10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Bilbao

Mercado de la Ribera is recognised by Guinness Book of Records as the most complete municipal food market in the world. Spanning over 10,000 square metres, this epicurean wonderland boasts 60 local merchants who stock a tantalising array of items, from local farm-grown produce to exquisite gourmet edibles. 

Once you’ve perused meats, cheeses, fruit and fungi, head to one of the gastro-plaza restaurants where you can sample delectable small-plate specialities including traditional Spanish tapas. We love La Bodeguilla for its top-notch wines and piparra pinchos (small green peppers that are typical of the Basque Country). 

Casco Viejo is the medieval old quarter of Bilbao, an atmospheric enclave that teems with family owned shops, characterful bars and some truly beautiful architecture. At its centre, you’ll find the historic Las Siete Calles (Seven Streets), which date all the way back to the 15th century. 

Stop by Bella, a store which stocks unique souvenirs including glass candle holders made by the city’s artisans, or Serie B Tienda de Ropa for trendy men’s and women’s apparel, crafted from high-quality fabrics. On Sunday morning, stroll through the bustling flea market, located in Plaza Nueva, for rare second-hand books and groovy vintage clothing. 

Bilbao’s riverside district of Indautxu might be known for its effervescent nightlife and hip arts scene but it’s also gaining traction as one of the city’s best-loved retail spots. Here, air-conditioned shopping malls compete with a myriad of chic boutiques and charming pastelerías peddling irresistible baked goods. 

Spend the day perusing El Corte Inglés, a high-end shopping centre that’s home to luxury brands like Bulgari, Longchamp, Gucci and Armani, as well as a newly renovated Gourmet Club that stocks a wide array of edibles. Lencería Egay specialises in lingerie and nightwear made from natural fabrics, while Librería Campus boasts a big selection of books. 

The commercial and financial heart of Bilbao, the Ensanche district is celebrated for its Guggenheim Museum, stately feats of architecture and some of the best fashion retailers the city has to offer. On Gran Vía, you’ll find plenty of department stores and local independents stocking luxury apparel and heavily discounted clothing. 

When you’re not scouring Pepe Jeans, Lacoste, Primark and Sephora, stop at Floristería Bilbao Gandarias (a florist that designs whimsical bouquets), or Estanco Ensanche (an old-school tobacconist). If you’ve a sweet tooth, nothing beats a visit to Pastelería Arrese 1852 for its heavenly chocolate bon bons and buttery Basque cookies. 

Dating back to the 1940s, the Plaza de Federico Moyúa is an oval-shaped town square that’s known for its majestic ornamental fountain and eye-popping flower beds. Just off the plaza, you’ll find a host of shops that stock fashionable jewellery, tasteful clothing and interesting artisan gifts. 

Drop into Michael Kors for ready-to-wear apparel and watches, or browse Singularu Trendy Jewels for gemstone-encrusted pendant necklaces and chunky golden rings. Forum Sport Moyua offers all the latest trainers from big-name brands like Converse and Adidas, as well as brightly coloured footballs and comfy yoga outfits.  

Deusto is a characterful district, bordering the banks of Bilbao’s serpentine Nervión River, as well as Mount Artxanda and Mount Bandera. Just south of Parque de Bidarte, you’ll find an eclectic array of independent shops and some laidback little eateries.  

Blue Limite offers up-to-the-minute ladies clothing like psychedelic sundresses, fun slogan t-shirts and easy-breezy Tencel pants, while Flying Tiger Copenhagen showcases Danish toys and gifts. Centro Comercial Bidarte is a contemporary shopping mall that’s home to a large number of interesting storefronts including the Kingdom of the Dolls and Artipiel Accessories.