Want to visit the capital of the Basque region in Spain and want to know the best areas to stay in and those to avoid.

It is true that Bilbao is worth a visit. In fact, this city that was once known for its heavy industry has been transformed into a leading tourist destination, especially thanks to the Guggenheim Museum.

However, as in many large cities, there are also certain neighbourhoods in Bilbao that can be less safe than others.

In this article, I will guide you through the different neighborhoods to avoid in Bilbao, also indicating those to favor for a pleasant and safe stay.

Is Bilbao a dangerous city?

Bilbao has never had a good reputation for safety. But in recent years, local authorities have made great efforts to improve the city's security and image.

Violent crime rates are quite low and incidents involving tourists are rare. See the article that confirms that Bilbao is well ranked in terms of safety: bizkaiatalent.eus,

According to statistics, the main types of crimes are pickpocketing, burglary and verbal assault.

But although Bilbao is not considered a very dangerous city, it still has a crime rate that is in the high average for cities inEurope.

In fact, on the site Numbeo.com, With a crime index of 51.44, Bilbao is ranked 27th most criminal city in Europe (out of 130 cities ranked).

In this ranking, in comparison, Bilbao is more dangerous than Belfast, Liverpool, Rome. ou ToulouseThis is confirmed by the article published on lavanguardia.com which indicates that only 50,4% of Bilbao residents consider the city safe.

The most dangerous neighborhoods in Bilbao

Here are the main neighborhoods in Bilbao that turn out to be the most dangerous given their crime level:

1. Neighborhood San Francisco : This neighborhood is the most dangerous in Bilbao. It is described as being infamous, with problems of crime, drugs and prostitution.
2. atxuri is also considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city along with San Francisco.
3. The Courts : Close to the San Francisco district, Las Cortes is the red light district of Bilbao that should be avoided at night.
4. rekalde : Located to the west of the city centre, this neighbourhood is one of the most deprived in Bilbao.
5. Ocharcoaga : This neighborhood, located in the northwest of the city, is known for harboring illegal activities and drug problems.
6. broad : Located in the southeast of the city, this neighborhood has long been associated with crime and illegal activity. Although the situation has improved, it is best avoided.
7. Barakaldo : This neighboring city of Bilbao, located to the east, has long suffered from a bad reputation in terms of security and still does today.

Specific areas of Bilbao to avoid at night

Here are the areas of Bilbao that require greater caution at night:

1. Otxarkoaga is an unsafe neighborhood.
2. Some isolated, poorly lit streets in the Casco Viejo (Siete Calles) should be avoided late at night when they are no longer busy.
3. Doña Casilda Park is one of the largest parks in Bilbao, but it is not very safe to walk around alone at night.
4. Calle San Francisco is one of the most problematic streets when evening comes.

Recommended safe neighborhoods in Bilbao

Now it is time to tell you the areas to favor for a pleasant and safe tourist stay in Bilbao:

1. Casco Viejo (Old Town) : The historic heart of Bilbao, with its picturesque alleys, bars and typical restaurants. It is one of the liveliest areas of the city. Be careful, however, to avoid certain streets late at night.
2. Leaving : This large, modern neighborhood, located in the city center, is home to many tourist sites, such as the Guggenheim Museum, the Palais de la Musique and the Albia Park. It is a very safe area and very popular with visitors.
3. abandoibarra : It is a small neighborhood that is part of Abando. It has many modern buildings and green spaces along the Nervión. It is a very safe area and very popular with visitors.
4. Deusto : Located on the left bank of the Nervión, this university district is known for its tranquility and safety. It is also home to beautiful parks and many cafés.
5. Getxo : Although this city is outside of Bilbao, it is worth a visit. Known for its beautiful beaches and elegant villas, Getxo is a very safe and pleasant destination for tourists.

These neighborhoods offer a safe and enjoyable tourist experience, with plenty of sights to explore, lively restaurants and bars, and excellent public transport connections.

Where to choose your hotel for a tourist stay?

When choosing accommodation in Bilbao, I recommend that you focus on the safest and most central neighborhoods, such as Casco Viejo, Abando or Abandoibarra.

These areas have many hotels, apartments and bed & breakfasts, all located close to the main tourist attractions.

For a tourist stay in Bilbao, I recommend staying in Abandoibarra which is central, safe and convenient for visitors.

In fact, this neighborhood is located in the modern city center of Bilbao. It offers easy access to major tourist attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum.

In addition, there are many restaurants, bars, shops and green spaces. In short, it is a lively but safe area, ideal for tourists.

Recommended hotels in Abandoibarra and Abando

Among the top rated hotels in these areas, I particularly recommend 2 hotels.

These hotels combine comfort, ideal location and quality services for a successful tourist stay in Bilbao. They will allow you to fully enjoy the city while staying in a central and safe area.

• The Artist Grand Hotel of Art in the Abandoibarra district
  • Ultra-modern 5-star hotel with views of the Guggenheim Museum
  • Elegant rooms, gourmet restaurant and spa
  • Rooftop terrace with panoramic views

• Carlton Hotel in the Abando district
  • Sophisticated hotel in a historic building
  • Located in Plaza Moyúa, in the heart of the city center
  • Renowned Basque restaurant and gym