Have you found yourself in Bilbao on a Sunday and aren’t quite sure what there is to do? Like most Spanish cities, a number of regular tourist destinations, shops and restaurants close on a Sunday… but fear not! From art to gastronomy to the avant-garde, there is still plenty to do in the capital of Bizkaia. Read on to find out what to do on a Sunday in Bilbao!
Explore the Siete Calles of the historic centre
Getting lost in the streets of Bilbao is one of the best ways to truly discover the city (and a fantastic way to spend your Sunday). Did you know that the original core of Bilbao was originally composed of three main streets? These were gradually extended to the famous Siete Calles (‘seven streets’).
After a significant proportion of the city was wrecked by floods in 1983. As such, much of the old town has to be rebuilt from the ground up. Today, the town centre houses a combination of classic and avant-garde shops, as well as bars and restaurants where you can taste the best of local cuisine.
By wandering around Siete Calles, you’ll stumble across unique corners of the city, colorful houses, churches, palaces, and more. Take your adventure to the next level by joining a free tour of Bilbao!
Visit the Guggenheim Museum
Another perfect way to spend your Sunday in Bilbao is with a visit to the extraordinary Guggenheim Museum – one of the most iconic museums in all of Spain. This haven of modern and contemporary art is an obligatory stop on any trip to Bilbao.
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Guggenheim is renowned for its unique and innovative architecture. The work of Frank Gehry, the museum’s undulating, titanium-clad structure defies traditional norms, captivating visitors. Even if you don’t go inside the museum, there are plenty of pieces of art to enjoy on the outside. For example, the famous spider-shaped structure entitled “Mama“, by Louise Bourgeois, and the iconic “Puppy” by Jeff Koons, which is covered by almost 40,000 flowers! If you want to explore the ouside and inside of the museum, why not take this private tour?
The interior is equally awe-inspiring, featuring vast, interconnected galleries illuminated by natural light filtering through the iconic skylight. The museum’s innovative layout houses a rich and diverse collection of art from both established and emerging artists of a broad spectrum of artistic movements and styles. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the dynamic and immersive experience offered by the Guggenheim is sure to impress!
Climb Mount Artxanda
Climbing Mount Artxanda is a quintessential Sunday activity in Bilbao. Offering some of the most incredible views of the city, this should come as no surprise! Whether you make your way up during the day or at sunset, the views will make it worthwhile!
You can ascend the mountain by car, but the most common way is to take the famous Artxanda funicular. From the top you’ll enjoy excellent panoramic views of Bilbao, overlooking the estuary, the Guggenheim Museum, the new San Mamés Stadium, the Iberdrola Tower and more iconic landmarks in the city!
Take a stroll through Plaza Nueva
Next on our list of what to do on a Sunday in Bilbao, we move to the largest and most important square in the historic centre. While there are undoubtedly some similarities between this square and others across Spain, the unique architecture of the Euskaltzaindia and the Royal Academy of the Basque Language will quickly remind you that you’re still in the Basque Country.
Believe it or not, this square is also one of the best places to try some delicious pintxos. Be sure to visit Gure Toki or Café Bar Bilbao!
Best of all, on Sundays, this square is host to a bustling antiques market. Buy, sell or exchange stamps, coins, banknotes, books and second-hand records to your heart’s delight!
Try the famous Basque pintxos
Sunday is perhaps the best day to enjoy an aperitif. So, if you’re still wondering what to do on a Sunday in Bilbao, we encourage you to go on a pintxo tour! You’re sure to leave with your mouth watering and your stomach full!
The excellence of Basque gastronomy is no secret. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Bilbao is home to a large number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Basque cod al pil pil, Biscayan-style tripe, stuffed peppers, baby squid… your options are endless!
Be make sure to leave room for dessert! We recommend ending your meal with a carolina, a puff pastry tartlet covered with meringue and topped with egg yolk and chocolate – try it for yourself!
Admire the Santiago Cathedral
Strolling through the old town, you’ll eventually find yourself at Santiago Cathedral. This cathedral was constructed as a tribute to the city’s patron saint, Santiago el Mayor. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, this cathedral is a prime example of Gothic architecture in the Basque Country.
Among the most outstanding artistic works of the cathedral are the chapels of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, Nuestra Señora del Rosario, San Diego de Alcalá and Nuestra Señora de Begoña. You can also visit the choir, the main chapel, the cloister and other beautiful chapels that house a rich historical legacy.
Cruise along the Ría
If you’re looking for something low-key to do on a Sunday in Bilbao, this boat tour of the Bilbao Estuary, (known locally as the Ría de Bilbao) is the perfect option for you!
The Guggenheim Museum, the Vizcaya Bridge, the port of Santurtzi… sailing the waters of Bilbao’s iconic Ría, you can appreciate the city from a whole new perspective whilst disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy the best panoramic view of the estuary!
If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can also stroll along the shoreline of the estuary at sunset and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
