Plaza Nueva - a bench in a park
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Plaza Nueva

4.6
·41 reviews·Bilbao, Spain

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Plaza Nueva - a bench in a park

Plaza Nueva

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(41 reviews)

"A beautiful square where you can sit, eat, walk, shop and just enjoy being!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Heart of Casco Viejo

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

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

Architectural Charm

The entire plaza

Admire the elegant Baroque architecture surrounding the square, offering a picturesque backdrop for photos.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pintxos Culture

Plaza Nueva is a hub for delicious pintxos! Dive into the local culinary scene by hopping between bars, sampling small bites and local drinks. It's the best way to experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Timing is Everything

While Plaza Nueva is charming anytime, visiting during off-peak hours means fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. Evenings are lively, but mornings offer a peaceful ambiance for photos.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Peaceful for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Its definitely worth a try to get in. The Plaza is so beautiful! #theplazahotel #nyc #newyork #newyorkcity #homealone #homeslonelostinnewyork #childhood #elouise #f #fy #fypシ #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp
@barndowife
82K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Pintxos Hopping is Key

Don't stick to one bar! Try a pintxo and a drink at several places to experience the variety. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Beauty

The arcades and architecture make for stunning photos, especially during quieter times. Instagram

You can book a Home Alone 2 Package in NYC at the Plaza hotel complete with limo ride and cheese pizza 🥰🎄 Would you do this unique Christmas experience? Drop a comment and let us know #homealone #christmas #newyorkchristmas #christmasinnewyork
@holidaypirates
36.4K likes • 895.8K views
BILBAO PINTXOS GUIDE 🇪🇸 Save this for your next foodie trip! 📌 1. @guretoki (Plaza Nueva) - Basque cheesecake 2. @hambueyseria - Basque meat 3. @laolladebilbao (Plaza Nueva) - steak pintxos 4. @lacocinadeaitxu - Tortilla with bacon 5. @humabilbao - Pan con tomate From juicy meats to the best basque cheesecake — these are our Top 5 Pintxos Bars in Bilbao you can’t miss📍 Perfect for a pintxo...
foodietravellersguide
2K likes • 94.7K views

💰 Budget-Friendly Bites

Pintxos are generally affordable, making it a great way to eat well without breaking the bank. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Casco Viejo

Plaza Nueva is a great starting point to explore Bilbao's historic Old Town. InstagramReddit

7️⃣ things to do in Granada.✨ 💡1. Al Hambra Palace 2. Plaza Nueva 3. Granada Cathedral 4. La Alcaicería 5. The Moorish quarter 6. Mirador de San Nicolás 7. A flamenco show 🏷️Tag someone who is visiting Granada soon.😍 🎥: @aidaninspain // quevoyhacer on TT 📍Granada #granada #granadaspain #granadaespaña #granadaspain🇪🇸 #spain #españa
spain_passion
2.5K likes • 61.7K views

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. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Beauty

The arcades and architecture make for stunning photos, especially during quieter times. Instagram

💰 Budget-Friendly Bites

Pintxos are generally affordable, making it a great way to eat well without breaking the bank. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Casco Viejo

Plaza Nueva is a great starting point to explore Bilbao's historic Old Town. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(41 reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Delicious pintxos
Lively atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The plaza itself is relatively flat, but the cobblestone streets in the surrounding Casco Viejo can be uneven. Some bars may have steps. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Yes, many walking tours of Bilbao's Casco Viejo include a stop at Plaza Nueva, often focusing on its history and culinary offerings. Reddit

Weekday mornings or early afternoons tend to be less crowded than evenings or weekends, allowing for a more relaxed experience and better photo opportunities. Instagram

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram+2

Highly recommended spots include @guretoki for Basque cheesecake, @hambueyseria for their beef pintxo, and @sorginzulo_bilbao for award-winning options. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Local Txakoli wine (a slightly sparkling white wine) is a classic pairing. Sidra (cider) and local beers are also popular choices. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer fewer people, making it easier to get unobstructed shots. Instagram

Pay attention to the elegant Baroque arches, the central fountain (if present), and the details of the surrounding buildings. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and public spaces. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza Nueva offers a relaxed environment for families. The arcaded square provides a safe space for children to wander a bit while parents enjoy a drink or snack. Many pintxos bars have options that appeal to younger palates, like simple tortilla or croquettes. The open space is also great for kids to burn off some energy before or after exploring the Casco Viejo. Instagram

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. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Plaza Nueva is a budget traveler's dream, especially for foodies. Pintxos are an incredibly affordable way to eat well, with most costing just a few euros. You can create a satisfying meal by sampling several different pintxos and pairing them with a drink, all while experiencing the local culture. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

couples

For couples, Plaza Nueva offers a romantic and vibrant setting. Enjoy a leisurely pintxos crawl, sharing small plates and local wines as you soak in the lively atmosphere. The arcaded walkways provide a charming backdrop for a stroll, especially in the evening. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Heartbeat: Pintxos in Plaza Nueva

Plaza Nueva is synonymous with pintxos, the Basque Country's answer to tapas. These small, artfully crafted bites are a cornerstone of local culture and a must-try for any visitor. The square is lined with numerous bars, each offering its own unique selection. From traditional favorites like tortilla de patatas (potato omelet) and gildas (olives, anchovies, and peppers) to more innovative creations featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients, there's something to tantalize every palate. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

A Glimpse into Bilbao's History: The Origins of Plaza Nueva

Plaza Nueva, officially known as Plaza Fernando VII, has a fascinating history that belies its 'new' moniker. Construction began in the early 19th century, making it a relatively recent addition to Bilbao's historic Casco Viejo. The square was designed in a Neoclassical style, featuring elegant arcades that provide shelter and a distinct architectural character. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

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