Living in Bilbao

Why expats choose Bilbao

Bilbao represents a completely different Spain from the Mediterranean coast. Here in the Basque Country, you'll find green mountains, an oceanic climate, unique culture, and what many consider Spain's best food. The Guggenheim Museum transformed the city's image, but the real appeal lies deeper—in pintxos bars, dramatic landscapes, and a proud regional identity.

For expats who wilt in Mediterranean heat or seek something beyond the typical Spanish experience, Bilbao offers a compelling alternative. The tradeoff is rain—lots of it—and smaller expat infrastructure. But those who choose Bilbao often become passionate advocates.

Neighborhoods to consider

Casco Viejo (Old Town)

The historic heart of Bilbao. Seven streets (Siete Calles) of traditional architecture, pintxos bars, small shops, and genuine Basque atmosphere. Pedestrianized and lively. Apartments are older but characterful, and you're at the center of everything.

Best for: Those wanting traditional atmosphere, pintxos lovers

Typical rent: €700–1,000 for a 1-bedroom

Abando / Ensanche

The elegant 19th-century expansion. Wide boulevards, handsome buildings, good restaurants, and the main shopping areas. Close to the Guggenheim. More upscale and well-maintained, popular with professionals.

Best for: Professionals, those wanting elegant urban living

Typical rent: €800–1,200 for a 1-bedroom

Deusto

University neighborhood across the river. Younger vibe, more affordable, good transport links. The University of Deusto brings student energy. Less touristic, more everyday Bilbao life.

Best for: Students, young professionals, budget-conscious expats

Typical rent: €650–900 for a 1-bedroom

Indautxu

Residential neighborhood near the center. Family-friendly, good schools, local shops and markets. More spacious apartments than central areas. Popular with families and long-term residents.

Best for: Families, those wanting residential feel

Typical rent: €750–1,050 for a 1-bedroom

Getxo

Coastal suburb with beaches, marina, and upscale residential areas. Connected to central Bilbao by metro. More space, seaside access, and suburban lifestyle while staying connected to the city.

Best for: Families, beach lovers, those wanting space

Typical rent: €800–1,200 for a 1-bedroom

Practical considerations

Getting around

Bilbao has excellent public transport. The metro is modern and efficient, connecting the city center with suburbs and coastal towns. Trams, buses, and commuter trains complement the system. A monthly pass costs around €45. The city is walkable but hilly.

Bilbao Airport has decent European connections, though fewer than Madrid or Barcelona. The high-speed train (when complete) will improve connections to Madrid.

Climate

Bilbao's oceanic climate is Spain's wettest major city. Expect rain year-round—around 1,200mm annually. Summers are mild (20-26°C), winters cool but rarely freezing (8-14°C). The upside: no scorching heat, green landscapes, and never needing air conditioning.

Locals embrace the weather with good raincoats and an indoor culture of bars and restaurants. If you hate heat, Bilbao's climate is a major selling point.

Language

Spanish is the daily language, but Basque (Euskara) is co-official and visible everywhere—on signs, in schools, and in local culture. You don't need Basque to live here, but showing interest is appreciated. The Basque Country has a strong regional identity that's distinct from the rest of Spain.

Working in Bilbao

The Basque Country has Spain's strongest regional economy. Bilbao has industry, finance, and a growing tech sector. Salaries tend higher than Spanish average, reflecting both higher costs and economic strength. The job market is smaller than Madrid or Barcelona but respectable.

Coworking options include Impact Hub Bilbao, Talent Garden, and smaller spaces. The city attracts professionals in engineering, finance, and creative industries.

Food culture

Pintxos

Pintxos (the Basque version of tapas) are an art form here. Bars display elaborate small bites on the counter—you point, you eat, you pay by the toothpick. The pintxos tradition is social, delicious, and central to Basque life. Bilbao arguably has Spain's best food scene.

Michelin stars

The Basque Country has one of the world's highest concentrations of Michelin stars. San Sebastián (an hour away) leads, but Bilbao has excellent fine dining too. The region takes food seriously as cultural identity.

Local specialties

Expect bacalao (cod) prepared numerous ways, txuleton (massive ribeye steaks), fresh seafood, and txakoli (local white wine). The culinary standards are exceptionally high, even at casual establishments.

Art and culture

The Guggenheim

Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum transformed Bilbao's global image. The building itself is the attraction—a titanium-clad masterpiece that sparked the city's regeneration. The collection is strong, but the architecture is unforgettable.

Beyond the Guggenheim

The Fine Arts Museum has an excellent collection. Street art enlivens many neighborhoods. The city invests in culture and architecture, making Bilbao visually interesting throughout. Festivals, music, and theater provide year-round programming.

Outdoor access

Bilbao offers easy access to remarkable outdoors:

• Beaches: Getxo, Sopela, and surfing spots along the coast
• Mountains: Dramatic green peaks surrounding the city
• Hiking: Extensive trails in nearby mountains and along the coast
• Surfing: World-class waves, especially around Mundaka
• Camino de Santiago: Several routes pass through the region

The expat community

Bilbao's expat community is small compared to coastal cities or Madrid. This means less English-speaking infrastructure but more integration with local life. Expats here tend to be committed to the city and engaged with Basque culture.

Popular ways to connect:

• Language exchanges (intercambios)
• Hiking and outdoor groups
• Internations Bilbao
• Professional networking events
• Facebook groups (Expats in Bilbao)
• Sports clubs (pelota, surfing, running)

What expats say

Common praise: incredible food, beautiful surroundings, mild weather, distinct culture, high quality of life, efficient city, friendly locals.

Common complaints: rain (lots of it), smaller expat community, higher costs than southern Spain, can feel isolated from rest of Spain.

Is Bilbao right for you?

Bilbao works best for those who prefer cooler, wetter climates over Mediterranean heat, food enthusiasts who want access to world-class cuisine, outdoor lovers who enjoy green mountains and surfing, and expats interested in unique Basque culture distinct from typical Spanish experience.

If you want sunshine, beach lifestyle, or large expat communities, consider Valencia, Málaga, or Barcelona instead.