Bilbao With Kids – A Brilliant Family Holiday!

A BILBAO FAMILY HOLIDAY

After an epic 4 week family road trip through France, Spain and Portugal we were finally ready to catch the ferry home from Bilbao. But not before we spent a final 2 days in Bilbao with kids in tow! It was definitely the place to send out our Summer travels with a great big BANG – Bilbao is fab!

Park in Bilbao for kids

Bilbao With Kids – The Perfect City For Families

There are so many fun things to do in Bilbao with kids there’ll never be an issue of running out of activities. Highlights like the Guggenheim, Mercado de la Ribera and the Artxander Funicular are just some of the Bilbao attractions they’re going to be wowed by. But what we loved the most about our Bilbao family holiday was the food! Our 3 food-loving kids absolutely embraced the Basque concept of pintxos. So, interspersed with Bilbao attractions, our 2 days in Bilbao turned into a food tour of legendary proportions that our kids are still talking about.

And even if your kids aren’t that into food, I’m sure as parents you’re going to appreciate the Bilbao way of eating if only from a convenience perspective.

Pintxos are the Basque equivalent to tapas, or Cicchetti, basically small plates that you order with a drink, usually in super-relaxed bars and cafes – with absolutely no aversion to children. It’s a big thing here in the Basque region and there’s an element of competition for who can procure the best taste sensations held together with a cocktail stick! And we had great fun trying as many combo’s as possible. They’re so cheap (often €1 each), designed to be just a mouthful or two to snack on, and you really don’t want to miss out on this lovely local custom. So with our self-made rule of only one pintxos per bar, we set off on a tour of Bilbao with the kids and didn’t have to worry about selling a lung to afford to be able to feed them!

Therefore, along with our following recommendations of THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN BILBAO, we’ve also included some great places to grab pintxos in those specific areas. Effectively a bar crawl with the kids in tow!

NOTE: Bars start serving pintxos at noon and carry on until about 9pm when most Spaniards start thinking about their official evening meal.

The Perfect Family Hotel, Bilbao

First off we’d like to give you our personal recommendation for a family hotel in Bilbao.

We stayed at the Inside Bilbao Apartments next to the Abando (or central) district/barrio. Compact and bijou, we had everything we needed, plus it was an excellent location in terms of Bilbao attractions. The kids loved people-watching from the balcony and some of our favourite pintxos bars were only a stone’s throw. We think the Abando area is perfect for families, it felt safer and there were lots of Bilbaoan families about too.

Family hotel Bilbao. Apartment in Abando district near Guggenheim.

Inside Apartments, Bilbao

Abando is a really great area and not too far from all of the fun things to do with kids in Bilbao. If you’d prefer a hotel, check out the Bilbao map below…

Booking.com

Fun Things To Do In Bilbao For Kids

1. Visit Casco Viejo – Bilbao Old Town

Casco Viejo, or Old Town, is the liveliest barrio of Bilbao – the streets are narrow and tall but they’re not cramped on style – it’s romantic and fizzing with energy. It’s a little run down when compared to other Spanish old towns like Salamanca and Palma, but even so – it’s not a reflection of a lack of investment. Bilbaoans are artists and a bit of Gothic rustic charm is no more appreciated than with the bohemian set. You could easily spend the morning wandering with a plaguing sense of deja vu as you get lost in the maze of a medieval labyrinth. Casco Viejo’s old name meant ‘seven streets’ and this grid used to be inside the old city walls.

WHAT’S WORTH SEEING WITH THE KIDS IN CASCO VIEJO?

Plaza Nueva (or Plaza Barria) is a great place to dodge seagull poo. It’s like a Spanish version of the hunger games – a small enclosed square, framed with arches, that has you trapped save only for a few small (unobvious) exits, with kamikaze seagulls taking aim if you don’t share your ice cream. It’s a hive of activity and if you can find a seat at a cafe in front of the arcades, a great spot for people-watching as the gulls cause pandemonium.

On a Sunday mornings there’s even a flea market, with little birds in old wooden cages and terrapins and other tiny pets to keep the kids amused. Nearby in Plaza del Arenal there’s also a pretty flower market – also Sunday mornings, so if you just want to take in the city don’t miss this square off your travel plans.

The Mercado de la Ribera is Europe’s largest indoor covered market and very art-deco stylish. It’s super busy for good reason, the place is a feast for the eyes let alone the belly. So just keep a watchful eye on the kids because it can get quite packed but there are so many amazing sights that they will be stopping to stare at every market stall! The market should be on everybody’s must-see list of places to visit in Bilbao but especially if you have kids. In fact, if you’re limited on time in Bilbao I’d say make this your one choice of somewhere to eat, the choice is incredible!

