Is the Casco Viejo in Bilbao hilly?

Most of the historic core, including the Seven Streets and the riverside, is very flat and easy to walk. Only the areas leading toward the Begoña district, like the steps at Plaza Unamuno, involve significant inclines.

What is the best time to visit the Ribera Market?

The best time is weekday mornings between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the fresh produce and fish stalls are most active. Note that the traditional market stalls are closed on Sundays.

Can I see the Santiago Cathedral for free?

While there is often a small fee for a cultural visit which includes an audio guide, you can sometimes enter for free during mass times, though sightseeing is restricted during services.

Is this walking route suitable for children?

Yes, the route is family-friendly as it is largely pedestrianized. Children often enjoy the vibrant colors of the Ribera Market and the spaciousness of Plaza Berria.

What are the 'Seven Streets' exactly?

The 'Siete Calles' (Zazpikaleak in Basque) are the original medieval streets of Bilbao: Somera, Artecalle, Tendería, Belosticalle, Carnicería Vieja, Barrencalle, and Barrencalle Barrena.

Where can I find the best pintxos on this route?

Plaza Berria is the most famous spot for pintxos, offering dozens of bars under its arches. Additionally, Calle Santa María and the upper floor of the Ribera Market are excellent local favorites.

Is the Casco Viejo safe at night?

Yes, the neighborhood is very active and safe at night due to the popular dining and nightlife scene. Like any city center, just remain aware of your surroundings in quieter, poorly lit alleys.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the medieval heart of Bilbao with this self-guided walk through the Casco Viejo, the city's oldest and most atmospheric district. Known locally as 'Las Siete Calles' or the Seven Streets, this neighborhood is where Bilbao was born over 700 years ago. This walking route invites you to explore a labyrinth of narrow alleys, grand neoclassical squares, and centuries-old landmarks that have survived floods, fires, and the city's industrial transformation. You will begin at the elegant Arriaga Theater, a symbol of Bilbao’s cultural pride, before diving into the bustling Plaza Berria, where the local social life revolves around the art of the pintxo. This area is the soul of the city, blending traditional Basque culture with a modern, vibrant energy. As you follow this neighborhood stroll, you will encounter the Santiago Cathedral, a key stop on the coastal route of the Camino de Santiago, and the massive Ribera Market, which stands as a testament to the city's long-standing relationship with the Nervión River. This self-guided adventure allows you to uncover the layers of history at your own pace, from the original city gates at Portal de Zamudio to the iconic San Antón Church, which is so central to the city's identity it appears on the official coat of arms. Whether you are interested in the intricate Gothic architecture, the local maritime history, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere of the riverside, this walking route provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational history of Bilbao. It is a perfect way to experience the transition from a medieval trading port to the sophisticated cultural hub it is today, all while enjoying the freedom of an independent exploration.

Highlights

The Neo-baroque elegance of the Arriaga Theater

Pintxo-tasting in the neoclassical Plaza Berria

The Gothic architecture of the Santiago Cathedral

Europe's largest covered market, Erriberako Merkatua

The historic 'Seven Streets' that formed the city's 14th-century core

San Antón Church, the iconic symbol of Bilbao's coat of arms

Tour Stops (7)

Arriaga Theater

Our self-guided walk begins at the Teatro Arriaga, a stunning Neo-baroque building inspired by the Paris Opera House. Named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, known as the 'Spanish Mozart' who died at just 19, this theater has been the cultural heart of Bilbao since 1890. Despite facing devastating fires and the great flood of 1983, it has been meticulously restored each time. Notice the curved facade and the ornate statues representing the arts. This building serves as the gateway between the modern Ensanche district and the medieval Old Town, standing as a testament to Bilbao's late 19th-century economic boom.

Plaza Berria

Step into Plaza Berria, or Plaza Nueva, a magnificent neoclassical square completed in 1851. Surrounded by 64 arches, this enclosed space was originally the site of the Basque government. Today, it is the premier destination for pintxos, the small, creative snacks central to Basque social life. On Sunday mornings, the quiet square transforms into a bustling market for collectors of stamps, coins, and birds. Look up at the symmetry of the balconies and imagine the grand festivals and even bullfights that used to take place right here in the center of the square.

Unamuno Miguel Plaza

This plaza is named after Miguel de Unamuno, one of Spain's most influential philosophers and writers, who was born just a few steps away. In the center, you will find a bronze bust of the author. This square is a vital crossroads in the Casco Viejo, connecting the lower streets to the 'Calzadas de Mallona,' the 311 stone steps that lead up to the Basilica of Begoña. It is a favorite local meeting spot, surrounded by cafes and the Basque Museum, which is housed in a former Jesuit college and showcases the region's unique history and ethnographic heritage.

Portal de Zamudio Kalea

You are now standing at one of the most historic points of the old city. Portal de Zamudio was once one of the main gates in the medieval walls that protected Bilbao. It served as the entrance for travelers coming from the north and the Begoña district. While the walls are long gone, the layout of the streets still reflects the defensive design of the 14th century. This area marks the transition into the 'Siete Calles' (Seven Streets), the original heart of the town where merchants and mariners lived and traded for centuries.

Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala

The Santiago Cathedral is the oldest building in Bilbao, with its origins dating back to the late 14th century. Dedicated to St. James the Apostle, it is a significant stop for pilgrims on the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago. The architecture is primarily Gothic, though the facade and spire you see today were rebuilt in the 19th century in a Neo-gothic style. Don't miss the small but beautiful 16th-century cloister, an oasis of peace in the middle of the city. The cathedral’s modest size reflects Bilbao’s history as a merchant town rather than a major religious seat.

Erriberako merkatua

Welcome to the Ribera Market, a massive Art Deco structure that holds the title of Europe's largest covered food market. Located on the banks of the Nervión, this site has been a marketplace since the 14th century. The current building, designed in 1929, features beautiful stained glass windows and an open-plan interior without columns, allowing light to flood the stalls. Inside, you can find everything from fresh Atlantic fish to local Idiazabal cheese. It is not just a place to shop, but a social hub where locals gather to eat, drink, and listen to jazz in the riverside bars.

Antxon Deunaren Eliza

Our walk concludes at the Church of San Antón, perhaps the most iconic landmark in Bilbao. Built in the late 15th century on the ruins of a former warehouse, its silhouette is so famous that it appears on the city's coat of arms alongside the adjacent bridge. For centuries, the church served as a vital part of the city’s trade; merchants would gather here to conduct business. The location was strategic, as it sat right at the point where the river became navigable. Stand by the riverbank and look back at the church and the market to see the perfect blend of Bilbao’s medieval past and its enduring maritime spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

A thorough self-guided walk usually takes between 2 to 3 hours. This allows time to explore the Seven Streets, visit the Ribera Market, and stop for a few pintxos in Plaza Berria.