Enjoy a spectacular night of music, drama or dance at the Arriaga Theater, a sumptuous building modelled on the Paris Opera House. This prominent cultural institution in Bilbao’s old quarter hosts a year-round schedule of concerts, plays, recitals, opera, ballet and many other cultural events.
The neo-Baroque building first welcomed audiences in 1890 and is named after Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga. This early 19th-century Basque violinist, composer and Bilbao native was a child prodigy who died young. He was nicknamed the Spanish Mozart.
To see what's on during your stay in Bilbao go to the ticket office or visit the theater's official website. When it comes to show time allow yourself a few minutes before the performance to take in some of the building’s beautiful design features. They include the magnificent Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga Staircase and the grandeur of the horseshoe-shaped auditorium with its decorative carvings and ceiling mural.
Discover more about this cultural icon by paying to go on a guided tour which lasts approximately 50 minutes. Learn about the theater’s history and hear about some of the actors who have graced its stage. Visit the royal box, explore backstage areas and see the colorful opera costume collection. Step inside the Orient Express and Isabella rooms which are both decorated with furniture from the late 19th century.
Located at the entrance of Bilbao’s old town, the theater is easily reached by public transportation. Alternatively, drive and park, for a fee, in nearby parking garages or cycle and use the bike racks in Plaza del Arriaga. Among the theater's facilities are booster seats for children and designated spaces for wheelchair users.
Guided tours of Arriaga Theater are conducted in English, Spanish and Basque and are held on Saturdays and Sundays. Purchase tickets online or at the theater's box office. Tours are free for accompanied children under the age of 18 and students under the age of 25. There is also a discount for visitors with reduced mobility.
