Bilbao pairs bold modern architecture with Basque traditions and outstanding cuisine.
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao — Admire Frank Gehry’s titanium-clad masterpiece and its collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Casco Viejo — Explore the old town’s Siete Calles (Seven Streets), full of shops, churches and pintxos bars.
- Mercado de la Ribera — Browse one of Europe’s largest covered markets, right on the riverbank.
- Fine Arts Museum — See an important collection of Spanish, Basque and European art beside Doña Casilda Park.
- Artxanda Funicular — Ride up the hillside for panoramic views across the city and estuary.
- Vizcaya Bridge — Visit the UNESCO-listed transporter bridge at Portugalete, near the mouth of the estuary.
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe — Take a day trip along the coast to this dramatic islet chapel reached by a winding stone stairway.
Bilbao has a mild oceanic climate, with green landscapes thanks to regular rainfall throughout the year. May to September is the best time to visit, with the warmest temperatures, longer days and the most chance of dry weather for exploring the city and nearby coast.
August brings Aste Nagusia, the city’s Big Week festival, with concerts, fireworks and street celebrations. Spring and autumn are pleasant and less busy, while winters are cool and damp but rarely cold, making museums and pintxos bars appealing year-round. Pack a light waterproof in any season.
Bilbao Airport is located at Loiu, about 9 kilometres north of the city centre. Its terminal, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is known for its striking white wing-like shape.
An airport bus service connects the terminal with the city centre, including the main bus station and central stops near Moyúa and the Guggenheim area. Taxis are available outside arrivals and usually reach the centre in around 15 to 20 minutes. Buses also link the airport with San Sebastián and other Basque towns.
Bilbao is compact and well served by metro and tram, so most areas are convenient.
- Casco Viejo — Ideal for travellers who want historic streets and pintxos bars on the doorstep.
- Abando — The central business and shopping district, practical for transport links.
- Indautxu — An elegant residential area with good restaurants and a local feel.
- Abandoibarra and Deusto — Suits art lovers, close to the Guggenheim and riverside walks.
- Payments: Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, including in most bars.
- Pintxos: Order a few small bites and a drink at the bar, then move on to the next place, as locals do.
- Getting around: The metro, tram and buses are efficient, and the centre is very walkable.
- Meal times: Lunch is usually from around 2 pm and dinner often starts after 9 pm.
- Language: Spanish and Basque are both official; signs are bilingual, and English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Bilbao?
Bilbao is served by Bilbao Airport (BIO) at Loiu, about 9 km north of the city centre.
How do I get from the airport to Bilbao city centre?
An airport bus runs to central Bilbao, and taxis are available outside arrivals.
What currency is used in Bilbao?
Spain uses the euro (EUR).
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before travelling.
When is the best time to visit Bilbao?
May to September offers the warmest and driest weather, with the Aste Nagusia festival in August.
What are pintxos?
Pintxos are small snacks, often served on bread, displayed on bar counters across the Basque Country and enjoyed with a drink while moving between bars.
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