Explore the Charm of Casco Viejo Bilbao

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Casco Viejo Holiday Planning Guide

Planning a holiday to Casco Viejo, Bilbao? This charming old town, also known as the "Seven Streets," is the heart of the Basque city's culture, history, and gastronomy. With its cobbled streets, lively plazas, colorful architecture, and traditional pintxo bars, Casco Viejo offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish holiday. This guide provides essential travel tips, a suggested itinerary, and ideas to make your trip truly memorable.

Why Visit Casco Viejo?

Casco Viejo is Bilbao’s most historic neighborhood, dating back to the 14th century. It is a pedestrian-friendly area filled with Gothic churches, medieval streets, bustling markets, and cozy cafes. As the cultural soul of Bilbao, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the city and understanding the Basque identity. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or just looking to relax, Casco Viejo has something for everyone.

Unlike the modern architecture seen around the Guggenheim, Casco Viejo represents the city's soul. Each corner tells a story, from the battles of medieval Bilbao to its resilience after floods and wars. It's a place where locals live and celebrate traditions, giving travelers a chance to see the real heart of the Basque Country.

Getting to Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is easily accessible by public transportation. From Bilbao Airport, take the A3247 bus to Termibus Station, then switch to Metro Line 1 or 2 and get off at "Casco Viejo" station. From there, it’s a short walk into the heart of the old town. Taxis and rideshare services are also available and reasonably priced.

If you're traveling by train, Bilbao Abando Station is just a 10-minute walk away. The neighborhood is also well connected by tram (Euskotren), with stops such as Arriaga and Ribera providing convenient access to key landmarks.

Where to Stay

Casco Viejo offers a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Popular choices include:

• Hotel Tayko Bilbao – A stylish hotel with river views and easy access to old town highlights.
• NYX Hotel Bilbao – Trendy and modern, great for couples and solo travelers.
• Pensión Basque Boutique – Unique rooms with traditional Basque décor, ideal for an authentic stay.
• Hotel Caravan Cinema – A vintage-themed boutique hotel perfect for design lovers.

3-Day Holiday Itinerary in Casco Viejo

Day 1: Explore the Old Town

• Start with breakfast at a local café near Plaza Nueva.
• Visit the Santiago Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church from the 15th century.
• Stroll through the Siete Calles (Seven Streets), the original layout of Casco Viejo.
• Stop at La Ribera Market for lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood, jamón, and pintxos.
• Visit Arriaga Theatre, a neobaroque masterpiece by the Nervión River.
• Dinner at a traditional pintxos bar such as Gure Toki or Sorginzulo.

Day 2: Culture and Views

• Take the Funicular de Artxanda for panoramic views over Bilbao.
• Visit the Basque Museum (Museo Vasco) to learn about Basque history and traditions.
• Relax in Parque Etxebarria with views over the old town.
• Shop for souvenirs along Calle Somera and Calle Belostikale.
• Enjoy a sunset stroll along the Ría de Bilbao.
• Dinner at a riverside restaurant offering Basque cuisine and local wine.

Day 3: Beyond Casco Viejo

• Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a must-see for modern art lovers.
• Walk across the Zubizuri Bridge, a striking footbridge by Santiago Calatrava.
• Explore the Ensanche district for high-end shopping and elegant architecture.
• Return to Casco Viejo for a farewell meal and one last round of pintxos.

Top Things to Do in Casco Viejo

• Sample Pintxos: Try small bites at various bars. It’s a Basque tradition to bar-hop and sample different flavors.
• Visit Local Markets: La Ribera is Europe’s largest covered market, perfect for food lovers.
• Church Hopping: Besides Santiago Cathedral, check out San Antón Church and Iglesia de los Santos Juanes.
• Join a Walking Tour: Local guides can provide in-depth stories behind the city’s buildings and alleys.
• People Watching at Plaza Nueva: A lively square filled with restaurants, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere.
• Explore Murals: Casco Viejo is full of urban art, with colorful graffiti and murals reflecting social and political themes.

