Things To Do
in Portugalete
Portugalete is a riverside town in the Basque Country just across the Nervión from Getxo and Bilbao. Its location blends industrial heritage with green spaces and ocean air. The star attraction is the Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO transporter bridge that connects with Getxo.
Visitors enjoy pintxos, waterfront walks, and easy access to Bilbao's world-class museums.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Portugalete and check into your hotel. Spend the morning exploring the nearby areas and adjusting to the local culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
Stroll down to the famous Puente Colgante, a hanging bridge that offers stunning views of the estuary. Take a guided tour to learn about the bridge's historical significance. Relax at a riverside park afterwards, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Dine at a traditional Basque restaurant and indulge in delicious pintxos. Experience the vibrant nightlife in the town’s main square, where locals gather for music and conversation. End the night with a walk along the river, enjoying the illuminated views.
Take a short train ride to Getxo, where you'll enjoy a morning stroll along the coastal promenade. Marvel at the elegant villas and picturesque beaches that dot the landscape. Stop for some freshly brewed coffee and a pastry at a local bakery.
Explore the charming old town of Getxo and visit the historic San Ignacio Church. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or engaging in water sports like paddleboarding. Enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood specialties.
Return to Portugalete for dinner at a local tapas bar. Taste a variety of delicious small plates while mingling with locals. Conclude the day by enjoying a local music performance or cultural event.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer | $3-5 |
| 🚖Taxi start fare | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or tour admission | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Bilbao and Getxo for culture and beaches
- Iconic Vizcaya Bridge and scenic riverside views
- Friendly locals and excellent seafood
- Smaller town feel may be quiet at night
- Limited direct international flights; easiest access via Bilbao
- "Kaixo" - Hello
- "Eskerrik asko" - Thank you
- "Zelan zaude?" - How are you?
- "Mesedez" - Please
- "Agur" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Portugalete
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic UNESCO transporter bridge with dramatic river views; best at dawn or dusk when light on the steel framework.
Historic narrow streets and colorful Basque houses offering intimate street photography opportunities.
Promenades along the river provide reflections and sunset shots, with the bridge silhouette in the background.
Coastal quay and lighthouse views; capture sea, boats, and fishermen in action.
Food in Portugalete
Portugalete Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small skewered bites served in bars with a variety of toppings, perfect for sampling multiple flavors.
Must-Try!
Cod cooked in a rich Vizcaya sauce, a classic Basque specialty found in taverns across the area.
Spider crab baked with onion, pepper and spices, often served in its shell.
Hearty tuna and potato stew with peppers, a staple of coastal Basque cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, vegetables, and regional products near the riverfront; great for tasting seasonal produce.
Casual spots offering quick bites and grilled seafood along the Nervión quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and handshake are common; Basque and Spanish courtesy are appreciated.
Spanish is widely spoken; Basque is common in many Basque-speaking areas. A few Basque phrases go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Portugalete
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated if service is not included; commonly 5-10% in restaurants and bars.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful at markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with refreshing sea breezes; occasional showers. Outdoor dining and waterfront activities are at their peak.
Pleasant temperatures with increasing rainfall; great for scenic drives and forested walks near the coast.
Cool and wet but rarely freezing; indoor museums, markets, and tapas bars are good options on rainy days.
Gentle warmth, blooming gardens, and manageable rainfall; ideal for walking tours and photography.
Portugalete at Night
Hiking in Portugalete
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike with panoramic city views; accessible by funicular from Bilbao.
Scenic coastal path with viewpoints and beaches; flat and easy.
Spectacular island monastery; a longer day trip with sea views and stairs to the summit.
Airports
How to reach Portugalete by plane.
Main international gateway for the Basque Country; well connected to Portugalete by metro and bus.
Regional airport serving northern Spain; roughly a 1.5-hour drive to the Basque coast.
Nearby airport with several domestic and limited international connections; travel by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the area with parks, schools, and safe streets.
Commuters and remote workers benefit from easy access to Bilbao and coastal towns.
Visitors drawn to the Vizcaya Bridge and Basque coastal culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular throughout the Basque Country with local clubs and matches nearby.
Flat coastal routes and hilly inland areas make it a favorite for road cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Portugalete.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in larger bars and restaurants. Look for vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, and veggie pinchos; ask for fish-free substitutions where needed.