Bilbao: Old Quarter Walking Guided Tour

Bilbao’s Old Quarter is a captivating blend of history and culture, and the "Old Quarter Walking Guided Tour" offers a chance to take in its rich heritage. Led by a local expert, this two-hour journey takes visitors through centuries-old landmarks, from the Cathedral of Santiago to the vibrant Mercado de la Ribera. With a small group size and wheelchair accessibility, it’s an engaging way to explore Bilbao’s vibrant streets and discover the authentic flavors of Basque cuisine. But what exactly can one expect to uncover on this guided tour?

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Key Points

Guided walking tour of Bilbao’s historic Old Town, lasting 2 hours and conducted in English.
Tour covers over 500 years of history and includes visits to significant sites like the Cathedral of Santiago and Mercado de la Ribera.
Tour price starts from $87.05 per person, with easy online booking and a flexible cancellation policy.
Opportunity to experience traditional Basque culture through activities like a "txikiteo" or "poteo" (bar crawl) and a pintxo-pote (tapa and drink).
Tour led by a knowledgeable local expert, Javier, providing insights into notable figures like Miguel de Unamuno.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Bilbao: Old Quarter Walking Guided Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of over 500 years of history within the city’s charming Old Town.

Explore over 500 years of history in Bilbao’s captivating Old Town through a comprehensive guided walking tour.

Priced from $87.05 per person, the tour lasts 2 hours and is conducted in English.

Wheelchair accessible, the tour meets at Arriaga Plaza, where a guide carrying a green backpack and white clover will greet guests.

Visitors can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Key highlights include the Cathedral of Santiago, Plaza Nueva, Church of St. Anton, and the Mercado de la Ribera traditional market.

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Booking Information

Reserving the Bilbao: Old Quarter Walking Guided Tour is easy – visitors can book now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.

The tour offers flexible cancellation; travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Availability varies, so interested parties should check the schedule to find convenient starting times.

The booking process is straightforward:

Reserve the tour online, selecting the desired date and time.
Receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details.
Meet the guide at the designated meeting point on the day of the tour.

Tour Highlights

Over 500 years of captivating history await visitors as they explore Bilbao’s enchanting Old Town during this guided walking tour.

Highlights include visiting the Cathedral of Santiago, Plaza Nueva, Church of St. Anton, and the renowned Mercado de la Ribera.

Enjoy the local culture by experiencing a traditional "txikiteo" or "poteo" (bar crawl) at iconic establishments.

The tour also includes entry to the Palace of Liberties, Yhon Palace, and a traditional market, allowing you to delve deeper into the city’s heritage.

Savor a pintxo-pote (tapa and drink) for an authentic taste of Bilbao.

Customer Experience

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guidance provided by Javier, a local with deep roots in Bilbao.

Knowledgeable and enthusiastic guidance from Javier, a local with deep roots in Bilbao, consistently praised by travelers.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personal attention from the guide. Reviewers highlight the following:

Javier’s ability to bring Bilbao’s history to life, sharing insights into the streets walked by notable figures like Miguel de Unamuno.
The opportunity to explore a traditional market and engage with the local culture.
The value-for-money, with entry to key sites and a complimentary pintxo-pote (tapa and drink) included in the tour price.

The overall rating of 3.8/5 reflects a positive customer experience.

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Exploring the Old Town

As visitors step into the winding streets of Bilbao’s Old Quarter, they’re immediately transported back in time, with over 500 years of history etched into every cobblestone.

The tour guides them to the Cathedral of Santiago, an iconic landmark with Gothic architecture.

Nearby, the lively Plaza Nueva bustles with locals and visitors alike.

At the Church of St. Anton, they learn about its significance in the city’s religious heritage.

The highlight is exploring the renowned Mercado de la Ribera, a traditional market where the guide shares insights into the local food and culture.

Into exploring Bilbao on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at

Experiencing Basque Culture

What better way to take in Bilbao’s rich Basque culture than through a traditional "txikiteo" or "poteo"? This bar crawl through the Old Quarter allows visitors to experience the heartbeat of the city.

Along the way, they’ll:

Sip on pintxos, the Basque equivalent of tapas, paired with local cider or wine.
Mingle with locals at iconic bars, absorbing the lively atmosphere.
Explore a traditional market, brimming with fresh produce and regional specialties.

This guided tour offers a genuine glimpse into the Basque way of life, blending history, gastronomy, and authentic cultural exchanges.

Practical Tips

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this walking tour, as the cobblestone streets and uneven terrain of Bilbao’s Old Quarter can be challenging.

Travelers should also consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, and water, as the tour involves extensive outdoor exploration.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, the narrow streets and stairs may pose difficulties. It’s advised to check with the tour operator in advance for any accessibility concerns.

The meeting point is clearly marked, with the guide easily identifiable by their green backpack and white clover.

Following these simple tips will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the Bilbao Old Quarter Walking Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is suggested for the 2-hour walking tour through the historic streets of Bilbao’s Old Quarter.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and water, but the tour includes a pintxo-pote (tapa and drink) so it’s best to save your appetite. Alcoholic beverages not included, as the focus is on exploring the historic Old Quarter.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

There aren’t any specific student or senior discounts mentioned, but the tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policy may allow some flexibility. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any available discounts.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can upgrade to a longer walking tour that explores more of the Old Quarter’s history and attractions, providing a more comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Restaurant Recommendations?

The guide can likely provide restaurant recommendations during the tour. They have in-depth local knowledge and may suggest popular spots to enjoy traditional Basque cuisine or pintxos (tapas) in the historic Old Quarter of Bilbao.

The Sum Up

The "Old Quarter Walking Guided Tour" in Bilbao offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to uncover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Led by a local expert, the tour takes you through the charming streets, showcasing landmarks like the Cathedral of Santiago and Mercado de la Ribera. Enjoy an authentic taste of Basque cuisine while exploring the lively atmosphere of the Old Town. With its small group size and wheelchair accessibility, it’s an engaging and accessible way to connect with Bilbao’s heritage.