Bilbao Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Bilbao
This itinerary offers a perfect balance of free outdoor play and engaging indoor attractions, making the most of Bilbao's unique family offerings during the post-holiday period. Activities are chosen to be budget-friendly while providing enriching and exciting experiences for children aged 3-12.
Friday Evening - Festive Fun & Maritime Wonders
Friday, January 2Dolphin Workshop
Engage your children in a 'Getting to know Dolphins' workshop at the Itsasmuseum Bilbao, specifically designed for young learners.
This interactive session introduces kids to marine life through fun and educational activities, available in English on Saturdays and bilingual (Basque/Spanish) on Sundays. Since January 2nd is a Friday, and the search result lists 'Getting to know dolphins' for 2026-01-02 specifically, this implies a special Friday session.
Ages 4-11 (children only, without adults). The workshop is 90 minutes long. Bathrooms and stroller access are available at the museum. Kids will love the hands-on learning and engaging content about dolphins. It's a great opportunity for them to learn independently.
Easily accessible by tram (Line A, stop Abandoibarra) or a pleasant walk along the river from the city center. Limited paid parking is available nearby.
Bilbao Christmas Market & Ice Slides
Immerse yourselves in the festive atmosphere of the Bilbao Christmas Market at the Ripa Pier.
Explore stalls offering local products and crafts, and then let the kids enjoy the ecological ice slides. The market also features a children's Christmas tent ('Factory of Christmas Dreams') with dedicated play areas.
The Christmas tent is divided into the 'Magic Forest' (under 6) and the 'Ganbara zone' (under 12), offering playrooms, workshops, and storytelling. It's a vibrant, free-to-browse activity with affordable treats. The ice slides are a highlight for active kids. Open until January 5th. Open until 8:30 PM on weekdays.
Located centrally along the Ría. Easily walkable from Casco Viejo and major public transport hubs. Public buses and trams serve the area.
Saturday - Art, Adventure & Panoramic Views
Saturday, January 3Guggenheim Christmas Workshop
Dive into creativity with a Christmas workshop at the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
For January 3rd, 2026, workshops like 'Winter Trees: Dormant Life' (ages 3-5) and 'Winter Soil: Art beneath Your Feet' (ages 6-10) are scheduled, offering hands-on artistic exploration.
These workshops are specifically designed for children, encouraging imagination and artistic expression. Parents can explore the museum or nearby areas. Check the museum website for specific workshop content and language closer to the date. Duration typically 90 minutes to 2 hours. The outdoor area with 'Puppy' and 'Maman' is free and fun for kids.
The museum is centrally located and accessible by tram (Guggenheim stop), bus, or a short walk from Indautxu metro station. Paid parking is available at nearby car parks.
Mercado de la Ribera Lunch & Play
Head to Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe's largest covered markets, for a vibrant sensory experience and a budget-friendly family lunch.
Explore the food stalls for a variety of fresh produce, pintxos, and other local delicacies. The market's diverse offerings ensure there's something for everyone.
Kids will enjoy the lively atmosphere and choosing their own snacks. There are plenty of tables for seating, and the small portions of pintxos are perfect for children to try different flavors. Afterwards, you can stroll along the river, which often has playgrounds.
Located in Casco Viejo, easily accessible by Metro (Casco Viejo station) or tram (Ribera stop). The area is pedestrian-friendly. Parking is challenging in the Old Town.
Artxanda Funicular & Park
Take the historic Funicular de Artxanda for a scenic ride up Mount Artxanda.
At the top, enjoy panoramic views of Bilbao, the Nervión River, and the surrounding mountains. There's a spacious park with playgrounds and plenty of green space for kids to run around and burn off energy.
The funicular ride itself is an exciting experience for children. The park at the top offers amazing photo opportunities and diverse play equipment suitable for various ages. Restrooms are available. This is a great outdoor activity, offering fresh air and stunning vistas.
The funicular station is a short walk from the Guggenheim Museum and Zubizuri Bridge. You can pay with a Barik card. Paid parking is available in the vicinity of the lower station.
Family Pintxos Dinner
Experience Bilbao's famous pintxos culture with an early family dinner in the atmospheric Casco Viejo.
Many pintxos bars are family-friendly, offering a casual setting where kids can easily pick and choose small bites.
Pintxos are perfect for children as they are small, varied, and allow for a tasting adventure. Look for establishments with some seating or outdoor tables. Many bars are welcoming to families and offer non-alcoholic options. Early timing helps with kids' bedtimes.
Casco Viejo is a pedestrian zone. Best accessed by Metro (Casco Viejo station) or on foot.
Sunday - Relaxed Exploration & Play
Sunday, January 4Children's Christmas Park (PIN)
Spend your Sunday morning at the Christmas Children's Park (PIN) at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC).
This large indoor attraction offers a variety of rides, games, and workshops designed for children during the Christmas holidays, extending until January 8th.
The PIN is a fantastic option for a day of guaranteed fun, especially suitable for energetic kids. It's an indoor venue, making it perfect regardless of weather. Features attractions and educational workshops. Suitable for ages 3-12. Food and drink options available on site.
BEC is located in Barakaldo, about 20 minutes from central Bilbao. Accessible by Metro (Ansio station, Line 2) which has direct access to the BEC. Ample paid parking is available at the venue.
Doña Casilda Park Fun
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at Parque de Doña Casilda de Iturrizar, often called the 'Duck Park.
' This elegant Victorian garden features large playgrounds, a pond with ducks, and a charming carousel. It's a beautiful green space in the city center perfect for leisurely walks and active play.
Kids love feeding the ducks (check local rules), riding the carousel, and exploring the diverse playground equipment. It's a great spot for both active play and a calmer afternoon. Restrooms are available. Pack some snacks or grab ice cream from a nearby kiosk.
Located near the Guggenheim Museum. Accessible by tram (Abandoibarra or Euskalduna stops) or a short walk from Indautxu metro station. Limited paid street parking nearby.
Azkuna Zentroa Exploration
Wind down your weekend with a visit to Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao), a former wine warehouse transformed into a modern cultural and leisure center.
Kids will be fascinated by the 43 unique columns in the atrium, each designed by different artists and in various styles. There are often free exhibitions and common areas to relax.
This architectural marvel offers a stimulating environment, even if you just explore the ground floor. It's an excellent indoor option, providing a quiet contrast to the outdoor activities. You can find cafes for a hot chocolate or snack. Bathrooms and stroller access are excellent.
Centrally located in Indautxu. Accessible by Metro (Indautxu station). Several paid underground parking garages are nearby.
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