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Explore curated travel guides, itineraries and custom travel planning services for Bilbao. Whether you are spending 4 days in Bilbao or 2 weeks in Bilbao, Thatch guides and itineraries can help you make the most of your trip with curated Bilbao recommendations by locals and travel experts. Explore what to eat in Bilbao, the best things to do in Bilbao and the must sees in Bilbao. From a long weekend in Bilbao to a trip of a lifetime, let Thatch local experts help you plan the perfect vacation.

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Luis Fernandez de Vega Chavarri

Lives in Gijón, España

As founder of Hidden in Spain, I am focused on high quality service. My passion for traveling has taken me to different destinations in America, Africa, Europe and Asia where I have been able to enrich my life with other cultures and people. During these trips I found an uncovered need. Most of the companies offered fixed and preplanned experiences to see the most touristic places everywhere but I was far from discovering the REAL country. That’s why I started this company, to offer real tailor made tours through Spain and let people discover the country as if they were traveling with a local, showing them everything, not only the most touristy places but also all those off-the-beaten paths they wouldn’t see if no one tells them about them and the way people live in this wonderful country. I also love skiing, watching sports, talking to friends (I mean real chats, not through social media), reading books and spending time with my wife and kids. My other passion is marketing. That’s why I have a bachelor in advertising and public relations and a Master in Marketing Management. I also got my Master in International Sales, both of them at ESIC in Spain. And I couldn’t forget, I am a passionate of beer!!! I love it!! I have tried more than 300 different beers from more than 25 different countries so far!! And counting up…!!!

Family • Adventure • Foodie • Slow Travel • Luxury • Wellness • Romantic • Art • Architecture • History • People & Culture • Boutique • Nature • 50+ • Couples

$250 Custom Itinerary

coolest neighbours

Lives in Porto, Portugal

🙌 Welcome to coolest neighbours, your passport to off-the-beaten-path adventures! We're Isabel and José, two Portuguese engineers with an insatiable appetite for exploration. It's the thrill of exploring new cultures, savouring exotic cuisines, and diving headfirst into the unknown. We're not your average travellers; we're seekers of cultural immersion, hardcore foodies and firm believers that the best adventures lie off the beaten path. 🌍 With over 40 countries stamped in our passports, we've honed our travel expertise to uncover the hidden gems that often escape the tourist radar. We are more about people watching and wondering among the locals, than hitting that world-renown monument. What sets us apart? It's our commitment to going beyond the obvious tourist guide and diving deep into each destination. Food is something that we take very seriously. We make sure to find the gems that will show you true local experiences and assure you stares from the locals - "How did they find this?". 🧳 Why should you trust us? Because we've been there. We've navigated bustling souks in Marrakech, trekked through lush jungles in Costa Rica, and shared meals with locals in remote mountain villages in Vietnam. We've learned from our experiences, embracing the unexpected twists and turns that make travel so exhilarating. So whether you're dreaming of exploring hidden temples in Indonesia, embarking on a culinary journey through Greece, or seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills in the rugged landscapes of Namibia, we will craft an unforgettable adventure tailored just for you. Follow us at @coolestneighbours, where we share trips every week! 😍 Hear it from our customers: "Isabel and José were supper fast in delivering the itinerary! Super professional and interested in understanding exactly what I wanted and my expectations! Very cool itinerary with amazing food tips! The google maps links make it very user-friendly! Totally recommend it!" - Ana and Miguel Isabel and José

Foodie • Adventure • Outdoors • Backpacker • Budget • Slow Travel • People & Culture • Couples

$25 Consultation Call

$25 Custom Guide

$30 Custom Itinerary

Simona RABBOLINI

Lives in Busto Garolfo, MI, Italia

Family • Foodie • Luxury • Romantic • Wellness • Art • Architecture • History • Nature

$2 Custom Itinerary

DIY your trip to Bilbao with guides
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Harmen Hoek

Backpacking Los Picos de Europa in 7-8 days (camping)

This 8-day 100km loop in Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa will take you through the most spectecular parts of the park, including the popular Cares Gorge, the ..., but also the most remote and wild part of the park deep in the Cornión massif. This guide contains everything you need to know to do this hike. This guide is for wild camping on the most beautiful locations in the park. If you prefer to stay to stay only in refuges, see the refuges guide. What this guide includes: - day-by-day itinerary with the unique route, distances, elevation gain, overnight options, possible shortcuts and the best campsites (or refuges); - custom Google Maps with the daily route and all the important locations (camping locations, water, resupplies, vistas, refuges); - gpx-track of the route; - all the practical information: how to get there, trail conditions, weather, geography and more. Get an impression on Youtube/harmenhoek

Backpackers • Camping • Mountain • Nature • Adventure

$15.00

5.0

(4)

