10 Best Things to Do and See in Bilbao
Exploring Bilbao on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Bilbao, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Bilbao. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is one of Spain's leading contemporary art landmarks, celebrated for both its collection and spectacular architecture. During your visit, you'll discover modern and contemporary art exhibitions featuring international artists in vast, light-filled galleries. The building itself, with its curved forms and metallic surfaces, is part of the experience and appeals to art lovers and curious travelers alike. It is a must-see stop for understanding Bilbao's cultural identity.
2. Artxanda viewpoint
Artxanda viewpoint is a Bilbao lookout offering open views over the city, the Nervion estuary, and the surrounding hills. From this elevated spot, you can take in Bilbao’s urban layout, its neighborhoods, and the close link between the city and its relief. It is appreciated as a simple yet highly readable viewpoint that lets you understand the geography of Biscay’s capital at a glance.
3. Zubizuri
Zubizuri is an iconic pedestrian bridge in Bilbao, Spain, linking both sides of the city in a very modern urban setting. With its slender white silhouette, it attracts locals and visitors who come to stroll and admire the views over the estuary and beyond. This elegant crossing offers a pleasant link between different districts while standing out as a tourist attraction in its own right. Its contemporary structure makes it a striking landmark in the Bilbao cityscape and a favorite place for a walk.
4. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park in Bilbao is one of the city center’s main green spaces, loved for its shaded paths, well-kept lawns, and flower gardens. It offers a pleasant place to walk, relax, or take a quiet break, with ponds, fountains, and family-friendly areas. Set in a lively district, it provides a refreshing green escape for both locals and visitors, close to cultural sights and urban walks.
5. Bilbao Museum of Fine Arts
The Bilbao Museum of Fine Arts is one of Spain's leading art museums and a must-see for discovering the city's cultural richness. Admire a diverse collection from old masters to modern and contemporary art, with paintings, sculptures and graphic arts. The route highlights both Spanish and European art in a pleasant setting that invites contemplation. Located in Bilbao, it is the perfect addition to a city visit, offering a fascinating insight into several centuries of artistic creation.
6. Etxebarri Parkea
Etxebarri Parkea in Bilbao is an urban park offering a pleasant break in the middle of the city. Visitors come here to stroll, relax, and enjoy an accessible green space. Depending on the facilities available, the park may also offer leisure areas and a friendly atmosphere, typical of public spaces designed for families and visitors. It is a simple, peaceful spot, ideal for an outdoor stop while exploring Bilbao.
7. Bilbao Cathedral
Bilbao Cathedral, in the historic centre of the city, is an iconic Catholic landmark that attracts both visitors and worshippers. Discover its religious architecture, refined façades, and peaceful interior, where a nave, chapels and decorative details create the feel of a great urban cathedral. It is a rewarding place to explore Bilbao’s spiritual heritage and take a break in the heart of the lively old town.
8. Puppy
In Bilbao, Puppy is the famous floral sculpture in front of the Guggenheim Museum, known for its monumental dog shape covered in thousands of seasonal plants. This colorful artwork attracts art lovers and strolling visitors alike, thanks to its lively appearance that changes with the blooms. Easy to spot near the river, it has become one of the city's most photographed symbols and a must-see stop for discovering Bilbao's contemporary atmosphere.
9. Artxanda Funicular
The Artxanda Funicular in Bilbao is an easy way to reach the city’s heights and enjoy sweeping views of the Nervión River, bridges, and rooftops. This tourist attraction, set on Artxanda hill, takes visitors to a popular viewpoint overlooking Bilbao and beyond. At the top, you’ll find a quieter setting with walking areas and open panoramas. It’s a perfect stop to see the city from a different perspective.
10. Begoñako Basilica
Begoñako Basilika is one of Bilbao’s most recognizable religious landmarks. Located in Begoña, it combines an active Catholic basilica with a strong local cultural identity. Visitors will discover a Marian place of worship, traditional religious architecture, and a striking presence in the cityscape. Its appeal lies in both its spiritual role and its heritage value, in a city where it remains an important symbol.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
