Casco Viejo Safety Guide: Bilbao's Old Town
Navigate Bilbao's historic Casco Viejo (Siete Calles) safely. Pintxos routes, busy hours, typical risks, and local tips for the Old Town.
Bilbao's Casco Viejo (Old Town) is the heart of the city's pintxo culture, historic architecture, and local life. Known as 'Las Siete Calles' (The Seven Streets), this medieval quarter is a must-visit. Here's how to explore it safely while enjoying everything it offers.
Casco Viejo Safety Overview
The Casco Viejo falls within the Ibaiondo district, which has a safety perception of 5.65/10. This is slightly below Bilbao's average, but context matters: the score reflects high foot traffic and active nightlife, not actual danger. During daytime and evening, it's extremely safe and the most visited area of Bilbao.
Best Times to Visit
Casco Viejo has different personalities throughout the day. Understanding the rhythms helps you plan your visit.
- ✓Morning (9-12): Quiet, locals shopping at the Ribera Market
- ✓Lunchtime (13-15): Pintxo bars fill up—safe and lively
- ✓Afternoon (16-19): Relaxed, good for exploring churches and plazas
- ✓Evening (20-24): Peak pintxo time—crowded but very safe
- ✓Late night (1-5 AM): Nightlife crowds; normal precautions apply
The Classic Pintxo Route
The safest way to experience Casco Viejo is via the pintxo route. Start at Plaza Nueva (completely safe, stunning arcaded square), walk down Calle del Perro and Calle Santa María. These streets are busy with locals and tourists until late—safety in numbers, and excellent food.
Areas Requiring Awareness
While the main Casco Viejo is safe, some adjacent streets warrant awareness, particularly late at night.
Streets to Note
- Streets toward San Francisco (south edge): More drug activity visible
- Bilbao La Vieja area: Gentrifying but still edgier at night
- Very narrow alleys off main streets: Less busy, less safe late night
- Around Atxuri station at night: Quieter area after dark
Pickpocket Prevention in Casco Viejo
Pickpocketing is rare in Bilbao compared to Barcelona, but busy pintxo bars do attract opportunists. Basic awareness keeps you safe.
- ✓In crowded bars, keep bags in front of you or on the bar
- ✓Don't leave phones or wallets on bar counters
- ✓Be aware in very crowded situations (festivals, events)
- ✓Keep jacket pockets zipped in busy streets
- ✓Most theft is opportunistic—don't make it easy
Getting Home Safely
After a night of pintxos, getting home safely is easy. Metro runs until 11 PM (2 AM weekends). Taxis wait at Plaza Nueva and near the Cathedral. The Gautxori night bus runs on weekends. Walking to nearby Abando hotels is safe via main streets.
Emergency Information
Emergency number: 112. The Ertzaintza (Basque police) have a visible presence in Casco Viejo, especially on weekends. There's a police station near Plaza Nueva. Most officers speak some English. Pharmacies in the area can help with minor medical needs.
Conclusion
Casco Viejo is the highlight of any Bilbao visit and is very safe for tourists. Stick to the main pintxo streets, enjoy the incredible food and atmosphere, and use normal city awareness late at night. The medieval quarter has been welcoming visitors for centuries—you're in good hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Casco Viejo safe for tourists?
Yes, very safe. It's Bilbao's main tourist area with constant foot traffic, police presence, and well-lit streets. Daytime and evening are excellent; just use normal precautions late at night.
What are the best streets for pintxos?
Calle del Perro, Calle Santa María, Calle Jardines, and the streets around Plaza Nueva. These are the busiest, safest, and have the best pintxo bars.
Is it safe to walk around Casco Viejo at night?
Yes until about 2 AM on main streets. After that, nightlife crowds thin out. For very late walks, stick to well-lit main streets or take a taxi from Plaza Nueva.
Are there pickpockets in Casco Viejo?
Rarely, but crowded pintxo bars can attract opportunists. Keep valuables secure and don't leave phones on bar counters. It's much safer than Barcelona's tourist areas.
Is the area near San Francisco safe?
The edge of Casco Viejo toward San Francisco has visible drug activity. Main tourist streets are fine, but avoid isolated streets in that direction very late at night.