Bilbao: Ebike Tour with Guggenheim & Local Markets

Summary

Cycle riverside lanes past Guggenheim to Bilbao’s old heart

You’ll ride safe bike lanes through Bilbao with a local guide—gliding past Guggenheim Museum’s wild shapes, pausing in green parks, tasting cheese at La Ribera Market. Feel city life shift from riverside calm to busy plazas as you go. This tour is more than sightseeing—it’s a way into everyday Bilbao that lingers long after you park your bike.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not from here, are you?” That’s what Jon, our guide, asked when I tried to pronounce Zubizuri. He grinned and waved us forward across the bridge—white curves against grey sky, a little slippery from last night’s rain. There was this faint smell of coffee drifting up from somewhere below and the river looked almost metallic in the morning light. I’d never ridden an ebike before but it felt easy enough after a few minutes—kind of like cheating but nobody seemed to mind.

We stopped outside the Guggenheim Museum, all titanium scales and odd reflections. Jon pointed out “Puppy” (the giant flower dog) and “Mama” (the spider), both way bigger than I’d pictured. He told us about how the museum changed everything for Bilbao—like people actually wanted to come here after it opened. The wind picked up and someone’s scarf blew into my face; we laughed about it for too long. I still think about that view—the museum shimmering next to the river, locals jogging by as if this was just any Tuesday.

After weaving through Plaza Euskadi (Jon called the Iberdrola Tower ‘Bilbao’s toothpick’), we coasted into Doña Casilda Park. The air changed instantly—damp grass, chestnut trees, families walking dogs even though it was barely noon. It felt quieter here, like a pause button in the middle of the city. Then back on the bikes toward Euskalduna Palace and Itsasmuseum Bilbao; Jon explained bits of shipbuilding history while a couple of kids raced each other along the path shouting in Basque. I didn’t catch much but their laughter made sense anyway.

The last part took us past Athletic Club’s stadium (red-and-white everywhere), then down to La Ribera Market where Jon insisted we try a tiny piece of Idiazabal cheese—salty, smoky, kind of perfect after riding around so much. By then my legs were tired but not sore thanks to the ebike boost. We finished near where Bilbao first began; Jon pointed at some old stones and said something about origins that sounded almost poetic but I was mostly thinking about lunch by then.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bilbao's landmarks by Ebike

• Learn about Zubizuri Bridge
• Visit Guggenheim Museum exterior
• See Plaza Euskadi and Iberdrola Tower
• Ride through Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
• Visit Euskalduna Palace exterior
• See Maritime Museum exterior
• View Athletic Club Soccer Stadium outside
• Arrive at Bilbao City Hall
• Visit La Ribera Market
• End at Bilbao city origin site

Top questions

How long is the Bilbao ebike tour?

The tour is a half-day experience covering key highlights around central Bilbao.

Is this ebike tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, ebikes are easy to use and most of the route is on safe bike lanes away from traffic.

Are helmets and child seats provided?

Yes, helmets and specialized infant seats are included in your booking.

What main sights does the tour cover?

You’ll see Zubizuri Bridge, Guggenheim Museum exterior, Doña Casilda Park, Euskalduna Palace, Itsasmuseum Bilbao, Athletic Club Stadium, City Hall, and La Ribera Market.

Does the tour include entry inside museums?

No entry fees are included; visits focus on exteriors and cultural context shared by your guide.

Is pickup included in this day trip?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby for easy access to the starting point.

Can travelers with limited mobility join?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or those under 140 cm height.

Are tips expected for guides?

Tipping isn’t compulsory but is appreciated if you enjoyed your guide’s service—it’s customary in Bilbao tourism.

What’s included

Your day includes use of an electric bike with helmet and lock provided for safety. Specialized child seats are available if needed. You’ll be guided by a knowledgeable local who shares stories at each stop—from Guggenheim Museum’s bold exterior to La Ribera Market tastings—all while following dedicated bike lanes through central Bilbao neighborhoods.