Bilbao Tour + Artxanda Funicular

Bilbao’s charm extends beyond its renowned Guggenheim Museum. On this captivating 2-hour tour, you’ll soar over the city on the Artxanda Funicular, offering breathtaking vistas of iconic landmarks. Then, you’ll explore the historic Casco Viejo district, where you can indulge in the local culinary delights at Plaza Nueva. With a small group size and expert guides, this affordable tour promises an engaging experience that highlights Bilbao’s rich cultural heritage. What secrets might this vibrant city hold?

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided tour of Bilbao, Spain, featuring stunning views from the Artxanda Funicular and exploration of the historic Casco Viejo district.
• The tour includes visits to the New San Mames Stadium, Iberdrola Tower, and Guggenheim Museum, as well as a stop at Plaza Nueva for local cuisine.
• The tour is priced at $26.73 per person, has a 4.5-star rating, and offers a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
• The tour is led by certified guides and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early for a prompt start.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and some restrictions may apply for individuals with a fear of heights, motion sickness, or mobility issues.

Tour Overview

The Bilbao Tour + Artxanda Funicular is a 2-hour guided experience that takes travelers through the heart of Bilbao, Spain.

With a maximum group size of 15, the tour offers stunning views from the Artxanda Funicular, including the New San Mames Stadium, Iberdrola Tower, and the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

After the ride, guests explore the historic Casco Viejo district and visit Plaza Nueva to sample local cuisine.

Priced at $26.73 per person, the tour boasts a 4.5-star rating based on 25 reviews and has a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Experience Highlights

Riding the Artxandra Funicular for over three minutes, travelers can enjoy stunning views of the New San Mames Stadium, Iberdrola Tower, and the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

The tour also explores Casco Viejo, the charming old town, where visitors can visit Plaza Nueva and indulge in local cuisine after the tour.

The experience highlights include:

• Riding the Artxandra Funicular for over three minutes
• Seeing the New San Mames Stadium, Iberdrola Tower, and Guggenheim Museum
• Exploring the Casco Viejo, the historic old town
• Visiting Plaza Nueva to sample local food

Meeting and Pickup Information

To begin the tour, travelers should meet at the Estacion Bilbao, Funikularreko Plaza, S/N, 48007 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain. The tour is led by certified guides, who will be identifiable. Participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.

Meeting Point	Guided Tours	Punctuality
Estacion Bilbao, Funikularreko Plaza, S/N, 48007 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain	Led by certified tour guides	Arrive 10 minutes early; guide will have identification

Accessibility and Participation

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s situated near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the experience. Most travelers can participate, but the following groups may have limited access:

• Young children who may struggle with the funicular ride
• Individuals with a fear of heights or motion sickness
• Those with mobility issues that prevent them from walking the tour’s terrain
• Visitors seeking full accessibility accommodations

Bilbao: The Vibrant City

Bilbao, the vibrant heart of Spain’s Basque Country, captivates visitors with its rich cultural tapestry and dynamic urban landscape.

Once an industrial port city, Bilbao has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a thriving hub of art, architecture, and gastronomy. The iconic Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to modern design.

Wandering through the charming Old Town, or Casco Viejo, travelers can enjoy the city’s Basque heritage, savoring local cuisine and exploring historic plazas.

From the soaring Iberdrola Tower to the lively waterfront, Bilbao offers a multifaceted experience that blends the old and the new.

Artxanda Funicular: Soaring Above the City

The Artxanda Funicular, a beloved fixture in Bilbao’s skyline, offers visitors a breathtaking journey above the city’s vibrant streets.

This historic cable car system transports passengers to the top of Mount Artxanda, providing panoramic vistas of the Guggenheim Museum, the Iberdrola Tower, and the iconic New San Mames Stadium.

The 3-minute ride is a highlight of the Bilbao tour, allowing travelers to:

• Admire the cityscape from a unique perspective
• Glimpse the architectural marvels that define Bilbao’s modern identity
• Enjoy a moment of tranquility and reflection atop the mountain
• Capture stunning photos to immortalize the experience

Casco Viejo: Exploring the Historic Old Town

After exploring the heights of Bilbao from the Artxanda Funicular, the tour descends into the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Town.

This charming neighborhood dates back to the 14th century and is renowned for its winding streets, medieval architecture, and lively plazas.

Travelers stroll through Plaza Nueva, admiring the ornate buildings and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The guide shares insights into the area’s history and culture, pointing out highlights like the Church of San Antón.

With free time to explore, visitors can discover local shops, pintxos bars, and the essence of Bilbao’s historic heart.

Bilbao’s Culinary Delights

After exploring the historic Casco Viejo, travelers can indulge in Bilbao’s vibrant culinary scene.

The city offers a diverse array of dining options, from traditional Basque pintxos (small plates) to innovative modern cuisine.

Some highlights include:

• Indulging in the city’s famous pinchos at the bustling Plaza Nueva
• Sampling local seafood specialties like bacalao (salted cod) and percebes (goose barnacles)
• Discovering hidden gems serving authentic Basque dishes in the charming alleys of Casco Viejo
• Experiencing the lively atmosphere of the city’s modern food halls, showcasing the region’s fresh produce and culinary creativity.

Ask Away

Does the Tour Include Entrance Fees to the Guggenheim Museum?

The tour does not include entrance fees to the Guggenheim Museum. It focuses on providing an overview of Bilbao’s landmarks, including views of the museum, while exploring the Casco Viejo neighborhood and taking the Artxanda Funicular.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t specifically accommodate dietary restrictions, but the guide can recommend local restaurants in the Casco Viejo area that cater to various dietary needs. Travelers with restrictions should inform the guide in advance to get personalized suggestions.

What Languages Are the Guided Tours Available In?

The guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. The tour operator can accommodate different language preferences to ensure a seamless experience for all travelers.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, travelers should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any available discounts or special offers.

How Reliable Is the Artxanda Funicular’s Operating Schedule?

The Artxanda Funicular operates on a regular schedule, with departures every 15 minutes. It’s considered a reliable mode of transportation, running from early morning to late evening daily. Its schedule is designed to provide easy access for visitors.

Final Words

Discover the captivating charm of Bilbao through a guided tour that combines stunning views from the Artxanda Funicular with immersion in the historic Casco Viejo district. Savor the local culinary delights as you explore this vibrant city, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. With a small group and knowledgeable guides, this affordable tour provides an engaging and memorable experience.