Romantic Things To Do In Bilbao
Incomparable and cosmopolitan, Bilbao has it all. Known for its stunning art museums, breathtaking architecture and culinary scene including the world-renowned tapas and pintxos route, the vibrant capital of the Province of Biscay is the perfect destination for a surprise weekend away.
Immerse yourself in a city that has successfully mixed the traditional Basque culture with a new vision for the future. Immerse yourself in art and local culture, all within a delightful walk.
Shop the day away in the Gran Vía Street
Waltz hand-in-hand with your love one along the Gran Via street. Framed by sublime buildings and lime trees, the emblematic boulevard will enchant you with its high-fashion boutiques, cozy cafés, wonderful patisseries, classic hotels like El Carlton and the legendary El Corte Inglés department store, considered a Spanish institution.
Have a delicious Ice-cream at LA DOLCE VITA
Located in the iconic Ledesma Street, La Dolce Vita offers really interesting ice-cream flavors like Mojito, Whiskey, Bollo de Mantequilla (butter bum) and Principe biscuits which is my absolute favorite one.
Buy some treats at MARTINA DE ZURICALDAY
You can´t leave Bilbao without visiting this beautiful patisserie. Ideal for a special occasion or just an afternoon treat, Martina de Zuriralday will impress you with their delicate array of sweet delights.
Stroll around the Guggenheim Museum
Guarding the Guggenheim Museum, the floral sculpture of a West Highland terrier called Puppy is absolutely beautiful in spring when it´s in full bloom. The area around the museum is definitely made for romantic strolls. Walk long the bridge connecting the University of Deusto with Abandoibarra promenade and discover fascinating views of the river Nervión and the Guggenheim museum.
Have a romantic meal at Amaren Brasserie
Located right in the heart of Bilbao, Amaren is one of my favorite restaurants in the city!
Pack a special picnic in Abandoibarra
During the warmer days, take a bottle of wine, unfurl a blanket and share a picnic with your paramour in Abandoibarra waterfront promenade. The grassy area now surrounding Bilbao´s magnificent buildings like Frank Gehry´s Guggenheim Museum and Cesar Pelli´s Iberdrola Tower is undoubtedly one of the most charming picnic spots in the city.
There is a plethora of delis, charcuterías and enticing food stores that make eating al fresco in Bilbao easier than ever. We love sandwiches at Eme (General Concha st) and La Moderna delicatessen store where you can find the best German sausages, cured meats as well as many other high-quality products. Located inside El Corte Inglés, El Club Del Gourmet store offers from Spanish exquisite cheeses, foie, acorn-fed Iberian ham and chorizo to the most aged, elegant and highly aromatic wines.
Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Bilbao is home of important art institutions and internationally recognized museums like the Fine Arts Museum. Get lost in the remarkable collection of over 10,000 pieces of art that are on display ranging from the 13th century to the present.
Dine al fresco at Promenade
I adore coming to this tiny bar with my best friend Pablo who works as a public relation consultant for an important company in Bilbao. As he knows the owner of each and every restaurant in the city, he always recommends me the best dishes in the menu. Every time we go on a Tapas Route, we end up savoring ensalada de ventresca (tuna belly salad) and delicious gourmet mejillones (mussels) at the mustard colored Promenade bar. (Promenade, Astarloa Street).
Sip on a glass of champagne at La Antigua Cigarrería
La Antigua Cigarrería (The Old Cigar Shop) is a classic in Bilbao. I love coming to La Cigarrería, as it´s commonly known, during the week for the aperitif or every Friday night for a carefully prepared mixed drink. (La Antigua Cigarrería, Astarloa Street).
Book a night at Meliá Bilbao Hotel
If you are coming to Bilbao, book a suite at Meliá Bilbao Hotel. Designed by the prestigious architect Ricardo Legorreta, Meliá will surprise you with its unique style, contemporary art and expansive suites. The views from upper floors are superb, especially the one facing the Guggenheim Museum.
Experience exquisite fine-dining at their one- starred Aizian restaurant (a Basque word meaning “in the air“) or have succulent dishes in the comfort and privacy of your own room.
Watch the sunrise
Watching the magnificent sunrise over the Guggenheim is something that you will never, ever forget.
Latest posts by Rakel (see all)
- Hotel Can Joan Capó- Adults Only, in Sineu (Mallorca) - July 12, 2023
- Northern Light Ranch, Kittila (Finland) - January 23, 2022
- A Quick Guide to Mallorca - November 16, 2021