: ~4.5-5 hours (€20-40) – ALSA or FlixBus.

• From Barcelona: ~7-8 hours (€30-50) – ALSA or FlixBus.

• From San Sebastián: ~1.5 hours (€8-15) – PESA bus.

• From Biarritz (France): ~2 hours (€15-25) – ALSA.

Pro tip: Buses are usually cheaper than trains but take longer.

Driving to Bilbao: Scenic Road Trip Routes

From Madrid (400 km / ~4 hours)

• Take the A-1 motorway via Burgos for the fastest route.

• Stop in Vitoria-Gasteiz or Haro (La Rioja wine country) for a fun detour.

From Barcelona (600 km / ~6 hours)

• Take the AP-68 motorway via Zaragoza.

• Consider stopping in Logroño for some of Spain’s best wine and tapas.

From San Sebastián (100 km / ~1 hour)

• Take the AP-8 coastal motorway for a quick drive.

• Optional detour: Visit Getaria, Zarautz, or Lekeitio on the way.

From Biarritz, France (150 km / ~1.5 hours)

• Take the A63/AP-8 motorway through the French-Basque coastline.

Pro tip: Bilbao’s city centre has a lot of pedestrian-only areas and limited parking, so it’s best to park at your hotel or in a designated parking garage.

Pro Tip II: Beware of toll charges! They soon add up! However, the benefit of them is that Spanish motorways are rarely busy making for a very pleasant driving experience.

Where to Stay in Bilbao

Bilbao may be compact, but choosing the right neighbourhood can make all the difference in how you experience the city.

• Casco Viejo (Old Town): Best for first-timers and food lovers, with charming streets and pintxos bars at every turn. Check out Pension Boutique Caravan Cinema for a cosy and quiet hotel in the Casco Viejo.

• Abando: Perfect for modern hotels and convenience, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and transport. If you fancy an adults only hotel with a rooftop pool check out Axel Hotel.

• Indautxu: Ideal for nightlife and a trendy local vibe, packed with cool cocktail bars and stylish cafés. For one of the best breakfasts in Bilbao, stay at Hotel Sinken Indautxu.

• Deusto: A quieter, budget-friendly option near the university, with a more local atmosphere. For an affordable option right next to the Guggenheim, check our NH Bilbao Deusto.

• Bilbao La Vieja (Bilbi): The edgy, artsy neighbourhood full of street art, indie shops, and alternative bars. Hotel Bilbi is a great affordable option in a great location.

Want a deep dive into the best hotels and hidden gem neighbourhoods? Check out my full Where to Stay in Bilbao article for all the details!

Where and What to Eat in Bilbao: A Food Lover’s Guide

If you love food, welcome to paradise. The Basque Country is one of the world’s top culinary destinations, and Bilbao is no exception. Here, eating isn’t just a necessity—it’s a way of life.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling pintxos bars, food is woven into Basque identity and culture. Locals take pride in fresh, high-quality ingredients, and dining here is an experience that’s as much about tradition as it is about taste. Whether you’re devouring a juicy skeleton steak, hopping from bar to bar for pintxos, or indulging in the best seafood of your life, you’ll soon understand why Basque cuisine is legendary.

Pintxos 101: The Art of Eating Like a Local

Pintxos (pronounced peen-chos) are the Basque answer to tapas—small, flavourful bites perched on bread or served as tiny gourmet creations. You’ll find them lined up on bar counters, inviting you to grab a plate and dive in. But before you go stacking up pintxos like a tourist at an all-you-can-eat buffet, here’s what you need to know:

• Never take pintxos without asking—some bars let you serve yourself, others take orders at the counter. If in doubt, ask: ¿Puedo cogerlo? (Can I take this?)
• One drink, one pintxo—locals eat slowly and socially, pairing each pintxo with a glass of wine (Rioja), cider, or a small beer (burrito).
• Pay at the end—in most places, bartenders keep track of what you eat and settle the bill when you’re done. Honesty is key!

Best Pintxos Bars in Bilbao

• Café Iruña – A classic with stunning Moorish decor, famous for its morcilla (blood sausage) and pintxos morunos (meat on sticks) pintxos.
• Gure Toki – Modern pintxos with creative twists, perfect for foodies.
• El Globo – The best croquetas in town. Creamy, crispy, perfection.
• Bodega Joserra – A no-frills local favourite with killer tortilla de patatas.
• La Viña del Ensanche – If you love jamón ibérico, this is the place.

