Discover the most vibrant and welcoming venues to enjoy a drink in this Basque province. From lively pintxo bars in Bilbao's Casco Viejo to trendy cocktail spots in Indautxu, explore a wide variety of options. Find the perfect place to socialise, sample local gastronomy, or simply relax with a beverage. This guide will help you navigate the nightlife and daytime scene, highlighting establishments with charm and excellent atmosphere. Immerse yourself in Bizkaia's bar culture and experience unforgettable moments.
Delicious tapas
(+4)
This popular bar won first prize in the 4th Old Town Pintxo Burger Competition in 2026 with its "traditional mini-burger." Its recent victory positions it as a benchmark for trying innovative and high-quality creations.
Historic site in Spain
(+4)
Opened in 1903, Café Iruña is one of Bilbao's most emblematic and historic bars, mentioned in 2026 guides. Its Moorish lamb skewers are a highly regarded specialty.
Offers modern contemporary pintxos
(+4)
Located in the iconic Plaza Nueva, Gure Toki is famous for its creative and award-winning pintxos, made with seasonal ingredients. Its mention in 2026 guides solidifies its position as a top spot to try innovative dishes in the Old Town.
Amazing views
(+4)
Located in Barrika, this bar features a terrace with ocean views, a vibrant atmosphere, and outdoor concerts. Mentioned in 2024 guides, its varied gastronomic offerings and vegan options make it very attractive in 2026.
Incredible pintxos
(+4)
With over 90 years of history, La Viña del Ensanche is a Bilbao institution, mentioned in 2026 guides for its extensive wine cellar and selection of acorn-fed Iberian products. It's a must-visit classic for lovers of tradition and quality.
All the rankings you can imagine
Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts
Surprisingly tasty sandwiches
(+4)
Bar Restaurant Eme is a Bilbao classic, very popular for its unique sandwiches, known as "triangles," made with artisanal bread and a secret family red sauce. Its inclusion in 2026 guides ensures its continued relevance and popularity.
Serves high-quality, bite-sized dishes
(+4)
Café Bar Bilbao received the People's Choice Award at the 2026 pintxo-burger competition, a strong endorsement of its quality and popularity. Its beef pintxo-burger with melted cheese and secret sauce was the diners' favorite.
Offers a unique fusion of traditional Basque cuisine with global influences
(+4)
Kasko is a landmark in Bilbao's Old Town, known for its creativity and the constant addition of new items to its pintxo bar. Its Basque cuisine with international touches keeps it a fresh and appealing option in 2026.
An essential place to make a stop
(+4)
Cafe-Bar Tobogán stands out for its cozy atmosphere and its excellent offer of pintxos, which combine tradition and culinary innovation. Its privileged location and friendly service make it an essential meeting point to enjoy the bar culture in Bizkaia.
Awarded best pintxo bar in Basque Country 2018
(+4)
Sorginzulo won second prize in the 2026 pintxo-burger competition, standing out for its originality and flavor. Its pintxo-burger with tempura-fried rib, cured pork belly, cabbage, and Korean kimchi sauce makes it an innovative and delicious option.
Good location
(+4)
This bar won the "Best Traditional Pintxo in Bilbao 2024" award for its "Oxtail Fritter," guaranteeing a high-quality offering rooted in Basque tradition. Its menu is varied, ranging from breakfast to dinner.
Excellent food
(+4)
This terrace, located above the Yandiola Restaurant, offers spectacular views of the entire city of Bilbao from one of its oldest buildings. Mentioned in 2026 guides, it's ideal for dinner or drinks with a unique backdrop.
Friendly and professional staff
(+4)
With over 50 years of history, Bar Jaime is a stylish establishment open all day, offering a great atmosphere from breakfast until late. Its inclusion in 2026 guides solidifies its status as a timeless classic.
Fabulous cod tops
(+4)
Although its award for best pintxo in Bizkaia was in 2021, Bar Fermín remains a benchmark in 2026 for the quality of its traditional and original pintxos. Its "patatas canallas" (a type of potato dish) are a highly recommended dish.
Super friendly and helpful staff
(+4)
Mr. Marvelous is a versatile bar in Abandoibarra, ideal for any time of day, with a beautiful and relaxed atmosphere. Its famous potato omelet and its mention in 2024 guides keep it as an attractive option in 2026.
Familiar and pleasant place
(+4)
Opened in September 2026, Errotazar Gastrobar is one of the newest additions to Bilbao, offering reinvented Basque cuisine with international touches and signature cocktails. Its modern and sophisticated approach makes it a must-visit.
Nice view over the old town and La Ribeira Market
(+4)
With a bohemian touch and a terrace with great views on the Marzana Wharf, this bar is ideal for enjoying a drink in peace and quiet. Its mention in 2024 guides ensures its relevance and appeal in 2026.
Offers live music sessions and constant events
(+4)
This bar received a "high rating" in a Bilbao pintxo guide from November 2025, positioning it as a must-visit in 2026. Its recent recognition is a clear indicator of its quality and popularity.
Eye-catching collection of Soviet iconography and memorabilia
(+4)
Featured in a Bilbao guide from November 2025, Rasputin is recommended for its atmosphere, carefully prepared pintxos, and excellent service. Its recent mention makes it relevant for 2026.
Offers live music and DJ performances
(+4)
This trendy spot offers a variety of live music and a terrace overlooking Bilbao's most picturesque neighborhood. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere and its inclusion in 2024 guides keep it as an attractive option in 2026.
Stylish
(+3)
Opened in September 2026, Marea Atlántica specializes in charcoal-grilled fish and seafood, with a terrace overlooking the estuary and a menu that changes according to the fish market. It's a new option for lovers of fresh produce and a prime location.