Bilbao stands out as a city that beautifully blends industrial innovation with historical charm. Its skyline is dominated by the iconic Guggenheim Museum, but beneath its modern exterior lies a tapestry of stories from sailors, merchants, and artisans. For travelers eager to uncover Bilbao’s authentic past, these tours offer a variety of ways to explore—whether you prefer strolling through historic markets, sampling local pintxos, or visiting grand palaces. Among our favorites is the Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour, which combines culinary discovery with cultural insights, giving a taste of what makes Bilbao unique.
If you’re short on time but want a solid overview, the Bilbao Historical Small Group Tour delivers a quick, engaging walk through the city’s key landmarks. For those craving a more personalized experience, private options like the Private Historic Walking Tour allow you to focus on your specific interests, from Bilbao Cathedral to the bustling Ribera Market. Keep reading for a detailed look at each of these top-rated adventures.
1. The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour with a Local
At number 1, this pintxos and history tour is a standout because it combines tasting local Basque delicacies with a deeper understanding of Bilbao’s culture. The tour lasts about three hours, and it’s tailored for small groups capped at just 10 people, which means you get plenty of personal attention. You’ll meet your local guide in the city center and set off to explore local favorites—tiny bars where locals gather—far from tourist traps.
What makes this tour special is the seamless pairing of food and history. You’ll try a variety of pintxos, learn what sets Basque cuisine apart, and enjoy drinks with your bites. Reviewers rave about guides like Maria and Jack, who share not just the food but also stories that illuminate Bilbao’s traditions. Expect to see both the old town and more modern parts of the city, with a lively, sociable atmosphere. The price of around $114.70 is quite reasonable considering the quality of food and personalized experience. It’s perfect for food lovers and those wanting a friendly, immersive introduction to Bilbao.
Bottom Line: Best for foodies who want insider access, local flavor, and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
2. Bilbao Historical Small Group Tour
Number 2 on our list, the Bilbao Historical Small Group Tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, rundown. Lasting about two hours, it explores key sites like Plaza Nueva, La Ria, the Catedral de Santiago, and the historic La Ribera Market. The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring you get meaningful interaction and answers to your questions.
The guide passionately shares stories about Bilbao’s evolution from a small port city to a thriving metropolis. Highlights include touching the oldest city walls and standing by San Anton Church, with plenty of local lore woven into each stop. The tour’s affordability—around $30.39—makes it accessible, yet packed with value. The reviews note the guide Samuel’s engaging storytelling and personal touches, making the walk feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.
Bottom Line: Perfect for newcomers who want a taste of Bilbao’s history, culture, and gastronomy in a short time frame.
3. Bilbao Historical Tour in Small Group
This basic historical walking tour is a budget-friendly option for about $23. It lasts two hours and emphasizes famous landmarks and historic buildings of Bilbao’s old town. The itinerary includes San Nikolas Eliza, Plaza Nueva, and the Yohn Palace, among other sites. It’s limited to only 10 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate.
The guide offers insights into Bilbao’s architecture and local life, providing a solid foundation for understanding the city’s development. Reviewers mention how smoothly the guide moves through the city, making it easy to absorb the information without feeling rushed. This tour suits travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without spending much.
Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious visitors eager for a quick, straightforward history overview.
4. Bilbao: Historical Walking Tour and Highlights
Number 4 features a short, 1.5-hour walk, showcasing Bilbao’s bridges, squares, and architectural highlights. This tour emphasizes Bilbao’s traditions and the stories behind the sailors, merchants, and artisans who shaped the city. It includes stops at the Puppy sculpture, Udaletxea, and San Nikolas Eliza, offering a compact yet enriching snapshot.
While it’s the briefest on our list, the guide’s storytelling and scenic stops make it a good choice for those with limited time. The small group size ensures more personalized interaction. It’s a good fit for casual travelers who want to see a range of sights without going deep into every detail.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick orientation of Bilbao’s most photogenic and historic spots.
5. Bilbao: Historical and Architectural Walking Tour
Number 5 on our list is the Historical and Architectural Walk, priced at $91. It focuses on Bilbao’s palaces along Gran Via, giving visitors insight into the families who once lived in these grand buildings. It runs roughly two hours and includes a pintxo-pote experience, perfect for combining history and local cuisine.
