Bilbao

Bilbao is a fantastic city with a rich culture, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging 2-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Bilbao

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Iruña: Start your day with a hearty Basque breakfast at this charming café. Try the “tostada con tomate” (toasted bread with tomato) and a hot chocolate. The kids will love the atmosphere!

• Guggenheim Museum: After breakfast, head to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The building itself is a work of art! While the adults can appreciate the contemporary art, kids will enjoy the giant Puppy sculpture outside and the fun, interactive exhibits inside. Don’t forget to take a family photo in front of the museum!

Lunch:

• Lunch at the Mercado de la Ribera: This vibrant market is perfect for a family lunch. You can find a variety of local foods, from pintxos (Basque tapas) to fresh seafood. Let the kids pick out their favorite snacks!

Afternoon:

• Casco Viejo (Old Town): After lunch, take a stroll through the charming streets of Casco Viejo. Explore the narrow alleys, visit the local shops, and stop by the beautiful Plaza Nueva. The kids can enjoy some ice cream from one of the local gelaterias!

• Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: If time allows, visit this museum, which has a fantastic collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. There are often family-friendly activities and workshops available.

Evening:

• Dinner at La Vina del Ensanche: Enjoy a family dinner at this traditional Basque restaurant. Try some local specialties like bacalao (cod) or txangurro (spider crab). The atmosphere is warm and welcoming for families.

• Evening Stroll along the Nervión River: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the river. The views of the city lights reflecting on the water are magical, and it’s a great way to wind down after a busy day.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pastelería Suiza: Treat the family to some delicious pastries and coffee at this local bakery. Their croissants and cakes are a hit with kids!

• Visit to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: If you didn’t make it yesterday, this is a great time to explore the museum. They often have family-friendly activities, so check their schedule!

Lunch:

• Lunch at a Local Pintxos Bar: Head to a pintxos bar for a casual lunch. Let the kids choose their favorite pintxos from the bar. It’s a fun way to try different flavors!

Afternoon:

• Funicular de Artxanda: After lunch, take the funicular up to Mount Artxanda. The ride is exciting, and the views from the top are breathtaking! There’s a playground at the top where the kids can play while you enjoy the scenery.

• Parque de Doña Casilda: Head back down and visit this lovely park. It’s perfect for a family picnic or just to let the kids run around. There’s a pond with ducks and plenty of green space to relax.

Evening:

• Dinner at Restaurante Bascook: For your last dinner in Bilbao, enjoy a meal at this family-friendly restaurant. They offer a mix of traditional and modern Basque cuisine, and the atmosphere is cozy.

• Family Game Night: If you’re staying in an apartment or hotel with a common area, consider a family game night with some local board games or cards. It’s a great way to reflect on your trip and bond as a family!

Tips:

• Transportation: Bilbao has a great public transport system, including trams and buses, which makes getting around easy.
• Language: While Spanish is widely spoken, learning a few Basque phrases can be fun and appreciated by locals!
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as it can be rainy in Bilbao.

I hope you and your family have an amazing time exploring Bilbao! Enjoy every moment! 🌟