Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Discover Spanish masters and Basque art at this historic museum, currently offering free entry during renovations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Spanish masters and Basque art at this historic museum, currently offering free entry during renovations.
"Free entry during renovation makes this a must-visit for classical art lovers."
Check Renovation Status
Confirm which sections are open before your visit, as the museum is undergoing major renovations. :informationdeskperson:
Embrace Free Entry
Take advantage of the current free admission during renovation. A great budget-friendly art experience! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Classical Masters
Main exhibition halls
Discover masterpieces by El Greco, Goya, and Velázquez, offering a glimpse into Spain's rich artistic heritage.
Basque Art Collection
Dedicated galleries
Explore a significant collection showcasing the talent and history of Basque artists, a unique regional focus.

Temporary Exhibitions
Rotating galleries
Experience diverse and often thought-provoking temporary displays, from audiovisual installations to contemporary art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Renovation & Free Entry
Navigating the Collection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Renovation Status
Confirm which sections are open before your visit, as the museum is undergoing major renovations. :informationdeskperson:
Embrace Free Entry
Take advantage of the current free admission during renovation. A great budget-friendly art experience! :moneywithwings:
Focus on Classics
Prioritize the classical paintings by masters like El Greco and Goya, which are consistently praised. :framewithpicture:
Manage Expectations
Some modern installations might be unusual. Enjoy them for what they are or focus on other parts of the collection. :thinking_face:
Looking for recommendations for things to do in or around Bilbao :)
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Renovation Status
Confirm which sections are open before your visit, as the museum is undergoing major renovations. :informationdeskperson:
Embrace Free Entry
Take advantage of the current free admission during renovation. A great budget-friendly art experience! :moneywithwings:
Focus on Classics
Prioritize the classical paintings by masters like El Greco and Goya, which are consistently praised. :framewithpicture:
Manage Expectations
Some modern installations might be unusual. Enjoy them for what they are or focus on other parts of the collection. :thinking_face:
Rainy Day Option
A good indoor activity for a rainy day in Bilbao, offering a cultural escape. :cloud_rain:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum for its collection of classical Spanish masters and Basque art, especially during its current period of free entry due to renovations. While the ongoing construction limits exhibition space and some modern art installations are divisive, the opportunity to see masterpieces like El Greco and Goya at no cost is a significant draw. The museum is a good option for a manageable visit, particularly on a rainy day.
"Under renovation, the exhibition is limited, but it is free to enter. Apart from a whole section filled with inflated plastic which is unexplained and hazardous to elderly visitors, there are some interesting works and a few masterpieces. A good place to come on a rainy day. Not suitable for children or people who need accessible space. After renovation this will probably change and the experience will be better."
Lighthouse Tai Chi
"In June 2025 the museum was undergoing substantial building work. As a result, only part of the collection was on display. But entry was free, instead of 7 Euros, during the building work. Part of the available display space was taken up with modern art consisting of enormous inflated balloons, each one occupying a whole room. From my point of view this was a waste of the limited available space. However the five rooms devoted to classical paintings, including El Greco and his contemporaries, were very interesting."
Graham Gould
"End of August 2025. Still reconstruction, so free entrance. Few masterpieces, Max Ernst, some big inflations, two El Grecos. Nice and kind visit."
Jaroslav Zeman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is easily accessible by public transport. You can take various bus lines that stop nearby, or it's a pleasant walk from the city center. Many visitors find it a convenient stop after visiting the Guggenheim Museum.
While there might be some street parking, it can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or a taxi to reach the museum.
Yes, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum, making it easy to combine visits. The walk is scenic and takes about 15-20 minutes.
Bilbao is a very walkable city, and public transport, including buses and trams, is efficient. Many visitors also use ride-sharing services.
The area around the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is generally considered safe and well-lit, making it pleasant for walking at most times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, due to major renovations, entry to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is free. This is a significant saving from the usual admission fee.
Since entry is free during the renovation period, advance booking is typically not required. However, it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for any last-minute changes or special exhibition requirements.
Opening hours can vary, especially during renovation periods. It's best to check the official Bilbao Fine Arts Museum website for the most current information on days and times.
