Teatro Arriaga is Bilbao’s main opera house and one of the city’s top performing arts hotspots. Sitting right at the entrance to the Old Town and next to the Nervion River, the venue buzzes all year round with a line-up of opera, theatre, concerts and all kinds of cultural events like literary festivals and flamenco performances. With its Neo-Baroque design, it looks like something straight out of Paris. Built in the late 19th-century and named after Juan Crisostomo Arriaga – he’s often called the ‘Spanish Mozart’ – the theatre is both an architectural gem and a cultural icon.

A visit here feels like stepping back in time. The vibe is all about old-world glamour meeting modern creativity. Even if you’re not catching a show, Theatre Arriaga is well worth a wander. Chandeliers sparkle overhead, grand staircases set the scene and historic details tell a story of elegance and artistry. Plus, its riverside setting makes it a favourite photo stop for locals and visitors alike. If you want a true taste of Bilbao’s cultural heartbeat, Teatro Arriaga is a must-see.