An iconic white pedestrian bridge spanning the Bilbao Estuary, notable for its innovative design by Santiago Calatrava.
Zubizuri Bridge is a public infrastructure site and, as such, it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can visit whenever you like, making it ideal for walks both during the day and at night to appreciate its lighting.
Not at all! Zubizuri Bridge is a public pedestrian walkway and completely free of charge. You can cross it and enjoy the views at no cost, which makes it a very accessible attraction for all budgets.
A visit to Zubizuri Bridge itself is quite short, since it only takes a few minutes to walk across it. However, I recommend setting aside 15 to 30 minutes to stop and admire its design, take photos, and enjoy the views of the estuary and the surroundings, especially when it is less crowded.
Zubizuri Bridge, also known as the Calatrava Bridge after its architect, Santiago Calatrava, was inaugurated in 1997. It symbolizes the modernity and transformation of Bilbao, with a design reminiscent of a ship’s sail or the backbone of a fish, reflecting the city’s innovative spirit.
Zubizuri Bridge is beautiful at any time, but for the best photos and to avoid large crowds, I suggest visiting early in the morning or at sunset. As for the best time of year, spring and autumn offer more pleasant temperatures, although it also has a special charm with its nighttime lighting.
Yes, Zubizuri Bridge is accessible for wheelchair users. The walkway has a gentle slope at both ends, which makes access easier. However, its glass surface has been reported to be slippery on rainy days, so caution is recommended.
You are in a prime area! Right next to it you have the impressive Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the striking Iberdrola Tower. You can also take a pleasant walk along the estuary or visit Doña Casilda Park and Euskalduna Palace, all within a short walking distance.
My best advice is to wear comfortable shoes, especially if it rains, because of the type of surface. Be ready to take lots of photos of its lines and its reflection in the river. And if you have time, combine your visit with a walk along the estuary toward the Guggenheim Museum—it is a spectacular view of Bilbao’s transformation!
¿Prefieres escuchar en español?
🇪🇸 Escucha la audioguía de Zubizuri Bridge en español