Bilbao isn’t just about the stunning Guggenheim Museum or the sleek modern architecture — it’s also a city that rewards those willing to explore on foot. Its compact Old Town, lively markets, and waterfront charm make walking tours one of the best ways to get a real sense of its character. We especially like tours offering personalized experiences, like the Private Walking Tour with a Local, which dives into local stories and hidden corners. Plus, the scenic day trip to Gaztelugatxe and Gernika offers a deeper appreciation for the surrounding landscape and history. Whether you’re after a quick highlight reel or a full day of discovery, Bilbao’s walking options won’t disappoint.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and schedule. Are you a culture lover craving a detailed private tour? Or maybe you want a full-day adventure exploring nearby coastal villages? Below, we’ve broken down the top eight walking tours, each with its own flavor and focus. From short city highlights to immersive day trips, this list will help you find the perfect way to walk through Bilbao.
1. Bilbao: Private Walking Tour with a Local
At number 1 we have the Bilbao: Private Walking Tour with a Local, rated 4.7/5 from more than 300 reviews. This tour offers the most personalized way to explore Bilbao, with a passionate local guide tailoring the experience to your interests. The tour lasts anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, making it flexible for different schedules.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic connections and hidden spots. Instead of a fixed route, your guide will take you through lesser-known alleys, introduce you to local stories, and point out great places to eat or visit later. It’s ideal if you want a customized experience that feels like a walk with a knowledgeable friend. The guide will also share useful tips for the rest of your stay, making this a practical choice. Price-wise, at $56 per person, it offers excellent value for a private tour packed with insight.
Guests love how passionate and engaging the guides are, often mentioning how much they learned about Bilbao’s culture and history. This tour is perfect if you value intimacy and personal attention, especially for first-time visitors wanting a genuine local perspective.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a flexible, private experience that dives into Bilbao’s secrets, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Walking Route San Juan De Gaztelugatze, Bermeo & Gernika
Ranking second with a perfect 5-star rating from 27 reviews, this full-day adventure combines stunning scenery with cultural highlights. For around $83, you get a roughly 9-hour trip starting with a walk to the hermitage on Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic islet connected by a narrow bridge and famous as a “Game of Thrones” filming location.
The walk to the hermitage involves a steep staircase of 231 steps, which isn’t for everyone, but the panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay and the coast make it worthwhile. Afterward, you’ll visit Bermeo, a charming fishing town with lively streets, a picturesque old port, and fantastic seafood options. The tour continues to Gernika, where you’ll learn about its historical significance and see the Peace Museum.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guide Borja, who shares stories with energy and passion. The transport and itinerary allow you to experience a mix of nature, history, and authentic Basque culture in one day. The tour’s ability to combine natural beauty with cultural depth makes it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a scenic day out with cultural insight, especially fans of filming locations and historic towns.
3. Private Guided Full-Day Walking Tour in Bilbao
Ranking third, this private full-day tour offers a highly personalized way to explore Bilbao. Starting with hotel pick-up, it gives you the flexibility to design your own itinerary with your guide, focusing on what interests you most.
The tour covers key sites like the historic Casco Viejo, the Basilica de Begoña, and modern highlights such as Azkuna Zentroa. The itinerary allows for stops at several points, with enough time to absorb each place without feeling rushed. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, offering insights into Bilbao’s architecture, culture, and stories.
Guests particularly appreciate the flexibility and depth of this tour. One reviewer notes that the guide’s energy and knowledge made the experience memorable, and the option to customize means you won’t waste time seeing things that don’t interest you. At approximately 8 to 9 hours, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a full, immersive day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a tailored, in-depth exploration with a private guide.
4. Bilbao Walking Tour and Cable Car in Spanish
Number 4 on our list offers a blend of panoramic views and historic walking. This tour combines a 2-hour walk through Bilbao’s streets with a ride on the cable car to Mount Artxanda, which provides sweeping vistas of the city, the Guggenheim, and the Iberdrola Tower.
