Christmas in Bilbao 2025 is one of the most special times of the year. The city is filled with lights, markets, family activities, cultural shows and a magical atmosphere that attracts both national and international visitors.
But, along with all this, it is also a time of great hustle and bustle, heavy traffic and parking difficulties. That’s why more and more people are looking for comfortable and safe transport options, such as a private transfer in Bilbao, to enjoy the holidays without stress.
In this article, we show you the best Christmas plans for 2025 in Bilbao and explain how to get around easily with Transfer2Bilbao so you don’t miss a thing.
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1. Christmas in Bilbao 2025: What’s in store for you this year?
Every December, Bilbao is transformed into a veritable Christmas wonderland. Illuminated streets, decorative routes, traditional markets, typical cuisine and special activities make the city one of the most attractive destinations in northern Spain during this time of the year.
Among the highlights of Christmas in Bilbao you will find:
- Christmas and craft markets
- Decorations and lights throughout the city centre
- Cultural events and shows
- Three Kings Parade
- Children’s activities
- Gastronomic routes
- Plans in museums and iconic spaces
Getting around all these places can be tricky if you don’t know the city or if you want to avoid traffic jams and wasting time. That’s why a private transfer is the most practical, quick and comfortable option.
If you want to see all our routes, visit the Services section.
2. Christmas Markets in Bilbao 2025: The ones you can’t miss
Christmas markets are one of the most popular activities every year for tourists and locals alike. Bilbao has several charming venues during December.
Arenal Christmas Market
The most famous in the city. It is located in an iconic spot and brings together artisans, local cuisine, gifts, Christmas decorations and activities for all ages.
It is ideal for:
- Buying original gifts
- Trying Basque products
- Strolling along the illuminated estuary
How to get there easily: request a direct transfer to El Arenal with Transfer2Bilbao to avoid the traffic in Casco Viejo.
Santo Tomás Market
One of the most traditional markets in the Basque Country. It is held on 21 December and is one of the events that attracts the largest crowds.
Here you will find:
- Handcrafted products
- Local food tastings
- Animal shows
- Music and a festive atmosphere
Getting around the city centre on this day can be chaotic, so booking a private vehicle wiht a driver is a great advantage.
Check out the vehicles available in our Vehicles section.
Craft and local markets
During December, there are also small markets scattered throughout neighbourhoods such as Indautxu, Abando and Deusto, They are perfect for finding unique gifts, local products and Christmas decorations.
3. Christmas Lights 2025 in Bilbao: The Most Magical City
The switching on of the Christmas lights in Bilbao is one of the most eagerly awaited moments. Every year, the city decorates:
- Gran Vía
- Plaza Moyua
- Arenal
- Paseo del Campo Volantín
- Isozaki Towers
- Streets of the Old Town
The Christmas Lights Route is an ideal plan for families, couples, or groups of friends.
How can you do the route without any hassle?
A private transfer allows you to stop at the most beautiful spots without worrying about parking or restricted areas.
You can also combine the route with other Christmas plans such as:
- Arenal Market
- Chocolate shops in the city centre
- Walk along the estuary
- Visit to the giant tree of Doña Casilda
4. Activities for families: Christmas with children in Bilbao
Christmas in Bilbao is full of options for the little ones.
The PIN – Christmas Children’s Park (BEC)
One of the largest children’s events in northern Spain.
Activities:
- Attractions
- Educational games
- Workshops
- Technology areas
- Performances
Parking at the BEC during this period is difficult. A shuttle bus is the most convenient option for families.
Ice rink and Christmas park
During December, Bilbao sets up recreational areas with:
- Ice rink
- Slides
- Christmas stalls
- Special lightning
Workshops, storytelling and cultural activities
Museums and centres such as:
- Guggenheim Museum
- Azkuna Zentroa
- Maritime Museum
organise themed activities that are perfect for the holidays.
5. Cultural Christmas: Concerts, Theatre and Exhibitions
Bilbao offers an excellent cultural programme at Christmas:
- Classical music concerts
- Family musicals
- Theatre performances
- Temporary exhibitions
- Special programme at Euskalduna and Arriaga
Many of these events coincide with peak times in the city, so a private transfer ensures punctuality and comfort.
6. Christmas Food Trail: Pintxos, sweets and special dinners
Basque cuisine is a must at this time of year. Some ideas you could include:
- Pintxo trail through the Old Town
- Christmas dinners at renowned restaurants
- Sweets and hot chocolate in the city centre
- Family meals with return transport
With a transfer, you can move between different gastronomic areas without worrying about alcohol, parking or traffic.
7. Three Kings Parade 2025: Tips for enjoying it without stress
The Three Kings Parade in Bilbao brings together thousands of people.
What should you know?
- It starts in central areas.
- There are traffic restrictions.
- Car parks fill up quickly.
- Access is difficult with children.
The best alternative is to arrive and return in a private transfer, which drops you off close to the parade route without having to walk long distances or wait for public transport.
8. How to get around Bilbao at Christmas without any hassle: the advantage of private transfers
The Christmas season means:
- Heavy traffic
- Limited parking
- People travelling all over the city
- Simultaneous events
- Overcrowded public transport
That’s why more and more people are choosing to get around with a private service such as Transfer2Bilbao, which guarantees:
- Pick-up at your accommodation
- Comfortable seats
- Direct transfers
- Space for bags and shopping
- Avoiding the stress of traffic
See all our models in the Vehicles section.
9. Recommended routes for Christmas: Discover Bilbao with Transfer2Bilbao
You can organise personalised routes such as:
- Christmas lights route
- Evening gastronomic plans
- Tour of markets and viewpoints
- Transfers between museums and cultural events
- Trips to nearby Christmas villages
Explore more options in Services.
10. Final tips for enjoying Christmas in Bilbao 2025
- Book restaurants and activities in advance.
- Avoid travelling by car in central areas.
- Check special opening hours for museums and markets.
- Plan your transfers if you are travelling in a group or with children.
- Take advantage of door-to-door services to optimise your time.
An if you want more ideas for getting around Bilbao, visit our Blog.
