Bilbao

🚶‍♂️

Cycling and Walking

Sections

1. Infrastructure for Cycling and Walking in Bilbao

Cycling Infrastructure

  • Bike Lanes: Bilbao has an expanding network of dedicated bike lanes (bidegorris) that connect key areas of the city, including the city center, the Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the riverfront. These lanes are well-marked and generally safe for cyclists.
  • Shared Spaces: In some areas, cyclists share the road with cars or pedestrians. Look for signs indicating shared zones and always yield to pedestrians in these areas.
  • Cycling-Friendly Streets: Many streets in Bilbao have reduced speed limits (30 km/h) to make them safer for cyclists.
  • Riverfront Path: The promenade along the Nervión River is a popular route for both cyclists and pedestrians, offering scenic views and a flat, easy ride.

Walking Infrastructure

  • Pedestrian-Friendly City: Bilbao is highly walkable, with wide sidewalks, pedestrian-only streets (especially in Casco Viejo), and plenty of crosswalks.
  • Urban Design: The city is compact, and most major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is often the fastest way to get around the city center.
  • Hilly Terrain: While the city center is relatively flat, some neighborhoods, like Artxanda or Santutxu, are on hills. Escalators and elevators are available in some areas to assist pedestrians.

2. Costs and Rental or Purchase Options

Cycling Costs and Rentals

  • Bilbao Bizi (Public Bike-Sharing System):
    • How It Works: Bilbao Bizi is a public bike-sharing service with stations throughout the city. It’s designed for short trips and is ideal for locals and visitors.
    • Cost: A subscription is required. A short-term subscription (1 day or 1 week) costs around €2-€5. The first 30 minutes of each ride are free, and additional time incurs a small fee.
    • How to Subscribe: You can register online or via the Bilbao Bizi app. A credit card is required.
    • Availability: Bikes are available 24/7, but they are in high demand during peak hours.
  • Private Bike Rentals:
    • Several companies, such as Tourné Bilbao and Urban Bike, offer bike rentals for tourists.
    • Cost: Expect to pay around €10-€15 per day for a standard bike and €20-€30 per day for an electric bike.
    • Procedure: Rentals usually require a valid ID and a deposit.
  • Bike Purchase:
    • If you plan to stay long-term, consider buying a bike. New bikes range from €200-€500, while second-hand bikes can be found for €50-€150 at local shops or online platforms like Wallapop.

Walking Costs

  • Walking is free! However, if you need assistance with hilly areas, public elevators and escalators are available, and they are either free or included in the cost of a Bilbao public transport card (Barik card).

3. Safety Guidelines

Cycling Safety

  • Helmet Use: Helmets are not mandatory for adults in urban areas but are highly recommended for safety.
  • Traffic Rules: Cyclists must follow the same traffic rules as cars, including stopping at red lights and yielding to pedestrians.
  • Lights and Reflectors: Bikes must have front and rear lights, especially if riding at night. Reflectors are also required.
  • Parking: Use designated bike racks to park your bike. Avoid leaving bikes in unauthorized areas to prevent fines or theft.
  • Insurance: While not mandatory, having personal liability insurance is a good idea in case of accidents.

Walking Safety

  • Crosswalks: Always use designated crosswalks. Cars are required to stop for pedestrians, but it’s wise to make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
  • Night Walking: Bilbao is generally safe, but stick to well-lit areas at night, especially in less busy neighborhoods.

4. Cultural Norms and Local Considerations

Cycling Culture

  • Cycling is becoming more popular in Bilbao, but it’s still less common than walking or driving. Be patient with drivers who may not be accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists.
  • Locals often use bikes for leisure rather than commuting, so you’ll find more cyclists on weekends and along scenic routes.

Walking Culture

  • Walking is deeply ingrained in Bilbao’s lifestyle. Locals enjoy leisurely strolls, especially in the evenings (paseo), and you’ll find many people walking along the riverfront or in parks.
  • In pedestrian areas like Casco Viejo, walking is the primary mode of transportation. Be mindful of the slower pace and enjoy the atmosphere.

5. Accessibility and Resources

Accessibility for Cyclists

  • Bike-Friendly Public Transport: Bikes are allowed on Bilbao’s metro and tram systems during off-peak hours. Foldable bikes are permitted at all times.
  • Repair Shops: There are several bike repair shops in the city, such as Ciclos Maestre and Txirrinduz, where you can get quick repairs or buy accessories.

Accessibility for Pedestrians

  • Public Elevators and Escalators: Bilbao has several public elevators and escalators to help pedestrians navigate hilly areas. These are free or included in the Barik card system.
  • Accessible Routes: The city has made efforts to improve accessibility for people with mobility challenges, including ramps and tactile paving for the visually impaired.

Useful Resources

  • Bilbao Bizi App: For bike-sharing information, station locations, and bike availability.
  • Google Maps and Komoot: Both are excellent for planning walking and cycling routes in Bilbao.
  • Tourist Information Centers: Staff can provide maps and advice on the best walking and cycling routes.

6. Communication Tips

  • Language: Spanish and Basque are the official languages. While many locals speak some English, learning a few basic phrases in Spanish (or Basque) can be helpful:
    • "¿Dónde está el carril bici?" (Where is the bike lane?)
    • "¿Puedo alquilar una bicicleta?" (Can I rent a bike?)
    • "¿Cómo llego a...?" (How do I get to...?)
  • Signage: Most signs are in Spanish and Basque. Look for symbols indicating bike lanes, pedestrian zones, and shared spaces.

7. Local Tips and Recommendations

  • Best Times to Walk or Cycle: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal, as the weather is cooler and the streets are less crowded.
  • Weather Considerations: Bilbao has a mild but rainy climate. Always check the weather forecast and bring a raincoat or waterproof gear if cycling.
  • Popular Routes:
    • Cycling: The riverfront path from the Guggenheim Museum to the Maritime Museum is a scenic and easy ride.
    • Walking: Explore Casco Viejo for its historic charm, or take a walk up to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Bilbao on foot or by bike. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets or cycling along the river, these sustainable modes of transportation will allow you to experience the city’s unique charm and culture up close. Enjoy your time in Bilbao!