Bilbao - Bars & Nightlife
The Casco Viejo is the best place to head to for bars, particularly around the Plaza Nueva. In central Bilbao it’s Urquijo Gallerias, Calles Ledesma and Licenciado Poza that are the main areas to go bar hopping and drink local favourites – kalimotxo, coke and red wine.
For a unique night out, visit a cider tavern – sidrería – where you eat lots of char-grilled meat and drink copious quantities of cider.
Café Bar Bilbao
This is a great bar for a late night drink off the Plaza Nueva. Café Bar Bilbao never seem to shut off the lights so it is perfect for taking in the spirit(s) of the city.
Cotton Club
The Cotton Club is a great place for live music. Lots of jazz and blues bands play here, while on other nights, DJs keep up the groove.
Rock Star
As kitsch as you can get, this is the place to head to if you want to party like a rock star. A video wall and Zebra-skin decorations add to its decadent atmosphere.
Distrito 9
This is one of the city’s hottest alternative dance clubs, located near the Guggenheim Museum. There’s hard techno music, refreshing drinks, and a mixed clientele of both straight and gay.
Mao Mao Beach
Mao Mao Beach is a Calle Olagorta club recommended by Bilbao’s locals. The dance club attracts revellers in their 20’s and 30’s with its modern décor and pulsating dance beats.
