Entrance of Casco Viejo Metro Station in Bilbao with modern architectural design

Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo Station

Zazpikaleak Casco Viejo Station Bilbao: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction to Zazpikaleak Casco Viejo Station

Located in the heart of Bilbao’s historic Casco Viejo district, Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo Station is a vital intersection of the city’s medieval origins and its contemporary transportation network. This bustling hub not only connects multiple metro lines and regional rail services, but also serves as the gateway to the “Seven Streets” (Zazpikaleak in Basque)—the city’s oldest and most vibrant quarter, founded in the early 14th century (visitcostablancaspain.com, bilbaoturismo.net).

The station is a testament to Bilbao’s urban evolution, seamlessly integrating modern infrastructure within the dense, winding grid of Casco Viejo. Since its inauguration in 1995 and expansion in 2017 to accommodate Euskotren services, Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo has become a model of accessible, user-friendly design that respects its historic surroundings (enmetroporbilbao.com, deia.eus).

With direct access to prominent sites such as Bilbao Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, Mercado de la Ribera, and Arriaga Theatre, the station enhances the visitor experience by merging efficient transit with cultural discovery (Wikipedia, gpsmycity.com).

This guide provides comprehensive information for travelers—covering visiting hours, ticketing, travel tips, and nearby attractions—while highlighting the station’s essential role in Bilbao’s mobility and heritage. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, understanding Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo Station will enrich your journey through Bilbao’s captivating Old Town (bilbaoturismo.net, visitbiscay.eus).

Bilbao Metro Casco Viejo Station platform with modern design and structural beams

Interior view of Casco Viejo metro station in Bilbao with people on platform

Casco Viejo metro station entrance in Bilbao with colorful stained glass and modern architectural design

Introduction
Historical Background & Urban Evolution
Architectural Highlights
- Initial Construction & 1995 Renovation
- 2017 Expansion & Intermodal Integration
Visiting Information
Cultural & Urban Significance
Integration with Casco Viejo
Nearby Landmarks
Visitor FAQs
Practical Tips
Summary & Final Tips
References

Historical Background & Urban Evolution

Casco Viejo: Bilbao’s Medieval Core

The Casco Viejo, or Zazpikaleak, is the oldest part of Bilbao, established in 1300 as a walled riverside settlement. Its original seven streets—Somera, Artecalle, Tendería, Belosticalle, Carnicería Vieja, Barrencalle, and Barrencalle Barrena—formed the nucleus of medieval life, commerce, and civic activity (visitcostablancaspain.com, Wikipedia). As Bilbao grew, Casco Viejo evolved into a vibrant district, renowned for its walkable alleys, picturesque plazas, and blend of architectural styles spanning Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Modernist periods.

The Station’s Role in Urban Growth

Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo Station was conceived to meet the increasing demand for efficient access to the Old Town, benefiting both commuters and visitors. The station’s location was carefully chosen to respect the historic street grid while providing seamless links to the city’s expanding transport network.

Architectural Highlights

Initial Construction & 1995 Renovation

Opened in 1995 with the first phase of the Bilbao Metro, the station was designed to harmonize with its medieval context. Renovations included an expanded vestibule at Plazuela San Nicolás, new escalators, and elevators—enhancing passenger flow and meeting modern accessibility standards (enmetroporbilbao.com).

2017 Expansion & Intermodal Integration

With the launch of Metro Line 3 and the integration of Euskotren services in 2017, the station became a major intermodal hub. Its vertical design maximizes use of space: the upper level serves Line 3 and Euskotren trains, the central vestibule offers ticketing and services, and the lower level connects to Lines 1 and 2. Multiple entrances—at Barrio La Cruz, Plazuela San Nicolás, and Plaza Miguel de Unamuno—improve accessibility, while new elevators, escalators, and pedestrian tunnels ensure inclusivity for all users (deia.eus).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Monday to Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Sunday & Holidays: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Hours may vary on holidays; consult the official Metro Bilbao website for real-time updates.