Basque Specialties You Need to Try

While pintxos are the best way to sample a bit of everything, Bilbao’s traditional dishes deserve a special mention.

• Bacalao a la Vizcaína – Bilbao’s signature salt cod dish in a rich red pepper sauce.
• Txangurro – Stuffed spider crab, often baked with brandy and butter.
• Txuleton – A massive Basque steak (we’re talking dinosaur-sized) grilled to perfection.
• Pulpo a la Plancha – Grilled octopus, crispy on the outside, tender inside.
• Txakoli – A slightly sparkling, dry white wine, usually poured from a dramatic height.
• Goxua – A Basque dessert layered with sponge cake, custard, and caramelised sugar. Think of it as the Basque answer to crème brûlée.

Best Restaurants in Bilbao

Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a Michelin-starred experience, here are some of the best places to eat in Bilbao:

Casual & Affordable

• El Globo – One of the best pintxos bars in town, perfect for a relaxed meal.
• Baster – Great for grilled octopus and seafood.
• Borda Berri – A hole-in-the-wall spot serving some of the best Basque comfort food.

Traditional & Authentic

• La Viña del Ensanche – An institution in Bilbao, famous for cured meats and local cheeses.
• Mina – A small, Michelin-starred restaurant serving elevated Basque cuisine.
• Casa Rufo – An old-school Basque eatery where Tarleton steak is king.

Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred

• Nerua – Located inside the Guggenheim Museum, perfect for an artsy, high-end meal.
• Zortziko – A Michelin-starred restaurant blending Basque flavours with modern techniques.
• Azurmendi – If you’re looking to splurge, this three-Michelin-star restaurant just outside Bilbao is one of the best in the world.

Final Thoughts: Is Bilbao Worth Visiting for Food Lovers?

If you’re a foodie, the answer is a resounding yes—Bilbao is absolutely worth visiting. In fact, it might just ruin food for you anywhere else. This city isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place where gastronomy is woven into everyday life, where every meal is a social event, and where even the smallest pintxo is crafted with care.

Whether you’re hopping from pintxos bar to pintxos bar, indulging in a traditional Basque feast, or experiencing the heights of Michelin-starred dining, Bilbao delivers some of the best food in Spain—and, arguably, the world.

So come hungry, embrace the Basque way of eating, and prepare to be amazed.

Things to Do in Bilbao: A Quick Guide

Whether you’re here for art, architecture, or simply wandering through lively neighbourhoods, Bilbao has plenty of hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems waiting to be explored.

Here’s a quick overview of the top things to do in Bilbao. If you want the full breakdown, check out my Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Bilbao for more details!

1. Discover the Guggenheim Museum & Bilbao’s Art Scene

The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s most iconic attraction, a stunning architectural masterpiece that transformed the city’s reputation. Even if modern art isn’t your thing, the building itself is worth seeing, and the outdoor sculptures—including Jeff Koons’ Puppy and Louise Bourgeois’ Maman—are just as impressive as what’s inside.

Beyond the Guggenheim, Bilbao’s art scene extends to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Azkuna Zentroa cultural space, and the city’s street art hotspots in Bilbao La Vieja.

2. Wander Through Casco Viejo & Enjoy Pintxos

Bilbao’s Casco Viejo (Old Town) is the heart of the city, filled with colourful buildings, lively plazas, and atmospheric pintxos bars. It’s a great place to get lost in history, visit the Santiago Cathedral, and stop at Plaza Nueva for some of the best pintxos in the city.

Speaking of pintxos, Bilbao is a foodie’s paradise. A pintxos-hopping tour is one of the best ways to experience local cuisine, where you’ll try delicious bites paired with Basque cider or txakoli wine.

3. Take in the Views from Artxanda & Puente Vizcaya

For epic city views, take the Artxanda Funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda and soak in the panoramic sights of Bilbao’s skyline and surrounding mountains.

Another must-see is the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante), a UNESCO-listed transporter bridge that connects Portugalete and Getxo. You can walk across the top for breathtaking views of the Nervión River or ride the gondola suspended over the water. You can either cycle or take the metro to reach Getxo.

