So what are the best photo spots in Bilbao? You could spend a lifetime in Bilbao with a camera in your hand and never capture all there is to see. Bilbao is beautiful and there are so many great places to take photos. Let’s jump in and get to the very best photo spots in Bilbao.
The Best Photo Spots In Bilbao
City Hall
This 19th century work of art stands out in its surroundings and is easily one of the best photo spots in Bilbao. The three archways and eight pillars at the front of the building, give this French architecture real pizazz. The roof includes a dynamic steeple and clock that provides an imperial look. The statues at the front add an element of elegance to the portrait of strength.
If you cross the Nervion River to take more photos you can expand your shot dramatically. The large abstract sphere adds texture to your shots. Plus, if there is enough wind you can capture the flag of Bilbao flapping in the breeze. This massive flag is located to the right of the building in the adjacent plaza.
Moyua
This plaza is the heartbeat of Bilbao so its no wonder that it makes the list of best photo spots in Bilbao. Moyua is Bilbao’s version of Trafalgar Square and provides many great photo opportunities. Renovations were completed in 1997 and have made Moyua very hospitable. Loaded with vibrant, blooming flowers and a beautiful fountain, you won’t be alone in your hunt for the perfect shot.
The Hotel Carlton is located in Moyua. It was built in 1926 and and is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. The architecture is elegant and makes any photo pop. If you’re interested in Staying at the Hotel Carlton follow this link.
The elements that you need to capture when at Moyua are the flowers, the fountain, the Spanish government building and the Iberdrola Tower in the background. If you work your magic you can get all of them in the same shot. It’ll look great!
Other key elements to add to your photo shoot are the Metro Bilbao entrances; they are glass and sleek. The PKF Attest building also looks awesome when it’s lit up.
Castle Butron
Castle Butron is an epic place to take photos. I know, I know, people throw around the word epic way to much. However, in the case of Castle Butron I think the word is more than justified. Remember drawing castles as a kid? This medieval fortress is what you imagined!
The only downside to Castle Butron is that you need to drive there. That or take the bus. So, while you are out there make a day trip of it and check out the areas of Sopelana, Plentzia, Barrika, Gorliz and Armintza. You’ll have lots of legit photos by the end of the day.
Plaza Nueva
Plaza Nueva is the center of the Old town (Casco Viejo). This neoclassical square features 18 arches that 360 and frame the plaza. It’s many cafes and restaurants create a festive vibe. Built in 1821, this four story chill spot is a favourite of locals and tourists alike.
If you are into Instagram stories or Tik Tok videos, Plaza Nueva is the ideal location. You can film the entrance to the plaza, and the architecture of the square. Then show off how great things are going by jumping around the plaza eating pintxos and enjoying some drinks. Show a little swagger, you know you want to…
Mount Arxanda
Arxanada is the best place in the city to get shots of the cityscape. It’s easily accessible from the city centre and has some killer views. To get to the top you can take the bus, drive, hike or take the funicular. Nothing against the other options but the funicular is the best route to take. You can take photos and videos while the funicular heads up the mountain and plus, you can use the word funicular as a banner. It’s fun.
The top of Arxanda has the words Bilbao/Bilbo (the city name in Spanish and Basque) over and over again as the railing around the viewpoint. You can get amazing shots of the Guggenheim, the Iberdrola Tower, along with the rest of the cityscape. Plus, you can include the lush green mountains that create the valley that Bilbao calls home. Now just include yourself in these shots and you’re going to produce content to make your friends jealous.
The Puppy
The Puppy might be the most photographed feature in Bilbao. This giant floral dog is beautiful, adorable, and just plain makes people happy. Going to Bilbao and not getting a photo of yourself in front of the puppy is like going to the Louvre and not seeing the Mona Lisa. It’s like going to Sydney and not seeing the Opera House. It’s like Going to New York and not seeing Central Park. So yeah, get the shot, it’s a classic.
There are a few different angles that are worth exploring when you’re looking for the perfect shot. The first, is the original, directly in front of the puppy while it towers over you. The second, is off to the side a bit so you can capture the Guggenheim Museum (Museo) wording on the building behind. If you play your angle right you can include what the feature artist is as well.
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Another great option is to go to the right side of this floral exhibition and include the Iberdrola tower in the photo. The images this angle produces are always crowd pleasers. Something about the bright colours of the puppy and the shade of glass used on Bilbao’s single skyscraper, make for captivating photography.
Maman
Maman is the official name of the giant spider located behind the Guggenheim Museum, and alongside the Nervion River. The Maman spider statue is one of six of its kind found globally. It is one of the most versatile objects to shoot due to its size and surroundings.
What makes the Maman so great to capture for social media platforms, such as Instagram, is that you can capture your own take on this piece of art. You can have the Spider in the foreground with the Guggenheim Museum or La Salve Bridge in the background. Or, you can use a wide lens and capture them both.
Selfies and portrait photos are common place at the Maman. Holding onto or swinging around one of the eight metal legs of the Maman always looks good. And if you’re patient, you can also capture the fire fountain in some of your shots.
It is also worth shooting upwards from underneath the Maman to get a glimpse and her several eggs. She is pregnant after all. If you shoot this location well, you’ll probably want to make your social post a carousel.
Also, make sure to circle around the Guggenheim for other photos. The Guggenheim Musuem could easily be on this list more times for being one of the best photo spots in Bilbao.
Bilbao is full of incredible places to take photos. If it was a sport’s team it would be described as “stacked.” From the views atop Arxanda to the culture within Plaza Nueva, Bilbao has images that need more than 10,000 words to describe. This top 5 very best photo spots in Bilbao will surely get you some extra attention on social.