The city of Bilbao has become an internationally known spot for all the foodies in the world and the stars of the show are the pintxos. If you are visiting the Basque country you will encounter these small tasty bites a lot more often than tapas and the best way to do it around here is going on a pintxo route in Bilbao. This city is the place to be if you want to try some of the best food and wine of the region.

The city has different famous pintxos points so the way to do it when you visit is doing the full route. Here are the best pintxo and food spots in Bilbao:

1. Pintxos in Old Town (Casco Viejo Bilbao)

The birthplace of Bilbao and also the heart of the city’s culinary scene. There are over 200 establishments, some of which form an essential part of the city’s pintxo routes. There is no single area, but many streets: Plaza Nueva, Santa María, Somera, Unamuno, Jardines, countless options that will make you understand why they call the Basque Country the foodie’s heaven.

2. The charm of Ribera Market

A historical landmark with a modern twist, Ribera’s Market holds the record of the largest covered market in Europe. Here you’ll find all the best quality meats, fish, seafood, cheeses, cold meats, fruit and food of all kinds. After shopping you can also enjoy the food and drinks on the gastropubs, where you have a wide selection with a ton of options (even vegan!).

3. Afternoon drinks and bites at Ledesma

Next to Gran Via, the main shopping street, Ledesma is one of the busiest streets in Bilbao, known for historical cafes like Iruña and its dynamic vibe and youthful atmosphere. It is a pedestrian area and due to its location is the local’s favorite spot to go for a drink after a long day of work.

4. The best pintxo-pote at Diputación

Here we are talking award winning pintxos and a perfect location. Not very far from Ledesma you have Diputación, with a direct exit from the Metro Bilbao and next to the commercial and cultural center. Here, you can enjoy classic bite-sized delicacies, traditional local wines, as well as innovative pintxos at any time of the day.

5. Game day drinks and snaks at Pozas

Calle Poza is a lively gathering spot for both locals and visitors, especially bustling on Athletic Club de Bilbao match days. This bar-hopping route starts at Diputación and ends at San Mamés football stadium. The street, reputed to have the highest concentration of bars in Spain, offers a unique atmosphere where football passion and Bilbao’s authentic spirit blend as you enjoy a pintxo.

6. Modern bar culture at Espacio Guggenhein

The area around the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum is a must-visit, thanks to the attractions in the new urban district of Abandoibarra. This prime residential area features bars that perfectly blend tourist appeal with Bilbao’s traditional charm. The nearby Ensanche streets (Heros, Lersundi, Iparraguirre, Henao, Mazarredo, Máximo Aguirre, and more) host excellent pintxo bars, offering endless opportunities.

And now, one thing is to know where to go, but now what to eat? For that you have to tag along one of our food tours in Bilbao. We’ll share all the stories and secrets behind every bite and drink, ensuring you get to know the city like a true local- by eating and drinking!