How long does it take to walk through Bilbao's Casco Viejo?

A thorough walk through the Casco Viejo takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This route covers approximately 2 kilometers and includes stops at the Bidebarrieta Library and Plaza Nueva.

Is the Unamuno walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route is very accessible. Most of the path follows flat, pedestrianized streets in the Old Town, though you should avoid the Mallona stairs at Plaza Unamuno if you have a stroller.

What are the highlights of a literary walk in Bilbao?

Key highlights include Unamuno's birthplace on Erronda Street, the historic Bidebarrieta Library, and the bust of the author in Miguel de Unamuno Plaza.

Can I see the University of Deusto on this walk?

Yes, the University of Deusto is the final stop on this route. It is located just across the river from the Guggenheim Museum and is where Unamuno studied.

When is the best time to visit Plaza Nueva?

The best time is either during the afternoon for pintxos or on Sunday mornings when a traditional flea market for collectors takes place under the arches.

Is it worth visiting the Bidebarrieta Library?

Absolutely, it is worth it for the architecture alone. The interior features a stunning stained-glass dome and reflects the 19th-century 'Belle Époque' style of Bilbao.

What is the significance of Erronda Street?

Erronda Street is significant because it marks the line of the former medieval city walls and is the location of Miguel de Unamuno's childhood home at number 16.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into the intellectual heart of the Basque Country with this self-guided walk through the streets that shaped one of Spain's most influential thinkers. Miguel de Unamuno—philosopher, novelist, and poet—was born in the winding alleys of the Casco Viejo, and his spirit remains woven into the fabric of the city. This neighborhood stroll invites you to explore the evolution of Bilbao from a medieval trading hub to a modern cultural capital, all through the lens of a man who famously wrestled with the concepts of faith, reason, and identity. Starting in the elegant Jardines de Albia and weaving through the stone-paved 'Seven Streets,' this route highlights the intersection of literary history and architectural grandeur. You will encounter grand libraries, vibrant neoclassical squares, and the very house where Unamuno first opened his eyes in 1864. Beyond the history, this walking route captures the essence of Bilbao’s social life, from the tile-adorned walls of historic cafes to the bustling pintxo bars of Plaza Nueva. Whether you are a literature enthusiast or a curious traveler, this experience offers a unique perspective on the city’s soul. This independent travel experience allows you to pause whenever you like, perhaps for a coffee where writers once debated or to admire the intricate masonry of the Bidebarrieta Library. As you conclude your walk near the prestigious University of Deusto, you will see how the academic and the everyday collide in this resilient city. This walking tour Bilbao experience is designed for those who want to discover the city’s past without the constraints of a rigid schedule. It is a literary journey that bridges the gap between the 19th-century traditions Unamuno knew and the modern, vibrant Bilbao of today. By the end of your self-guided adventure, you will understand why Unamuno’s 'Echoes' still resonate through the Casco Viejo.

Highlights

The stunning Mudejar-style interiors of Café Iruña
The grand eclectic architecture of the Bidebarrieta Library
The neoclassical symmetry and atmosphere of Plaza Nueva
The humble birthplace of Miguel de Unamuno on Erronda Street
Iconic views of the Nervión River from the University of Deusto

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Café Iruña

Begin your journey at Café Iruña, a local institution since 1903. Located across from the Jardines de Albia, this cafe is a masterpiece of Mudejar-inspired design, featuring intricate tile work and ornate wood carvings. While Miguel de Unamuno spent much of his later life in Salamanca, the intellectual atmosphere of places like this mirrors the tertulias—or social circles—he frequented. It was in spaces like these that the 'Generation of '98' debated Spain's future. Take a moment to admire the murals and the 'bilbaíno' spirit that has been preserved here for over a century before heading toward the old town.

2

Bidebarrietako Liburutegi nagusia

This grand building is the Bidebarrieta Central Library, one of the most important cultural centers in Bilbao. Designed by architect Severino de Achúcarro and completed in 1890, it originally served as the headquarters for the 'El Sitio' recreational society. Unamuno, a man of letters, would have known this building well during its early years. Its eclectic style, featuring a magnificent stained-glass dome and a lavishly decorated interior, houses over half a million books today. It stands as a monument to the city's commitment to literacy and the arts, surviving the devastating floods of 1983 to remain a beacon of Basque culture.

3

La Olla de la Plaza Nueva

Enter the heart of the Casco Viejo at Plaza Nueva, a stunning neoclassical square finished in 1851. This square is the center of social life in the Old Town, surrounded by 64 arches. Unamuno often wrote about the 'intrahistory' of daily life—the small, repetitive actions of ordinary people that define a nation. There is no better place to witness this than here. La Olla is a famous spot to observe the local pintxo culture. On Sundays, this square transforms into a collector’s market for coins and stamps, a tradition that dates back decades and reflects the enduring communal spirit of Bilbao.

4

Unamuno Miguel Plaza

You are now standing in the plaza dedicated to the man himself. At the center, a bronze bust of Miguel de Unamuno looks out over the bustling crowds. This square serves as a gateway to the 'Siete Calles' (Seven Streets) and is a favorite meeting point for locals. Notice the 'Calzadas de Mallona' stairs leading up from the plaza; they represent the historic link between the riverside and the upper districts. This space is a tribute to the author’s complicated relationship with his hometown—a city he loved, criticized, and ultimately immortalized in his essays and poetry.

5

Erronda Kalea, 16

At number 16 Erronda Street, a simple plaque marks the birthplace of Miguel de Unamuno, born on September 29, 1864. This street follows the path of the old medieval walls that once protected the city. Growing up here, Unamuno witnessed the Siege of Bilbao during the Third Carlist War, an event that deeply influenced his first novel, 'Paz en la guerra' (Peace in War). Standing before this building, you can imagine the young boy wandering these narrow, humid streets, which he later described as the womb of his intellectual development.

6

University of Deusto

To conclude your walk, cross the river toward the University of Deusto. Founded by the Jesuits in 1886, it is one of Spain’s most prestigious academic institutions. Unamuno was a student here, and he later engaged in fierce intellectual battles with the traditionalist views often associated with the clergy of his time. The main building, 'La Literaria,' is a beautiful example of 19th-century academic architecture. From this vantage point, you can see the modern Guggenheim Museum across the water, representing the bridge between Unamuno's historical Bilbao and the global city of the 21st century.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Casco Viejo, or 'Seven Streets,' is the best area for a self-guided walk. This route specifically focuses on the literary history of Miguel de Unamuno, starting at Café Iruña and ending at the University of Deusto.