Bilbao’s waterfront comes alive through well-organized boat tours that showcase this industrial-turned-artistic city. I love the 1.5-hour Bilbao Estuary cruise – it’s the perfect length and offers fantastic photo ops of the shimmering Guggenheim Museum from the water. For a quick orientation, the 1-2 hour City Hall Bridge tours efficiently cover main riverside attractions.
The 4-hour combination boat and walking tour with pintxos tastings stands out as my top pick – it smartly blends maritime views with Old Town exploration and local food culture. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the basic river routes, while history buffs should consider the full-day Burgos excursion from the cruise terminal.
Let’s explore the best boat tours Bilbao has to offer.
Key Points
- The Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour offers a 1.5-hour cruise with iconic landmark views, port exploration, and the convergence of the river and Cantabrian Sea.
- The 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour provides flexible options, starting at Kč 505 per person, with audio guides and high customer ratings.
- The Boat and Walking Guided Tour With Pintxos combines a boat ride, a walking tour through Casco Viejo, and a culinary experience with local tapas.
- The Burgos Private Tour From Bilbao offers an 8-hour personalized excursion to explore the UNESCO-listed Burgos Cathedral and local specialties.
- Bilbao’s boat tours cater to various interests, with flexible cancellation policies and the recommendation to book in advance for optimal experiences.
Bilbao: Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour
The Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour offers visitors a unique perspective of Bilbao’s picturesque waterfront. This 1.5-hour cruise takes passengers along the Nervión River, providing stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Guggenheim Museum and the Vizcaya Bridge.
Guests can admire the architectural wonders that line the riverbanks and the bustling activity of the working port. The tour also ventures out into the Abra Bay, allowing travelers to witness the convergence of the river and the Cantabrian Sea.
With comfortable seating and knowledgeable guides, this boat tour is an excellent way to explore Bilbao’s maritime heritage and gain a new appreciation for the city’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour provides an unforgettable experience and a unique perspective on this dynamic Basque region.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour Review
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Bilbao: 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour
For those seeking a more comprehensive sightseeing experience, the 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour offers an excellent opportunity to witness Bilbao from the estuary. Priced from Kč 505 per person, this tour departs from the City Hall Bridge, providing passengers with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The one-hour tour starts at Pio Baroja Square, traveling to Zorrozaurre riverbank and Deusto Canal, while the two-hour route includes additional sightseeing towards Puente Bizkaia.
The boat, which can accommodate up to 80 people, features both outdoor and indoor seating. Passengers are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early to secure a spot on the deck. The tour provides an audioguide in several languages, allowing guests to learn about the city’s significant landmarks, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
With an overall rating of 4.1/5 from over 1,500 reviews, the Bilbao Sightseeing Boat Tour is an engaging and informative way to explore the city from the water.
Read our full review: Bilbao: 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour Review
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Bilbao: Boat and Walking Guided Tour With Pintxos
Boasting a seamless blend of aquatic and terrestrial exploration, the Bilbao: Boat and Walking Guided Tour with Pintxos provides travelers with an immersive experience of the city’s cultural and historical highlights. Priced from Kč 3,031 per person, the 4-hour tour offers a guided boat ride along the Bilbao River, offering breathtaking views of landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum and University of Deusto.
The walking portion of the tour then takes visitors through the charming Casco Viejo and across various bridges, providing an intimate glimpse into Bilbao’s rich heritage.
The tour’s highlight is the pintxo-pote, where participants can savor a traditional tapa and drink, seeing the local culinary culture.
While the overall tour rating is a solid 4 out of 5, some customers noted a discrepancy in the actual boat trip duration compared to the expected 2.5 hours.
Nevertheless, the tour’s combination of sightseeing, exploration, and culture makes it a compelling option for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to Bilbao.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Boat and Walking Guided Tour With Pintxos Review
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Burgos Private Tour From Bilbao From the Cruise Terminal
Whisking travelers away from the Bilbao cruise terminal, the Burgos Private Tour immerses visitors in the captivating history and architectural splendor of the UNESCO-listed Burgos Cathedral.
This 8-hour excursion promises an immersive experience, with a personalized guided tour and the opportunity to explore the historic old town of Burgos.
Highlights include visits to the renowned Monastery of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich monastic heritage.
Travelers can also savor the local specialty, Morcilla de Burgos, during the tour. Priced at Kč 16,850 per person, the tour includes a private vehicle and guide, but excludes food, drinks, and entrance fees.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, this private tour from Bilbao provides a flexible and personalized way to discover the captivating city of Burgos, all while departing from the convenience of the cruise terminal.
Read our full review: Burgos Private Tour From Bilbao From the Cruise Terminal Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Cancellation Policies for These Boat Tours?
Cancellation policies for boat tours typically allow customers to cancel for a full refund up to a certain number of days prior to the tour. Late cancellations may incur fees or result in no refund.
Are There Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?
Most boat tours have age restrictions for young children, but many offer special accommodations like life jackets and child-friendly activities. Families should check with tour operators about their policies regarding minors before booking.
Do the Boat Tours Offer Audio Guides in Multiple Languages?
Many boat tours provide audio guides in multiple languages so visitors can learn about the sights during the cruise. This allows travelers of all backgrounds to fully enjoy the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Yes, most boat tour operators in Bilbao allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the specific company before your trip to confirm their policies.
How Do I Get to the Departure Point for These Boat Tours?
Most boat tour providers offer convenient transportation options to the departure point, such as shuttle services from nearby locations. Passengers can usually check the tour operator’s website or contact them directly to inquire about the best way to get to the starting point.
Recap
Bilbao offers an array of captivating boat tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s picturesque waterways and scenic coastlines. From the Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay to the Burgos Private Tour, these excursions provide a unique perspective on the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, enjoying local cuisine, or discovering nearby destinations, Bilbao’s boat tours cater to a diverse range of interests and preferences.