Artxanda Funicular (Funicular de Artxanda)
The Basics
A ride on the Artxanda Funicular is the ideal way to get a new perspective on Bilbao, while the viewpoint offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Time-pressed travelers can combine a ride on the Artxanda Funicular with stops at other key Bilbao attractions during a shared or private city tour. Such tours typically include visits to City Hall, the Begoña Basilica, and more. Alternatively, visit independently and take time to snap photos of the Bilbao skyline, before enjoying the park, viewpoint, and sports complex at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
A ride on the Artxanda Funicular takes just three minutes and cable cars depart at least every fifteen minutes.
It’s cheaper to buy a return ticket than two single tickets.
The Artxanda Funicular is fully wheelchair accessible, although the attractions at the panoramic viewpoint may not be.
Disabled people and children aged six and under ride for free.
How to Get There
The Artxanda Funicular departs from the Funikularreko Plaza on the west bank of the Nervión River. Most travelers find it easiest to arrive on foot, as it’s just a 15-minute walk from the Guggenheim and a 5-minute walk from the Zubizuri Bridge. The closest metro stations are Abando and Moyúa, although Bilbobus routes 11, 22, 26, 71, and 72 also pass close to the departure point.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Artxanda Funicular runs from morning until night throughout the year. During the summer months—June through September—the cable car stays open slightly later. Try to ride the Artxanda Funicular on a clear, cloud-free day in order to make the most of the panoramic views.
Viewpoints in Bilbao
While the Artxanda Funicular is among the most popular panoramic viewpoints in Bilbao, it’s far from the only place to enjoy striking views. Nearby Etxebarria Park, a former steel foundation, is now a people-watching haven with views over the Old Quarter below; meanwhile, the Solokoetxe steps—which connect the Old Quarter with Solokoetxe—are a great place from which to admire the elaborate cathedral spire.
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- Zubizuri Bridge
- San Vicente Martír de Abando Church (Parroquia de San Vicente Martir de Abando)
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Moyua Square (Plaza Moyúa)
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao)
- Arriaga Theatre (Teatro Arriaga)
- Casco Viejo
- Bizkaia Museum of Archaeology
- Basque Museum (Museo Vasco de Bilbao)
- Bilbao's Santiago Cathedral
- Azkuna Zentroa
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
- Euskalduna Palace (Palacio Euskalduna)
- River Maritime Museum (Museo Maritimo Ria)