Bilbao is a charming and historic port city in northern Spain. It is also the largest city in the Basque Country, and is home to one of the oldest and most tightly-knit cultures in Europe. Downtown Bilbao is filled with modern skyscrapers, impressive museums, world-class restaurants, and an enormous port. There is also a historic quarter of the city, which is where the city originally formed over 700 years ago. Spend your holiday wandering through the streets of both the new and old areas of the city, try the mouthwatering local cuisine, and sip on the famed regional wines. Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find something to love during a holiday in Bilbao.

Find your dream accommodation

Spain-Holiday makes finding your ideal holiday rentals in Bilbao a breeze. Browse an unbeatable selection of apartments, villas, and holiday homes, with a little something for every kind of traveller. Host your next group getaway in a spacious, newly renovated apartment in the heart of Bilbao. Or, make your upcoming couple's getaway extra memorable in a romantic apartment with a balcony and view overlooking the city. Families can take advantage of the selection of oversized, child-friendly apartments with all the comforts of home. Be sure to filter your search based on your desired amenities for the best chances of finding your ideal holiday rentals in Bilbao.

Holidays in Bilbao: The area and getting around

Arriving in Bilbao

Bilbao is conveniently served by the Bilbao International Airport, which is just a 10-minute north of the city centre. This airport is one of the largest in the Basque Country, with an abundance of domestic and international flights available daily. You can reach the city from the airport by bus, taxi, or rental car.

Getting around the city

The city is well-connected by city buses which go by the name "Bilbobus". You can also get around using the tram or the metro, both of which have many stops throughout the city. Bilbao is also quite walkable, and nearly all the main attractions and central neighbourhoods are reachable on foot. Alternatively, you can also use a bicycle or an electric scooter to get around.

Travellers and activities

Bilbao for Couples

Couples of all ages can enjoy a memorable and relaxing holiday in Bilbao. Take your partner for a date where you can try the best of Basque cuisine in a modern and stunning dining room at Restaurante Nido Bilbao Cocina Vasca. End the night at La Mula de Moscu, a stylish lounge offering upscale cocktails and delicious Spanish tapas.

Bilbao for Families

Families of all ages will find plenty of ways to stay entertained during a visit to Bilbao. Go for a sightseeing boat tour, where you'll get to see a variety of major attractions from the water while learning fascinating details about each one. You'll have the option of booking either a 1- or 2-hour boat tour, both of which operate at various time slots throughout the day. Also, bring kids to the Europa park, located in the southeast part of the city, where they can let out their extra steam. There are slides, play areas, zip lines, benches, and walking trails here.

Top 5 travel tips in Bilbao

1. Get lost in the Old Town

The best way to experience the beautiful, historic Old Town of Bilbao is to simply get lost in the colourful streets and alleyways. Located in the heart of the city, the Old Town is home to some of the city's oldest churches and monuments, as well as a wide variety of boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and bars.

2. Visit the Guggenheim Museum

This titanium and glass museum was designed by renowned Canadian architect, Frank Gehry. Inside is a collection of world-class 20th-century artworks with spectacular exhibitions and examples of contemporary architecture. There's also a top-rated restaurant inside where you can grab a bite to eat in between browsing the collections.

3. Visit the beautiful Plaza Nueva

This stunning central square is a must-visit for anyone in Bilbao. Lined with historic buildings, palm trees, restaurants, and bars, it's an excellent place to eat, drink, or people watch. Live musicians perform here most evenings, so you can sip on a glass of wine while you listen to the free entertainment.

4. Discover the regal Begoñako Basilika

This regal 16th-century basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of Biscay. It's a stunning example of gothic and baroque architecture, and the intricate details of the interior boast gold accents, stained-glass windows, and detailed paintings. It is set at the top of a hill and requires a 10-minute stair-climb to be reached, but the views at the top make it well-worth it.

5. Watch the sunset from a hillside park

Situated on a hillside overlooking the city, Parque Etxebarria is an excellent little escape from busy Bilbao. The wide open green space is the perfect place to relax under the sun, or to enjoy an active afternoon. Go for a long walk, let kids run around on the playground, and eat lunch at one of the cafes.

Which types of amenities are offered at the holiday lettings in Bilbao?

When looking at the services you can find on Spain-Holiday, it seems that the holiday lettings in Bilbao have everything that travellers search for! Here, holiday lettings generally have a variety of amenities, the most popular being: Wi-Fi (85%), balcony (13%), and air conditioning (3%)... Not bad, right?

What are the reviews like for the holiday lettings in Bilbao?

On average, the holiday lettings here have rather positive reviews. Last year's information reveals that 21% of holiday lettings have a rating average of 4.5 stars. This is a fairly high ratio which allows us to confirm that you will without a doubt find the ideal holiday letting for a wonderful holiday!

Are the holiday lettings in Bilbao suitable for travellers and their pets?

In general, a small percentage of holiday lettings in Bilbao accept pets. We can therefore assume that there are better destinations in Spain for owners and their pets.

Do the holiday lettings in Bilbao often have Wi-Fi?

Certainly! According to Spain-Holiday's database, 85% of holiday lettings in Bilbao include Wi-Fi. You will be able to stay connected throughout your stay!

How much does it cost on average to rent holiday lettings in Bilbao?

The majority of holiday lettings in Bilbao (94%) in general cost less than £100 a night. This is the perfect destination for booking an affordable holiday letting!

Do the holiday lettings in Bilbao usually have a swimming pool?

Not always. According to the information collected last year, most of the holiday lettings in Bilbao are not equipped with one.

Are the holiday lettings in Bilbao suitable for trips with several people or better for a weekend break as a small group?

Judging by last year's information, 76% of holiday lettings are made for up to four guests. Approximately 86% of the holiday lettings here have at least two separate bedrooms. Bilbao is the perfect destination for small groups of friends!

When planning a luxurious weekend in Bilbao, are holiday lettings a good option?

Exactly! The holiday lettings are well equipped in Bilbao. If you are looking for a unique holiday property, you shouldn't wait long to book because 1% have a pool, 0% have a garden but none have a sauna.

Are you interested in getting to know which are the best times of the year to make a trip to Bilbao?

The characteristics of the holiday lettings in Bilbao demonstrate that it is a holiday destination that can adapt to all tastes and times of the year. This is because there are varied options, from a swimming pool to air conditioning. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy Bilbao in comfort all year round.