Global Major Cities Guide

Driving Side: In Spain, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and overtaking is done on the left.
Driver’s License:
- EU/EEA citizens can use their valid driver’s license.
- Non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
Minimum Driving Age: 18 years old.
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you use a hands-free system.
Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l (0.25 mg/l in a breath test). For new drivers (less than 2 years of experience), the limit is 0.3 g/l.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 30 km/h (some streets may have a 20 km/h limit in residential zones).
- Non-urban roads: 90 km/h.
- Highways: 120 km/h.
Roundabouts: Vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way.
Headlights: Use dipped headlights in tunnels and during poor visibility conditions.

Bilbao has a mix of narrow, historic streets and modern roads. Be cautious when driving in the old town (Casco Viejo), as many streets are pedestrianized or restricted to local traffic.
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours (8:00–10:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM), especially near the city center and major access points.
Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians, as Bilbao is a bike-friendly city with many pedestrian zones.

Parking in Bilbao can be challenging, especially in the city center, where spaces are limited. However, there are several options available:

Bilbao uses a regulated parking system called OTA (Ordenanza de Tráfico y Aparcamiento).
Zones: The city is divided into color-coded parking zones, with different time limits and rates:
- Blue Zone (Zona Azul): Short-term parking (usually up to 2 hours). Ideal for quick visits.
- Green Zone (Zona Verde): Reserved for residents, but non-residents can park for a limited time (usually up to 5 hours).
Hours of Operation:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM–1:30 PM and 3:30 PM–8:00 PM.
- Saturdays: 9:00 AM–1:30 PM.
- Free on Sundays and public holidays.
Costs:
- Blue Zone: €1.25–€1.50 per hour (varies by location).
- Green Zone: €0.90–€1.10 per hour.
Payment: Use parking meters (accept coins or cards) or the BilbaoPark app for digital payments.

For longer stays or guaranteed parking, public parking garages are a better option. These are located throughout the city and are often near major attractions.
Popular Parking Garages:
- Parking Plaza Euskadi: Near the Guggenheim Museum.
- Parking Indautxu: Central location, close to shopping and dining areas.
- Parking El Arenal: Convenient for visiting Casco Viejo.
- Parking San Mamés: Near the football stadium and transport hub.
Costs: €1.80–€2.50 per hour or €18–€25 per day, depending on the location.
Payment: Pay at machines before exiting (cash or card).

Bilbao offers Park-and-Ride (P+R) facilities near metro and tram stations, allowing you to park outside the city center and use public transport.
Example: The parking lot at Leioa Metro Station is a popular choice for commuters.

Residents can apply for a parking permit to park in designated green zones. Non-residents are subject to time limits and higher fees in these areas.

The Casco Viejo (Old Town) is largely pedestrianized, and vehicle access is restricted to residents, deliveries, and authorized vehicles. Avoid driving into this area unless you have permission.
Look out for Zonas de Bajas Emisiones (Low Emission Zones), as Bilbao is implementing measures to reduce pollution. Restrictions may apply to older, high-emission vehicles.

Parking violations are strictly enforced, and fines can range from €50 to €200.
Vehicles parked illegally may be towed. If your car is towed, contact the local Policía Municipal to locate and retrieve it.

Plan Ahead: Use apps like Google Maps, Waze, or BilbaoPark to locate parking options and check availability in real time.
Avoid Peak Hours: Traffic and parking demand are highest during rush hours and weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Use Public Transport for the City Center: Bilbao has an excellent public transport system (metro, tram, and buses). Consider parking outside the center and using public transport to reach your destination.
Be Aware of Signage: Pay attention to parking signs and road markings to avoid fines or towing.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Bilbao is EV-friendly, with charging stations available in many public parking lots. Some areas offer free or discounted parking for EVs.

If driving and parking seem inconvenient, Bilbao offers excellent alternatives:

Metro Bilbao: Efficient and connects most parts of the city.
Bilbobus: Local bus network with extensive coverage.
Euskotren Tram: A scenic way to travel through the city.
Bicycle Rentals: Bilbao has a public bike-sharing system called Bilbaobizi.

Driving in Bilbao is manageable, but parking can be tricky in the city center. If you’re visiting popular attractions like the Guggenheim Museum or Casco Viejo, consider using public transport or parking in a nearby garage.
For day trips to nearby areas (e.g., San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or the Basque countryside), having a car is highly recommended.
Always check for updates on parking regulations or low-emission zone restrictions before your trip.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Bilbao by car and make the most of your visit!