4. Take a Day Trip to the Basque Coast

Bilbao is perfectly placed for amazing day trips. Drive to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (aka Game of Thrones’ Dragonstone) for dramatic coastal scenery, visit Gernika for a deep dive into Basque history, or relax in Mundaka or Lekeitio, two of the region’s most beautiful seaside towns.

Want More Ideas?

There’s so much more to do in Bilbao, from exploring museums and historic markets to hiking through stunning Basque landscapes.

Check out my full guide for a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Bilbao, including lots of free activities and day trips that can be done both by train and by car.

2 Tours You Must Not Miss in Bilbao

While Bilbao is an amazing city to explore on your own, there are two experiences that are 100% worth booking: a food tour and a walking tour. Both will deepen your understanding of the city, introduce you to local traditions, and take you beyond the usual tourist checklist.

If you want to truly experience Bilbao like a local, these are the two must-do tours.

1. Take a Pintxos & Basque Food Tour

Bilbao is one of Europe’s best foodie cities, but if you don’t know what to order, you might miss out on some of the best dishes. That’s where a pintxos tour comes in—it’s the ultimate crash course in Basque cuisine.

A local guide will take you to hidden pintxos bars, explain the pintxos etiquette (so you don’t look like a tourist), and introduce you to Basque food traditions you’d never discover on your own.

What You’ll Experience:

• Try classic and modern pintxos at 5+ local bars.
• Pair them with txakoli (Basque white wine) or cider.
• Taste Basque specialities like txuleton (steak) and bacalao (salt cod).
• Learn how to order like a local (without embarrassing yourself).

Best Pintxos Tours in Bilbao:

• The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food and History Tour with a Local

• Bilbao: Basque Food Tour with Guide

Pro tip: Go on a food tour at the start of your trip so you know where to eat for the rest of your stay.

2. Join a Walking Tour to Uncover Bilbao’s Hidden Stories

Bilbao is more than just the Guggenheim. The best way to truly understand the city is by walking through its historic streets with a local guide who can bring its past to life.

A walking tour will take you beyond the obvious, showing you the city’s hidden gems, fascinating history, and quirky local legends. You’ll learn about Bilbao’s transformation from an industrial port to a cultural hub, uncover dark history they don’t teach in school, and get insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore.

What You’ll Experience:

• Explore Casco Viejo’s medieval streets and uncover its secrets.
• Learn about Bilbao’s industrial past and how the Guggenheim changed everything.
• Walk across the city’s famous bridges and hear their hidden stories.
• Discover the Great Fire of Bilbao, epic pirate attacks, and Basque revolutions.

Best Walking Tours in Bilbao:

• Bilbao: Small Group Walking Tour

• Bilbao FREE Walking Tour (just tip what you want at the end)

Tips for a Successful Visit to Bilbao

Bilbao is an easy city to explore, but a few insider tips can make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and way more local. From understanding Basque culture to knowing how to stay connected, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

1. Learn a Few Words of Euskera (and Brush Up on Spanish)

Bilbao is in the Basque Country, where the local language, Euskera, is widely spoken alongside Spanish. While everyone speaks Spanish, knowing a few words of Euskera will win you instant respect from locals.

Useful Euskera Phrases:

Kaixo (kai-show) – Hello

Aupa (Au-pa) – Informal way of saying hello (if you really want to pass as a local!)

Eskerrik asko (es-ker-rik as-ko) – Thank you

Pro tip: If Euskera feels too intimidating, at least brush up on your Spanish basics—it’ll make ordering food and navigating easier.

2. Stay Connected with an eSIM

Roaming charges abroad? No, thanks. If you want to navigate, Google restaurants, or book transport on the go, get an eSIM before arriving.

Best eSIM for Bilbao: Airalo – Easy setup and works as soon as you land. It’s my go-to eSIM worldwide.

Pro tip: Bilbao has free WiFi in some public squares and museums, but it’s not always reliable—an eSIM is your best bet.

3. Always Pack a Rain Jacket (No Matter the Season)

Bilbao is notorious for its unpredictable weather—you can get sunshine, drizzle, and a full-on downpour all in the same day. The locals even have a word for it: Zirimiri—that fine misty rain that soaks you without you even realising it.

Essentials for Bilbao’s Weather:

• A light rain jacket (even in summer).
• Waterproof shoes if visiting in winter/autumn.
• Sunglasses—yes, there’s sun too!

Pro tip: Don’t waste suitcase space on an umbrella—Bilbao’s winds will destroy it in seconds.

