Bilbao is not just about avant-garde art, urban revolution and being one of Europe's great cities for museums and surfing.
The capital of the Basque Country has another side to it, a slightly rougher one, where live music is enjoyed with all the senses, where groups of friends enjoy the best bars and where fun is guaranteed.
Amongst all this fun, hen parties are a big deal, and if you join us, not only will you find out why they're so popular, but we'll also give you some tips and ideas to make your hen party an experience you'll never forget.
Why is Bilbao perfect for a hen party?
Let's start with the most obvious reason, or rather reasons, that have led you to consider celebrating a hen party for a friend or family member in the city of Bilbao.
The first reason is its location. Bilbao's location makes it perfect for enjoying a wide range of activities, which is very important to you. Its proximity to the coast makes it ideal for enjoying everything related to the sea, as well as making the most of the estuary.
Bilbao is a diverse city that welcomes thousands of tourists every year, so the whole city is prepared for large groups of people like you. What's more, you can be sure that you'll meet friendly locals and tourists from all over the world who are looking for exactly the same thing as you: to have a great time and meet new people.
Finally, the food. What more can be said about the cuisine of the Basque Country, and specifically the tapas, dishes and local ingredients? They are truly wonderful. There is an incredible food culture in Bilbao, in terms of where, how and when to eat, and immersing yourself in that atmosphere is the right way to enjoy the city to the fullest.
Best activities for a hen party in Bilbao
Water activities for your hen party in Bilbao
Let's start with the soul of Bilbao, the estuary, La Ría. The Nervión River will take you to the sea so you can enjoy all the fun of the coast, but who says there's no fun along the way?
There's a boat that travels along the estuary and is a huge success. The Party Boat travels around Bilbao offering a completely new view of the city's main monuments.
Although you'll probably be more interested in the great atmosphere on the boat. Here you'll have an open bar with wine, kalimotxo and beer, as well as music, sometimes live with DJs and even drag queen shows, among other things.
If you prefer something more sporty, you can also explore Bilbao by kayaking or paddle surfing across the estuary, with an instructor to guide you and teach you the best technique. And if that's not enough for you, let's head to the Cantabrian Sea.
Once at the seaside, there are countless water activities to enjoy, whether you are a beginner or an expert. One of the most popular is surfing lessons, which is a real religion in this part of the country.
Restaurant with a show for your hen party in Bilbao
A true classic that cannot be missed on your tour of Bilbao celebrating your hen party. In the city, you have several restaurant options that offer themed meals with a variety of choices.
To start with, you can choose between a daytime or evening option, which is not very common, as hen parties are usually associated with the night, and the fun, as you know, starts first thing in the morning.
Once you have chosen the time of day, all that remains is to choose the theme and get ready to have fun. One of the most attractive and popular options is the one that combines food, either lunch or dinner, with a show and karaoke.
Mixing dishes with performances by drag queens, for example, who will make you cry with laughter, and then end up singing with them and among yourselves, is a unique experience you will never forget.
In addition, you have the option of adding an open bar to this package, a real hit for a great hen party. Remember to make it clear and shout from the rooftops who the bride is so that she gets all the attention.
Escape room for your hen party in Bilbao
It's already a classic leisure activity throughout the country. Escape rooms are no longer just a fad, but have become part of the entertainment family. This has led to greater demand, which in turn has led to more options and specialisation.
We bring you one that you will only find here in Bilbao. It involves trying to solve numerous mysteries surrounding the image of the man known as the Spanish Mozart: Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga.
Another element that makes it special is that it takes place in the centre of Bilbao, among streets and monuments. So, for two hours, you will solve puzzles while walking through pieces of our history.
Gymkhana at your hen party in Bilbao
You've never done a gymkhana like this before in your life. Forget everything you know about gymkhanas, this is something else entirely.
You'll tour the centre of Bilbao on bicycles that seat two to six people, surrounded by music, clues and lots of laughter. There'll be snacks and drinks too. What a great way to get around the city centre while playing Sherlock Holmes!
Spicy activities for your hen party in Bilbao
There's time for everything, and a classic hen party tradition is for the bride to receive a very special and personal gift: an erotic dance by a professional stripper.
These services are provided by true professionals and usually last between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the service you hire, as there are several options available; from the one who shows up in the bride's room to perform a dance as soon as she wakes up, to the one offered in clubs or private restaurants.