Bilbao is the beating heart of Spain’s Basque Country — a city where tradition meets avant-garde and ancient streets brush shoulders with ultra-modern architecture like the iconic Guggenheim Museum. But beyond the culture, cuisine and cutting-edge design, there’s another reason to love this city: the shopping. Whether you're on the hunt for handcrafted art, gourmet bites or wearable keepsakes, Bilbao has something uniquely local for every traveler.
Here's your insider guide to the best souvenirs to bring home from this bold and beautiful Basque city.
1. Basque Berets (Txapelas)
The iconic txapela is more than just a beret — it’s a cultural symbol of Basque identity. Traditionally worn by shepherds and now a staple in stylish streetwear, these flat wool hats come in a variety of colors and sizes. You’ll find them in many shops throughout the Old Town and at artisan boutiques.
As far as Bilbao souvenirs go, this one checks all the boxes: It’s traditional, fashionable and easy to pack.
2. Basque Cuisine Cookbooks
Bilbao is a dream for food lovers, and a cookbook is a great way to bring that flavor home. Whether it's focused on pintxos (the Basque version of tapas), seafood specialties or hearty stews like bacalao al pil-pil, a cookbook gives you a chance to recreate your favorite dishes from the trip.
Look for English-language editions in museum shops, bookstores or specialty culinary stores around the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter).
3. Guggenheim-Inspired Art & Accessories
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao isn’t just a landmark — it’s a design inspiration. The museum gift shop is packed with unique souvenirs inspired by its architecture and rotating exhibits. Think miniature Puppy sculptures (a nod to Jeff Koons’ famous floral piece), modern jewelry, art prints and home décor.
These souvenirs are stylish, artsy and make you feel a little more cultured every time you see them.
4. Basque Cheese & Chorizo
The Basque Country is a food-forward region, and some of the best souvenirs are edible. Pick up Idiazabal, a slightly smoky sheep’s milk cheese, or a few links of cured chorizo or salchichón from local delis and markets. These products are often vacuum-sealed for travel and pair beautifully with a bottle of Rioja wine.
They’re perfect for creating your own Basque-style charcuterie board at home.
5. Basque Ceramics & Pottery
Local artisans create stunning ceramic pieces that reflect Basque motifs and Mediterranean color palettes — think deep blues, earthy reds and rustic patterns. You’ll find hand-painted plates, tiles and mugs in boutiques tucked into the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter.
They're as functional as they are beautiful, and a great way to serve up memories of Bilbao with your morning coffee.
6. Pintxo-Themed Kitchen Items
Love pintxos? (Of course you do.) Keep the memory alive with pintxo-inspired kitchen gadgets: serving boards, skewers, toothpick holders shaped like sardines or small ceramic trays made just for these beloved bites. Many gift shops and cooking stores in Bilbao offer fun, food-themed souvenirs that are ideal for entertaining back home.
If you're wondering what to buy in Bilbao that's both quirky and useful, this is it.
7. Basque Language Souvenirs
The Basque language, Euskara, is one of the oldest in Europe (and totally unique to the region). Pick up a phrasebook, tote bag or T-shirt with popular Basque words or expressions like ongi etorri (welcome) or eskerrik asko (thank you). These souvenirs make great conversation starters and show off a bit of local pride.
8. Bilbao-Made Jewelry
You’ll find artisan jewelry crafted from natural stones, silver and recycled materials in the boutiques of Casco Viejo and around the Abando district. Some pieces are inspired by the region’s coastlines or even the curves of the Guggenheim, itself.
If you’re looking for Bilbao souvenirs with a personal touch, a handcrafted ring or pendant is both stylish and meaningful.
9. Txakoli Wine & Basque Cider
You can't leave Bilbao without sampling txakoli, a lightly sparkling white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood and sunshine. It’s crisp, slightly acidic and comes from vineyards in the surrounding hills. Basque cider (sidra) is another local staple, traditionally poured from height into your glass to aerate it.
Both beverages are available in wine shops across the city, and staff are usually happy to help you choose a bottle that's travel-ready.
10. Handwoven Textiles & Wool Goods
The Basque region has a rich tradition of textile production, and you'll find soft, handwoven items like table runners, napkins, scarves and wool throws in local markets and artisan stores. Look for bold stripes, natural fibers and durable craftsmanship.
They're perfect for sprucing up your dining table — or cozying up on your couch back home.
Shopping Excursions in Bilbao
Looking to soak up the city while snagging the perfect souvenir? These shopping-friendly excursions offer a mix of culture, scenery and free time to explore:
- Bilbao & Castro Urdiales
- Discover Bilbao’s atmospheric Old Town with a guided walking tour past highlights like the Gothic Cathedral of Santiago and Plaza Nueva — home to charming shops and markets. Then, head to the seaside village of Castro Urdiales to explore its castle, fishing port and local artisan stalls.
- Panoramic Bilbao & Getxo
- Take in views from Mount Artxanda and explore Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, where you can join a guided walking tour or enjoy free time to browse independent boutiques and snack on pintxos. The tour wraps up with a visit to Getxo and the historic Bizkaia Bridge, where you’ll learn about one of the world’s oldest transport bridges and can shop along the riverfront.
These excursions offer the best of both worlds: insightful local history and ample time to hunt down unique Bilbao souvenirs.
What to Buy in Bilbao?
If you’re wondering what to buy in Bilbao, consider picking up traditional txapelas, Guggenheim-inspired art, Basque cheese and handcrafted ceramics. These souvenirs offer a taste of the city’s creative spirit and deep-rooted traditions. From pintxo plates to artisan jewelry and bottles of crisp txakoli, Bilbao souvenirs are vibrant, meaningful and full of character — just like the city itself.
So whether you’re strolling Casco Viejo’s narrow lanes or admiring the steel-and-glass skyline from the riverbank, don’t forget to pause, browse and take home a little slice of Basque culture with you.
Keep Exploring Bilbao, Spain
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Bilbao, Spain Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Bilbao with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What Is Bilbao Spain Known For - Learn more about the city's pintxos bars and historic old quarters.
- What to Eat in Bilbao - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
