Live Entertainment in Bilbao

As the largest city in the Basque Country part of Spain, Bilbao is a lively hub of culture and character. It is the ideal place in which to immerse yourself in the Basque culture; shop for souvenirs, sample the local cuisine, and experience daily life like the city’s residents do. Bilbao’s locals share a love of live entertainment, whether that be in the form of a sporting event or concert. Here are five fantastic places that allow you to join in the fun:

Estadio de Fútbol de San Mamés

Originally constructed in the early 20^th century, this massive football stadium has been renovated over the years. Its architecture features a unique blend of original and modern elements, while its sheer size alone makes it an important landmark. The Estadio de Fútbol de San Mamés can hold about 40,000 spectators—and it does, regularly. It is located on the outskirts of Bilbao, in the Ensanche area, fairly easy to reach via public transportation. The surrounding neighborhood is filled with bars and restaurants, which provide pre- and post-football entertainment.

Palacio de Congresos y de la Música

If you prefer your live entertainment to be more artistic than athletic, you should instead head to the Palacio de Congresos y de la Música. Standing amid the historic shipyards of Euskalduna, the music and conference centre draws large crowds all year round. The building resembles an enormous ship, and it has a maximum capacity of over 2,000. Along with important conferences and concerts, the Palacio hosts ballets, operas, theatrical performances, and special seasonal events. The property also has onsite dining options and bars, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a lovely terrace.

Plaza de Toros de Vista Alegre

Even if you do not like the idea of bullfighting, you would do well to visit the Plaza de Toros de Vista Alegre in Bilbao. The giant stadium is, of course, primarily used for bullfighting. However, it also has other things to offer. With a capacity of about 15,000 spectators, the impressive plaza is often used as a venue for fiestas and cultural festivals (especially when it is not during the bullfighting season, which takes place from March to early October.) There is also a museum dedicated to Bilbao’s bullfighting culture—the Museo Taurino—on the premises.

Teatro Arriaga

Plays, concerts, operas, dance performances—there is always something happening at the Teatro Arriaga. The famous theatre offers year-round entertainment in the heart of the city’s Old Quarter. The grand, ornate structure was first built back in 1890; however, it had to be rebuilt in 1914 after a terrible fire destroyed much of the original architecture. This architecture, obviously greatly inspired by the iconic Paris Opera House, is what draws many tourists to the Teatro Arriaga. Even if you do not have time to take in a show, you should consider making the trip just to see the beautiful façade.

Plaza de Miguel de Unamuno

The Plaza de Miguel de Unamuno is one of several city squares that play an important role in daily Bilbao life. Perhaps best known for its large statue of the famous author Unamuno, the plaza is a very popular gathering place. It is surrounded by museums, cafés, bars, shops and tourist attractions—so it is always quite busy. However, it becomes significantly busier during the month of August, when it becomes the focal point of Bilbao’s annual Semana Grande festival. Also known as Aste Nagusia, this weeklong Spanish fiesta has everything from food vendors to cultural festivities. However, the main highlight is definitely the abundance of live music.

Recommended hotels in Bilbao: the Silken Gran Hotel Domine, the Barcelo Nervion Hotel