Doña Casilda Iturrizar park

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is one of the most important green spaces in central Bilbao, popular with both locals and visitors exploring the Basque city.

Where is the park located?

The park sits in the central Indautxu neighbourhood, right in the heart of Bilbao, directly next to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao). This central location makes it an easy stop for visitors — from the park it's a short walk to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the Euskalduna Palace on the Nervión riverside, and the main shopping streets of the Ensanche, the modern district planned in the 19th century. Because of this, the park often works as a natural resting point between other Bilbao attractions.

Where does the park's name come from?

The park is named after Casilda Iturrizar, who donated the land on which it was created. She was one of the best-known philanthropists in Bilbao around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, and her generosity toward the city is why her name is now attached to one of Bilbao's most visited public spaces. The park itself stands as a lasting reminder of that contribution to the city's development.

What can you see in the park?

The park has the character of a classic urban walking garden — broad lawns, winding paths, and mature trees create a quiet retreat from the surrounding city streets. It's a place built for a slow stroll, a break on a bench, or a short pause during a day of sightseeing. Its direct proximity to the Fine Arts Museum means many visitors combine a walk through the park with a visit to the gallery, making it a convenient stop on a cultural route through Bilbao.

The park also plays a social role for residents themselves — it's a popular spot for family walks, jogging, and everyday relaxation in a densely built part of the city, where green space is especially valued.

When is the best time to visit?

The park can be visited year-round, since it functions as an everyday urban space rather than a seasonal attraction. Spring and summer are ideal for longer walks thanks to the greenery and mild temperatures, while autumn and winter tend to be quieter, which suits visitors looking for a break from the busier city centre. Given its central location, the park is easy to combine with walking tours of Bilbao's other attractions within a single day.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park? In central Bilbao, in the Indautxu neighbourhood, right next to the Fine Arts Museum and within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum and the Euskalduna Palace.

Why is the park named after Casilda Iturrizar? Because she donated the land for its creation — she was a well-known philanthropist in Bilbao, and the park stands today as a lasting tribute to her contribution to the city.

Is it worth combining a visit to the park with the museums nearby? Yes — its location next to the Fine Arts Museum makes the park a natural stop on a day dedicated to art and culture in Bilbao.

Is the park suitable for a walk with children? Yes, with its broad lawns, paths, and mature trees, the park is a popular choice for families looking for a relaxed break in the city centre.