Bilbao Cruise Port Guide: Best Things to Do & How to Get Around
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Surrounded by green mountains in northern Spain’s Basque Country, Bilbao has transformed from an industrial port into a modern cultural hub.
With its mix of medieval streets, bold modern architecture, and world-class art, Bilbao is a popular stop on Western Mediterranean and Iberian cruise itineraries.
I visited Bilbao during a cruise stop and had the chance to see the iconic Guggenheim Museum and explore the lively city center.
Cruise ships dock at the Getxo cruise terminal, about 20–25 minutes from downtown, and getting into the city is quick and easy by shuttle, taxi, or metro.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the Bilbao cruise port, how to get around, top things to see in the city, and the best day trips in the surrounding Basque region.
Bilbao Cruise Port: Location and Facilities
Bilbao cruise port is located in Getxo, a seaside town on the Bay of Biscay, about 15 km (9.5 miles) or a 20–25 minute drive from the city center.
The port lies along the Estuary of Bilbao (Ría de Bilbao) and serves as both a cruise and commercial port.
The cruise terminal in Getxo has three berths that accommodate large ships and features a modern two-story building with useful facilities for passengers, including a tourist information desk, free Wi-Fi, check-in counters, and a luggage handling area.
When your ship docks here, you can either head into Bilbao to visit famous sights like the Guggenheim Museum, or stay closer and enjoy Getxo’s beaches, marina, and scenic coastal paths.
The port of Bilbao is one of the largest cargo ports in Spain and also operates as a ferry terminal with regular sailings to Portsmouth, UK, via Brittany Ferries.
How to Get from Bilbao Cruise Port to the City Center
There are several ways to get from Getxo to Bilbao:
🚍 Cruise Shuttle Bus
Most cruise lines offer a paid shuttle service from the Bilbao cruise port to Plaza Moyúa in the city center. The ride takes around 25 minutes one way and usually costs 15-20€ round-trip per person.
Plaza Moyúa is a central location, only 15 minutes on foot from Casco Viejo (Old Town) and about 800 meters, or 10 minutes, from the Guggenheim Museum. It’s a great spot to start your visit to Bilbao.
🚆 Metro from Getxo to Bilbao
Bilbao has an excellent metro connection between Getxo and the city center via Line 1 (Plentzia – Etxebarri).
A free shuttle bus, provided by the port authority, runs every 20 minutes between the cruise terminal and Areeta and Algorta metro stations—both located on Line 1.
- Algorta is north of the terminal
- Areeta is south
- Walking to these stations takes about 30–35 minutes
You can also walk to Neguri or Gobela metro stations, which are slightly closer, around 20–25 minutes from the cruise terminal.
From any of these stations, the metro ride to Bilbao city center takes 20–25 minutes.
- Get off at Moyúa station for the Guggenheim Museum
- For the Old Town (Casco Viejo), continue to Abando or Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo stations
Trains run every 5 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long.
On your return, be sure to board a Line 1 train heading toward Plentzia.
Buy a 2-zone ticket, which covers the trip between Getxo and Bilbao. For route maps, timetables, and prices, visit the official Bilbao Metro website.
🚖 Taxi
Taxis are available at the terminal; a ride to the city takes 25–30 minutes.
🧭 Shore Excursions
Cruise lines and independent tour operators offer a variety of guided excursions to Bilbao, including visits to top attractions like the Guggenheim Museum, city walking tours, and round-trip transfers from the port.
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can book your shore excursion in advance to guarantee your spot and avoid last-minute stress.
👉 Browse recommended Bilbao tours and shore excursions on Viator and Get Your Guide
Practical Tips for Visiting from Bilbao Cruise Port
💳 Currency & Shopping
Spain uses the euro (€). Credit cards and cash are widely accepted, and ATMs are available in Getxo, Bilbao, and onboard most cruise ships.
For shopping, head to Plaza Moyúa or Casco Viejo. Many shops close from 13:30 to 16:30 for siesta, though large stores and malls usually stay open. Most museums and attractions are closed on Mondays.
✈️ Getting to the Airport
Bilbao Airport is about 14 km (8.7 miles) or 20 minutes by car from the cruise port. A private transfer is the most convenient option if you’re flying in or out the same day.
👉 Book a reliable airport transfer here
🏨 Where to Stay in Bilbao
If you’re spending the night before or after your cruise, the best place to stay is near Plaza Moyúa or the Old Town (Casco Viejo)—both areas are central, walkable, and close to major attractions.
👉 See top-rated hotels in Bilbao
🚗 Renting a Car in Bilbao
Car rental isn’t necessary for a quick cruise stop in Bilbao, as the city is compact and easy to explore on foot or by metro.
However, if you’re planning a day trip to the Basque countryside, such as San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or La Rioja wine region, renting a car gives you more flexibility.
👉 Compare car rental prices in Bilbao
Plan Your Cruise with My Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide
If you’re cruising the Mediterranean or visiting Spain by ship, don’t miss my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide—a detailed ebook covering over 45 cruise ports, including Bilbao.
