Is Bilbao Safe for Travel in 2024?

Bilbao, Spain
Safety Score
59

Bilbao is a city in northern Spain, the largest city in the province of Biscay and in the Basque Country as a whole. It is also the largest city proper in northern Spain. Bilbao is the tenth-largest city in Spain.

Warnings & Dangers in Bilbao

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Bilbao is not the safest place for travelers, but if you use common sense and take precautions, you can avoid most of the troubles.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpocketing happens just like everywhere else - in the area of train stations, in the main squares, and in places where tourists gather. Always keep track of your belongings, do not leave your wallet and phone unattended.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

The city is not subject to any serious risks of natural disasters.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of serious robbery and armed attack in Bilbao is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and do not walk late at night in areas remote from the city center.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

In the past, the city has become a target for terrorist attacks, so this risk cannot be completely ruled out. Study the political environment and news before your visit here.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Bilbao. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Bilbao for Tourists?

Bilbao is a relatively safe city.

The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are related to corruption, assault, and vandalism.

Violent crime is extremely rare, but the usual precautions will keep you out of trouble.

It is advisable not to wear any Spanish symbols.

It is best to avoid soccer jerseys of Spain, Spanish flags or Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid accessories.

Although there have been no reported attacks on people wearing them, some people may be upset about them.

Please note that the inhabitants of the Basque Country are divided into those who support independence or autonomy from Spain and consider themselves predominantly or completely Basque (majority, 51%), and others who consider themselves mainly or completely Spanish (49% minority).

There are other divisions of opinion within these currents, ranging from supporters of the terrorist group ETA on the one hand to those who supported General Franco’s fascist regime on the other (although most people fall somewhere in between these extremes).

Be considerate of those who ask or offer you money.

Keep track of your belongings and do not leave bags and backpacks unattended.

Avoid communicating with strangers and use common sense.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Bilbao?

A visa is not required for visits of up to 90 days in a 180‑day period for nationals of those countries for which the European Community has abolished the visa requirement. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Bilbao?

Like many countries in the EU, Spain uses the Euro. The euro is the official currency of 19 of the 27 member states of the European Union. The euro, which is divided into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in Bilbao?

In Bilbao, the summers are comfortable; the winters are long, cold, wet, and windy; and it is partly cloudy year-round. The best time of year to visit Bilbao for warm-weather activities is from late June to early September.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Bilbao?

Bilbao is an airport located 9 km north of the city of Bilbao in the territory of the municipality of Luhua. It is the largest airport in the Basque Country.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Bilbao?

Bilbao is an industrial port city in northern Spain, surrounded by picturesque mountains. It is a modern metropolis with skyscrapers and the unofficial capital of the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. The Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, brought him great fame. The opening of the museum in 1997 caused a lot of excitement. The most famous works of modern art are kept here, but the attention of tourists is most often attracted by the original curves of the building itself, faced with sheets of titanium.

Is the Water in Bilbao Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Bilbao?

There is no Uber taxi in Beijing. You can use any other local taxi services.

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