Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim is Bilbao’s most popular attraction, and the facade is all but impossible to miss. Those who want to tour the collection have many options to choose from. Explore the exterior and interior on a guided small-group tour, or gain insight into the collection and architecture with a private guide and customized tour. It’s also possible to visit on a day trip from San Sebastian or as part of a multi-day itinerary through northern Spain.

• The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a must-see for art lovers and first-time visitors.

• Choose between a single admission ticket or a combo ticket that includes entrance to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum.

• Bring a light jacket during the summer months, as the temperature inside the galleries can be quite cool.

• No photography of any kind is allowed inside the museum.

• The museum is wheelchair accessible, and free wheelchairs are available for use.

The Guggenheim Museum is situated in the center of Bilbao. It’s walkable from most areas of the city center, or you could ride the tram to the Guggenheim stop, metro to the Moyua stop, or any number of public buses.

The Guggenheim Museum is closed Monday and busiest on weekends. Rainfall is plentiful in the Basque Country, and the museum is a good option for a gloomy morning or afternoon.

This distinctly Gehry-esque museum was built on a former wharf in Bilbao between 1993 and 1997 using some 33,000 thin titanium sheets, along with limestone and glass. The iconic American architect designed the museum to harmonize with its surroundings, and the color of the exterior changes based on weather and light conditions. Since the design was so mathematically complicated, Gehry relied on software designed for the aerospace industry to help translate his concept into reality.

No. You do not need to book your tickets to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in advance. There’s an option to purchase both online and in person, so you can choose. Most people don’t have to wait too long at the ticket counter. But if you like to be prepared, book online.

No. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao does not have a dress code. But since it is a place where art is respected, the museum recommends that you dress accordingly. Bilbao is a trendy place, so no need to be uber-conservative. Just wear clothes you think will respect the space.

Plan around two to three hours to get the most out of your trip to the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao. There are plenty of exhibits to ponder, so make sure you plan enough time to do them justice. You can also extend your stay by visiting the bistro or restaurant.

Every day is a good day to visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. It is open daily from 10am until 8pm, so you have many options. Students and seniors receive a discount, and those under 18 are free. Museum members receive free admission.

Yes. The Guggenheim Bilbao is great for kids. There are all kinds of activities and materials for children to use, which makes it easy to explore the museum as a family. However, museum management recommends holding your child's hands to keep their fingers occupied because touching the art is off-limits.

Yes. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is accessible. There are two accessible entrances. The main facade has access by the elevator for wheelchair users, and you can enter through the Bar. The Riverside facade also has ramp access for wheelchair users. If you need assistance, the museum staff can assist you.