Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, 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 delicious breakfast at this charming café. Try their famous pastries and a hot chocolate or coffee. The ambiance is lovely, and it’s a great way to fuel up for the day!

• Guggenheim Museum: After breakfast, head to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The building itself is a work of art, and inside, you’ll find contemporary art exhibits that can spark interesting conversations with the kids. Don’t forget to check out the giant puppy sculpture made of flowers outside!

Lunch:

• Lunch at the Museum Café: The museum has a lovely café where you can grab a light lunch. They offer a variety of options, including kid-friendly meals.

Afternoon:

• Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: After lunch, take a short walk to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. It has a fantastic collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The museum often has family-friendly activities, so check their schedule!

• Casco Viejo: Next, wander through the charming streets of the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Explore the narrow alleys, and pop into local shops. Don’t miss the Mercado de la Ribera, where you can sample local delicacies and maybe pick up some snacks for later.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Pintxos Bar: Experience the local cuisine by trying pintxos (Basque tapas) at a family-friendly bar. La Olla or Café Bar Bilbao are great options where you can sample a variety of small dishes.

• Stroll along the Nervión River: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the river. The views of the city at night are stunning, and it’s a nice 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 favorite. Their croissants and cakes are a hit with kids!

• Visit the Bilbao Botanical Garden: After breakfast, head to the Bilbao Botanical Garden. It’s a beautiful place to explore nature, and the kids can run around and enjoy the fresh air. There are various themed gardens and a lovely pond.

Lunch:

• Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic or grab some sandwiches from a local café and enjoy lunch in the park. It’s a great way to relax and let the kids play.

Afternoon:

• Funicular de Artxanda: After lunch, take the funicular up to Mount Artxanda for breathtaking views of the city. There’s a playground at the top, and you can enjoy a little hike or just relax and take in the scenery.

• Explore the Bilbao Maritime Museum: Head back down and visit the Bilbao Maritime Museum. It’s interactive and has exhibits that are engaging for kids, showcasing the city’s maritime history.

Evening:

• Dinner at Restaurante Bascook: For your final dinner, treat yourselves to a meal at Restaurante Bascook. They offer a family-friendly atmosphere and delicious Basque cuisine.

• Evening Walk in Abandoibarra: After dinner, take a stroll in the Abandoibarra area, where you can see the beautiful modern architecture and the river. It’s a lovely way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Bilbao is quite walkable, but you can also use the metro or trams to get around easily.
• Language: While Spanish and Basque are the official languages, many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Bilbao! Enjoy every moment! 🌟