It’s packed with practical tips, transportation info, and the best things to see and do during your cruise stops.
Best Things to Do in Bilbao on a Cruise Stop
Getxo: What to See Near the Cruise Port
If you decide to stay in Getxo, where most cruise ships dock, there’s plenty to see within walking or shuttle distance.
The town’s most iconic landmark is the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Bizkaia), the world’s oldest transporter bridge, built in 1893 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006.
It connects Getxo with the town of Portugalete across the Nervión Estuary and is a symbol of the region’s industrial past.
You can cross the bridge in two ways:
- By panoramic lift to the 50-meter-high pedestrian walkway with stunning views of Bilbao port, Portugalete, and the surrounding mountains.
- Or via the gondola, a suspended platform that glides across in about 90 seconds for a small fee.
Find more information on the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Bizkaia) official website
Aside from the bridge, you can visit Puerto Viejo (Old Fishing Port), stroll along the waterfront promenade by Ereaga Beach, relax at a marina café, or discover the town center and its historic spots.
For nature lovers, the La Galea cliffs offer incredible coastal views, beaches, and landmarks like Aixerrota Windmill, La Galea Fort, and Faro La Galea Lighthouse. You can enjoy a scenic drive or opt for hiking, cycling, or sailing.
From the cruise terminal, it’s about a 20-minute walk to downtown Getxo, or you can take the free shuttle bus provided by the port.
Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s most famous landmark and a must-see during your cruise stop. It houses an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century art, displayed across several floors.
Set along the Nervión River, the building itself is a work of art, an eye-catching mix of silver, titanium and glass, inspired by the sea and Bilbao’s maritime roots.
Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum opened in 1997 and helped transform the city’s image worldwide.
Outside, you’ll find two iconic sculptures:
- “Puppy” by Jeff Koons – a 12-meter floral dog guarding the entrance
- “Maman” by Louise Bourgeois – a 10-meter spider made of marble and steel
Inside, the museum features multiple levels, a tourist info desk, and two restaurants, perfect for a snack or lunch break.
To reach the museum from the cruise port, take the cruise shuttle to Plaza Moyúa and walk about 10 minutes, or ride the metro to Moyúa station. The Guggenheim is also wheelchair-accessible.
Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Casco Viejo is Bilbao’s medieval old town, a vibrant neighborhood along the Nervión River, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.
At its heart stands the Santiago Cathedral, built in the 14th century in the Gothic and Gothic Revival style. Dedicated to Saint James the Great, the patron saint of Bilbao, the cathedral features a rib-vaulted ceiling, stained glass windows, and elegant stone arches.
Visitors can explore the interior and courtyard for a small fee, which also includes an audioguide and entrance to the nearby Church of Saint Anthony the Great.
Another highlight of the area is the Church of San Nicolás, dating from the 18th century, with a striking Baroque façade worth seeing during your walk through the old town.
Casco Viejo is also known as Las Siete Calles (“Seven Streets” or Zazpikaleak in Basque), named after the original streets that form the heart of the old town.
In this area, you’ll find Plaza Nueva (also called Plaza Barria), a beautiful neoclassical square lined with tapas bars, cafés, and local restaurants. The surrounding streets are packed with taverns, boutiques, and small shops.
For an authentic local experience, visit La Ribera Market, Bilbao’s main food market, where you can sample pintxos, the signature bite-sized snacks of Basque cuisine.
Bilbao Museums Beyond the Guggenheim
Bilbao offers several other museums worth visiting, all within walking distance of Casco Viejo and the city center:
🛥️ Bilbao Maritime Museum (Itsasmuseum)
Located about a 15-minute walk from the Guggenheim along the river, this museum sits on the site of the former Euskalduna shipyards. It explores the history of shipbuilding, maritime culture, and the evolution of the Port of Bilbao.
🖼️ Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
Just 5 minutes from the Guggenheim, this is the second-largest museum in the Basque Country. It features an impressive collection of works by Basque artists, Goya, Picasso, Velázquez, El Greco, and others.
🏺 Archaeological Museum of Bilbao (Arkeologi Museoa)
A small but informative museum in Casco Viejo, only a few minutes from Plaza Nueva. It highlights the history of Bizkaia through local artifacts and permanent exhibitions.
🧭 Basque Museum (Museo Vasco)
Located across from the archaeological museum in a 17th-century Jesuit building, the Basque Museum holds over 20,000 artifacts focused on the ethnography and archaeology of the Basque Country.
Artxanda Funicular & Panoramic Views
For the best views of Bilbao, take the Funicular de Artxanda, located across the Nervión River from the Guggenheim Museum, on Mount Artxanda.
This historic funicular, opened in 1915, is one of the city’s top attractions, offering stunning panoramic views of Bilbao from above.
At the summit, you’ll find a scenic park, a few restaurants, a hotel, and a sports complex, perfect for a relaxing break with a view.
