Itsasmuseum Bilbao
Explore Bilbao's shipbuilding legacy and industrial transformation at Itsasmuseum, housed in the historic Euskalduna shipyard.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Itsasmuseum Bilbao
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Bilbao's shipbuilding legacy and industrial transformation at Itsasmuseum, housed in the historic Euskalduna shipyard.
"An immersive dive into Bilbao's maritime soul with gritty, vibrant stories and captivating outdoor docks."
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 2 hours to fully explore exhibits and outdoor ships.
🗣️ Multilingual Videos
Videos have English, Spanish, and French options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gabarra
Outdoor Docks
See the iconic barge used by Athletic Club for championship celebrations – a true symbol of Bilbao's spirit.

Interactive Exhibits
Indoor Galleries
Engage with Bilbao's maritime heritage through dynamic displays, videos, and storytelling.

Ship Models
Indoor Galleries
Marvel at detailed models showcasing the evolution of shipbuilding and maritime technology.

Waterlicht Installation
Museum Esplanade
Experience this immersive light art installation reflecting on water and climate change.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Itsasmuseum
Immerse Yourself in Maritime History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 2 hours to fully explore exhibits and outdoor ships.
🗣️ Multilingual Videos
Videos have English, Spanish, and French options.
🚶♀️ Riverside Walk
Enjoy a scenic 15-min walk from Guggenheim.
♿ Accessible for All
Elevators make navigation easy for mobility issues.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Dedicate at least 2 hours to fully explore exhibits and outdoor ships.
🗣️ Multilingual Videos
Videos have English, Spanish, and French options.
🚶♀️ Riverside Walk
Enjoy a scenic 15-min walk from Guggenheim.
♿ Accessible for All
Elevators make navigation easy for mobility issues.
💰 Great Value
Affordable entry fee for an immersive experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Itsasmuseum Bilbao for its informative and engaging exhibits on the city's maritime and industrial history. Many highlight the value for money, the accessibility of information in multiple languages, and the unique experience of exploring real ships on the outdoor docks. It's considered a pleasant surprise and a worthwhile visit, especially for families and those interested in industrial heritage.
"A small museum with a lovely collection of artefacts about Bilbao’s maritime history and city’s development as an important port. It is an ideal place for school trip or educational tour for school children with a lot of interactive displays - videos, storytelling, old and new maritime artefacts. Videos are in three languages, including English, Spanish and French. Can consider to visit if you are travelling with school age children or during rainy days for an indoor visit. About 15 walks from Guggenheim along the river so very accessible."
Vivian Wong
"Did a museum ever make you feel like you’re sailing through history? The Itsasmuseum pulls you into Bilbao’s maritime soul with its gritty, vibrant story of the Ría de Bilbao. I spent over two hours wandering through detailed ship models and interactive displays, totally hooked. The outdoor docks, with real boats like the iconic gabarra used by Athletic Club to celebrate victories, are just as captivating. I learned the museum sits on the old Euskalduna shipyard site, where modern Basque shipbuilding kicked off in 1900. Tickets are just €6, and trust me, it’s a steal for this immersive dive into the sea’s legacy."
Patrick Kass
"Very informative museum with engaging videos and exhibits in multiple languages. Would definitely recommend a visit and was not too busy at all. The service was great and overall layout was well planned"
Darach Gardner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Itsasmuseum Bilbao is easily accessible. It's about a 15-minute walk along the river from the Guggenheim Museum. You can also use public transport; the tram to Uribitarte is a convenient option.
Yes, it's conveniently located near the Guggenheim Museum, making it easy to combine visits. The museum is also situated along the Ría de Bilbao, offering a pleasant riverside walk.
Absolutely! A leisurely walk from the Casco Viejo (Old Town) or other central areas along the river is a great way to experience the city and reach the museum.
The tram stop 'Uribitarte' is very close to the museum. Several bus lines also serve the area, making it easy to reach by public transport.
While there might be some street parking, it can be limited. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk, as the museum is well-connected.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are very affordable, typically around €6, offering excellent value for the immersive experience.
While not always strictly necessary, booking in advance is a good idea, especially during peak season or for special events like Waterlicht.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Itsasmuseum Bilbao website before your visit. They are generally open Tuesday through Sunday.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on pricing and concessions.
Yes, Itsasmuseum is highly recommended for school trips due to its interactive displays and engaging content about maritime history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Itsasmuseum showcases Bilbao's maritime history, shipbuilding, and the city's industrial past. Highlights include detailed ship models, interactive exhibits, videos, and outdoor displays of real boats, including the Gabarra.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly, including the indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Yes, many of the videos and informational panels are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for international visitors.
Yes, the outdoor docks feature real ships, like the Gabarra, that visitors can often tour, offering a unique hands-on experience.
Absolutely! Itsasmuseum is very family-friendly with many interactive displays and engaging content that appeals to children and makes learning fun.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside Itsasmuseum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or temporary displays.
The outdoor docks with the historic ships, especially the Gabarra, offer great photo opportunities. The museum's architecture and its riverside location also provide scenic backdrops.
The Waterlicht installation, when available, is a highly photogenic event. Also, the views of the Ría de Bilbao from the museum grounds are picturesque.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near cultural institutions. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in Bilbao.
Visitors often capture photos of the impressive ship models, the historic vessels on the docks, and the overall industrial heritage of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚢 Maritime Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Culture Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Bilbao's Industrial Heartbeat
The transition of this industrial site into a cultural space like Itsasmuseum mirrors Bilbao's broader urban regeneration. The museum highlights how the city transformed its port and industrial areas into vibrant public spaces and cultural attractions. This reinvention is a key part of Bilbao's modern narrative, showcasing resilience and forward-thinking. Visitors can see how the past is preserved and celebrated while embracing the future.
Exploring Itsasmuseum offers a unique perspective on Bilbao's journey. It provides context for other iconic landmarks, like the Guggenheim, by showcasing the foundational industries that paved the way for such modern developments. The outdoor exhibits, featuring real ships, offer a tangible connection to this history, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the engineering prowess of bygone eras.
The Waterlicht Experience
Waterlicht has traveled globally, illuminating iconic locations and engaging millions of visitors. Its presence at Itsasmuseum Bilbao underscores the museum's role as a venue for contemporary art and social commentary, extending beyond its permanent maritime collections. The installation's ephemeral nature makes it a special event for visitors, offering a unique, visually stunning experience.
This installation is particularly relevant given Bilbao's history as a port city and its ongoing efforts in environmental sustainability. It provides a powerful, artistic lens through which to consider the future of water and the planet, making it a thought-provoking addition to any visit to Itsasmuseum.
Family Fun and Education
The outdoor exhibits, featuring real boats like the historic Gabarra, provide a hands-on element that children often find particularly exciting. They can imagine themselves as sailors or engineers, bringing the maritime history to life. The museum's location along the river also offers a pleasant environment for a family stroll.
With multilingual content and accessible facilities, Itsasmuseum ensures a comfortable and informative visit for families from diverse backgrounds. It's a great option for a rainy day or as an educational outing that complements school learning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit