Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bilbao?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Bilbao?
Not sure how much time you'll need in Bilbao, Spain? Most people spend two to three days in Bilbao during their visit. After all, the colorful city will let you taste delicious cuisine, tour the famous sights and museums, enjoy the evening activities, and go shopping.
Bilbao offers a mix of old and new. From the famous Guggenheim Museum to the historic old town, there is a lot to see and do here. The city's culinary scene is also among the best in the country, with many Michelin-starred restaurants found in town.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Bilbao? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Bilbao?
For many visitors, three days in Bilbao would be just the right amount of time for this city. In fact, lots of tourists spend two to three days in the colorful city to check out the amazing food and terrific museums and landmarks. Below we have some suggestions on how to spend your time here.
How to spend 3 days in Bilbao
Don't miss the Guggenheim Museum during your trip to Bilbao, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
The culinary scene in Bilbao is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. The food scene is among the best in Spain. The city has several world renowned restaurants, including a few Michelin-starred restaurants, but there are also smaller eateries that cater to the locals and tourists alike. Make sure you try the pintxos, which are small dishes that are the Basque region's answer to tapas. Many include seafood and are cooked with olive oil and garlic.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Bilbao Small Group Tour with Tapas and Wine Tasting ($113)
- The Award-Winning Bilbao Food Tour & Wine Pairing by Basque Local ($124)
- Small-group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao with Open Bar ($177)
The public transit in Bilbao is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.
A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Bilbao, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. A favorite museum in town is the popular Guggenheim Museum. From its iconic building to the unique exhibits, this is a must-see stop during your visit. Other highlights around town include the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, the Museo Vasco, as well as the city's unique bridges.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Guggenheim Museum guided tour ($77)
- Artist-Guided Tour of the Guggenheim Museum ($106)
- Guggenheim Museum and tasting of traditional Basque products ($212)
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. There's a great late night scene that centers around eating and drinking. There are lively nightclubs, a good live music scene, and no shortage of people heading out on the town.
Shopping in Bilbao is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Bilbao.
Is 4 days enough time in Bilbao?
Four days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Bilbao, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. The cuisine, the museums and landmarks, the nightlife, and shopping on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Bilbao as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding areas.
Bilbao, Spain
How to spend 4 days in Bilbao
Having 4 days in Bilbao will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the city.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Private Guided Full-Day Walking Tour in Bilbao ($100)
- Bilbao Exclusive Private Walking Tour ($41)
- Private 4-hour Walking Tour of Bilbao with Local Guide ($242)
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Is 5 days enough time in Bilbao?
Five days is more than enough time to see everything that Bilbao has to offer. After all, it's not such a huge city. Many visitors prefer to spend two to three days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the cuisine, the museums and landmarks, the nightlife, and shopping at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.
How to spend 5 days in Bilbao
With 5 days in Bilbao, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.
Bilbao is large enough to spend at least a full day exploring the local neighborhoods, attractions, and activities found around town. It's an industrial port city with skyscrapers and modern buildings throughout the downtown.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Private Transfer from Bilbao Cruise Port to Bilbao Airport (BIO) ($93)
- Private Transfer from Bilbao Cruise Port to Bilbao City Hotels ($93)
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Bilbao.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Bilbao, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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