Day Trips from Casco Viejo

If you’re staying more than a few days, consider these day trips:

• Getxo: A beautiful seaside suburb just 30 minutes away. Visit the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge and enjoy beachside walks.
• Gernika: The historic town bombed during the Spanish Civil War and immortalized by Picasso’s famous painting.
• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: A spectacular islet with a winding stone path. It was featured in Game of Thrones as Dragonstone.

Travel Tips for Casco Viejo

1. Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. July and August are lively but can be hot and crowded due to festivals and peak tourism. Winter is quieter and cozy, especially around Christmas when the area is beautifully decorated.

2. What to Wear

Wear comfortable shoes – cobbled streets can be tricky. A light jacket is advisable even in summer due to occasional rain or coastal breezes. Bilbao has a casual but stylish vibe, so pack accordingly. Don’t forget an umbrella or waterproof layer if visiting in the rainy season (October–March).

3. Learn a Few Basque Words

While Spanish is widely spoken, learning some Basque greetings like “Kaixo” (Hello), “Eskerrik asko” (Thank you), and “Agur” (Goodbye) shows respect and is appreciated by locals. Signage around Casco Viejo is bilingual, which can be a fun opportunity to learn a few more words.

4. Be Ready for Late Dinners

Basques dine late – restaurants often open around 8 PM. Use the time to enjoy a siesta or take a walk along the river. Pintxo bars, however, start serving from around 6 PM, making them great for early evening snacks or casual meals.

5. Cash and Card

Most places accept credit cards, but smaller pintxo bars or market vendors may prefer cash. Always carry some euros just in case. ATMs are widely available throughout the old town.

6. Respect Local Customs

Casco Viejo is a local neighborhood, so keep noise down at night, especially if staying in Airbnb or small guesthouses. Avoid littering and be mindful of historic spaces. Locals are proud of their culture and expect visitors to appreciate their heritage respectfully.

7. Public Toilets

Public toilets are rare in Casco Viejo. Most cafes and bars allow customers to use facilities, so plan your breaks accordingly. Carry hand sanitizer and tissues, just in case.

8. Free Wi-Fi Spots

Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. You can also find public Wi-Fi in major squares like Plaza Nueva and around La Ribera Market.

What to Eat in Casco Viejo

Don’t leave without trying these Basque specialties:

• Pintxos: Mini open-faced sandwiches or small bites served on bread. Favorites include anchovies, cod, goat cheese, and mushrooms.
• Bacalao al Pil Pil: Salt cod in a garlic and olive oil emulsion.
• Txangurro: Stuffed crab, a coastal delicacy often baked in the shell.
• Txipirones: Baby squid cooked in their own ink, served with rice or crusty bread.
• Txakoli: A lightly sparkling white wine, perfect with seafood.
• Gâteau Basque: A traditional Basque dessert filled with custard or cherry jam.

Souvenirs from Casco Viejo

• Basque berets (boinas) – a cultural fashion staple and symbol of Basque identity.
• Handmade pottery and ceramic tiles with Basque motifs.
• Txakoli wine or Idiazabal cheese – perfect for sharing a taste of Basque Country with friends back home.
• Basque flag items – t-shirts, mugs, or magnets with the Ikurriña flag.
• Traditional espadrilles – lightweight and stylish shoes popular in the region.

Festivals and Events

If you're lucky, your visit might coincide with one of Casco Viejo’s colorful festivals:

• Aste Nagusia (Bilbao's Great Week): Held in August, this is the biggest party of the year with fireworks, concerts, and street performances.
• Santo Tomás Fair (December): A festive market celebrating rural traditions with food, drink, and farm animals in the city.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): Religious processions and cultural events take place throughout the old town.

Final Thoughts

Casco Viejo in Bilbao is a destination that combines history, culture, food, and fun in one walkable and welcoming neighborhood. Whether you're wandering through medieval streets, sipping txakoli by the river, or enjoying the flavors of Basque cuisine, you'll discover the magic that makes this old town a must-visit in northern Spain. Take your time, savor the moments, and let the spirit of Casco Viejo guide your adventure. Your holiday in Bilbao starts here.