Attractions Nearby Bilbao, Day Trips and Excursions

(Bilbao, Biscay, Basque Country, Spain)

Just a short trip from Bilbao lie a wealth of attractions, towns and villages well worth a visit. Some of the most popular attractions close to Bilbao include the towns of Gatika, Gernika, Durango and Balmaseda and the cities of San Sebastian and Santander, all of which can be easily reached from Bilbao by car, bus or train.

Another well-known attraction nearby Bilbao is the Castillo de Munatones, a historic and appealing castle, standing in the Somorrostro Valley.

San Sebastian (Donostia)

Situated around 100 km / 62 miles to the east Bilbao, San Sebastian is a major city on Spain's northern coastline and lies close to the French border, with a population of around 182,000. Standing in the famous Spanish Basque Country, attractions in and around San Sebastian include the historic buildings of the Old Quarter (Parte Vieja), the aquariums and marine life at the Palacio del Mar, the Funicular Railway cliff ride, the roller coasters at Monte Igeldo Amusement Park (Parque de Atracciones del Monte Igeldo), and the high concentration of shops, restaurants and lively nightlife around San Sebastian Port (El Puerto).
Visit Guide to Attractions in San Sebastian - more information about attractions in the San Sebastian area.

Santander

The city of Santander can be found around 97 km / 60 miles west of Bilbao in the Canabria area of Spain, with a population of just over 150,000 and a rich Roman heritage. Santander offers many excellent shopping opportunities, together with plenty of fine dining, a busy port, a grand cathedral dating back to the 12th century, and a selection of beaches, including the Playa del Sardinero, the Playa del Puntal and the beaches around the main bay - the Bahia de Santander.

Gatika

Address: Gatika, 48110, Spain
The town of Gatika can be found just 20 km / 13 miles from Bilbao and offers a number of appealing attractions. Many people travel to this area to enjoy the Gorliz y Plencia beaches, and to marvel at the magnificent Castillo de Butrón, a medieval castle which is more than 500 years old and has been well-maintained and restored.

Puerto Deportivo El Abra Getxo

Address: Muelle de Arriluce, 1, Getxo, 48990, Spain
Standing on the outskirts of Bilbao, the Puerto Deportivo El Abra Getxo (pronounced 'get-cho') is a popular marina, offering a range of water-based attractions. This scenic spot also features a plethora of restaurants, shopping centers, a multi-screen cinema and impressive views.

Gernika

Address: Gernika, 48300, Spain
Located around 22 miles / 35 km from Bilbao, the town of Gernika featured heavy bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Full of many outstanding historical buildings and structures, one of the town's main attractions is the Casa de Juntas de Gernika, an impressive council building which features Neo-classical architectural, a large stained-glass window, and an important oak tree - known locally as the 'Gernika Tree'. The Santimamine Caves (Cuevas de Santimamine) can also be found nearby, which feature ancient rock paintings.

Balmaseda

Address: Balmaseda, 48800, Spain
Standing around 30 km / 19 miles from central Bilbao, the town of Balmaseda is a popular excursion and contains many interesting attractions. Some of Balmaseda's most notable features include the Old Bridge (Puente Viejo), which dates back to the 12th century, and the Gothic San Severino, which was built in the 15th century.

Durango

Address: San Agustinalde, 16, Palacio Etxezarreta, Durango, 48200, Spain
The town of Durango is sited approximately 30 km / 19 miles from Bilbao and is perhaps best known for its famous palace. One of the most popular attractions in Durango, the Etxezarreta Palace is home to the Historical Museum of Durango (Museo de Arte e Historia), which contains many important artefacts, Basque paintings, maps, documents, period clothing and a library.

Castillo de Munatones (Munatones Castle)

Address: Municipalite de San Martin, Muskiz, 48550, Spain
Close to Bilbao, in nearby Muskiz, the Castillo de Munatones is a historic castle, featuring many period features intact. With a tall tower, battlement areas and scenic surrounding countryside, this impressive fortress has had a chequered existence and is located in the Somorrostro Valley.