Bilbao is a city of bold contrasts — industrial grit turned modern art hub, pintxos bars tucked beside sleek museums, and a river that winds through centuries of Basque culture. With your private tour, discover how this vibrant city reinvents itself at every turn — and experience its culture, creativity, and spirit, your way.

<h3>Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Bilbao</h3>
Start your tour with these can’t-miss spots that blend Bilbao’s industrial past, architectural flair, and culinary pride.

Guggenheim Museum
 Frank Gehry’s titanium masterpiece is more than a museum — it’s a global icon. Explore its contemporary art collections and the famous Puppy sculpture guarding the entrance.

Casco Viejo
 Bilbao’s old town offers narrow streets, colorful balconies, and traditional shops. Stroll the Seven Streets and grab pintxos in cozy taverns that locals swear by.

Ribera Market
 Europe’s largest covered food market is a feast for the senses. Watch locals shop for fresh seafood, cheese, and produce — or stop for a glass of txakoli and local bites.

Zubizuri Bridge
 This glass-bottomed footbridge connects both sides of the city in striking style. Its sweeping curves and river views make it one of Bilbao’s most photographed spots.

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
 One of Spain’s top art museums, featuring everything from medieval masters to Basque modernists. Its quiet galleries offer a different pace from the Guggenheim.

Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao)
 Once a wine warehouse, now a cultural center. Admire its colonnaded pool ceiling, art exhibitions, and rooftop terrace with sweeping city views.

San Antón Church & Bridge
 Bilbao was born here. This Gothic church and the medieval bridge beside it mark the historic heart of the city.

Doña Casilda Park
 A peaceful green space with duck ponds, fountains, and winding paths. Great for a quiet break during your tour or a scenic picnic stop.

Teatro Arriaga
 Inspired by the Paris Opera, this 19th-century theater hosts concerts, plays, and opera. Even from the outside, it’s worth the visit for photos and architecture lovers.

Mount Artxanda
 Ride the funicular to the top for panoramic views of the city, the Nervión River, and the hills that surround Bilbao.

<h3>Explore Bilbao Off the Beaten Path</h3>
Want to see a quieter, more local side of the city? These stops offer character, charm, and unique insights beyond the main sights.

La Salve Bridge & Red Arches
 Stand beneath this bold, red architectural statement near the Guggenheim — part bridge, part sculpture, part industrial history.

Iturribide Street
 Packed with classic bars and bakeries, this sloping street offers a casual, authentic taste of daily life in the old town.

Marzana Pier
 A hip riverside area full of street art, cafes, and young energy. Great for drinks and relaxed conversation away from the main squares.

Olabeaga Neighborhood
 Once home to shipbuilders, now a quiet riverfront with colorful homes and working-class roots that tell a different story of Bilbao.

Bilbao La Vieja (Bilbi)
 An up-and-coming district with indie galleries, record shops, and a multicultural food scene.

Euskalduna Palace Terrace
 Hidden above a conference center, this rooftop terrace gives unexpected views over the river and city — especially at sunset.

<h3>Day Trip Ideas from Bilbao</h3>
A private tour from Bilbao can take you deep into Basque Country — where green hills, coastal villages, and centuries-old traditions await.

<u><i><a href="https://www.toursbylocals.com/tours/spain/san-sebastian?utm_source=internallinks&utm_medium=marketingblock&utm_campaign=bilbao" target="_blank">San Sebastián</a></i></u>
 One of Spain’s best food cities, famous for its beaches, Belle Époque architecture, and endless pintxos bars.

<u><i><a href="https://www.toursbylocals.com/tours/spain/getaria?utm_source=internallinks&utm_medium=marketingblock&utm_campaign=bilbao" target="_blank">Getaria</a></i></u>
 A fishing village with a deep culinary heritage, winding seaside streets, and some of the region’s best grilled seafood.

Gernika
 A peaceful town with a powerful history. Visit the peace museum and the symbolic oak tree of Basque freedom.

Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
 Explore wetlands, forests, and beaches in this UNESCO-listed natural wonder just outside the city.

<h3>Travel Tips for Your Visit</h3>
Make the most of your tour with a few tips to stay comfortable, connected, and in tune with local customs.

Best Time to Visit
 May to October offers pleasant weather and outdoor events. July and August are warmest, while spring and fall bring fewer crowds.

Getting Around
 Bilbao is walkable, with excellent metro and tram connections. Many neighborhoods are best explored on foot, especially Casco Viejo.

What to Wear
 Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layers work best for changeable weather — and don’t forget an umbrella, just in case.

Local Etiquette Tips
 Say “Kaixo” (hello) or “Agur” (goodbye) in Basque for a friendly touch. Locals eat late — lunch around 2pm, dinner closer to 9pm.

<h3>Explore Bilbao Your Way</h3>
Bilbao isn’t just a city — it’s a movement. From iron bridges to world-class art, street food to green hills, it invites you to explore on your terms. Your tour connects it all — with space to go deeper, see more, and experience the Basque Country with meaning.
With your guide by your side, your tour is private, flexible, and filled with local insight. Backed by 5-star reviews and flexible cancellation, ToursByLocals helps you travel better — in Bilbao and beyond.


Bilbao

Guggenheim Museum - Price of the ticket depends on the temporary exhibitions on view on the day of your visit. Please note: the Guggenheim Museum is closed on Monday from the 1st of September to the 30th of May.

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