Guests have praised guide Javi’s knowledge, especially about the modern architecture and historic families. This tour is best for travelers interested in urban history and architecture, looking for a deeper dive beyond landmarks. The inclusion of a pintxo-pote adds a lively, social dimension.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a detailed architectural history paired with local food experiences.
6. Bilbao: I am a guide who shows the history of the town of Bilbao
This participatory, dynamic tour lasts about 1.5 hours and involves direct involvement from travelers. Starting at Bilbao-Abando Geltokia, the guide actively engages you in the city’s story from its origins to today. It’s simple, enjoyable, and flexible, making it perfect for travelers who want to feel involved.
Reviews highlight how lively and fun the tour is, with participants appreciating the guide’s ability to connect history with present-day Bilbao. It’s an excellent option if you prefer a more hands-on experience rather than a passive walk.
Bottom Line: Best for lively, participatory travelers eager to connect actively with Bilbao’s past.
7. Bilbao – Private Historic Walking Tour
Number 7 is a private custom tour for up to 20 people, priced at $397. It focuses on Moyúa Square, Casilda Iturrizar park, the Bilbao Cathedral, and the Ribera Market. The private aspect allows for tailored content, with an emphasis on historic buildings and local markets.
The guide’s expertise ensures a personalized experience, with detailed stories about Bilbao’s medieval roots and modern urban developments. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible itinerary and private guides. The cost might seem high, but for groups, the per-person price can be quite reasonable considering the depth of experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a customized, private walk with detailed storytelling.
$397 per group up to 20
8. Bilbao: Private Walking Historic & Cultural Tour
This private tour lasts between 2 to 4 hours and is priced at $164 for up to 4 people. It covers both Old Town and Downtown Bilbao, and you’ll learn about cultural influences and historic landmarks from your knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for those who want an in-depth, tailored experience.
Reviews note the value of private guides for personalized storytelling and flexibility in pacing. It’s suitable for those who prefer a more leisurely exploration or want to focus on particular areas of interest.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups wanting a customized, in-depth understanding of Bilbao’s historic and cultural layers.
9. Bilbao’s Timeless Trail: Art & History Walk
This 3-hour Art & History Walk combines art venues like Bilborock and BilbaoArte Fundazioa with historic streets. Starting from Bilbao La Concordia Station, it offers a cultural journey through modern art, historic architecture, and Old Bilbao streets.
Designed for those interested in contemporary culture alongside traditional sights, the tour features stops at art centers and scenic neighborhoods. It’s well-reviewed for its insightful commentary and diverse stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in combining art and history in a walk that spans past and present.
$453 per group up to 4
10. Christmas Charm of Bilbao: A Historic Walk
Number 10 is a festive tour during the holiday season, highlighting Bilbao’s Christmas traditions and architecture. Over 2 hours, you’ll walk through illuminated streets of Casco Viejo, visit the Plaza Nueva, Catedral de Santiago, and Ribera Market decked out in holiday splendor.
This tour emphasizes Bilbao’s festive spirit and the magic of its historic sites under Christmas lights. For those visiting during the holidays, it offers a special, memorable experience with a joyful, cultural twist.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for seeing Bilbao through a festive lens during the holiday season.
$1,139 per group up to 4
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Bilbao tour, consider your interests, budget, and time. For food lovers, the Authentic Pintxos Tour offers a delicious dive into local flavors. If your goal is a broad overview, the Small Group Tour or the Highlights Walking Tour work well. For a more custom experience, private options like the Private Historic Walk provide flexibility.
Think about your fitness level—most tours involve walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, if you’re visiting during the holiday season, the Christmas Tour offers a festive, magical way to see the city. Booking early is wise, especially for private and popular small-group tours.
Final Thoughts
Bilbao offers a diverse set of historical and cultural tours suited to many interests and budgets. Whether you prefer sampling pintxos while learning about Basque traditions, walking through the ancient walls of the old town, or exploring modern art venues, there’s something here for every history enthusiast. The Authentic Pintxos, Food & History Tour ranks highly for its combination of food, culture, and small-group intimacy, making it a top pick for those seeking an immersive experience. Meanwhile, private options provide a tailored, in-depth look for travelers who want a more personalized journey.
Remember to book ahead, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to ensure you secure your spot on these memorable tours—and enjoy your time discovering Bilbao’s many stories.