Bilbao, the vibrant Basque city, beckons travelers to uncover its rich tapestry of history and culture. A private walking tour offers a guided exploration of the city’s architectural gems and cultural heritage. Whether you choose the concise 2-hour tour or the immersive 4-hour journey, you’ll gain insights from a knowledgeable local guide, who’ll share the city’s secrets and ensure a memorable experience. From the iconic Guggenheim Museum to the charming Arenal, this wheelchair-accessible tour caters to your needs, even providing rain gear for any unexpected weather. Prepare to be captivated by Bilbao’s captivating blend of past and present.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Historical Tours In Bilbao.
Key Points
- Offers private walking tours of Bilbao’s historic Old Town and downtown areas, with flexible 2-hour or 4-hour options.
- Provides a comprehensive experience of Bilbao’s architectural gems, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks, guided by a knowledgeable local.
- Tours are wheelchair accessible and include rain gear, ensuring inclusivity and comfort for all participants.
- Allows for flexible booking and cancellation policies, with no upfront payment required.
- Begins at the centrally located main entrance of the Arriaga Theater, a neoclassical architectural gem.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The private walking tour of Bilbao offers a 2-4 hour exploration of the city’s historic and cultural highlights for €130 per group of up to 4 participants.
With a flexible duration, travelers can choose between a 2-hour tour of the Old Town and downtown or a more comprehensive 4-hour tour that adds visits to the Guggenheim Museum and other top attractions.
Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
A knowledgeable local guide leads the private tour, which is wheelchair accessible.
The tour includes rain gear, but food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t covered.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bilbao.
Tour Itinerary
Depending on the chosen option, the tour starts with either a 2-hour or a 4-hour itinerary.
For the 2-hour tour, the guide takes visitors through Bilbao’s historic Old Town, including stops at the Arenal, Plaza Nueva, San Antón Church, and the lively La Ribera Market. The tour then continues to the city’s downtown, where participants can see the railway station, Gran Via, banks of the Nervión river, and the City Hall.
The 4-hour option includes all the 2-hour stops plus additional highlights like the Puente Zubizuri, Guggenheim Museum, Puppy, Iberdrola Tower, Alhondiga, and Moyua Square.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide shares secrets about the city’s buildings and history.
2-Hour Option
The 2-hour tour explores Bilbao’s historic Old Town, while the 4-hour option adds several more famous landmarks around the city center.
On the shorter tour, you’ll stroll through the Arenal, Plaza Nueva, and past the San Antón Church and La Ribera Market. Then, you’ll head downtown to see the railway station, Gran Vía, the banks of the Nervión River, and the City Hall.
The extended 4-hour tour includes all those sights plus the iconic Zubizuri Bridge, the Guggenheim Museum, the Puppy sculpture, the Iberdrola Tower, the Alhóndiga, and Moyua Square.
No matter which option you choose, you’ll discover the city’s secrets and highlights with an expert local guide.
4-Hour Option
On the shorter 2-hour tour, visitors can expect to explore Bilbao’s historic Old Town, uncovering the secrets of the city’s buildings and history along the way.
This option includes:
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An introduction and walk through the Arenal, Plaza Nueva, San Antón Church, and the lively La Ribera Market.
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A journey to downtown, where you will see the railway station, Gran Via, banks of the Nervión river, and the City Hall.
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A knowledgeable local guide who’ll share insights and anecdotes about Bilbao’s most iconic areas.
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A wheelchair-accessible experience, with rain gear provided in case of inclement weather.
Experience and Highlights
With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore Bilbao’s most emblematic areas and discover secrets of the city, its buildings, and history.
The private walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Bilbao’s rich cultural heritage.
Whether it’s the 2-hour or 4-hour option, guests will be amazed by the city’s architectural gems, from the charming Old Town to the modern Guggenheim Museum.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
With rain clothes provided, the tour can proceed rain or shine.
This private group experience is perfect for those seeking an in-depth, personalized exploration of Bilbao’s highlights.
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Included Services
A local private tour leader guides visitors throughout the walking tour, providing insight and context along the way.
Rain clothes are also provided, ensuring the tour can continue even in inclement weather.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t included, though guests can easily meet the group at the designated starting point.
Gratuities, food, and drinks are additional expenses not covered by the tour price.
The tour includes:
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Knowledgeable local guide
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Rain gear to keep you dry
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Flexibility to meet at the starting point
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No need to worry about transportation or tips
Meeting Point
The walking tour begins at the main entrance of the Arriaga Theater, located at Arriaga Square #1. This meeting point is conveniently situated in the heart of Bilbao, making it easy for participants to find.
The Arriaga Theater is an iconic landmark in the city, known for its beautiful neoclassical architecture. Guests should plan to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a prompt start to the tour.
The tour guide will be waiting at the entrance, ready to greet the group and begin the exploration of Bilbao’s historic and cultural highlights. Participants should check the availability for starting times to ensure the tour fits within their schedule.
Availability and Cancellation
Participants can reserve their spot for the private walking tour of Bilbao without upfront payment. They can simply book their preferred date and time, and pay later. Should their plans change, they’re free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Some key points about availability and cancellation:
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Flexible booking: Reserve your tour date and time without needing to pay right away.
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No-risk cancellation: Cancel with 24 hours’ notice for a full refund, no questions asked.
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Convenient scheduling: Check availability for various starting times to find the best fit.
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Private experience: This is a private tour, so you can enjoy the sights at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to suit your interests. The tour provider is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences to ensure you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.
Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?
No, audio guides are not available during this private walking tour. The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who will provide live commentary and information throughout the experience.
Can the Tour Be Conducted in Multiple Languages?
This private walking tour can be conducted in multiple languages. The knowledgeable guide is fluent in several languages and can tailor the experience to meet the needs and preferences of the group.
What Is the Dress Code for the Walking Tour?
The tour is a casual, walking experience, so there is no strict dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable tour. Participants should dress in a way that allows for easy mobility.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Tour?
The tour does not offer any discounts or packages. The price is a flat rate of €130 per group of up to 4 participants, regardless of group size. There are no additional discounts or bundled options available.
Recap
Enjoy Bilbao’s rich history and vibrant culture with a private walking tour.
Choose between a 2-hour or 4-hour option to explore key landmarks, architectural gems, and the city’s heritage.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this wheelchair-accessible tour provides insights and rain gear for an unforgettable experience, tailored to your interests.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Bilbao
More Tours in Bilbao
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- From Bilbao: Excursion to San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria
- From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Gernika, and Mundaka Guided Tour
- City Tour in Bilbao – Premium Cars
- Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)
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Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Bilbao we have reviewed
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