Bilbao, as well as being a cosmopolitan and avant-garde city with a unique urban revolution in the world embodied in projects such as its island of Zorrotzaurre, has not lost the essence of its roots, keeping many of its customs and traditions intact.

This unique mix makes Bilbao an essential destination on your list of ‘Cities to travel to in 2024’. And best of all, it's a destination not to be missed, whatever your company.

Whether you're going on a romantic trip as a couple, with your whole family or in a small group of friends, Bilbao has a lot to offer you and your group, whatever your tastes.

That's why we've put together a list of the best ideas for activities that a small group like yours can do in the city. Whether you're planning to visit Bilbao for three days or an afternoon, these activities can be done at any time and in any situation. 

Best activities for small groups in Bilbao

Experience La Ría, the estuary

The Bilbao Ría, the Nervión estuary, is the backbone of the city. Life has flourished around it for centuries and continues to do so today. The history of the estuary and its bridges is very interesting and, in addition, it hides perfect activities for groups like yours.

There are many ways to enjoy La Ría, you can rent all kinds of transport to walk along it; from canoes to paddle surf, through the Big sup, which is a paddle surf so big that can carry several people seated while the monitor directs it or the Step Board, where you can walk on the water.

As well as taking a boat out on La Ría, you can also take a bike ride along the estuary to the mouth of the river. All the activities are in small groups, and as well as enjoying physical activity in the open air, you will get to know Bilbao and its history.

Day trips

If you are in Bilbao, it is because you like to travel, and if you like to travel, you cannot miss some of the wonderful places that are very close to the city. They are so close that you can make a quick trip to one or more of the places we are going to talk about.

If you do, of course you won't need to stay overnight in any of them, keeping Bilbao as the epicentre of your trip. More specifically, the best hostel in Bilbao can be your home during your time there: Latroupe La Granja.

Let's start our getaway to the beaches.  They are places of great beauty, peace and a sanctuary if you are a fan of surfing. Beaches such as La Salvaje, Sopelana or Azkorri to the north of Getxo.

And speaking of Getxo, the municipality is a must; it is close to Bilbao and has tourist attractions such as the Hanging Bridge, Ereaga Beach and Churruca Pier.

And, of course, if you've made it to Getxo, on your way back to Bilbao, don't forget to stop off in Portugalete. This town is just 20 minutes away and you should visit both its monuments; the Old Railway Station, the Town Hall or the Salazar Tower, and its restaurants full of local gastronomy.

Is someone in your group a fan of Game of Thrones? If so, you can't waste a second in heading for San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, or as true fans of the series will know it; Rocadragon. 

Even if you are not a fervent follower of the series, it is an absolutely unique place that you have to go to, besides, the local gastronomy awaits you behind every corner, and that is really worth it.

Pintxos route

It's enough of wandering around the outskirts of the city, picking up a bite here and there. The time has come to coordinate your group and get ready to go on the definitive Pintxos route around Bilbao.

Is there anything that brings a group together better than discovering small bites of delicious gastronomy based on local products? Between bars you can discover some of Bilbao's most representative monuments.

Stroll through the Old Town, the Seven Streets, and marvel at the interesting history of the Villa, get lost in its streets and discover a wonderful city with one of the best cuisines in the world.

Txikiteros

 From this moment on, you no longer have a group of friends, you are a gang. If you want to fully integrate and live a great experience, you have to let yourself be carried away by the local culture and customs.

The txikiteros are those who get together in groups of friends to drink txikitos of wine, with their particular and unique glass of txikito. The size of the glass means that you can try different wines in different places.

And if you combine it with pintxos, you'll be able to explore Bilbao on a unique route around the city. Of course, we recommend that you stay in a hotel nearby, because at the end of the day you'll need to sleep and rest.

Where to sleep in Bilbao with a small group

After a full day of sightseeing, activities, eating and drinking, you're not too far away. We recommend the best hostel in Bilbao; Latroupe La Granja. Its facilities are the most well-kept and its common areas have the best atmosphere in the city, with people coming from all over the world wanting to have a good time.

Choose one of our multiple rooms and stay with your group of friends or your family, so that you can continue to enjoy each other's company even after you arrive at the hostel. The best location and the best atmosphere await you at Latroupe La Granja.