5 day itinerary for Bilbao

Itinerary

Bilbao is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. With your interests in sightseeing, hiking, babysitting, and beach time, I’ve crafted a fun and balanced 5-day itinerary for you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Bilbao

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Iruña, a charming spot with a lovely atmosphere. Try their famous pastries!
• After breakfast, head to the Guggenheim Museum. This architectural marvel is a must-see, and the contemporary art inside is just as impressive. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant puppy sculpture outside!

Afternoon:

• Stroll along the Nervión River and make your way to the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Explore the narrow streets, quaint shops, and local markets. Stop for lunch at La Ribera Market where you can sample local delicacies.

Evening:

• For dinner, indulge in some pintxos (Basque tapas) at Calle del Perro. Try a variety of small dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• If you have energy left, take a leisurely walk along the river to see the city lights reflecting on the water.

## Day 2: Hiking Adventure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short trip to Monte Artxanda. You can either hike up (about 1-1.5 hours) or take the funicular for stunning views of the city.
• Once at the top, enjoy the panoramic views and maybe have a coffee at the café there.

Afternoon:

• Head back down and grab lunch at a local eatery in the city. Try some Bacalao a la Vizcaína (cod in a red sauce) for a true taste of the region.
• Spend the afternoon visiting the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. It has a fantastic collection of both ancient and contemporary art.

Evening:

• For dinner, explore the Abando neighborhood and find a cozy restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely meal and perhaps try some local wine.

## Day 3: Day Trip to the Beach

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a train to Getxo, a beautiful coastal town about 30 minutes from Bilbao. The beach here is lovely, and you can enjoy a morning by the sea.
• Walk along the Getxo promenade and check out the stunning Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge).

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a beachside café, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the waves.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or take a dip in the ocean. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak!

Evening:

• Head back to Bilbao and enjoy a casual dinner at a local tavern. Try some txakoli, a refreshing Basque white wine.

## Day 4: Family Fun and Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, dedicate this day to family-friendly activities. Visit the Bilbao Aquarium, which is both fun and educational for kids.
• Next, head to the Parque de Doña Casilda, a lovely park where kids can run around and play.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch in the park or grab a bite at a nearby café.
• In the afternoon, visit the Museo Marítimo Ría de Bilbao to learn about the city’s maritime history. It’s interactive and engaging for all ages!

Evening:

• For dinner, find a family-friendly restaurant in the Indautxu area. Enjoy a relaxed meal and maybe some dessert at a local ice cream shop.

## Day 5: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Morning:

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Spend the morning visiting the Bilbao Cathedral and the Plaza Nueva. The square is perfect for people-watching and enjoying a coffee.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, try a traditional Basque menu del día (menu of the day) at a local restaurant.
• After lunch, take a stroll through the Alameda de Recalde and visit the Euskalduna Palace. If there’s a performance or event, it could be a great way to experience local culture.

Evening:

• For your final dinner in Bilbao, treat yourself to a nice meal at a restaurant with a view, perhaps along the river. Reflect on your trip and enjoy the ambiance of the city one last time.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the local transport options; Bilbao has a great metro system that makes getting around easy.
• If you need babysitting services, consider checking with local agencies or your accommodation for recommendations.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 5 days in Bilbao! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌍📸