Bilbao: A Self-Guided Tour from Old Town to the Guggenheim Museum

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll chart Bilbao’s transformation from an ugly duckling to an art and culture icon.

Today, Bilbao is a culture and contemporary art hub, with the Guggenheim Museum as its icon. But just 800 years ago, it was little more than a whaling village. On this walking tour with Basque local and Context Travel expert Maria Martinez, you’ll take in the city’s most impressive sites and discover its history.

As you walk through the Old Town, Maria will tell you about the city’s humble river-port beginnings. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how a new industrial and bourgeois Bilbao flourished after 1850, during several civil wars.

You’ll also dive into Franco’s dictatorship and the economic crisis in the 1970s when the city became a grey, polluted, and sad shell of what it once was. You’ll also hear how the Guggenheim became the great economic driver of the city, contributing to the extraordinary urban, economic, and social regeneration.

Begin your journey in front of the Ribera Market, Bilbao’s bustling marketplace where you’ll delve into the city’s vibrant culinary scene and learn about its historical significance as a hub of trade and commerce.

Explore the charming streets of the Siete Calles, or Seven Streets, as you navigate through Bilbao’s historic port area, tracing the footsteps of pilgrims, soldiers, and merchants who once traversed these ancient thoroughfares.

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Santiago Cathedral, a monumental Gothic masterpiece that serves as a symbol of Bilbao’s enduring spiritual and cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

Reflect on the tumultuous events of the Spanish Civil War as you stand in Plaza Unamuno, a historic square that bears witness to the tragic bombing of 1937 and the resilience of Bilbao’s inhabitants in the face of adversity.

Uncover the secrets of Plaza Nueva, a lively plaza steeped in history and tradition, where you’ll learn about its transformation from a sandy water inlet to a vibrant hub of social and cultural activity.

Indulge in the culinary delights of Basque cuisine as you sample pintxos, the region’s signature small plates of exquisitely crafted food, showcasing the freshest ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.

Marvel at the grandeur of the Arriaga Theatre, a cultural landmark that has played a central role in Bilbao’s artistic and intellectual life, hosting performances that span the spectrum of human experience.

Admire the architectural splendor of the Puente Arenal, or Arena Bridge, as you take in panoramic views of the cityscape and the tranquil waters of the Nervion River, offering a picturesque backdrop for your exploration of Bilbao.

Cross the Puente Ayuntamiento, or City Hall Bridge, and marvel at its elegant design and engineering prowess, which symbolizes Bilbao’s commitment to innovation and progress in the face of adversity.

Experience the modern marvel of the Zubizuri Bridge, a striking pedestrian bridge designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, offering a seamless connection between Bilbao’s past and future.

Stand in awe of the La Salve Bridge, a majestic span that spans the Nervion River and serves as a gateway to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, signaling the culmination of your journey through Bilbao’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation.

End your tour at the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece and cultural icon that stands as a testament to Bilbao’s resurgence as a global centre for art, innovation, and creativity.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

• Bilbao: A Self-Guided Tour from Old Town to the Guggenheim Museum
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• This Tour is Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Madrid.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
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• This Tour is Rated 1 Stars based on 1 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.