Best Day Trips from Bilbao Cruise Port
San Sebastián
Located about 109 km (69 miles) or a 1-hour 20-minute drive east of Bilbao, San Sebastián is a stunning coastal city nestled in La Concha Bay.
Famous for its sandy beaches, Michelin-star restaurants, and lively pintxos bars, the city also boasts a beautiful Old Town (Casco Viejo), a charming marina, and rich cultural heritage.
Stroll the seafront promenade between La Concha Beach and Ondarreta Beach, explore Puerto de San Sebastián, visit the hilltop Castillo de la Mota for panoramic views, or simply enjoy the flavors of Basque cuisine.
👉 Explore San Sebastián tours and day trips from Bilbao
Guernica
Just 40 km (25 miles) or a 40-minute drive east of the Bilbao cruise port, Guernica is a small but historically significant town, known for the Nazi bombing on April 26, 1937, during the Spanish Civil War.
This tragic event inspired Pablo Picasso’s famous painting “Guernica”, capturing the devastation and suffering of civilians.
Although much of the town was destroyed, two major landmarks survived: the Biscayan Assembly House and the Tree of Guernica (Gernikako Arbola), both symbols of Basque identity and autonomy.
Other highlights include the Peace Museum, the Euskal Herria History Museum, and the peaceful Parque de los Pueblos de Europa. The town is compact, and all major sites are within walking distance.
👉 Check out Guernica tours and activities from Bilbao
Rioja Wine Tasting
If you have time in Bilbao, consider a day trip to La Rioja, Spain’s most famous wine region, located about 1.5 hours south of the city.
This beautiful area is filled with vineyards, historic towns, and modern wineries, many known for their impressive architecture, like the striking Marqués de Riscal winery and Bodegas Ysios.
La Rioja is best explored on a private or small-group wine tour, which allows you to relax and enjoy tastings of the region’s renowned Rioja wines without worrying about transportation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bilbao Cruise Port
1. Where do cruise ships dock in Bilbao?
Cruise ships dock in Getxo, a seaside town about 20–25 minutes from Bilbao city center. The terminal is modern and well-organized, and getting into the city is pretty straightforward whether you take the shuttle, metro, or a taxi.
2. What’s the best way to get from the port to Bilbao?
There are a few good options:
- Cruise shuttle – Most cruise lines offer a shuttle (usually around 15-20€ round-trip) that takes you to Plaza Moyúa, a great central spot. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Guggenheim or 15 minutes to Casco Viejo.
- Metro – The port offers a free shuttle to the nearby Areeta or Algorta metro stations (Line 1). The ride to the city takes about 20–25 minutes, and trains run every few minutes.
- Taxi – Taxis are available at the terminal and take around 25–30 minutes to reach downtown Bilbao, depending on traffic.
3. Is the cruise port accessible?
Yes, the Getxo cruise terminal is accessible. It has ramps, accessible restrooms, and parking for guests with limited mobility. If you’re traveling with someone who needs assistance, the port setup is quite accommodating.
4. Can I store luggage at the port?
Unfortunately, there’s no luggage storage at the port itself. If you need to leave your bags somewhere, check with your cruise line or consider storing them in the city if you’re heading in before or after your cruise.
5. What facilities are available at the terminal?
The terminal has everything you need: a tourist information desk, free Wi-Fi, check-in counters, and luggage handling areas. It’s clean, modern, and easy to navigate.
Helpful Resources for Your Bilbao Cruise Stop
🌐 Official Links and Tourist Info
- Bilbao Cruise Terminal Location on Google Maps
- Cruise Ship Schedule
- Bilbao Tourism Office
- Local Weather Forecast
- Bilbao Metro Map & Fares
- Guggenheim Museum Official Website
🛳️ Planning a Stop in Bilbao? These Ports Are Often Included
Cruise itineraries that include Bilbao often visit these popular Mediterranean and Atlantic ports:
- Vigo – Gateway to Galicia and the Cíes Islands
- La Coruña – Home of the Tower of Hercules
- Cádiz – Access to Seville
- Gibraltar – The Rock and its famous macaques
- Málaga – Alcazaba fortress and day trips to Granada
- Alicante – Sandy beaches and Santa Bárbara Castle
- Palma de Mallorca – Cathedrals, beaches, and nightlife
- Ibiza – Dalt Vila and scenic coves
- Lisbon – Trams, tiles, and river views
- Barcelona – Gaudí sites and cruise hub
- Southampton – Major UK departure port
- Le Havre – Gateway to Paris and Normandy
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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found it very interesting
Am taking a child of 2 is there much to do
Have you done one of the wine tours from Bilboa? Our ship will be in port from 8 am- 6pm. I’m wondering if there is enough time.
Thanks
Hi! I haven’t done any wine tours in Bilbao, but that’s more than enough time because the wine tours are usually half-day. Enjoy your cruise!