Itinerary for 3 day trip to Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With your fast-paced travel style, we’ll pack each day with exciting activities. Let’s dive into your 3-day Bilbao adventure!

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Bilbao

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a traditional Basque breakfast. Try a “tostada” (toasted bread) with tomato and olive oil, paired with a café con leche.
: Head straight to the iconic . Spend a couple of hours exploring the contemporary art exhibits and don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant Puppy sculpture outside!

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Just a short walk away, this market is a foodie paradise. Grab some pintxos (Basque tapas) and local specialties. Try the “bacalao” (cod) or “chistorra” (sausage).
: After lunch, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town. Visit the and the , where you can enjoy a quick coffee or a local dessert.

Evening:

Dinner at a Local Pintxos Bar: Head to or for a pintxos crawl. Try various small dishes and pair them with a glass of local txakoli (a slightly sparkling white wine).
Night Stroll along the : End your day with a leisurely walk along the river, taking in the beautiful views of the city illuminated at night.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

Breakfast at : Treat yourself to some delicious pastries and coffee to fuel up for the day.
: Spend your morning exploring this museum, which houses an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Enjoy more pintxos or a hearty Basque dish like “merluza a la koskera” (hake in green sauce).
: Take the funicular up to for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Spend some time enjoying the scenery and maybe even a quick hike if you’re up for it!

Evening:

Dinner at : For a special treat, dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant. Make sure to book in advance! Enjoy a tasting menu that showcases the best of Basque cuisine.
Catch a Show: Check if there are any performances at the or live music at a local venue. It’s a great way to experience the local culture!

Day 3: Day Trip and Local Experiences

Morning:

Breakfast at your hotel or a local café: Fuel up for your day trip!
Day Trip to : Rent a car or take a bus to this stunning islet with a picturesque chapel. The hike up the steps is worth it for the views! (Note: Check the weather and accessibility beforehand.)

Afternoon:

Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood at a nearby restaurant in the coastal town of .
Visit : On your way back, stop by to stroll along the beach and admire the beautiful villas. If you have time, take a walk on the (Hanging Bridge).

Evening:

Return to Bilbao for Dinner: Head back to Bilbao and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant. Try “txangurro” (spider crab) or “pintxos morunos” (spiced meat skewers).
Final Night Out: Celebrate your last night in Bilbao with a visit to a local bar for some live music or a cozy spot to enjoy a nightcap.

And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day itinerary that captures the essence of Bilbao while keeping you on the move. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful city! Safe travels! 🌍✈️