Shopping

Bilbao boasts two main shopping areas: The Old Quarter and Central Bilbao. In addition to great shops Bilbao’s markets are rich in fresh foods, crafts, gifts and traditional Basque items. Great souvenirs to pick up while in Bilbao include Basque handicrafts such as linens, Basque dolls and Basque beret, known locally as txapelas.

Most shops in Bilbao are open from 10am, with many shops taking a long break for lunch during the siesta hours, and reopening round 4pm or 5pm until as late at 8pm. Shopping hours are shorter on Saturdays while on Sundays, most stores are closed.

Old Quarter/Town - Casco Viejo

Bilbao's Old Quarter is one of the most important commercial areas in Europe featuring over 800 shops, restaurants and Tapas bars, which are particularly concentrated around the public square of Plaza Nueva, and the largest covered City Market in Europe. The Ensanche Market and Riverside Market is a must for anyone looking for fresh meats, breads, vegetables and other local produce.

Central Bilbao

Central Bilbao is host to the "backbone" of Bilbao's commerce. Department stores, traditional shops, smaller boutiques and international firms are all here. Most of the city's shopping is centred round the Plaza Moyúa area, where the streets of Calle Rodriguez Arias and Calle Iparraguirre are lined with stores and boutiques. Gran Via is home to department stores like Marks & Spencer and El Corte Inglés, whereas you will find for high end fashion stores and boutiques in the Calle San Martin.

Zubiarte

Zubiarte is a modern commercial centre located in the centre of Bilbao, nearby the Guggenheim museum, where you will find plenty of shops and restaurants.