Ticketing & Fares

Tickets are available at automated machines or via official apps. Options include single-ride tickets, reloadable BARIK cards for multi-modal use, and tourist passes with unlimited travel for 1–3 days. Seniors, children, and frequent users can access discounted fares. No entrance fee is required to access the station itself.

Accessibility

The station is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and signage in Basque, Spanish, and English. Customer service offices provide support for travelers with reduced mobility (enmetroporbilbao.com).

Travel Tips

Best entrance for tourists: Use Plazuela San Nicolás for quick access to historic sites.
Peak hours: Expect crowds on weekday mornings (7:30–9:30 AM) and evenings (5:00–7:00 PM).
Connections: Links to tram (Arriaga stop), Bizkaibus and Bilbobus lines, and within walking distance to Renfe Abando and Concordia stations.
Safety: The area is well-patrolled, but keep valuables secure, especially during festivals.

Cultural & Urban Significance

Gateway to Heritage

The station offers immediate access to major historical sites such as Bilbao Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, Mercado de la Ribera, and Arriaga Theatre (gpsmycity.com). These landmarks reflect Bilbao’s transformation through centuries and the vibrant civic life of Casco Viejo (visitspainandmediterranean.com).

During citywide celebrations like Aste Nagusia and the Santo Tomás market, the station plays a key role, handling hundreds of thousands of journeys in a single day (deia.eus). Its robust infrastructure supports Bilbao’s festive and social calendar.

Integration with Casco Viejo

The station is designed to blend with the medieval streetscape, with entrances that minimize visual impact. Its position supports local commerce and tourism, and facilities include ticket offices, public restrooms, information points, and nearby taxi stands (enmetroporbilbao.com).

Nearby Landmarks

Must-See Sites within Walking Distance

Bilbao Cathedral (Santiago Cathedral): A 14th-century Gothic landmark and key stop on the Camino de Santiago (Wikipedia).
Mercado de la Ribera: Europe’s largest covered market, open daily 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (discoverdonosti.com).
Plaza Nueva: A neoclassical square, open 24/7, renowned for its pintxo bars (thecrazytourist.com).
Arriaga Theatre: Neo-baroque venue, with box office open Mon–Fri 10:00 AM–2:00 PM & 5:00–7:00 PM (gpsmycity.com).
San Antón Church & Bridge: Iconic riverside sites accessible throughout the day.

Visitor FAQs

Q: What are the station’s opening hours?
A: Monday–Thursday 6:00 AM–11:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 6:00 AM–1:00 AM; Sunday/holidays 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Use vending machines, ticket booths, or the Metro Bilbao/Euskotren apps. The BARIK card enables multi-modal travel.

Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, escalators, and multilingual signage.

Q: Which entrance is best for sightseeing?
A: Plazuela San Nicolás offers quick access to main historic landmarks.

Q: Are there guided tours in Casco Viejo?
A: Yes, various walking tours are available. Check local tourism offices or bilbaoturismo.net.

Practical Tips

Navigation: The Old Town is pedestrianized; wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
Language: Spanish and Basque are spoken; greetings like “Kaixo!” (Hi) and “Eskerrik asko” (Thank you) are appreciated (visitbiscay.eus).
Best times: Early mornings or late afternoons avoid peak crowds.
Accessibility: Most major attractions have step-free access; some streets may have uneven surfaces.

Summary & Final Tips

Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo Station is more than a transport point—it is your entryway to Bilbao’s living heritage and dynamic present. Its thoughtful integration with Casco Viejo, comprehensive accessibility, and intermodal connectivity make it the ideal starting point for exploring the city’s historic heart. Plan your visit using resources like the Metro Bilbao official website and the Audiala app for real-time updates and self-guided tours.

For further details, see the Bilbao Tourism website and Visit Biscay.