Interesting places to visit near Bilbao, Spain

Location: Bilbao Old Town (Casco Viejo), Basque Country, Spain

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Travelers, Culture Lovers

Nestled in the heart of Bilbao, the Old Town offers a captivating detour rich with gastronomic delights and vibrant market life. This historic quarter combines centuries-old charm with a lively contemporary food scene, making it a must-visit for travelers eager to experience authentic Basque culture and cuisine. The bustling markets and pintxos bars provide a sensory feast, while the narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings invite exploration.

Visitors can indulge in sampling traditional Basque pintxos at numerous bars, shop for fresh local produce and artisanal goods at the Mercado de la Ribera, and explore charming plazas and historic landmarks like the Santiago Cathedral. Families will appreciate the lively atmosphere and open spaces for children to enjoy, while history buffs can delve into the rich past of the area through guided walking tours. Nature lovers can also enjoy nearby riverfront walks along the Nervión River.

The Old Town is welcoming to families with young children, offering a variety of casual dining options and pedestrian-friendly streets. Dog owners will find many pet-friendly outdoor terraces and parks nearby, though indoor market areas may have restrictions. This vibrant neighborhood is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of culinary adventure, cultural immersion, and historic ambiance in one accessible location.

Location: Portugalete, Basque Country, Spain

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled along the Nervión River in the Basque Country, Portugalete offers a delightful detour for travelers eager to immerse themselves in authentic pintxo culture and rich culinary traditions. This charming town is famed for its lively pintxo bars where visitors can sample a variety of small, flavorful Basque tapas, making it a paradise for food lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Visitors can stroll through the historic old town, savoring pintxos crafted from fresh local ingredients, paired with regional wines or cider. The iconic Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning views and a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage. Families can enjoy relaxed walks along the waterfront promenade, while children will delight in the colorful atmosphere and casual dining options.

Portugalete is notably dog-friendly, with many bars and outdoor terraces welcoming pets, allowing travelers to share the experience with their furry companions. Whether you're a foodie eager to explore Basque flavors, a history buff fascinated by industrial landmarks, or a nature lover enjoying riverside strolls, Portugalete provides a memorable and accessible detour on your journey.

Location: Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, located in the Basque Country of northern Spain, is a protected natural area renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This reserve offers a unique blend of scenic nature trails that meander through diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and coastline. It’s a perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty, with the added charm of historic villages and traditional Basque cuisine nearby. The area is especially welcoming to dog owners, making it an ideal stop for those traveling with pets.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking and birdwatching along well-marked trails, explore the ancient fishing village of Mundaka, visit the Ogoño Lighthouse for panoramic views, and savor local Basque dishes in nearby eateries. The Biosphere Reserve also features educational centers that highlight the region’s ecological importance.

Kid-friendly focus: The trails are generally accessible and safe for families with young children, offering opportunities for outdoor learning and nature exploration that engage kids of all ages.

Dog-friendly notes: Many parks and trails within Urdaibai welcome dogs on leashes, with ample space for pets to roam and enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners, making it a perfect detour for travelers with dogs.

Location: Castro Urdiales is a charming coastal town located in the Cantabria region of northern Spain, perched along the Bay of Biscay.

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Travelers, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This delightful medieval town offers a unique blend of rich history and stunning seaside vistas that make it an ideal stop for travelers seeking culture and natural beauty. Its well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the iconic Church of Santa María de la Asunción, invites history buffs to explore centuries-old heritage, while the dramatic coastline and beaches provide refreshing outdoor experiences.

Key activities: Visitors can wander the cobblestone streets to admire medieval buildings, visit the historic castle and lighthouse, enjoy panoramic views from the cliffs, relax on family-friendly beaches, and savor local Cantabrian cuisine at seaside restaurants. The town also hosts lively markets and festivals that showcase regional traditions.

Kid-friendly focus: The safe, walkable town center and accessible beaches make Castro Urdiales a great destination for families with young children. Interactive museums and open spaces provide engaging experiences for all ages.

Dog-friendly notes: Castro Urdiales welcomes dogs in many outdoor areas, including beaches during off-season months and walking trails along the coast, making it suitable for travelers with pets. Some restaurants offer pet-friendly terraces as well.

