Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the main urban oasis in the heart of Bilbao, which locals affectionately call the city's "green lungs." This picturesque corner of nature in the modern part of Spain offers guests and residents an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle, take a stroll, and enjoy nature.

The park is designed in an elegant Romantic style and covers an impressive area of almost 9 hectares. It is famous for its variety of trees and well-kept greenery, including both local and exotic species. Walking along its shady paths, you can enjoy the peace, admire the pond with ducks and swans, and relax on one of the many benches.

Located behind the Museum of Fine Arts, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park serves as an important link between the Ensanche and Abandoibarra districts. It forms a harmonious ensemble with the surrounding areas, creating a unified green space with thoughtful design. It is not just a park, but an integral part of Bilbao's cultural and social life, a popular spot for meetings, cultural events, and family outings.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is an open public space accessible to everyone, so it does not have specific contact details for visitors. It is located in the central Abando district of Bilbao and is easily reachable on foot from anywhere in the city center. You can also use public transport heading towards the Museum of Fine Arts, which is situated right next to the park.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a true green oasis in the heart of Bilbao, a favorite leisure spot for both locals and tourists. It's the perfect place to step away from the city's bustle and enjoy the peace and fresh air. After a busy day of sightseeing, it's a great opportunity to "exhale" and relax while walking through the well-tended alleys surrounded by lush greenery.

The central feature of the park is a picturesque pond where ducks swim gracefully—a favorite sight for visitors of all ages. Near the pond, you can often find vendors selling fresh waffles, the aroma of which creates a cozy atmosphere. For entertainment, there is a classic carousel that will delight the little ones, as well as a modern digital fountain that hosts small water shows.

The park also serves as a sort of open-air gallery. Here, you can see several monuments dedicated to famous figures and a bust of Doña Casilda herself, after whom the place is named. A sculpture by the famous Basque master Eduardo Chillida deserves special attention. Additionally, the park features a stage for events and a cozy cafe terrace belonging to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with a view of the greenery.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park boasts an excellent location in the heart of Bilbao. Situated in the city center, it is bordered by major streets such as Gran Vía and Avenida de Abandoibarra, making it easily accessible for strolls. If you plan to visit the Bilbao Museum of Fine Arts, finding the park is especially easy—it stretches right behind the museum building, serving as a perfect spot to relax after your cultural tour.

There are several ways to reach the park. Thanks to its central position, the most pleasant option is a walk, especially if you are in the Ensanche or Abandoibarra districts, which the park connects. For those who prefer public transport, numerous city buses stop near the park. It is also convenient to use the metro: the nearest station, Moyua, is just a few minutes' walk away. Of course, a taxi ride from anywhere in the city is a quick and comfortable way to reach this green oasis.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, often called the "duck park" due to its pond with waterfowl, is named after its founder—the generous Bilbao resident Casilda Iturrizar. In the early 20th century, this philanthropist donated her land to the city with the sole purpose of creating a scenic recreation area for all citizens. Construction of this green oasis began in 1907 and became a significant milestone in the city's development.

The park welcomed its first visitors in 1920 and instantly won the hearts of locals. At the time of its founding, it covered an area of 85,000 square meters and remained the only large park area in Bilbao for a long time. Almost a hundred years later, in 2006, its territory was significantly expanded by another 30,000 square meters, allowing for the creation of new spaces for relaxation and walking.

Since its creation, the park has constantly evolved while managing to preserve its historical charm and unique atmosphere. Today, it is not just a favorite spot for relaxation but also an important cultural hub, located next to iconic institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts. The harmonious combination of classical landscape design and modern elements makes the park one of the key attractions in Spain, and a must-visit destination.

For a leisurely stroll through Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and to see its main highlights, most visitors will need about 1-2 hours. During this time, you'll have enough time to walk through the scenic alleys designed in English and Romantic styles, admire the famous pond with ducks and swans, and appreciate the variety of plants and sculptures decorating the park. This is sufficient for a general impression and some beautiful photos.

If you plan a deeper immersion into the atmosphere of this green oasis in Bilbao, it's worth setting aside more time. For instance, you could have a small picnic on the lawn, sit on a bench with a book, or visit the Museum of Fine Arts located right on the park's grounds. In this case, especially if you are traveling with children, the visit could easily take half a day or more, allowing you to fully enjoy the peace and beauty of this place.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park in Bilbao is a public space that is generally open to visitors 24 hours a day, year-round. Entrance to the park is free, so no advance booking or registration is required. You can enjoy a walk along its scenic paths, relax by the pond, or admire the fountains at any time that suits you.

While the park itself is always accessible, some of its facilities, such as the cafe or special pavilions, may have their own schedules. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially if you are planning a visit on public holidays, it is recommended to check the information boards at the park entrances or inquire at local tourist centers.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a wonderful place for relaxation and walks, but to truly feel the spirit of Bilbao, it's worth exploring its surroundings. Often, the most vivid impressions wait just around the corner, and exploring nearby attractions allows you to form a more complete and vibrant picture of the city.

The area around the park is rich in cultural sites, museums, and iconic landmarks. A short walk from the park alleys can lead you to world-class art masterpieces or introduce you to the region's maritime history. Below is a list of interesting places located within walking distance.