The Basque Country is renowned for its natural beauty, but its cities are also well worth a visit. Bilbao stands out in particular. Exceptional museums await you, along with parks, colorful neighborhoods and other memorable sights. From the old town (Casco Viejo) to the most beautiful viewpoints, you won't regret your getaway! So, what can you do in Bilbao in 3 days? Petit Futé provides a detailed itinerary.
Day 1: What to do in Bilbao in 3 days? Casco Viejo, cathedral and Ribera market
The Casco Viejo area, the old town, and the whole area further north are packed with treasures, all of which can be visited on foot during your 3-day Bilbao itinerary.
To book: Make your stay in Bilbao even more memorable by booking this personalized city tour with a passionate local.
Morning: Casco Viejo, Santiago Cathedral and Theatre
Visit Casco Viejo is the historic heart of Bilbao. Get ready to immerse yourself in Basque authenticity in its lively alleyways, known as the Siete Calles. Completely restored after the floods of 1983, this is an area of great beauty. Here you'll find both modern and classic boutiques, as well as a multitude of bars and restaurants. As Basque cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, the promise is tantalizing!
In the center of Casco Viejo, you'll find Santiago Cathedral, one of Bilbao's must-sees in 3 days. Dedicated to the apostle Santiago, the cathedral's three naves and pretty 16th-century Gothic cloister are a must-see.
Nearby, the Teatro Arriaga stands out in all its beauty. Inspired by the Paris Opera, it has retained its original facade despite a devastating fire. Inside, you'll discover an authentic theater: a huge stage, a red and gold décor, simply sublime!
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Afternoon: Mercado de la Ribera and Basque Museum
After a pintxo-based Basque meal, it's time for the afternoon's program! It all starts at the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe's largest markets. Often renovated, this impressive building dates back to 1929. Unlike many covered market halls, the Mercado de la Ribera is not at all dark, thanks to its many skylights. Superb stained glass complements the beautiful architecture of these must-see food halls.
Once you've done your shopping, head for Plaça Nueva, surrounded by neo-classical buildings. Adjacent to Arenal Park, the square is often the meeting point for concerts and other festivities, such as the Santo Tomás Fair, a food fair held around Christmas.
Good to know: on Sundays, a flea market selling antiques and second-hand goods is held in Plaza Nueva.
Finally, the day ends at the basque Museumwhose exhibits immerse you in Basque culture. Housed in the former Jesuit College of San Andrés, its elegant central cloister is a haven of peace. From prehistory to shepherds' culture, industrial activities and traditional trades, the visit is fascinating.
Day 2: What to do in Bilbao in 3 days? Mount Artxanda, Zubizuri and the Guggenheim Museum
The second day in Bilbao is packed with must-sees. Beautiful Instagrammable photos will be aplenty, so get your camera ready!
To book: For this second day, you can opt for this guided bike tour of the city's most beautiful spots
Morning: Mount Artxanda, Zubizuri, Guggenheim Museum
The morning begins in front of the magnificent Town Hall, built in 1892 in Baroque style. Superbly preserved, it still offers admiring glimpses of classical sculptures and a neo-Mudejar Arab hall. Nearby, you can take the funicular railway, in operation since 1915, to the summit of Mount Artxanda. Young and old will love this unusual ride! This is where you take out your camera, to capture a superb panoramic view of Bilbao, with the mountain in the background, at an altitude of 250 meters.
Then descend to cross the famous Zubizuri Bridge, a modern footbridge designed by Santiago Calatrava. This elegant white bridge, designed to resemble a sailboat, links the two banks of the Bilbao ria.
The morning ends at the world-famous guggenheim Museumwhich has also transformed Bilbao with its futuristic titanium architecture. Inside, you'll find works by masters such as Mark Rothko and Yves Klein. The outdoor area is just as interesting, with unusual sculptures such as Jeff Koons'"Puppy", a huge puppy... with flowers!
To reserve: Discover the Guggenheim Museum on a private guided tour, bookable right here , which includes a guided ticket.
