Bilbao - Away Fans Guide

City Overview

Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country in northern Spain, is a vibrant blend of industrial heritage and cutting-edge design. Famous for the iconic Guggenheim Museum, its riverside setting, and thriving food scene, Bilbao has reinvented itself over the past few decades into one of Spain’s most culturally dynamic cities.

The old town (Casco Viejo) is full of character, while the modern areas are sleek and stylish. Football fans will be heading into the passionate heart of Athletic Club Bilbao territory — a club deeply rooted in Basque identity, with a famously intense and loyal fanbase. Expect electric energy around San Mamés Stadium on matchday.

Food & Drink:

Bilbao is a food lover’s paradise, particularly known for pintxos — small, flavour-packed bites typically served atop crusty bread, often skewered with a toothpick. Bar-hopping (or “txikiteo”) through the Casco Viejo and Abando neighbourhoods is practically a sport here. Expect incredible seafood, cured meats, and bold regional wines.

Local Food:

Pintxos – Bite-sized tapas, ideal for bar hopping.

Txangurro – Spider crab baked with onion, tomato, and brandy.

Txuletón – Huge bone-in steak, grilled to perfection.

Local Drinks:

Txakoli – Slightly sparkling, dry white wine, typically poured from a height.

Rioja Alavesa – Local red wine from just south of Bilbao.

Basque cider (Sagardoa) – Tart, funky, and traditionally served from a height.

Local Beers – Check out Basque craft breweries like Basquery, La Salve, and Bidaia.

Recommended Restaurants:

The vast majority of these are pintxo bars , perfect for grabbing a quick snack and a drink and then heading off to the next one. Our aim next Thursday is to hit up as many of these as possible!

Gure Toki

Sorgínzulo

Baster

Restaurante Amaren

Bar Fermín

Melilla Y Fez

Bodega Joserra

Taberna Basaras

Café Bar Bilbao

La Viña del Ensanche

Bistró Guggenheim Bilbao

Recommended Bars

The Rooftop by The Artist - Guggenheim views - call ahead to check availibilty

Café Iruña

Café Bar Bilbao

Muelle Dartxin

La Olla de la Plaza Nueva

Bar Fermín

Melilla Y Fez

Bodega Joserra

Taberna Basaras

El Puertito

Cork

Residence Café

Bar Campeón & Euskallions Taldea - This bar, and ones surrounding are directly outside the stadium. Great views , but expect it to be heaving with home fans.

(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)Stadium Name: San Mamés

Capacity: 53,000

Located close to the city centre, San Mamés is known as “The Cathedral” of Spanish football. Modern, atmospheric, and steeped in history, it’s one of the finest stadiums in Europe.

Getting There:

Metro: San Mamés station (Lines 1 & 2) brings you right to the stadium.

Tram: The EuskoTran line also stops at San Mamés.

Walking: If you're staying central, the walk is scenic and safe (around 20–30 mins from Casco Viejo).

(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)Sights

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece, home to world-class modern art.

Casco Viejo (Old Town) – Narrow streets, buzzing squares, great for shopping, eating, and wandering.

Zubizuri Bridge – Sleek, futuristic footbridge over the river.

Mount Artxanda – Take the funicular for panoramic views of the city.

Bilbao Fine Arts Museum – A quieter gem with classic Spanish works.

Ría de Bilbao – Stroll along the river for a mix of old and new architecture.

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If you have any queries , you can contact us at bookings@trippinandsippin.co.uk