Bilbao has evolved from an industrial port into one of Spain’s most exciting cultural hubs. Its mix of cutting-edge architecture, charming old town, and vibrant riverbank makes it a perfect place for city tours. Whether you’re an architecture lover eager to see Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim or someone who wants to get a feel for Basque culture, Bilbao offers diverse ways to explore. We particularly like the Bilbao-City Highlights Bike Tour for its relaxed pace and impressive sights, or the guided walking tour for an intimate look at the old town and riverfront. Both provide stories and insights that you won’t get just wandering on your own.
From bike rides to ceramics and private walks, the list below covers a range of experiences suited to different interests and schedules. Whether you want a quick glimpse or an in-depth exploration, these tours are your ticket to understanding Bilbao’s unique character.
1. BILBAO-City Highlights Bike Tour
This bike tour is an excellent introduction to Bilbao, especially for architecture enthusiasts. It lasts about 2 hours and covers the city’s top sights, including the Guggenheim Museum, the Puppy floral sculpture, Euskalduna Palace, and the historic Casco Viejo. The tour is limited to just 10 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, more personal experience. The guide shares stories behind each landmark, making the city’s recent transformation from heavy industry to modern art and design come alive.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to cover more ground than walking allows, all while enjoying a relaxed pace. The highlight for many is seeing Gehry’s Guggenheim in full view, with the playful Puppy sculpture just a quick stop for photos. The tour ends in the Old Town, where you can continue exploring at your own pace. Costing around $41.47, it offers great value—especially if you enjoy cycling and want an active way to learn about Bilbao’s architecture and urban renewal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a comprehensive, fast-paced overview of Bilbao’s highlights with expert commentary. A small-group setting makes it intimate.
2. Bilbao: Paint on ceramics at the city’s only ceramicafé
If you’re into arts and crafts, this ceramic painting experience at La Martina Pottery offers something different. For 2 hours, you can personalize your own piece of pottery, whether it’s a mug, plate, or decorative item. Best of all, you get to enjoy free coffee or tea during your creative session. This activity doesn’t require previous experience, so everyone from beginners to seasoned artists can participate comfortably.
The cost is $31 per person, which is a reasonable price for a memorable souvenir and a relaxing break from sightseeing. The studio is the only ceramicafé in Bilbao, giving it a unique local charm. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a hands-on activity that captures a bit of Basque craftsmanship. The finished piece makes a lasting memento of your trip.
Bottom Line: A fun, low-pressure activity for those who want a break from walking or cycling, and enjoy creating something with their own hands. Suitable for all ages.
3. Bilbao: Guided walking tour of the city’s highlights
This guided walking tour offers a 1.5-hour immersion into Bilbao’s essential sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the city at a leisurely pace and hear stories behind each landmark. The tour begins at the Puppy sculpture and takes you through the Guggenheim Museum, which you’ll see from the outside, then explores the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere.
Along the way, you’ll pass the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, and the Catedral de Santiago. The tour also includes a walk along the Nervión River, offering picturesque views of the city’s architecture reflected in the water. This tour is perfect if you prefer a flexible, small-group experience with plenty of photo stops and time to ask questions.
While the cost isn’t listed, it’s a popular choice for those who want a curated overview of Bilbao’s contrasting modern and traditional sides. Expect to finish at the Federico Moyúa Plaza, where you can continue exploring or grab a coffee nearby.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who prefer a relaxed, informative stroll through Bilbao’s most iconic spots with a local guide.
4. Bilbao: Private Guided City Tour
This private tour offers a personalized way to explore Bilbao. Lasting about 2 hours, it focuses on the city’s top attractions like the Guggenheim, the Old Town, and the Artxanda Funicular. With a private guide, you’ll get tailored commentary on Bilbao’s architecture, culture, and hidden corners that interest you most.
While reviews are mixed—some mention the tour is brief and not always detailed—the upside is the flexibility. You can adjust the pace and focus to suit your interests, whether that’s art, history, or city views. The tour wraps up with a scenic ride on the Funicular, providing panoramic city vistas.
Priced at a premium, this is best suited for travelers who want an exclusive experience or have specific sites they want to explore in-depth. It’s a good option if you’re traveling with family or a small group who appreciates a customized approach.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those who value flexibility and privacy, but be aware that the reviews suggest it may be less comprehensive than other options.
5. City Tour in Bilbao – Premium Cars
For a quick, comfortable overview of Bilbao, this premium car tour in a Tesla or similar vehicle is hard to beat. Lasting only an hour, it covers major sights like the Guggenheim, the San Mames Stadium, and Casco Viejo. The route is similar to a hop-on hop-off bus but with the comfort of a private vehicle.
Pickup and drop-off are at the MegaPark Barakaldo, making it convenient for travelers based outside the city center. The tour includes scenic views along the way, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the city’s architecture without walking or cycling. Small groups make it more personal, and the vehicle’s eco-friendly nature is a bonus.
The price isn’t specified, but the value lies in the speed, comfort, and privacy—great for travelers on a tight schedule or those with mobility considerations. It’s perfect if you want a quick but comprehensive glimpse of Bilbao’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Best for busy travelers or those preferring a luxe, hassle-free overview with scenic drives, especially if you value comfort and efficiency.
6. 4-hour Private Bilbao City Walking Tour
This private walking tour offers an in-depth exploration of Bilbao’s Old Town and Downtown. For up to four people at $211, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, detailed experience. The tour lasts between 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on your interests, and is led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Starting at the Teatro Arriaga, the guide will lead you through the serpentine streets of Casco Viejo, revealing hidden stories behind landmarks like San Anton and Santiago churches, and the lively La Ribera Market. The tour also includes a visit to the Zubizuri Bridge, Guggenheim, and Iberdrola Tower, blending old and new Bilbao in one seamless walk.
This private option is perfect if you desire a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests, with in-depth stories and a more personal connection. It’s a great choice for couples or small groups who want to understand Bilbao beyond the surface.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an intimate, customizable experience with plenty of time for questions and exploration, this tour delivers.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bilbao Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you’re passionate about architecture and want a dynamic overview, the Bike Tour offers great value for active travelers. For a more relaxed, cultural experience, consider the walking tour, which lets you soak in Bilbao’s atmosphere and iconic sights at a gentle pace.
If privacy or customization matters, the private guided tour and private walking tour are ideal, though they come at a higher price. For those on a tight schedule or who prefer touring in a comfort-focused way, the premium car tour provides a quick, stylish overview.
Finally, if you’re looking to create a personal keepsake, the ceramics painting offers a hands-on experience perfect for families or creative souls.
Final Thoughts
Bilbao’s rich blend of modern architecture, historic streets, and lively culture makes it a fantastic city for a variety of tours. For a quick, active introduction, the bike tour is hard to beat. If you want a personal, in-depth experience, the private guided walk or private tour will suit best.
For those seeking comfort and speed, the premium car is perfect, while craft lovers will enjoy creating a unique keepsake at La Martina Pottery. Each offers a different way to connect with Bilbao’s unique character, so choose what matches your pace and interests. Remember to book early during peak seasons, and enjoy discovering this vibrant Basque city.