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Offered languages
- English
Welcome to one of the most authentic ways to experience Bilbao. The person guiding you lives and breathes this city, and can't wait to share its hidden corners, its stories, and its way of understanding Basque culture. Together we'll walk through the Old Town, the Seven Streets, their legends, their role in the city's history, and how Bilbao became what it is today. A perfect introduction to Basque culture, told with warmth and a real passion for detail.
This booking guarantees your spot on the Free Tour. A Free Tour is a walking tour led by someone passionate about the city and its history, doing everything possible to give you an unforgettable experience. It's called "free" because there's no fixed price set in advance: at the end, each participant decides the amount they feel is fair, based on their satisfaction and their own budget.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Remember to look for the ORANGE umbrella, you'll find us as soon as you arrive at the Arriaga Theatre (main facade)!
Itinerary
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1Arriaga Plaza
We’ll start at one of Bilbao’s greatest landmarks. Across from the majestic Arriaga Theater, we’ll discover the city’s history and how this place became one of its main gateways. It’s the perfect first stop to begin understanding Bilbao—both past and present.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Areatzako Pasealekua
The estuary is the central theme of Bilbao. We’ll stroll through El Arenal whilst discovering how the River Nervión played a key role in the city’s commercial and industrial development. We’ll also enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of historic Bilbao, with the water taking centre stage.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Iglesia de San Nicolas (Pass by)
One of the great gems of Baroque Bilbao. Standing before this imposing church, we will discover the story of Saint Nicholas of Bari, patron saint of seafarers, and his close connection with Bilbao’s seafaring and commercial past.
Admission ticket free -
Plaza Nueva (Pass by)
We’re heading straight into the heart of the Old Town. Plaza Nueva offers us the chance to discover one of Bilbao’s liveliest and most beloved spots, surrounded by arcades and historic buildings. We’ll also discuss its role in the city’s social life and one of Bilbao’s great culinary traditions: pintxos.
Admission ticket free -
Plaza Miguel de Unamuno (Pass by)
This is where Bilbao begins to tell its most literary stories. In Plaza de Miguel de Unamuno, we’ll learn about one of the city’s greatest intellectuals and discover the historic Calzadas de Mallona, one of the most unique links between the Old Town and the upper part of Bilbao.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
A small square that harbours a rich history. At the Portal de Zamudio, we’ll discover part of Bilbao’s ancient city walls and what the medieval city was like before it became the major industrial city we know today. It’s the perfect spot to travel back several centuries without leaving the Old Town.
Admission ticket free -
Catedral de Santiago (Pass by)
We arrive at the grand cathedral in the Old Town. Santiago Cathedral is one of Bilbao’s most important historic buildings and an essential stop for anyone wishing to discover the city’s religious and pilgrimage heritage. We’ll explore its architecture, its secrets and its connection to the Way of St James.
Admission ticket free -
Antxon Deunaren Eliza (Pass by)
One of the most iconic sites in the Old Town. We’ll learn about the history of this Gothic church, which is inextricably linked to Bilbao’s very identity, and discover why its silhouette even features on the city’s coat of arms.
Admission ticket free -
Mercado De La Ribera (Pass by)
Bilbao can also be discovered through its cuisine. At the Mercado de la Ribera, we’ll discover one of the city’s great culinary landmarks and a place that’s key to understanding Bilbao’s relationship with the estuary and its commercial heritage. A stop brimming with aromas, flavours and local life.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
We end our tour by the estuary, where Bilbao’s industrial heritage takes centre stage. At the Marzana Quay, we’ll discover one of the areas that best represents the city’s transformation and, through the mural dedicated to the San Luis Mine, we’ll learn about the importance of mining to Bilbao’s economic growth. A perfect way to link the city’s industrial past with contemporary Bilbao.
Admission ticket free -
Puente De La Merced (Pass by)
A bridge that preserves the memory of various eras in Bilbao’s history. From here, we will discover how the estuary has shaped the city’s growth and how its bridges were essential in connecting its two banks.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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