Location: Urkiola Natural Park is located in the Basque Country, northern Spain, nestled between the provinces of Biscay and Álava. This protected area is renowned for its stunning mountainous landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Wildlife Watching, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children

Why it's a great detour: Urkiola Natural Park offers a refreshing escape into pristine nature with breathtaking limestone peaks like Anboto and Alluitz, dense forests, and diverse wildlife including deer and birds. The park’s blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, featuring ancient hermitages and local legends, makes it a fascinating stop for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and historical insight.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking numerous well-marked trails suitable for all levels, wildlife spotting, guided nature walks, and exploring historical sites such as the Sanctuary of Urkiola. The park also offers picnic areas and scenic viewpoints perfect for photography and relaxation.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is suitable for families with children, offering gentle trails and open spaces where kids can explore nature safely. Educational opportunities about local flora and fauna make it engaging for young minds.

Dog-friendly notes: Urkiola Natural Park welcomes dogs on leash, allowing pet owners to enjoy the trails alongside their furry companions. However, visitors should be mindful of wildlife and follow park regulations to ensure a safe experience for all.

Location: Nestled in the Álava province of the Basque Country, Spain, Parque Natural de Valderejo offers a pristine natural escape just a short drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Wildlife Watching, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Family-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This protected natural park is a hidden gem for travelers seeking immersive outdoor experiences. Its dramatic limestone cliffs and verdant valleys provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife encounters, including griffon vultures and roe deer. The park’s well-marked trails and peaceful environment make it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers wanting to disconnect and explore.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking on diverse trails suitable for all skill levels, guided wildlife watching tours, birdwatching, and exploring the charming nearby medieval village of Lalastra. The park also offers picnic areas and educational signage about local flora, fauna, and geology.

Kid-friendly focus: The trails are generally safe and manageable for young children, with plenty of opportunities for spotting animals and learning about nature, making it an excellent outdoor classroom for families.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on-leash, allowing pet owners to include their furry friends in the adventure while respecting the park’s wildlife and natural habitats.

Location: Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country, Spain

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz's Old Town offers a unique detour where rich Basque heritage meets vibrant contemporary street art. This charming medieval quarter invites travelers to wander its narrow cobblestone streets, admire centuries-old architecture, and discover colorful murals that breathe new life into historic walls. It's an ideal stop for those seeking a blend of culture, art, and local gastronomy.

Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Gothic-style Santa María Cathedral and the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, while also enjoying guided street art tours that reveal the stories behind the murals. Food lovers will appreciate the local pintxos bars and traditional Basque cuisine served in cozy taverns. The Old Town's pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to explore with children, and several parks nearby offer green spaces for family relaxation.

Families with young children will find the area engaging and accessible, with plenty of open spaces and interactive art to spark curiosity. Dog owners will be pleased to know that the Old Town is generally dog-friendly, with many outdoor cafes welcoming pets and nearby parks for walks, though some indoor venues may have restrictions.

Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into Basque culture, an art lover drawn to urban creativity, or a foodie ready to savor authentic flavors, Vitoria-Gasteiz's Old Town provides a memorable and enriching detour on your European journey.

Location: Nestled in the Añana Valley of the Basque Country, Spain, Salinas de Añana Salt Valley offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This centuries-old salt valley is a living museum of traditional salt production, set amidst tranquil landscapes perfect for leisurely walks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene environment while discovering the fascinating history of salt harvesting that shaped the region. The combination of scenic trails and authentic Basque flavors makes it a memorable stop for all types of travelers.

Key activities: Explore well-marked nature trails through the salt flats and surrounding countryside, visit the Salt Museum to learn about ancient salt extraction techniques, taste local Basque cuisine at nearby eateries featuring salt-infused specialties, and participate in guided tours that highlight both natural and cultural aspects of the valley.

Kid-friendly: The gentle walking paths and interactive museum exhibits make it suitable for families with young children, offering educational and engaging experiences.

Dog-friendly: The open outdoor spaces and trails welcome dogs on leash, allowing travelers to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.