Overview
Casco Viejo, also known as the Old Town of Bilbao, is a historic district filled with narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural life. It is the heart of the city, offering a mix of traditional Basque heritage and modern influences.
Casco Viejo is significant for its rich history, traditional Basque culture, and its role as the historical center of Bilbao. It is a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, offering visitors a unique experience.
Location
Address
Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo, Bilbao, Bizkaia
Neighborhood: Casco Viejo
Coordinates
43.262700, -2.925200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flower markets
- • outdoor cafes
summer
hot
- • outdoor performances
- • extended shopping hours
autumn
cool
- • fall foliage
- • wine and food festivals
winter
cold
- • holiday markets
- • Christmas decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Comfortable shoes recommended
- Carry cash for local shops
- Check festival dates
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, lots of walking
- • uneven cobblestone streets
Medical facilities: nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
Euro
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, comfortable footwear, Inappropriate clothing for religious sites
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks for major events
- • official tourism website
- • varies by venue
- • available for major attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Bilbao Tourism App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Event calendar, Restaurant guides, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Public squares, Cafes, Restaurants
Charging Stations: Cafes, Restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Distance: 12 km
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, vibrant culture, great food
Historical Significance: Ancient center of the city, traditional Basque culture
Insider Tips
- Best pintxos bars are hidden in side streets
- Local markets offer the freshest produce
- Evening is the best time to explore the district
Local Recommendations
- • Try pintxos at local bars
- • Visit the local markets
- • Explore the side streets
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Plaza Nueva
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the arcades and the square's architecture
Result: Beautiful architectural shots
Ribera Market
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Focus on the market stalls and fresh produce
Result: Vibrant market scenes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Guggenheim Museum
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Museum
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Bilbao Cathedral
Distance: 200 m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Religious Site
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Try local pintxos"
- "Explore the side streets"
Contact Information
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Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum Private Walking Tour with guide
Semi-Private Rioja Tour of 3 Premium Wineries from Bilbao
Bilbao Private Walking Tour: History, Guggenheim, Pintxos Tasting
Bilbao Pintxos Private Walking Tour from Hotel/Center of Bilbao
Quick Info
Available Tours
31
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free (general area), varies by attraction