Plaza Nueva
Bilbao's stunning arcaded square, a vibrant hub for delicious pintxos and soaking in the historic Casco Viejo atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Plaza Nueva
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bilbao's stunning arcaded square, a vibrant hub for delicious pintxos and soaking in the historic Casco Viejo atmosphere.
"A beautiful square where you can sit, eat, walk, shop and just enjoy being!"
🎯 Pintxos Hopping is Key
Don't stick to one bar! Try a pintxo and a drink at several places to experience the variety.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The arcades and architecture make for stunning photos, especially during quieter times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Heart of Casco Viejo
Bilbao's Old Town
A stunning arcaded square, perfect for people-watching, enjoying tapas, and soaking in the historic ambiance.

Pintxos Paradise
Various bars around the plaza
Indulge in award-winning pintxos, from traditional tortilla to creative seafood delights. A true culinary adventure!
Architectural Charm
The entire plaza
Admire the elegant Baroque architecture surrounding the square, offering a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pintxos Culture
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pintxos Hopping is Key
Don't stick to one bar! Try a pintxo and a drink at several places to experience the variety.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The arcades and architecture make for stunning photos, especially during quieter times.
💰 Budget-Friendly Bites
Pintxos are generally affordable, making it a great way to eat well without breaking the bank.
🚶♀️ Explore Casco Viejo
Plaza Nueva is a great starting point to explore Bilbao's historic Old Town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pintxos Hopping is Key
Don't stick to one bar! Try a pintxo and a drink at several places to experience the variety.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The arcades and architecture make for stunning photos, especially during quieter times.
💰 Budget-Friendly Bites
Pintxos are generally affordable, making it a great way to eat well without breaking the bank.
🚶♀️ Explore Casco Viejo
Plaza Nueva is a great starting point to explore Bilbao's historic Old Town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Plaza Nueva's stunning beauty and vibrant atmosphere, highlighting it as a must-visit in Bilbao's Casco Viejo. The abundance of delicious and affordable pintxos is a major draw, offering a fantastic culinary experience. While lively, some find it can get crowded during peak times.
"Stunning location. Chill and plenty if food & drink choices.."
Conor Brennan
"So beautiful it defies description"
William Tracy
"Lovely place to sit and eat."
Michael Geaney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Nueva is located in the heart of Bilbao's Casco Viejo (Old Town). It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the city center. Several bus lines stop nearby, and the tram also has a stop close to the Old Town.
Yes, Plaza Nueva is a central landmark in Bilbao's Casco Viejo and is well-signposted. It's a popular spot, so you'll likely find it by following the flow of people.
Driving directly into the Casco Viejo can be challenging due to pedestrian zones and limited parking. It's recommended to park in a nearby public car park and walk to the plaza.
Walking is the best way to explore the Casco Viejo and Plaza Nueva. This allows you to discover hidden streets and soak in the atmosphere.
The plaza itself is relatively flat, but the cobblestone streets in the surrounding Casco Viejo can be uneven. Some bars may have steps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Nueva is a public square and there is no admission fee to enter. You can wander freely and enjoy the architecture.
As a public square, Plaza Nueva is always accessible. However, the individual bars and restaurants within and around the plaza have their own operating hours, typically open from late morning through the evening.
Yes, many walking tours of Bilbao's Casco Viejo include a stop at Plaza Nueva, often focusing on its history and culinary offerings.
Weekday mornings or early afternoons tend to be less crowded than evenings or weekends, allowing for a more relaxed experience and better photo opportunities.
While some restaurants may take reservations, many pintxos bars operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It's common to stand at the bar or grab a small table if available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look out for award-winning pintxos like the 'tortilla de bacalao' (cod omelet) and creative seafood options. Many bars offer their own specialties.
Highly recommended spots include @guretoki for Basque cheesecake, @hambueyseria for their beef pintxo, and @sorginzulo_bilbao for award-winning options.
Pintxos typically range from €2.50 to €4.95, depending on the ingredients and bar. It's an affordable way to sample a variety of flavors.
While many pintxos feature meat and seafood, you can often find vegetarian options like 'tortilla de patatas' (potato omelet) or vegetable-based pintxos. It's best to ask the bar staff.
Local Txakoli wine (a slightly sparkling white wine) is a classic pairing. Sidra (cider) and local beers are also popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The arcades surrounding the plaza offer beautiful framing for your shots. The central area provides a good vantage point for capturing the entire square.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer fewer people, making it easier to get unobstructed shots.
Pay attention to the elegant Baroque arches, the central fountain (if present), and the details of the surrounding buildings.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and public spaces. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the plaza, while a standard lens is good for details. Even a smartphone camera can capture stunning images here.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when it's less crowded and brighter. While not a dedicated playground, the plaza's atmosphere is generally welcoming to families. It's a good spot for a casual lunch or an early evening treat before heading back to your accommodation.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of a formal sit-down meal, embrace the pintxos bar culture. This allows you to control your spending and try a wider variety of flavors. The plaza itself is free to enter and enjoy, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere without spending a dime.
couples
Find a cozy spot at one of the many bars, or simply enjoy the ambiance of the square. It's an ideal location for a casual date night or a relaxed afternoon outing, offering a taste of authentic Basque life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Heartbeat: Pintxos in Plaza Nueva
Many of these establishments have garnered awards for their culinary excellence. For instance, @sorginzulo_bilbao has been recognized for its creative pintxos, and @guretoki is famed for its Basque cheesecake. The experience of pintxos hopping is as much about the social aspect as the food itself. Locals and visitors alike gather at the bar, enjoying a small plate and a drink before moving on to the next spot. This creates a lively and convivial atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
When exploring the pintxos scene, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the bartenders or fellow patrons. The average price per pintxo is quite reasonable, making it an accessible and enjoyable way to dine. Pairing your pintxos with a glass of local Txakoli wine or a refreshing cider enhances the authentic Basque experience.
A Glimpse into Bilbao's History: The Origins of Plaza Nueva
Interestingly, the plaza's original name honored King Ferdinand VII of Spain. However, its history is not without its quirks. According to local lore, the statue that once graced the center of the plaza was reportedly stolen, adding a touch of mystery to its past. This historical context adds another layer of appreciation when you're wandering through its arcades.
Today, Plaza Nueva stands as a vibrant social and culinary hub, a testament to Bilbao's ability to blend its rich history with a dynamic modern identity. It serves as a central meeting point and a gateway to further exploration of the charming streets of the Casco Viejo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit