5 Days in Bilbao and Beyond Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to Bilbao's Santiago Cathedral. This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of Bilbao's oldest buildings and offers a glimpse into the city's religious history. Afterward, take a short walk to Casco Viejo, Bilbao's old town, where you can wander through charming streets filled with shops and cafes.

For lunch, head to La Vina del Ensanche, a highly-rated restaurant known for its delectable tapas. Afterward, take the Artxanda Funicular (Funicular de Artxanda) up to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of Bilbao. The ride itself is an experience, offering breathtaking vistas as you ascend.

In the evening, embark on the Bilbao: Classic & Modern Guided Walking Tour with Pintxos. This tour combines history with culinary delights as you explore both classic and modern parts of Bilbao while enjoying pintxos along the way.

Start your third day at the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao). This museum boasts an extensive collection of artworks ranging from medieval times to contemporary pieces. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

For lunch, dine at El Globo, famous for its innovative pintxos that blend traditional flavors with modern twists. Afterward, visit Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center housed in a former wine warehouse. The building itself is an architectural marvel and hosts various exhibitions and events.

Conclude your day with the Bilbao: Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide. This tour will take you through some of Bilbao's best pintxo bars where you'll sample delicious bites paired with local wines. It's an excellent way to experience Bilbao's vibrant food scene.

Begin your day with a refreshing walk in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This beautiful park, also known as Parque de los Patos (Duck Park), is a green oasis in the heart of Bilbao. Enjoy the serene environment, fountains, and sculptures as you take a leisurely stroll through the park.

For lunch, head to Café Bar Bilbao, a popular spot for traditional Basque dishes. Afterward, visit the Euskalduna Palace (Palacio Euskalduna), an impressive conference center and concert hall. The modern architecture of this building is striking, and it often hosts various cultural events and performances.

In the evening, join the Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar. This hands-on cooking class will teach you how to prepare traditional Basque pintxos and tapas. With an open bar included, it's a fun and interactive way to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.

Zubizuri Bridge is your first stop today. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, this white arch bridge offers stunning views of the Nervión River. It's a great spot for photos and to appreciate modern architectural design.

Restaurante Mina is an excellent choice for lunch, offering gourmet dishes made from local ingredients. Afterward, take part in the From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo and Gernika Day Trip. This tour will take you to some of the most picturesque locations around Bilbao including San Juan de Gaztelugatxe—a stunning island hermitage featured in Game of Thrones—along with visits to Bermeo and Gernika.

La Viña del Ensanche is perfect for dinner if you're back early from your day trip. End your evening with a visit to Arriaga Theatre (Teatro Arriaga), where you can catch a live performance or simply admire its beautiful architecture illuminated at night.