Best Places For Food In Casco Viejo With Kids

  • Irrintzi was on a few travel bloggers top 5 lists that I read before our trip and they were right – cheap and cheerful with plenty of choice in their €1 selection, excellent local wine and a laid back atmosphere perfect for kids.
  • El Txoko – more of a dining experience; just a plain door on the outside but a beautiful restaurant indoors. €10.50  for the 3 course lunch menu which will definitely not disappoint.
  • Mercado de la Ribera – just do it!
Mercado de la Ribera - a food market in Bilbao. Art deco style.
Mercado de la Ribera

2. Ride The Funicular De Artxanda

Funicular De Artxanda is a 3 minute cable car ride that takes you to the best views of Bilbao, and an opportunity to rest your legs after the maze that was Casco Viejo.

On the weekend the park at the top is busy with locals and their picnics, escaping the hustle and bustle for a while, but don’t worry – there’s plenty of room for everyone.

The Bilbao sign at the top of the funicular. Things to do in Bilbao for kids

Cable cars depart every 15 minutes from 7.15am till 10pm and you can purchase your return ticket from the station at the bottom for €4.30 each (kids under 6 free). It’s almost a kilometre long and at an incline of 45 degrees so that bit of mild peril sings every child’s tune – ‘what if the cable snaps!?’. This was definitely one of the favourite things to do in Bilbao for our kids.

NOTE: On the way to the cable car from the Casco Viejo area you could visit one of Bilbao’s green spaces, Etxebarria Park, if your kids have plenty of energy to burn.

3. The Zubizuri Bridge

The Zubizuri Bridge is one of the most famous Bilbao attractions, and quite an impressive structure. We do have a thing for bridges in our family but this one is particularly special and looks even more dramatic at night time when it’s all lit up. If you do end up staying in the Abando district as we did, the Zubizuri becomes the focal point of your evening.

Zubizuri Bridge - places to see in Bilbao
Zubizuri Bridge

Some people, the kind who like to complain about twerking and revolving doors, say that the bridge is a health hazard. Apparently, the glass blocks at the side can get slippery when wet. They should try wrapping elastic bands around their shoes and get back to watching the international darts championships because I think they are missing the point – this is Bilbao, an open-air modern art museum, a place where every corner turns up another splendid sight, where creativity thrives and aesthetics are so important.

Besides, the kids love a good You’ve Been Framed moment. Big love to the Zubizuri.

4. The Guggenheim Museum

This world-renowned museum is probably the most iconic image of Bilbao and no doubt you already have it on your list of places to visit in Bilbao. It’s quite special.

I would have liked nothing more than to spend a whole day in this place, but alas, my brood are not yet impressed by Gauguin, Goya and Greco. So unless you’re wondering about what to do in Bilbao when it rains, I think I would recommend restricting your Guggenheim experience with kids to just exploring the grounds for free.

The Guggenheim museum, one of the most iconic places to see in Bilbao, Spain

However, if you really did want to subject your children to some of the world’s best art, tickets are only €13 per adult and children under 18 are free (with an accompanying paying adult) which personally I think is very reasonable.

NOTE: Beware of pick-pockets, they seem to be more prevalent here than in other places. I personally felt a greater need to keep a firm hold of my youngest child’s hand too.

5. Park Abandoibarra & Evaristo Txurruka Kaia

Running from the Guggenheim Museum all the way to the Euskalduna Palace is a patch of Bilbao that kinda epitomises the whole ethos of the city. A wonderful tree-lined riverside walk that was once occupied by the old shipyards is now an outdoor sculpture museum and a hive of activity.

You could easily spend an hour taking in the sculptures and fountains made of fire and fog – there’s certainly plenty to amuse the kids. No doubt you’ve seen images of the famous flowery dog and the creepy giant spider, but there’s also the colour-changing bridge, the tall tree, the tulips and many more fascinating sculptures.

Street performers and souvenir sellers make the most of the crowds at the Evaristo Txurruka Kaia, and you can make the most of this free entertainment!

As for Park Abandoibarra, visit the children’s play area with interactive fountains and giant adventure playground.

TOP TIPS:

  • Visit both in the daytime and in the evening for the different perspectives – it’s amazing all lit up. (That’s partly why we loved staying at the Bilbao family hotel Inside Bilbao Apartments as it was a great location for just nipping out on an evening)
  • For the best photo’s make your way onto the Salbeko Zubia bridge.

6. Hang Out in Barrio Abando

Tree-lined boulevards sit just behind the Guggenheim and supply Bilbao with upscale apartments, hotels, bars and shops. The architecture is much newer here in Abando than in the old town, Casco Viejo, and kept very pristine and handsome.

