Bilbao’s historical tours offer a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and centuries-old stories. The city’s best guided experiences combine food and history, letting you taste traditional pintxos while learning about Old Town’s medieval roots.
Self-guided walking tours work well for independent travelers, with clear routes past the dramatic Guggenheim Museum and historic districts. I especially love the small-group walking tours that include pintxo-pote (the local tradition of bar-hopping for drinks and snacks) – they’re the best way to understand how this former industrial city transformed into a cultural capital.
For travelers wanting extra attention, private tours cover all the essential spots from the ornate Txabarri Palace to the excellent Fine Arts Museum.
Let’s explore the top historical tours that showcase the real Bilbao.
Key Points
- The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour offers a comprehensive experience of Bilbao’s food and cultural heritage with visits to five bars and sampling of nine pintxos.
- The Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour allows for a personalized exploration of the city’s history, starting at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and featuring iconic landmarks.
- The Historical and Architectural Walking Tour provides a 2-hour guided tour of Bilbao’s iconic landmarks, including Chavarri Palace and Old Alhóndiga, with priority access and a pintxo-pote experience.
- The Private Historic Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Bilbao’s historic sites, including Moya Square, Plaza Nueva, and Mercado de la Ribera, with an official guide and local transportation included.
- These tours provide engaging and immersive experiences that allow visitors to discover Bilbao’s rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage at their own pace or with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts.
The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour With a Local
For an unforgettable dive into Bilbao’s vibrant food and rich history, the Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour with a Local is a top choice.
This highly-rated tour by Delight Bilbao boasts a 99% traveler recommendation and takes you on a culinary and cultural journey through the city. Over the course of the tour, you’ll visit five bars, sample nine delectable pintxos, and indulge in wine pairings, local drinks, and cocktails.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Bilbao’s fascinating history and culture, complementing the delicious food experience. With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate and social atmosphere, allowing you to interact with fellow travelers from around the world.
While some reviewers noted a greater focus on food over historical content, the tour’s highlights, such as the quality and variety of the pintxos, the enthusiasm of the guides, and the authentic local experience, make it a must-try for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.
Read our full review: The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour With a Local Review
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Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour
A self-guided historical walking tour is an excellent way to explore Bilbao’s rich past at your own pace. This tour allows you to discover the city’s architectural gems, cultural heritage, and historic landmarks at your convenience.
Start your journey at the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a stunning example of contemporary architecture that has become a symbol of the city’s transformation.
Continue to the Arriaga Theater, a grand 19th-century building that hosts opera, ballet, and theatrical performances.
Venture to the lively Plaza Nueva, a bustling square surrounded by charming buildings and a hub for local life.
Admire the Gothic-style Basilica of Begoña, a beloved religious site, and visit the San Mamés Stadium, home to the prestigious Athletic Club soccer team.
Throughout your self-guided tour, you’ll have the freedom to linger at the sights that captivate you most, creating a personalized experience that showcases Bilbao’s vibrant history.
Read our full review: Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour Review
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Bilbao: Historical and Architectural Walking Tour
Enjoy the rich history and captivating architecture of Bilbao on this comprehensive 2-hour walking tour. Priced at just $84.32 per person, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks with a professional guide, including the Chavarri Palace, the train station, and the Old Alhóndiga.
Skip the lines with priority access and enjoy a pintxo-pote, a local culinary experience, at the end of the tour.
Founded in 1300, Bilbao has undergone a remarkable transformation, drawing inspiration from Paris and London in the 19th century.
You’ll discover the city’s evolution, from its industrialization to its urban growth, as your guide shares insights into Bilbao’s three main historical periods and the broader Basque country history.
Rated 4.2/5 by previous guests, this small-group tour promises an engaging and informative exploration of Bilbao’s most significant architectural and cultural sites.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Historical and Architectural Walking Tour Review
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Bilbao – Private Historic Walking Tour
Set out on a captivating private walking tour that unveils the rich history and architectural marvels of Bilbao. Priced at €350 for up to 20 participants, this 2-hour tour is available in English and Spanish.
Explore the iconic Moya Square and Plaza Nueva, marvel at the Mercado de la Ribera – Europe’s largest covered market, and admire the 14th-century Bilbao Cathedral.
Your journey begins at the 20th-century Txabarri Jauregia, a building showcasing Renaissance architecture.
Wander through the Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, home to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, and marvel at the Azkuna Zentroa, an award-winning design by Philippe Starck.
Cross the Puente Zubizuri, a striking bridge connecting hotels to the renowned Guggenheim Museum.
Experience the cultural significance of Bilbao, from the Neoclassical Plaza Nueva to the limestone Catedral de Santiago.
With an official tour guide, entrance fees, and local transportation included, this private tour offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and landmarks.
Read our full review: Bilbao – Private Historic Walking Tour Review
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Recap
Bilbao’s historical tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich heritage. From the Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour to the Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour, you’ll discover the city’s architectural gems and cultural traditions. Whether you prefer a private walking tour or a guided experience, Bilbao’s historical tours provide an engaging and informative way to explore the city’s captivating past.