Itinerary for 3 day trip to Bilbao

Bilbao is a charming city with a rich culinary scene and a romantic atmosphere. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you savor authentic Basque cuisine and enjoy the city's unique charm.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

Morning:

Check-in at Hotel: Start your romantic getaway by checking into the or . Both offer a blend of luxury and charm, perfect for a romantic stay.
Breakfast: Head to for a traditional Basque breakfast. Try the tostada con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) and a café con leche.

Midday:

Explore : Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town (). Don’t miss the , where you can admire the beautiful architecture and maybe grab a pintxo (Basque tapas) at one of the many bars.

Lunch:

: Visit this vibrant food market, one of the largest in Europe! Sample local delicacies like bacalao a la vizcaína (cod in a red sauce) and fresh seafood. Grab a few pintxos and enjoy them at the market.

Afternoon:

: After lunch, head to the iconic . Even if you’re not an art buff, the building itself is a masterpiece. Take your time exploring the exhibits and the surrounding area.

Evening:

Dinner: For a romantic dinner, make a reservation at , which offers a tasting menu that showcases the best of Basque cuisine. The ambiance is intimate, perfect for a special evening.

Night:

Post-Dinner Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the , enjoying the views of the illuminated city and the stunning Guggenheim at night.

Day 2: Culture and Culinary Delights

Morning:

Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or try for some delicious pastries and coffee.

Midday:

: Spend your morning at the , which houses an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

Lunch:

Pintxos Crawl: Head back to the Old Town for a pintxos crawl. Visit bars like and to sample a variety of pintxos. Don’t forget to try the gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and txangurro (spider crab).

Afternoon:

Visit the : This cultural center is a former wine warehouse and now hosts exhibitions, a cinema, and a rooftop terrace with great views. It’s a lovely spot to relax and soak in the local culture.

Evening:

Dinner: For a unique dining experience, book a table at , where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the museum. The menu features a mix of traditional and modern Basque dishes.

Night:

Nightcap: End your day with a drink at , a classic spot where you can enjoy a local wine or a cocktail in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 3: Day Trip and Relaxation

Morning:

Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at or your hotel.

Midday:

Day Trip to : Take a short trip to this stunning islet, famous for its picturesque chapel and breathtaking views. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Bilbao. Hike the steps to the chapel for a romantic experience.

Lunch:

Lunch in Bermeo: After your hike, head to the nearby fishing town of Bermeo for lunch. Try for fresh seafood and local dishes.

Afternoon:

Return to Bilbao: Head back to Bilbao and take some time to relax at your hotel or explore any areas you may have missed.

Evening:

Dinner: For your final dinner, indulge in a meal at , a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern take on Basque cuisine. Make sure to try their tasting menu for a memorable experience.

Night:

Final Stroll: Take a romantic evening stroll through the city, perhaps along the river or through the beautifully lit streets of the Old Town, reflecting on your wonderful trip.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of authentic food, romantic settings, and cultural experiences in Bilbao. Enjoy your trip! 🌟