What to see in Bilbao on a weekend

2022-04-12

Bilbao is a perfect city to spend a weekend where you will find architecture, nature, art, and the excellent gastronomy of the north. A city with a lot of life that has the perfect balance between history and modernity. In addition, it was named Best European City by The Academy of Urbanism in 2018.
To make the most of your visit, we have prepared a list of what to see in Bilbao on a weekend.

The Casco Viejo

The Old Town of Bilbao, or Casco Viejo, is also known as Las 7 Calles, The 7 Streets, a space full of life and history. You will be able to find the original entrances of the old town of Bilbao or the Church of San Antón, with the fortress that surrounded it. Currently, it is a totally pedestrian labyrinth of leisure and gastronomy.
It is also typical to do a pintxo route through the Old Town, stopping at different bars to try one or two pintxos.

Plaza Nueva

In the heart of Casco Viejo you will find the Plaza Nueva, the New Square. In neoclassical style, the square has a rectangular shape and is surrounded by 33 arches, perhaps it will remind you of the Plaza Mayor in Madrid. In it you will find cafes, pintxos, and tranquillity to rest for a few minutes.

Cathedral of Santiago

Also in the Casco Viejo is the Cathedral of Santiago, one of the most impressive Gothic churches through which the Camino de Santiago passes. Even better, the admission is free!

Guggenheim Museum

Without a doubt, one of the symbols of the city is the Guggenheim Museum, one of the most recognized museums in the world. From its exterior structure, with the exterior art pieces such as the giant steel spider by Bourgeouis, as well as the art pieces on the inside by Rothko, Klein and Koons, among other artists.

Even if it's just to go see it outside, you should stop by to take some of the obligatory photos in the city.

Unamuno's Square

Square dedicated to the writer and philosopher Miguel de Unamuno, born in Bilbao. Surely, this is one of the busiest areas of the city.
Once there, you must ascend the Calzadas de Mallona, they are almost 350 steps, to reach the Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. It is said that during the 16th century the Virgin of Begoña appeared in this space and the Basilica was built around it in her honour. The ascent is considered a kind of penance.

La Ribera Market

Next to the Church of San Antón, you will find the largest covered market in Europe, with its characteristic smells and colours. Over the years, it has managed to maintain its essence and continue with the tradition. You can visit it, even if you are not going to buy, with a few minutes you should have enough.

Doña Casilda Park

The romantic French-style gardens found in the space donated by Doña Casilda Iturrizar are the perfect space to relax after a day visiting the city.
Works by artists such as Eduardo Chillida can be found throughout the park, between its walkways, a grotto, a lake, and a greenhouse, among other spaces.

Artxanda viewpoint

Mount Artxanda, the lowest peak that surrounds the city, is ideal to admire the city with panoramic views. If you are only going to be in Bilbao for a weekend, the best option is to take the funicular, it takes 3 minutes and costs approximately 1 euro.

San Mamés Stadium

If you have the opportunity, you should go to “The Cathedral of Football” to watch an Athletic de Bilbao match to live the full experience of being a true local. A great festival of sport.
Resa Inn San Mamés is one of our accommodations that is only a 4-minute walk from the stadium. It is ideal if you intend to go to one of the matches!

Arriaga Theatre

Even if you just walk past it, you should marvel at the neo-baroque architectural work inspired by the Paris Opera. The Arriaga Theatre is named after the Bilbao composer called the “Spanish Mozart”, Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga.

Marzana Pier

Finally, we recommend you end a day at the Marzana Pier. You will have views of the Mercado de la Ribera, and you will always find something to drink or eat. Also considered the Soho of Bilbao, there are clubs and theatres with a good atmosphere all night. Another option is to visit the Muelle de Ripa, in front of the Arriaga Theatre. Both spaces with charm and a great social atmosphere.

A you can see, there are many things you can do in Bilbao in a weekend. Have you written down them all? Discover the Resa Inn options to find accommodation in Bilbao at the best price and with all the comforts. Do not miss this wonder of the Basque Country!

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