Is Bilbao safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Bilbao is a safe city by European standards, with low violent crime and lively, well-used streets until late. The realistic risks are pickpocketing in crowded bars and at festivals, and slippery steep streets in the rain. Terrorism linked to ETA ended over a decade ago and is not a concern for visitors.
The real risks
Pickpocketing
Most likely in packed pintxo bars around Plaza Nueva and the Siete Calles, on the metro and during Aste Nagusia. Keep bags closed and on your lap, not hung on a chair.
Bag left on the bar
Phones and wallets left beside your plate in a busy bar are easy to lift; keep them in a pocket.
Wet steps and stone streets
Steps such as the Calzadas de Mallona and the old town paving get very slippery in rain; wear shoes with grip.
Football and festival crowds
Athletic Club match days and festival nights are loud and good-natured, but stay alert for petty theft.
Areas and times to take care
The Casco Viejo, Abando, the Ensanche and the riverside around the Guggenheim are busy and comfortable day and night. Parts of San Francisco and Bilbao La Vieja, across the river from the old town, have a reputation for petty crime and drug dealing late at night, although they also have popular bars; stay alert there after midnight. Use common sense on quiet riverside paths very late.
Getting around safely
Official taxis (white with a green light) are easy to find at ranks or by phone, and ride-hailing exists but is less common than in Madrid. The metro runs until about 23:00 most nights and all night on Saturdays (check), and Bizkaibus links the coast. The airport bus (A3247) runs to the centre in about 20 minutes.
Solo and women travellers
Bilbao is a comfortable city for solo women. Bars are mixed and relaxed, and the centre is busy into the night. During festivals, keep an eye on your drink and use the 'puntos lilas' (purple information points) that the city sets up at events to support people facing harassment.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe and good. Summers are mild, but sun on the coast is strong. Rain is frequent all year (13–20 rainy days a month in autumn and winter), so carry an umbrella. EU visitors should bring an EHIC or GHIC card.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Bilbao safe?
Yes. It is one of Spain's safer cities. Watch for pickpockets in crowded bars and at festivals, and take normal care late at night in the San Francisco area.
Is Bilbao safe at night?
The old town, Abando and the riverside are busy and generally safe late. Bars stay full until after midnight at weekends.
Is it safe to walk to Gaztelugatxe?
Yes, but the path and steps are steep and slippery in rain; wear good shoes and carry water in summer.