4. Bring the Right Travel Adapter (2-prong sockets)

Spain uses Type C & Type F sockets (two round prongs), which means UK, US, and some other travellers will need an adapter.

Best solution: Get a universal travel adapter with USB ports.

Pro tip: Some hotels have USB ports, but many older buildings don’t—charge your devices overnight, just in case.

5. Get a Barik Card for Public Transport

Bilbao’s metro, buses, and trams are super easy to use, but buying individual tickets adds up quickly. Instead, get a Barik card—a prepaid transport card that saves you money.

Where to Get It:

• Metro stations, kiosks, and tobacco shops.

• Costs €3, then top up as needed.

• Works on metro, trams, buses, and even the Puente Vizcaya gondola!

Pro tip: If you’re travelling with a group, you can share one Barik card—just tap multiple times.

6. Adjust to the Local Eating Schedule

Spain is famous for late meals, but Bilbao takes it to another level.

Typical Eating Times in Bilbao:

• Lunch: 2:00 – 4:00 PM (most places won’t even open before this).
• Pintxos & Drinks: 12:00 – 3:00 PM and 7:00 – 9:30 PM.
• Dinner: 9:00 – 11:30 PM (yes, really).

Pro tip: If you’re starving at “normal dinner time” (6-7 PM), go for pintxos instead—it’s the perfect pre-dinner snack.

7. Cash or Card? Both!

Most places in Bilbao accept credit and debit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small pintxos bars, local markets, or rural day trips.

When You’ll Need Cash:

• Some pintxos bars (they might not take cards for small purchases).

• Tipping (not required, but leaving coins for good service is appreciated).

• Market stalls & small shops.

Pro tip: If using a card, choose to pay in EUR instead of your home currency—you’ll get a better exchange rate.

8. If You’re Renting a Car, Learn the Basics of Spanish Driving

Planning to explore beyond Bilbao? Renting a car is a great way to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, La Rioja, or the Basque coastline.

Things to Know About Driving in Spain:

• Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, 120 km/h on highways.
• Toll roads: Some highways have tolls—carry cash or a credit card.
• Parking: Bilbao’s city centre has limited parking—look for “Aparcamientos Públicos” (public parking garages).

Pro tip: If you are planning on driving, make sure to check out my “Driving in Spain Guide“. It is one of my most-read articles for a reason!

9. Don’t Be Shy About Bar-Hopping (It’s Expected!)

In Bilbao, eating pintxos is a social event, and locals rarely stay in one place. Instead, they hop from bar to bar, grabbing one pintxo and one drink per stop.

How to Do Pintxos Like a Local:

• Don’t grab everything at once—order one pintxo at a time.

• Stand at the bar (tables are often reserved for full meals).

• Move on to the next spot after 1-2 rounds.

Pro tip: The best pintxos bars get busier as the night goes on—embrace the chaos!

10. Bilbao is Safe, But Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

Bilbao is one of Spain’s safest cities, but like any popular destination, pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded tourist areas and metro stations.

Safety Tips:

• Keep your bag zipped & in front of you in busy areas.

• Avoid leaving your phone/wallet on the table in bars & cafés.

• Stick to well-lit streets at night—though Bilbao is very safe even after dark.

Pro tip: The Casco Viejo (Old Town) is safe, but side streets can get rowdy late at night—especially after Athletic Bilbao games!

My Final Thoughts on Whether Bilbao Is Worth Visiting

So, is Bilbao worth visiting? Absolutely—and then some.

This is a city that surprises you at every turn. One moment, you’re standing in front of the futuristic Guggenheim Museum, marvelling at its titanium curves. The next, you’re lost in the medieval streets of Casco Viejo, hopping between pintxos bars like a true local. In just a short drive, you can be standing on a clifftop overlooking the Atlantic, hiking through misty Basque mountains, or sipping wine in La Rioja’s rolling vineyards.

Bilbao isn’t just another Spanish city—it’s a place where Basque identity, history, and modern creativity collide. It’s where you can taste the best food of your life, meet some of the friendliest locals, and experience a side of Spain that feels completely unique.

Whether you’re here for art, food, history, or adventure, Bilbao has a way of pulling you in and making you want to stay longer.

Want to explore more of the Basque Country? Check out my 7-Day Basque Country Itinerary for the ultimate adventure!