Abando, Bilbao Travel Guide

Explore Abando, Bilbao's central neighbourhood brimming with cultural landmarks, vibrant shopping streets, exquisite dining options, and lush green spaces.

Abando, often considered the heart of Bilbao, is a vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood that offers tourists a rich blend of culture, history, and modernity. Situated on the right bank of the Nervión River, Abando serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the city, thanks to its central location and excellent transport links. One of the most iconic landmarks in Abando is the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture that has put Bilbao on the global cultural map. Art lovers will also appreciate the Fine Arts Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Spanish and European art. For those interested in architecture, Abando offers a mix of styles ranging from the historic Bilbao Abando railway station to the modernist Zubizuri Bridge. Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Abando, with the Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro serving as the main commercial artery. Here, you'll find a mix of high-end boutiques, international brands, and local shops. When it comes to dining, Abando doesn't disappoint; the area is teeming with pintxo bars and restaurants where you can sample Basque cuisine at its finest. Don't forget to visit the Ribera Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe, for a taste of local produce and delicacies. Abando is also home to numerous parks and green spaces, providing a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle. The Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, with its beautiful gardens and serene lake, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Finally, Abando's vibrant nightlife offers a plethora of options, from cozy bars to lively nightclubs, ensuring that your evenings are as exciting as your days.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Abando.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Take a leisurely walk along the Nervión River for stunning views of the city.
Sample pintxos at local bars; they are a must-try Basque culinary tradition.
Use the Bilbao Metro for convenient access to other parts of the city.
Check out local events and festivals; Abando often hosts cultural activities.

Explore Abando: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Abando

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Plaza Nueva

Discover the captivating charm of Plaza Nueva, a historical square in Bilbao, filled with vibrant bars, exquisite cuisine, and rich Basque culture.

4.5

Itsasmuseum Bilbao

Explore the maritime heritage of the Basque Country at Itsasmuseum Bilbao, where history and the sea come alive in a captivating experience for all ages.

4.4

Pérgola

Discover the stunning Pérgola of Bilbao, a lush urban oasis filled with vibrant flowers and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

4.6

Paseo de las Fuentes/ Iturrien Ibiltokia

Explore the tranquil beauty of Paseo de las Fuentes in Bilbao, where lush gardens and elegant fountains create a serene escape in the heart of the city.

5.0

Best landmarks in Abando

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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Explore the architectural wonder of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, where modern art meets innovative design in the heart of the Basque Country.

4.5

Zubizuri

Discover the architectural elegance of Zubizuri, a stunning pedestrian bridge in Bilbao, offering breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Iturrizar Parkea

Discover the serene beauty of Iturrizar Parkea in Bilbao, a perfect urban escape for nature lovers and families alike.

4.5

Federico Moyúa enparantza

Explore the vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture at Federico Moyúa Plaza, a must-visit in the heart of Bilbao, Spain.

4.5

Best restaurants in Abando

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El Globo tavern

Experience authentic Basque flavors at El Globo Tavern - where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Bilbao.

4.4

Gure Toki

Discover authentic Basque flavors at Gure Toki - where traditional tapas meet contemporary cuisine in the heart of Bilbao.

4.5

Restaurante Abando

Discover the rich flavors of Basque cuisine at Restaurante Abando in Bilbao – a culinary haven offering authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

COPPOLA & SOLOMONK (NON STOP KITCHEN)

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Coppola & Solomonk, where every dish is crafted with passion and served in a warm ambiance.

4.5

Best bars in Abando

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La Antigua Cigarrería

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bilbao at La Antigua Cigarrería, where classic cocktails meet modern mixology in a stylish setting.

4.1

Sir Winston Churchill Pub

Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Sir Winston Churchill Pub in Bilbao, the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out.

4.6

Molly Malone

Discover Molly Malone, a lively Irish pub in Bilbao, where authentic cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

La Carbonería

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bilbao at La Carbonería, a lively pub offering local drinks, live music, and a cozy atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Abando

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Sala Rockstar Live

Discover the energetic nightlife of Bilbao at Sala Rockstar Live, a must-visit disco club for dancing and fun.