The tour’s highlight is the cable car ride, which is accessible and offers spectacular photo opportunities. Afterward, you’ll stroll through the Old Town, soaking in its lively ambiance. The guide shares insights into Bilbao’s urban development and cultural landmarks while guiding you along iconic streets and squares.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick taste of Bilbao’s skyline and history without committing a full day. It offers a practical way to see the city from above and below, especially if you’re short on time. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the views, making it a good option for a mid-morning or afternoon outing.
Bottom Line: Great for those looking for a scenic, short tour combining walking and panoramic vistas.
5. Bilbao: Guided Walking Tour of the City’s Highlights
This 1.5-hour tour offers a swift overview of Bilbao’s must-see sights. Starting at the famous Puppy sculpture, the tour moves through key landmarks like the Guggenheim, Udaletxeko Zubia, and Plaza Nueva.
Perfect for travelers with limited time, it covers the essence of Bilbao’s blend of art, architecture, and history. The guide points out details about each site, from the modern design of the Zubizuri Bridge to the historic ambiance of the Old Town. The short duration makes it ideal for a quick orientation or as part of a bigger sightseeing plan.
Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, which help make the short walk engaging. It’s a practical choice if you want a compact, insightful introduction to the city’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick orientation or as part of a broader day of sightseeing.
6. Bilbao: Private walking tour of the old town
Rated nearly 5 stars, this 1.5-hour private walk focuses exclusively on Bilbao’s historic Old Town. Starting at the Teatro Arriaga, it takes you through the seven streets of Casco Viejo, exploring its churches, palaces, and vibrant atmosphere.
This tour emphasizes authenticity and local flavor, making it perfect for travelers who want an intimate look at the city’s roots. Small groups or private arrangements mean you can ask questions and linger in favorite spots. Its short duration makes it suitable for combining with other activities, especially if you’re pressed for time but want a deep dive into Bilbao’s origin story.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the chance to explore the heart of Bilbao without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking an authentic, brief exploration of Bilbao’s historic core.
7. 4-hour Private Bilbao City Walking Tour
This private tour offers a condensed yet comprehensive view of Bilbao’s Old Town and Downtown. For around $211 for up to four people, it combines key highlights like the Guggenheim, San Anton and Santiago churches, and La Ribera Market.
It’s perfect if you want a detailed private experience but don’t have the whole day. The guide provides insights into Bilbao’s architectural evolution during the 19th century and beyond, highlighting landmarks like the Zubizuri Bridge and Iberdrola Tower along the way. The flexibility allows you to focus on the sites that interest you most.
Guests say this tour balances depth and efficiency, making it suitable for visitors who want a quality private tour without spending an entire day. It’s especially helpful if you prefer a structured, guided experience with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a private, detailed look at Bilbao’s highlights within a few hours.
8. Bilbao: Private Walking Historic & Cultural Tour
Rounding out the list, this intimate 2-4 hour private walk emphasizes Bilbao’s most emblematic areas, including the Old Town and Downtown. For $164 per group (up to four people), it offers a chance to learn about the city’s cultural and architectural evolution from a knowledgeable local.
While shorter than some options, it’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and want to focus on specific neighborhoods. The guide shares stories that bring the city’s history, art, and traditions to life, making it a good fit for those interested in deeper cultural insights.
Guests note the guide’s warmth and expertise, making this a relaxed yet informative way to experience Bilbao’s core.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking an authentic, tailored experience of Bilbao’s most cultural areas.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Bilbao
When deciding which tour fits your trip, consider your budget, interest level, and time available. If you want a fully personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local is excellent. For a scenic day that combines nature and history, the Gaztelugatxe and Gernika trip is a top pick. Short on time? The City Highlights provides a quick overview, while the Old Town private walk offers a deep dive into Bilbao’s roots.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Think about your fitness level and interests—if you’re a history enthusiast, a full-day private tour might suit you better, whereas if you’re after a quick intro, the shorter options fit perfectly.
In summary, Bilbao offers a variety of walking tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you’re after a personalized experience, a scenic day trip, or a quick city overview, there’s a tour for you. For first-timers, a private tour like the Full-Day Guided Experience can provide comprehensive insight, while those with limited time will appreciate the City Highlights. Don’t forget to book early, and lace up those walking shoes—Bilbao’s streets are waiting.