Bilbao and Castro Urdiales Full-day excursion from Santander

If you’re looking to experience the vibrant energy of Bilbao alongside the scenic beauty of Castro Urdiales, this full-day excursion offers a well-rounded taste of both. Perfect for those who love a mix of culture, architecture, and picturesque coastlines, this trip promises a day packed with memorable sights and authentic experiences. While it’s a rundown, keep in mind that some activities, like visits to the Guggenheim Museum or boat rides, are optional and require extra tickets.

What truly stands out for us is the chance to wander through Bilbao’s lively Old Town, admire the world-famous Guggenheim from the outside, and stroll through a charming coastal village like Castro Urdiales. The trip’s pacing affords ample time to soak in each location without feeling rushed—ideal for curious travelers eager to get a taste of northern Spain’s diverse landscapes. One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of coach travel (about 3 hours total), so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the road.

This experience is perfect for culture seekers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to explore the Basque Country’s coastal treasures without the hassle of planning. If you’re after a balanced day of sightseeing, local flavor, and scenic views, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines highlights from Bilbao and Castro Urdiales with guided and free time.
• Cultural and Architectural Highlights: From the Gothic cathedral to the Guggenheim’s modern marvels.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy a boat trip and panoramic vistas of the Nervión River and seaside town.
• Flexible Experience: Optional visits like the Guggenheim and boat ride allow customization.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Suitable for those interested in architecture, history, and scenic coastal towns.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip coach travel with a small group for a relaxed pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transport

Your day kicks off at Calle Atilano Rodríguez, where you’ll meet your guide and hop onto a coach or minivan. The journey from Santander to Bilbao takes about 75 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get ready for a day filled with exploration. The bus ride itself is a good time to review the day’s highlights and get excited.

Discovering Bilbao’s Old Town

Upon arrival, we loved the way the guide, whose name I wish I remembered, led us through Bilbao’s Old Town, a lively maze of streets full of history and character. This 2.5-hour guided walk with a local guide offers insight into the city’s evolution. We explored architectural gems like the Gothic cathedral of Santiago and the church of San Nicolas, and strolled down Plaza Nueva, where you can sample some local “bilbainadas” (Bilbao specialties).

The guide’s local knowledge made the history come alive with stories about the city’s transformation from traditional port town to modern art hub. Reviewers mention that wandering through the Siete Calles provides a sense of the city’s authentic charm; these historic streets are a feast for the senses, with boutique shops, cafes, and vibrant street life.

The Nervión River and Architectural Icons

Next, we headed to Bilbao’s riverside, where the Church of San Anton, an emblematic symbol appearing on the city’s coat of arms, and the bustling Ribera Market await. This area is perfect for photos and a bit of people-watching. Walking along the estuary offers views of notable landmarks like the Arriaga Theater and the City Hall.

Crossing the Salve Bridge—one of the highest in the region—delivers stunning vistas of the Guggenheim Museum. This is a highlight for many visitors, as the museum’s exterior is a masterpiece of contemporary design, with its flowing forms and sculptures like Puppy. From the bridge, you get a spectacular vantage point that makes it clear why the Guggenheim is so iconic — a true symbol of Bilbao’s modern identity.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Visits: Guggenheim and Boat Ride

The Guggenheim Museum is often the centerpiece of Bilbao trips, and for good reason. Although entry tickets are extra (18 euros for adults), the exterior alone is worth the visit. The inside houses a unique collection of contemporary art, but many visitors find that just marveling at the building’s architecture and sculptures like Puppy is enough for a memorable experience.

A boat trip along the Nervión River is another optional highlight, costing around 15 euros. For those who opt in, it’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective, with views of both the modern Bilbao skyline and historic bridges.

Journey to Castro Urdiales

After a few hours exploring Bilbao, we hit the road again for a roughly 30-minute drive to the coastal town of Castro Urdiales. Its charm lies in its seaside scenery and historic center, declared of Cultural Interest.