This was actually the area where we discovered the coolest pintxos bars and to be honest, the area where I didn’t feel so aware of the children’s safety. On an evening we were mingling with other Spanish families and kids were not unwanted at the bars and restaurants, even up to 10 pm.

During the day the tall blue glass building, Torre Iberdrolacan be seen from most intersections to give you your bearings. And, if you’re heading in that direction to take a closer look then you must visit the lovely park, Doña Casilda de Iturriza, just behind the Museum Of Fine Art (which is free on Wednesdays). This was our favourite park in Bilbao with all the right distractions for kids – a duck pond, pergolas and fountains: the perfect place to enjoy the Basque sunshine as a family. It’s also very convenient to visit the train station to see the huge stained glass clock at the entrance.

Best Places For Food With Kids In Abando

  • Bar El Figon. Situated right opposite our hotel and with one of the best selections in Abando, customers spill onto the street.
  • El Globo, not far from Bar El Figon, is cosy and casual and has a great cocktail menu.
  • Monty, on the corner of Heros Kalea and Calle Juan Ajuriaguerra Kalea, has outdoor seating for a balmy summer evening.

7. Visit The Indautxu Neighbourhood

The Barrio Indautxu is pretty much a continuation of Abando, there isn’t much of a difference in the style of buildings here if just a little less manicured. Shopping is the main focus of this area which admittedly isn’t many children’s idea of fun but if you’re on a Bilbao family holiday with teenagers they’re going to love this area.

One little secret gem of Bilbao that not many tourists seem to have heard of is the Azkuna Zentroa Centre (formerly known as La Alhondiga). A contemporary space that seems to house shops, cafes, a library, swimming pool, movie screenings and offices is definitely worth twenty minutes of your time. The centre regularly hosts events and exhibitions so be sure to check their calendar ahead of your visit.

Philippe Starck is the mastermind behind the amazing design of this centre and there are several aspects that will grab the kid’s attention. The swimming pool is on the top floor and has a glass bottom so if you’re standing in the main atrium you will see the swimmers above you – how cool!

Downstairs on the main deck are elaborate columns, 43 in total and all very different – great for photographs. And, light boxes which double up as seats and bottom-warmers. It’s a cosmopolitan phenomenon and again, a symbol of this wonderfully dynamic city. Entrance is free and it is open from early till midnight most days.

8. See Some Of Bilbao’s Street Art

If you are in Bilbao with teenagers then there are some pretty cool examples of street art and graffiti dotted around the city. Iralako Parkea was one of our favourite colourful spaces but there are so many great pieces of art thrown on walls and buildings.

The area around the university has many painted murals and the famous Brazilian street artist Erb Mon has stamped his unique paint techniques all over Bilbao. Like we said before, Bilbao is more a living breathing art gallery than a city!

street art in Bilbao for kids
Avenida Kirikiño (Iralako Parkea) Bilbao | ©Zarateman / Wikimedia Commons

TRAVEL ADVICE FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN BILBAO

  • Bilbao is relatively small and if you break up your trip into two sections – north and south of the river – there is no need to have to use public transport.
  • Bilbao’s climate is such that the winters are mild and the summers can be humid. It is also the wettest area of Spain so pack accordingly – light cagoules are ideal waterproofs.
  • There are several other museums in Bilbao that I haven’t mentioned here but that get very good reviews; The Basque Heritage Museum and The Maritime Museum are the 2 I would have liked to explore with the children.

So there you have it – our best suggestions for things to do in Bilbao with kids. It was certainly a fun two days in the easy-going city of Bilbao and there was something for everyone. Having snack-like food on tap at the Pintxos bars and plenty of open space to run around makes it the perfect location for a family holiday. We hope we’ve inspired you for your trip!


Bilbao made it into our recent post “The 10 Best Weekend Breaks in Europe You’ve Not Thought of Yet” – you might want to take a look if you’re wanting some inspiration for your next European short break!

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The best things to do in Bilbao with kids - museums, parks, attractions and more. Plus some stella suggestions for Pintxos bars to take the kids and Bilbao family hotels. We've got you covered, all you need to know before you visit Bilbao. #Bilbao

26 Comments Add yours

  1. I have always wanted to go to the Guggenheim Museum! We are looking for an alternative weekend away in Spain next year and this may just well be it. There are some great suggestions and tips here Alex and actually I think this would also serve well as a trip without the kids then we could really indulge our art passion. Thanks for sharing it with us. #TweensTeensBeyond

  2. Jane Taylor says:

    Bilbao sounds fab. I hadn’t realised the famous Guggenheim was there. It all looks amazing. I reckon I’d skip the seagull divebombing and either hide in the food court you described or visit the museum with you and leave the kids at home!! I love a good museum, I do!