During renovations, accessibility might be limited in certain areas. Visitors with specific needs should contact the museum directly or check their website for the latest accessibility information.
While entry is currently free due to renovations, in normal times, discounts might be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the museum's official website for details when renovations are complete.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include classical paintings by El Greco, Goya, and Velázquez, as well as a strong collection of Basque art. Some visitors also find the temporary exhibitions intriguing.
With the current limited exhibition space due to renovations, a visit can be managed in about an hour. When fully open, it would likely take longer to explore the entire collection.
Information on guided tours may be limited during the renovation. Check the museum's official website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for current tour availability.
Some reviews suggest that certain modern installations might not be suitable or easily understood by children, and accessibility can be an issue. However, the classical art sections could be engaging.
Some visitors have noted large, inflatable modern art installations that take up significant space. These are part of temporary exhibitions and may not appeal to everyone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information on dining facilities within the museum can vary, especially during renovations. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or inquire upon arrival for current offerings.
The area around the museum offers numerous dining options, from traditional pintxos bars to more formal restaurants. Exploring the nearby streets will reveal many choices.
Pintxos are small, savory snacks, similar to tapas, that are a culinary staple in the Basque Country. They are often served on a small piece of bread and are a popular way to sample local flavors.
Bilbao has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options. You'll likely find suitable choices in the diverse culinary scene surrounding the museum.
Generally, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas. It's best to consume your own food outside the museum premises.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by museum and exhibition. Typically, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed in permanent collections, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions.
While the interior might have restrictions, the museum's architecture and the surrounding area can offer great photo opportunities. The exterior and nearby streets are often featured in photos of Bilbao.
The classical masterpieces by artists like El Greco and Goya are often admired, but photography might be restricted in those areas. The modern installations, if present, might also be visually striking for photos.
For general museum visits, a smartphone or a compact camera is usually sufficient. If you're interested in architectural shots, a wider lens might be useful for the exterior.
Temporary exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely. Always look for signage or ask museum staff before taking pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more universally child-friendly art experience in Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum often has more interactive elements. Alternatively, exploring the city's parks and outdoor sculptures can be a great way to engage children with art in a more accessible format.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the museum, Bilbao offers many affordable experiences. Enjoying pintxos at local bars is a cost-effective way to sample a variety of Basque cuisine. Walking around the city and admiring its architecture and public art is also a free and rewarding activity.
🎨 Art Connoisseurs
Keep an eye on the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions, which can offer diverse and contemporary perspectives. Engaging with these varied displays, alongside the permanent collection, provides a comprehensive understanding of the art housed within the museum.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Impact of Renovation
This renovation aims to modernize the museum's facilities and enhance its exhibition capabilities. The project is expected to be completed in phases, with the goal of creating a more comprehensive and engaging space for art lovers. Visitors should be prepared for a potentially different layout and a more focused selection of art compared to its pre-renovation state.
Despite the limitations, the museum continues to house important works. The focus during this period is often on the classical collection, featuring renowned Spanish masters. This provides a valuable opportunity to appreciate these iconic pieces in a more intimate setting, away from the usual crowds.
Exploring the Collection Highlights
Beyond the Spanish masters, the museum has a strong commitment to showcasing Basque art. This dedicated collection provides insight into the region's unique artistic identity and its contribution to the broader art world. It's a chance to discover local talent and historical artistic movements specific to the Basque Country.
In addition to its permanent collections, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions. These can range from contemporary art installations, like the noted audiovisual pieces, to thematic displays. While some modern art might be unconventional, as noted by some reviewers, these exhibitions add variety and often spark discussion.
Bilbao's Art Scene Beyond the Museum
Visitors often combine their museum visits with exploring Bilbao's architecture and public art. The city itself is a canvas, with striking modern buildings and sculptures scattered throughout. Walking tours are a popular way to discover these artistic elements and learn about the city's transformation.
For those interested in a broader cultural experience, Bilbao also offers a rich culinary scene, particularly its famous pintxos. Exploring the local bars and markets is an essential part of the Bilbao experience, allowing visitors to taste the region's flavors and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit