Itinerary for 3 day trip to Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and delicious food, and it’s a great base for a day trip to . Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that balances culture and culinary delights, perfect for your March visit!

Day 1: Explore Bilbao’s Cultural Heart

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a traditional Basque breakfast. Try the “tostada con tomate” (toasted bread with tomato) and a café con leche.
: After breakfast, head to the iconic . Spend a couple of hours exploring the stunning contemporary art exhibits and the building itself, designed by Frank Gehry. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant Puppy sculpture outside!

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Make your way to , where you can sample local delicacies. Grab some pintxos (Basque tapas) and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Try the “bacalao” (cod) or “gambas” (prawns) for a true taste of the region.
: After lunch, wander through the charming streets of the (Old Town). Visit the Santiago Cathedral and explore the quaint shops and boutiques. Don’t miss the Plaza Nueva, where you can relax with a coffee or a glass of local wine.

Evening:

Dinner at : Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at , known for its innovative Basque cuisine. Make sure to try the tasting menu for a delightful culinary journey.
Nightcap at a Local Bar: End your day with a drink at a local bar in the Old Town. Try a “kalimotxo” (a mix of red wine and cola) for a true Basque experience!

Day 2: Day Trip to

Morning:

Early Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café. A pastry and coffee will do the trick!
Train to : Take a morning train (about 1 hour) to . The scenic ride will set the mood for your day.

Afternoon:

Stroll along : Once you arrive, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful La Concha beach. The views are stunning, and it’s a great way to soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Pintxos Lunch in : Head to the (Old Town) for lunch. This area is famous for its pintxos bars. Try a variety of pintxos at places like or . Don’t miss the “tortilla de patatas” (potato omelet) and “txangurro” (spider crab).

Evening:

Visit the : After lunch, explore the , which focuses on Basque society and culture. The museum is housed in a former convent, adding to its charm.
Dinner at : For dinner, enjoy a meal at , a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers traditional Basque dishes with a modern twist.
Return to Bilbao: After dinner, take the train back to Bilbao and rest up for another exciting day!

Day 3: More of Bilbao’s Treasures

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with some delicious pastries and coffee at this local favorite. Their “pastel vasco” (Basque cake) is a must-try!
: Spend your morning at the , which boasts an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The museum is less crowded than the Guggenheim, making it a peaceful experience.

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Enjoy a casual lunch at this popular spot, known for its pintxos and friendly atmosphere. Try the “chistorra” (a type of sausage) and some local cheese.
Visit the : After lunch, visit the (Catedral de Santiago). The Gothic architecture is stunning, and you can climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Evening:

Dinner at : For your final dinner in Bilbao, head to , where you can enjoy a variety of pintxos and local wines. It’s a great way to savor the flavors of the Basque Country one last time.
Evening Stroll along the : After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the . The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere, perfect for wrapping up your trip.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary filled with culture, food, and a little adventure in . Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to indulge in all the delicious pintxos along the way! Safe travels! 🌍✨