Bilbao is a vibrant city located in the Basque Country in northern Spain. It is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious food. But is Bilbao safe at night? This is a question that many travelers have when planning a trip to the city.
In a Brief ★
Bilbao is a safe city to visit at night, with low levels of crime and a strong police presence. Visitors can feel comfortable walking around the city center and popular tourist areas after dark. While it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take common sense precautions, there is no need to be particularly concerned about safety in Bilbao at night. The city has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late, making it an enjoyable place to spend an evening. Overall, Bilbao is a welcoming and safe destination for travelers.
6 Best Bilbao Experiences You Can’t Afford To Miss
1. Bilbao Night Life
Bilbao has a vibrant and diverse nightlife, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax with a drink at a cozy bar, dance the night away at a club, or enjoy some live music, Bilbao has it all.
Bars and Clubs
Bilbao has a range of bars and clubs to suit different tastes and preferences. From lively sports bars to intimate cocktail lounges, there’s something for everyone. The Casco Viejo (Old Town) area is particularly popular for its bars and clubs, with many establishments staying open late into the night. For a more upscale experience, the Abando district is home to a number of fashionable clubs and bars.
Live Music
Bilbao is home to a thriving music scene, with a range of venues showcasing local and international acts. The city hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year, including the Bilbao BBK Live, which takes place in the nearby mountaintop city of Kobetamendi. For a more intimate experience, there are also smaller clubs and venues that feature live music on a regular basis.
Food and Drink
Bilbao is known for its delicious cuisine, and the city’s restaurants and bars offer a range of options for a night out. From traditional Basque pintxos (tapas) to modern fusion dishes, there’s something to suit every taste. The Casco Viejo area is particularly popular for its bars and restaurants, with many establishments staying open late.
Overall, Bilbao’s nightlife is diverse and welcoming, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or simply relax with a drink and some good company, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Bilbao.
2. Is It Better To Stay In Bilbao Or San Sebastian?
Both Bilbao and San Sebastian are great cities to visit in the Basque Country, but they each have their own unique charms. Bilbao is a larger city with more to see and do, while San Sebastian is a smaller, more laid-back beach town. If you’re looking for a more lively, urban experience, then Bilbao might be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, then San Sebastian might be a better fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a vacation.
3. How Many Nights Do You Need In Bilbao?
It really depends on what you want to see and do in Bilbao. The city has a lot to offer, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum, the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the bustling Mercado de la Ribera, among other attractions. If you want to see as much as possible, then you might want to stay for at least a few nights. However, if you just want to get a taste of the city and aren’t looking to pack too much into your trip, then one or two nights might be sufficient.
6 Best Bilbao Experiences You Can’t Afford To Miss
4. Is Bilbao A Safe Place To Live?
Overall, Bilbao is considered a very safe place to live. The city has a low crime rate and is generally considered to be a safe place to live and visit. However, as with any city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded places.
5. Are People Friendly In Bilbao?
The people of Bilbao are generally known to be friendly and welcoming. The city has a rich culture and a strong sense of community, and the locals are proud of their city and happy to share it with visitors. Whether you’re exploring the city on your own or interacting with locals, you can expect to be treated with kindness and hospitality.
6. Is It Safe To Walk Around Bilbao At Night?
While Bilbao is generally a safe city, it’s not recommended to walk around at night, especially in less populated or unfamiliar areas. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. That being said, the city center and many of the popular tourist areas are well-lit and well-populated, so you can feel relatively safe walking around these areas even at night.
7. Is Bilbao An Expensive City To Visit?
Bilbao can be considered an expensive city to visit, especially compared to other cities in Spain. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can add up quickly. However, there are ways to save money while still experiencing all that the city has to offer. For example, you can save on accommodation by staying in a budget hotel or Airbnb, and you can save on food by eating at local markets and restaurants rather than more upscale establishments.
8. Is It Worth Visiting Bilbao?
Absolutely! Bilbao is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich culture and a lot to offer visitors. From the stunning Guggenheim Museum to the historic Old Town, there are plenty of things to see and do in Bilbao. The city is also known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some.
9. The Rich Culture
Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum is home to a range of contemporary art, including works by Pop art icons like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Nearby, the Las Arenas shopping center is another popular destination, housed in a stunning former bullring.
Other popular attractions in Bilbao include the Euskalduna Conference Centre and concerts Hall, the Bilbao Exhibition Centre, and the funicular, which offers breathtaking views of the city. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Miribilla Park in the Ibaiondo district is a must-see, with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.
Neighborhoods
Bilbao is made up of several neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions. The Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a lively area with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as historic landmarks like the Santiago Cathedral. The Barakaldo district is known for its shopping, with a range of modern malls and boutiques. The Azkuna Zentroa, located in the district of Abando, is a popular cultural center designed by Frank Gehry, featuring a range of exhibitions and events.
Events
Throughout the year, Bilbao plays host to a range of events and festivals. The Bilbao BBK music festival, held in the nearby mountaintop city of Kobetamendi, is a popular event, attracting music lovers from around the world. Another popular event is the Olentzero celebration on December 24th, when locals dress up as the traditional Basque figure and go door-to-door singing carols. The Miranda de Ebro fair, held in the nearby town of Cantabria, is also a must-see, with its lively street markets and traditional Basque dancing.