  3. This is my second read and what a perfect day to read of overseas travel and holibobs! You put so much time and effort into your travel posts Alex and they are always so very interesting. Certainly not a place I would have considered with a kid in tow but it shall now make it on to the Bucket List. I love the pictures and your animated detail in sharing this city with us. Pintxos sound like my kind of snack and I am very envious of the fact that your children are such good eaters. I aspire to this moment with a glass of red in hand. Thanks for sharing with #tweensteensbeyond

    1. Alex says:

      Thanks Nicky, you are always so very complimentary, and it’s especially nice to hear because I feel like my writing style has slumped and I’m never that happy with the finished product, so thanks for your kid praise ?

  4. Sharon Parry says:

    What an attractive place (great photos) and the food looks amazing as well! I love city trips with my teens so I’ll be bookmarking this one. Thanks so much for sharing with us at #TweensTeensBeyond

  5. Katy says:

    What a fantastic guide Alex. I’d love to visit Bilbao and northern Spain. I must admit the Guggenheim is the major drawcard for me but I was wondering what family friendly attractions were on offer in the city. We reckon pintxos are the best family travel eating too. They also solve the late dinner problem in Spain as I found these bars were mostly open all day

    1. Alex says:

      Exactly. I don’t know how the Spaniards manage it – forget the kids, I’m starving by 6pm myself! It’s a good job wine has calories ?

  6. Elizabeth says:

    I think that food crawl idea is brilliant. My son is only two, but I think he’d enjoy little snacks, especially since we’d be moving from place to place pretty constantly! What a great way to keep kids from getting bored! #citytripping

    1. Alex says:

      I know right! He’d love it!

  7. Vicky says:

    This is such a great round up of your trip! I have wanted to go to Bilbao for so long – whilst also visiting San Sebastian – as I am a massive foodie and love this style of tapas. Bilbao looks like such a fab city – will keep this tips to hand! #citytripping

  8. chickenruby says:

    Sounds a fantastic place to visit, I’ve never been and the kids have now left home, but when we move back to the UK it is somewhere on our list to explore, especially now you’ve explained the pub crawl and pintxos #tweensteensbeyond

    1. Alex says:

      Oh yes, I’d love to go back without kids – it’s such a fun city.

  9. Wow Alex such a comprehensive guide. We have always avoided Bilbao as we didn’t hear very good reports but after this we are definitely visiting next ferry trip. It seems with the visit for the art and out course the pintxos. Yum! #fearlessfamtravel

  10. What a great guide! We came so close to visiting Bilbao a few years ago when in the Basque region but didn’t have time. We drove past the Guggenheim and that would be absolutely be first on my list – the kids would have no option!! Perhaps a weekend break is in order. Thanks for linking #citytripping

  11. I am so hoping to go to Bilbao someday. It looks so cool! #citytripping

  12. Annabel says:

    This is such an inspiring post! I loved the pintxos when we travelled through the Basque region about 10 years ago (I actually thought they were tapas so I was really disappointed not to find them all over Spain). We didn’t stop in Bilbao so I’d love to go back, esp now I have kids in tow. #Citytripping

  13. This city looks very interesting! I never let other people’s opinions change what I want to see. Looks like you managed to have a good time nonetheless! Although I’d be willing to go here to try the Pintxos and compare them to Tapas! #CityTripping

  14. Leona says:

    This looks like the perfect blend of activities for families. Id love to visit the museum #fearlessfamtrav

  15. Allison says:

    Bilbao sounds like a fascinating city. I love the idea of pintxos. They seem like the perfect way to sample multiple flavors without getting stuffed right off the bat. #fearlessfamtrav

  16. I’ve always wanted to visit Bilbao. For the Guggenheim, the pintxos, all of it. We almost went to San Sebastian this summer and were saying that the pintxos would have been perfect for the kids! #fearlessfamtrav

    1. Alex says:

      Yes, San Sebastian is next on our list!

  17. Jurga says:

    Looks like a beautiful city, one I never even considered to visit, with or without kids. But you had me at pintxos. While I wouldn’t describe my kids as foodies at all, snacks, finger food, and bar crawl would be a big hit with them.
    Just one more question – wasn’t it too hot in summer? I never even considered a city trip in Southern Europe in summer…

    1. Alex says:

      They class it as an Atlantic climate and after spending 3 wks in France, Spain and Portugal, Bilbao was such a relief – it’s wetter which means in the summer it can be humid but the temperatures are much lower than the rest of Europe. I actually had my cardigan on, in August! Plus they get a lot of overcast days.

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