Tip from Petit Futé: With the Bilbao Bizkaia Card, from €10, you'll enjoy free public transport, free guided tours and many other advantages, such as a ticket cutter at tourist attractions.
Afternoon: Maritime Museum and Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
The afternoon gets off to a leisurely start at another cultural landmark: the Maritime Museumfocused on the heritage bequeathed over the years by theactive maritime activity of the area around the Ria de Bilbao, and beyond. Three main themes share the grounds:
- "La Ría: the seaport",
- "La Ría: market and factory",
- "La Ria: the shipyard".
A comprehensive museum, with several restored boats on display.
The day continues at the Parc Doña Casilda Iturrizar, Bilbao's green lung. Amid lush vegetation, you'll discover 1001 wonders: fountains, palm trees, formal gardens, ponds... Children will be delighted by this visit, which is more "fun" than museums (for their taste). They'll even find games and candy vendors around the pond. A great family visit to Bilbao!
What to book: Discover the best of Bilbao's gastronomic culture by booking this guided walking tour including tastings and, above all, discovering Bilbao's most beautiful spots.
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Day 3: What to do in Bilbao in 3 days? Irala, Alhóndiga and San Mamés districts
Your last day is here, but you've still got a few great visits left to conclude this long weekend in Bilbao. If you haven't already done so, there' s still time to book your guided tour of Bilbao's most emblematic landmarks right here .
Morning: Las Casas de Colores and Alhóndiga
Head for the south of Bilbao, and more precisely for the Zuberoa street in the Irala district, a sort of Spanish Notting Hill! Its terraced houses with colorful facades, designed in a style inspired by English dwellings, promise a total change of scenery.
Good to know: these homes were once designed by a local baker for the workers of Bilbao.
With few tourists, this is an ideal getaway for your last day in Bilbao, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Your morning continues at the Alhóndigaa former wine warehouse transformed into a 43,000 m² cultural space offering a variety of activities:
- exhibitions,
- cinema,
- media library,
- sports facilities.
Inside, 43 eclectic columns support brick cubes, adding a striking architectural note that complements the transparent swimming pool visible from the central atrium.
Afternoon: San Mames Barriés Stadium and Museum
Visit san Mamés stadiumnicknamed "The Cathedral", can accommodate up to 53,000 spectators. But when it's not for matches, it's mainly soccer fans who are catered for, with a guided tour of around 1.5 hours, including a behind-the-scenes look at Spain's seventh-largest stadium. You can visit the dressing rooms, the players' entrance tunnel and the trophy room. The tour continues at the Athletic Club Museum, whose collections and other interactive exhibits trace the history of the Basque club.
What to book : Follow in the footsteps of famous Spanish footballers by booking this tour of Athletic Club's San Mamés museum and stadium in Bilbao.
Sound familiar? From the fishing village of Bermeo to the Neguri district of Getxo, Bilbao's surroundings are just as beautiful. Want more? Discover Spain's most beautiful villages to round off your stay in Vizcaya.
Where to stay in Bilbao for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
The area around the Town Hall is the ideal place to put down your bags in Bilbao. You're close to both banks of the Ria and to all the main points of interest (on foot!).
- The best location
Located in the old town, close to the main sights, the Bilder Boutique Hotel offers a warm welcome. Its modern rooms offer a cosy ambience. Click here to book your room.
- The right compromise
Put your bags down at theHotel Conde Duque, a modern, full-service establishment. Its low prices are a welcome bonus, with comfortable rooms and a good breakfast buffet. Book your room your room in Bilbao.
- Closest to the action
Like to stay close to bars, restaurants and other festivities? Welcome to theIturrienea Ostatua, right in the heart of Bilbao! With its mix of wood and stone, it's a lovely place to spend 3 days in Bilbao. Beautiful, inexpensive rooms book here.
You'll also find below a list of the trendiest things to do in Bilbao:
The article to read: What to do in Spain The 21 most beautiful places to see in 2025
Bilbao is a must-see destination in the Basque Country: go for it! While the city has modernized, with futuristic-looking buildings, it has also preserved its authentic soul. A great place to visit before heading off to discover Spain's other beautiful regions!
