City in Basque Country, Spain
Healthcare in Bilbao: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Bilbao
High-quality public and private care. Emergency 112; EU visitors use the EHIC at public hospitals, others need insurance.
Hospitals for foreigners in Bilbao
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Universitario de Cruces | Large public hospital with 24-hour emergency |
| Hospital Universitario de Basurto | Public hospital close to the city center |
| Hospital Quirónsalud Bizkaia | Private hospital in Erandio, near the city |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: €60–110 ($68–124) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Spain: High-quality public and private care; private GP visits cost about €50–100. EU visitors use the EHIC; everyone else needs travel insurance.
- Pharmacies: Green-cross farmacias everywhere, with a rota 'farmacia de guardia' open at night; pharmacists advise on minor problems.
- Health spending: US$3,107 per person a year (2023); 4.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 091 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 112 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Schengen visa applicants need €30,000 medical cover; visa-free visitors may be asked for proof of insurance at the border.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Bilbao for foreigners?
Hospital Universitario de Cruces: Large public hospital with 24-hour emergency
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Bilbao?
About €60–110 ($68–124) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Spain?
Schengen visa applicants need €30,000 medical cover; visa-free visitors may be asked for proof of insurance at the border.
More about Bilbao
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Spain
- Metro Bilbao
- Bilbobus
- Bilbao Airport (Aena)
- Visit Bilbao
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.