3.8

Teatro Memorial taberna-kafetegia

Teatro Memorial taberna-kafetegia: Where Bilbao's vibrant nightlife comes alive with electrifying music and unforgettable moments.

3.4

Sala Marquee Bilbao

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bilbao at Sala Marquee, where unforgettable music and dance await every weekend.

3.7

OCEAN DRIVE

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Ocean Drive, Bilbao's premier disco club, where unforgettable parties and vibrant energy await.

4.2

Best shops in Abando

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Natura

Explore the vibrant gift shop Natura in Bilbao for unique souvenirs and stylish clothing that capture the essence of Basque culture.

4.4

BELAZA GALLERY Bilbao

Discover unique fashion finds at Belaza Gallery, a boutique that celebrates style with vintage and contemporary clothing and accessories in the heart of Bilbao.

4.6

Bilbao 48007 CONCEPT STORE

Discover unique gifts, fashion accessories, and local artistry at Bilbao 48007 CONCEPT STORE, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.8

The BILBAO store

Explore The BILBAO Store for unique gifts, handmade crafts, and authentic souvenirs that embody the spirit of the Basque Country.

4.3

Explore Abando on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Abando, mapped for you.

Abando Essentials

Abando is centrally located in Bilbao, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. You can reach Abando from the airport via the Bizkaia Transport Consortium’s bus service (A3247) which takes about 20 minutes. If you’re coming from the Old Town (Casco Viejo), take the metro from Casco Viejo station to Abando station (2 stops). The journey takes about 10 minutes. Local trams and buses also connect Abando with other areas of the city.
Abando is well-served by public transportation. The metro is a convenient option, with Abando station providing access to lines that connect to various parts of the city. Buses run frequently, and tram services also operate within the neighborhood. For a more leisurely pace, consider renting a bicycle; several bike-sharing services are available. Walking is also a great way to explore the area, with many attractions located within close proximity.
Abando is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions are recommended. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like the Abando train station. Areas near the outskirts of Abando have reported higher instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. For medical emergencies, hospitals such as Hospital de Basurto are nearby. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical situations. In case of theft or loss, report to the nearest police station, which can be found in Abando.
Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or beachwear. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially during festivals or religious events. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a polite 'Hola' or 'Buenos días' and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local pintxos and tapas; don't rush through meals, as dining is often a leisurely experience.
To experience Abando like a local, visit the Mercado de la Ribera for fresh produce and local delicacies. Try to catch a local festival or event, which often feature music and traditional Basque culture. Engage with locals at cafes or bars, as they are usually friendly and eager to share recommendations. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Guggenheim Museum, which is a highlight of the area.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Abando

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Abando. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-thyahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh syen-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr lah kahr-tah, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prar]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kahr-oh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl preh-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
- Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [theen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [sehs]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ....)
  [oon bee-yeh-teh (ah)]

History of Abando

Abando was established in the 19th century as part of the expansion of Bilbao. Originally a small fishing village, it rapidly transformed into a bustling urban area due to the industrial revolution. The neighborhood's development was propelled by its strategic location along the Nervión River, facilitating trade and commerce.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Abando became central to Bilbao's industrial growth. As factories and shipyards emerged, the area attracted a significant workforce from various regions. This period was marked by the construction of iconic buildings, such as the Grand Hotel Domine and the Plaza de Moyúa, which reflect the architectural trends of the time.
In the mid-20th century, Abando experienced a cultural renaissance, becoming a hub for arts and education. The establishment of the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum in 1945 marked a significant investment in cultural infrastructure, showcasing both local and international art. The neighborhood also became known for its vibrant café culture and social life.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw extensive urban regeneration projects in Abando. The most notable is the development of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in 1997, which revitalized the area and transformed it into a cultural hotspot. This architectural landmark has not only redefined the skyline but has also significantly boosted tourism and the local economy.
Today, Abando is a blend of historical charm and modernity. The neighborhood is characterized by its mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and cultural institutions. The historic architecture coexists with contemporary buildings, reflecting the evolution of Bilbao as a city that honors its past while embracing the future.