7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Bilbao

Saturday, September 23: Arrival in Bilbao

Welcome to Bilbao! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the riverside promenade to the Casco Viejo, the charming old town filled with narrow streets and historic buildings. Enjoy some pintxos, the famous Basque tapas, for dinner.

• Guggenheim Museum: Estimated Cost: Free - €25, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
• Casco Viejo: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Pintxo Bars: Estimated Cost: €10-€30, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, September 24: Bilbao City Exploration

Discover the city's rich history by visiting the Bilbao Cathedral and the Plaza Nueva in the morning. In the afternoon, take a funicular ride up to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of Bilbao. Enjoy a leisurely evening strolling along the Gran Vía, known for its shops and cafes.

• Bilbao Cathedral: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Plaza Nueva: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
• Mount Artxanda: Estimated Cost: €1.50, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Gran Vía: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, September 25: Family Fun at Getxo

Head to the coastal town of Getxo, just a short metro ride from Bilbao. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful beaches and the famous Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, visit the Abra Bay Marina and enjoy water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Wrap up the day with a relaxing sunset picnic on the beach.

• Vizcaya Bridge: Estimated Cost: €8, Time Spent: 2 hours
• Abra Bay Marina: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Beach Picnic: Estimated Cost: €10-€20, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 26: Nature Day Trip to Urdaibai

Embark on a day trip to Urdaibai, a stunning natural biosphere reserve. Spend the morning exploring the Urdaibai Bird Center and learning about the diverse bird species. In the afternoon, visit the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet with a picturesque chapel perched on top. Enjoy a hike and soak in the breathtaking views.

• Urdaibai Bird Center: Estimated Cost: €6, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours

Wednesday, September 27: Bilbao Aquarium and Science Museum

Start the day with a visit to the Bilbao Aquarium, home to a vast collection of marine species. In the afternoon, explore the Eureka! Zientzia Museoa, a hands-on science museum perfect for kids and adults alike. Unwind in the evening with a relaxing walk along the riverbank.

• Bilbao Aquarium: Estimated Cost: €12-€15, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Eureka! Zientzia Museoa: Estimated Cost: €6-€8, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Riverbank Walk: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 28: Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in Basque culture by visiting the Basque Museum and the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center housed in a former wine warehouse. In the afternoon, explore the Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a tranquil green oasis. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the traditional Basque restaurants.

• Basque Museum: Estimated Cost: €5, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Azkuna Zentroa: Estimated Cost: Free - €10, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Traditional Basque Restaurant: Estimated Cost: €25-€50, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, September 29: Explore Gaztelugatxe and Bermeo

Visit the enchanting Gaztelugatxe, a small island with a medieval hermitage on top. Take a hike up the stairs and enjoy breathtaking views. In the afternoon, explore the coastal town of Bermeo, known for its charming fishing port and cozy streets. Try some fresh seafood dishes for dinner.

• Gaztelugatxe: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-4 hours
• Bermeo: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Estimated Cost: €20-€40, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Old Port of Algorta, a picturesque neighborhood with colorful houses and stunning views. Take a boat tour along the Bilbao Estuary and discover the beauty of the surrounding nature. Don't forget to try the local specialty, txakoli, a white wine produced in the region.