Timeline
16:46
Start with a drink at Kafe Antzokia. This former theatre turned venue is a great place to people-watch and soak in the local culture before heading out.
17:06
Walk to Estación Abando. Even if you aren't catching a train, take a moment to look up at the impressive stained glass atrium depicting traditional Basque jobs.
17:16
Head to the Fire Fountain outside the Guggenheim Museum. This is the key moment: the golden light from the west will catch the water jets and the building’s titanium curves, creating a striking visual contrast.
18:01
Dinner at Zortziko. Enjoy traditional Basque dishes like pigeon breast or marinated sea bass in a formal, late Victorian setting. It is one of the few places in the immediate vicinity that offers a full dinner service at this hour.
18:46
End the night with a drink at Cafe Iruña. The Arabesque motifs and antique mouldings provide a beautiful backdrop. If you go at night, you can try some shikabobs, which are rare in Bilbao.
Local tip
The walk from the station to the Guggenheim is about 16 minutes. If you want to see the Puppy statue as well, it is nearby, but the Fire Fountain is the best spot for the evening light described.
Check before you go
- Zortziko is open Tu-Sa 09:00-23:30. Reservations are recommended for the wine cellar.
- Cafe Iruña has no listed closing time, but it is best for evening drinks.
Worth knowing
- Zortziko is open at 18:01 only on Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Bilbao (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).