Here, the Gothic Cathedral of Santa María de la Asunción, dating from the 13th to 15th centuries, dominates the skyline. We particularly loved wandering through the ruins of the Romanesque Church of San Pedro and the hermitage of Santa Ana, perched on a rock overlooking the sea — perfect spots for photos and soaking in the maritime atmosphere.

Exploring Castro Urdiales

The town’s narrow streets, colorful houses, and quaint shops invite leisurely exploration. You’ll have about 75 minutes of free time, which is enough to visit the main sights, do some shopping, or simply enjoy a coffee by the harbor. Many reviews detail how peaceful this spot feels compared to the busier Bilbao, offering a nice contrast.

Return Journey

The return trip to Santander takes about 75 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The tour concludes back at the starting point in Calle Atilano Rodríguez.

What makes this tour worthwhile?

The best part of this tour is the chance to experience two very different sides of northern Spain—the vibrant, architecturally fascinating Bilbao, and the tranquil, historic charm of Castro Urdiales. The combination of guided sightseeing and free time allows you to absorb the local atmosphere at your own pace.

The inclusion of optional activities like the Guggenheim visit or boat trip means you can tailor the day to your interests and budget. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide makes navigating the city’s highlights much more enriching, with stories and context you wouldn’t get on your own.

The transportation logistics are smooth, with comfortable coach travel that gives you glimpses of the Basque and Cantabrian coastlines. The small group size (implied by the tour structure) ensures a more intimate experience, making it easier to ask questions or linger at favorite spots.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a good amount of walking, especially in Bilbao’s Old Town and Castro’s narrow streets.
• Bring cash or cards for extras like tickets, souvenirs, or snacks.
• If you’re interested in visiting the Guggenheim, consider booking tickets in advance to skip potential lines.
• Pack a camera and some light snacks, especially if you want to explore Castro Urdiales at your own pace.

Who is this tour best for?

This day trip suits culture and architecture lovers eager to see both modern and historical sights. It’s great for travelers who don’t want to spend their entire day in museums but still wish to appreciate the art and design that define Bilbao.

The tour also appeals to coastal scenery enthusiasts, thanks to the boat ride and picturesque town of Castro Urdiales. If you prefer to keep your travel relaxed and flexible, the free time segments allow enough space for spontaneous exploration.

While it’s a full 10-hour experience, the pace is manageable, making it suitable for most fitness levels. However, those with mobility issues should check accessibility details beforehand, as some walking on uneven streets is involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. Children often enjoy exploring Castro Urdiales and seeing the modern architecture of the Guggenheim from outside, plus the boat trip can be a fun experience for them.

How long is the coach ride between Santander and Bilbao?
It takes approximately 75 minutes each way, so expect around 1.5 hours of travel time each direction.

Are the visits to the Guggenheim Museum included?
No, tickets for the Guggenheim are optional and cost around 18 euros for adults. It’s a separate expense, but many find just viewing the building’s exterior sufficient.

Can I customize my experience during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free time in Bilbao and Castro Urdiales, so you can explore independently or relax, depending on your preferences.

Is the boat trip included in the price?
No, the boat ride is an optional extra costing about 15 euros. You can choose whether to add it to your day.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This Bilbao and Castro Urdiales day trip offers a well-balanced snapshot of the Basque Country’s artistic, historic, and scenic charms. The combination of guided insights and free exploration allows you to absorb the atmosphere at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible day out.

The highlights—stunning riverside architecture, the modern Guggenheim, and the peaceful seaside town—are complemented by the convenience of transportation and the expertise of local guides. While some optional activities cost extra, the core experiences on this tour provide a solid foundation for understanding why the Basque Country remains one of Spain’s most captivating regions.

If you’re after a day that blends culture, scenery, and a touch of adventure, this trip covers those bases beautifully. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic way to see the highlights of Bilbao and Castro Urdiales in one day, especially for those who appreciate architecture, history, and scenic coastlines. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances guided storytelling with personal exploration, providing a memorable taste of northern Spain.

You can check if your dates are available here: