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Bilbao holidays: The ultimate guide to unforgettable holidays
Bilbao is the beating heart of Spain's Basque Country. The stunning architecture, vibrant culture and cuisine come together to create an unforgettable holiday destination. If you're on a family holiday, stop by the Guggenheim Museum to explore modern art. You should also stroll along the Nervion River and stop for pintxos in the charming Casco Viejo (Old Town). Be sure to take the Artxanda Funicular up to the hills. If you're feeling adventurous, head to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic islet just outside the city. Are you a football fan? Don't miss the electric atmosphere of San Mames Stadium, home of Athletic Bilbao.
Get ready for a fun holiday packed with culture and beautiful scenery. We've rounded up our best offers and deals for cheap hotels and flights to Bilbao.
Bilbao at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 1 hour 50 minutes
Main airport: Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Population: 347,000
Language: Spanish and Basque
Currency: Euro
Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
Flights to Bilbao from the UK
Are you looking for a quick escape to Bilbao? You're in luck; there are plenty of direct flights to Bilbao from the UK, making it easier than ever to explore this foodie paradise and cultural hotspot. You can fly from London, Manchester, Bristol and Edinburgh. Major airlines like British Airways, easyJet and Vueling offer regular Bilbao flights with budget-friendly fares if you book in advance. The flight takes around two hours, landing you right in the heart of the Basque Country.
Once you arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO), just seven miles from the city centre, you can get a bus to the city or catch a taxi to Bilbao hotels.
When is the best time to visit Bilbao?
Each season offers something special, from buzzing festivals to coastal walks and pintxos bars. For instance, March to May offers mild temperatures and blooming parks. There is occasional rain in April and May, but you will enjoy various attractions without the summer crowds. Bilbao hotels are also cheaper in spring. June to August has great weather and endless fun, making it the peak tourist season.
Join the locals at Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) in August, Bilbao's biggest festival packed with concerts, fireworks and parades. Do you want to escape the city heat? Head to nearby Sopelana Beach for surfing and sunbathing.
In autumn, the weather stays pleasant, and you can go hiking or indulge in Bilbao's food scene. It's harvest season, so fresh seafood and local wines are at their best. By November, the city gets quieter, with cosy bars perfect for warming up. While Bilbao doesn't reach freezing temperatures in winter, expect some rainy days. But don't worry; this is the best time to enjoy indoor attractions, lively tapa bars and Christmas markets.
Top places to visit in Bilbao
Discover Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Experience the atmosphere of Casco Viejo with cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and buzzing pintxos bars. This historic district dates back over 700 years, blending medieval charm with modern energy. Plaza Nueva is a lively square, perfect for people watching and sampling Basque tapas. Stroll through the Seven Streets (Las Siete Calles), packed with quirky shops, cafes and hidden courtyards. Casco Viejo isn't just about history; it's a feast for the senses. Sip local Txakoli wine, savour fresh seafood and soak in the authentic Basque vibe.
Ride the Artxanda
Hunt down the best views of Bilbao by hopping on the Artxanda Funicular. The red cable car will whisk you up Mount Artxanda. In just three minutes, you'll reach the top, where panoramic views of Bilbao, the Nervion River and the surrounding mountains await. Once you're up there, take a leisurely stroll, snap some postcard-worthy photos or chill at one of the hilltop cafes with a glass of local Txakoli wine. Are you feeling active? There are scenic trails for hiking and cycling. Don't miss the famous fingerprint sculpture, a tribute to Bilbao's resilience.
Visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Are you ready for an adventure? San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a breathtaking islet off the Basque Coast, complete with a winding stone bridge, dramatic cliffs and a 10th-century hermitage at the top. To get there, you'll climb 241 steps. But it's worth it for the jaw-dropping ocean views. Legend says if you ring the church bell three times, your wish will come true.
Explore Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
If you're craving wild landscapes, golden beaches and lush forests, Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is your dream destination. This UNESCO-listed paradise, just 45 minutes from Bilbao, is home to breathtaking cliffs, scenic hiking trails and incredible birdwatching. You should keep an eye out for ospreys and herons. Start your adventure in Mundaka, a charming fishing village famous for its world-class surfing waves. Do you prefer something more peaceful? Kayak along the Oka River or explore the mystical Oma Painted Forest, where trees form a giant outdoor artwork.
FAQs about Bilbao holidays
Q: Which is better, San Sebastian or Bilbao?
A: San Sebastian and Bilbao are both incredible, but which is better depends on the holiday you want. San Sebastian is a beach paradise with golden sands. It is also home to the world-famous La Concha Bay and a Michelin-starred food scene. The town is perfect for luxury, relaxation and fine dining. Bilbao is a vibrant cultural hub, home to the Guggenheim Museum and buzzing pintxos bars. You'll find a cool mix of history and modern city life here.
Q: How many days in Bilbao is enough?
A: Two to three days in Bilbao is enough to see the highlights. Spend a day exploring the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo and pintxos bars. At the end of the day, take the Artxanda Funicular to see the city's views. On day two, visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or relax at a nearby beach, like Sopelana. If you have a third day, explore the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Q: Is Bilbao a cheap city?
A: Bilbao is moderately priced. It is cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona, but not the cheapest in Spain. Pintxos bars offer affordable meals, and public transport is budget-friendly. Hotels in Bilbao range from budget to luxury, so there's something for every traveller. Museums and attractions are reasonably priced, making Bilbao a great destination for culture and food without breaking the bank.
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