Itinerary

Harmen Hoek

Backpacking Los Picos de Europa in 7-8 days (refuges)

This 8-day 100-115km (65-75mi) loop in Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa will take you through the most spectecular parts of the park, including the popular Cares Gorge and the scenic Naranjo de Bulnes peak, but also the most remote and wild part of the park deep in the Cornión massif. This guide contains everything you need to know to do this hike. This is the guide for overnights in refuges. If you prefer to wild camp, see the camping guide. What this guide includes: - day-by-day itinerary with the unique route, distances, elevation gain, overnight options and the best refuges; - custom Google Maps with all the important locations (campsites, grocery stores, view points, trails, refuges); - gpx-track of the route; - all the practical information: how to get there, trail conditions, weather, geography and more. Get an impression on Youtube/harmenhoek.

Backpackers • Camping • Mountain • Nature • Adventure

$15.00

5.0

(3)

Itinerary

Elizabeth Hanchett

Available for hire

A Basic Guide to the Basque Country

While this is still a largely undiscovered part of the world by most foreigners, it's widely known as a culinary mecca for everyone with an interest in food and food culture. Basque cuisine is renowned worldwide for being some of the most visionary and avant-garde in the industry, and food as a whole is an extremely important part of Basque culture. There's so much more to do in the Basque Country than just enjoying the food though! The entire region is truly a gift to the planet in terms of natural beauty, being nestled between mountains and the sea. Basques have been fishers and mountain climbers, sailing the seas and scaling mountains, while also developing some of the strongest industry in Southern Europe. Here's a guide to some of the absolutely crucial visits you *must* make while you're in the area, whether you're based in Bilbao or San Sebastián (referred to as "Donosti" by Basques, a shortened form of its Basque name Donostia), though I prefer Bilbao because I'm biased. 😜 This guide encompasses everything from landmarks to towns and even a few restaurants, perfect for when you're considering whether to check out this beautiful and charming region. I focus on the Spanish Basque Country as it's what I'm most familiar with, but recommendations for the French Basque Country (known as the "Iparralde" or "north country" in Basque) will come soon!

Adventure • Architecture • Art • History • People & Culture • Slow Travel • Sustainable/Eco • Photography

Free

Guide

Reasons to visit

Bilbao

Discover the Best of Bilbao: Top Areas to Explore

Guggenheim Museum

One of Bilbao's most iconic attractions, the Guggenheim Museum is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Frank Gehry. This titanium-clad marvel houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. The museum's striking exterior, featuring unique curved forms, reflects light in different ways throughout the day, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

Casco Viejo

Immerse yourself in Bilbao's rich history by exploring Casco Viejo, the charming old town filled with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. Discover traditional Basque cuisine at local pintxo bars, shop for unique souvenirs in artisan stores, and admire the stunning architecture of landmarks like the Santiago Cathedral and Plaza Nueva. Casco Viejo offers a glimpse into Bilbao's past while also showcasing its vibrant present.

Ribera Market

For a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, head to the Ribera Market, one of Europe's largest covered markets. Located along the banks of the Nervión River, this bustling market features rows of stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and more. Sample local delicacies, interact with friendly vendors, and experience the authentic hustle and bustle of Bilbao's food scene. Don't miss the opportunity to taste Basque specialties like pintxos and bacalao.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Escape the city and journey to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a rugged promontory topped by a picturesque hermitage. This enchanting site, located along the Basque coastline, offers breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and is accessible via a scenic hike up a steep path with 241 stone steps. Legend has it that ringing the hermitage's bell three times will grant your wishes. Explore the mystical surroundings, feel the salty sea breeze, and marvel at the natural beauty of this magical place.

Bilbao Waterfront

Stroll along the vibrant Bilbao waterfront and be captivated by the harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. Admire the sleek design of the Zubizuri Bridge, also known as the White Bridge, and the futuristic Isozaki Atea skyscraper. Take a relaxing boat ride on the Nervión River, passing by architectural landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum and the Euskalduna Conference Centre. Indulge in waterfront dining at trendy restaurants offering picturesque views of the river and the city skyline.

La Vieja

Experience the lively atmosphere of Bilbao's La Vieja district, known for its vibrant nightlife, charming cafes, and eclectic shops. Wander through colorful streets adorned with street art and explore hidden gems like Plaza Nueva, an elegant square surrounded by historic buildings. Enjoy a drink at a traditional Basque tavern, mingle with locals, and soak up the energetic ambiance of this bohemian neighborhood.

Embark on a memorable journey to Bilbao and uncover the city's diverse cultural heritage, artistic treasures, and natural wonders. From avant-garde architecture to ancient traditions, Bilbao offers a unique blend of experiences that will captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression.

Bilbao

Iconic Guggenheim Museum, modern architecture, and delectable Basque cuisine.