Arenal Bridge in Bilbao: Why Include It in Your Trip to Bizkaia
The Arenal Bridge in Bilbao is not only one of the busiest bridges over the Bilbao estuary, but it has also witnessed, and sometimes been at the center of, some of the most significant events in the city’s history. If you’re visiting Bilbao, you’ll likely cross it, perhaps more than once, and from various key tourist spots, you’ll be able to admire it.
Learn more about its history, plan your visit to Bilbao with a virtual tour, understand its importance, find the best routes to include it in your travel plan, and enjoy it during your time in the city.
From the old Isabel II bridge to the current Arenal Bridge: over 175 years of Bilbao’s history
Like all the bridges crossing the Bilbao estuary, the current Arenal Bridge was built after the Spanish Civil War, as all bridges were destroyed for the city’s defense during the conflict. However, the current bridge reflects and is a replica of the previous one, and together they total over 175 years of Bilbao’s history. It’s also one of the most well-known, beloved, and frequently used bridges by locals.
In 19th-century Bilbao, the city was expanding towards the left bank of the estuary in Abando. To connect this growth with the Old Town, a wrought-iron bridge was built, later converted into a stone bridge to support modern infrastructures like the tram.
Iron bridge, stone bridge
In the early half of the 19th century, Bilbao began expanding in the left bank of the estuary in the Abando area, with the Old Town and its iconic Seven Streets on the other side. The San Antón and San Francisco Bridges weren’t enough to connect the two, leading to the need for a new infrastructure.
Between 1845 and 1847, an iron bridge was built, inaugurated as the Isabel II Bridge , hich was visited by the Queen in 1865. It was a drawbridge and a toll bridge until 1870.
Floods, Carlist wars, and sieges damaged the bridge. The predecessor of the current Arenal Bridge was converted into a stone bridge in 1978 after almost two years of construction, with a wide surface capable of supporting the tram.
Arenal bridge in the 20th century: destruction and reconstruction
In 1903, iron structures were added to the stone Arenal Bridge. Photographs from that time show that its classic-style lamps featured the same winged creatures as the La Merced Bridge which can still be seen today on that bridge.
In 1937, during the Spanish Civil War, the Arenal Bridge, like all the other bridges in Bilbao, was destroyed by explosions to protect the city. A temporary structure of wooden planks and barges replaced it.
After the war, in 1940, the bridge was rebuilt and named the Victory Bridge. However, it was popularly known as the Arenal Bridge, a name which became official again in 1980.
Why visit the Arenal Bridge in Bilbao and what to see around it
If you’re interested in architecture, civil engineering, and history, the Arenal Bridge is a must-see when visiting Bilbao. If you enjoy exploring iconic city landmarks, this bridge will not disappoint. When you walk across it, you’ll easily spot many of Bilbao’s most famous places.
It’s nearly impossible not to encounter the Arenal Bridge while visiting Bilbao, as it connects the Old Town with the Abando area, and around it are some of the city’s most important tourist attractions.
The Arenal Bridge connects the Old Town with Abando, two of the most iconic areas in Bilbao. From the bridge, you can enjoy views of the estuary and landmarks like the Arriaga Theater, the Arenal Promenade, and the Concordia Railway Station. This setting makes the bridge a key spot on any Bilbao itinerary.
The bridge itself has many details to discover, but no less impressive are the views from it. The photographs and videos you can capture from any side of the Arenal Bridge will capture the essence of Bilbao in every pixel.
How to Plan Your Visit
To explore the Arenal Bridge and other points of interest in the city, we recommend following the Bilbao Bridges Route. This route includes an interactive virtual tool to help plan your itinerary, along with recommendations to enjoy the walk and experience live spots like the Guggenheim Museum, Campo Volantín, and the Ribera Market.
👉 Consult the interactive map here and plan your visit.
The Arenal Bridge in the Bilbao Bridges Route: A beautiful way to explore the city
If you want to discover Bilbao through its estuary and bridges, learn about its history, and experience walking through modern 21st-century Bilbao, the Bridges Route is a great option. You can plan your trip and take the route online using the interactive 360° virtual tool, and once in the city, you can walk it to enjoy all the live details.
This beautiful route includes a walk alongside iconic Bilbao landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum, the Campo Volantín Promenade, the Tiger Building and the Ribera Market.
How to reach the Arenal Bridge in your trip to Bilbao
Access is easy from various points in the city. If you arrive by train, you’re just steps away from the Abando Station. You can also reach the bridge via metro, tram, or bus, with stops very close by.
