Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC): event and exhibition space

Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) opened its doors in 2004 on the site of the former Altos Hornos de Vizcaya steelworks in Barakaldo. From the outset, BEC was designed as an innovative, high-tech venue for hosting international events, exhibitions, and concerts. Today, it ranks among Europe’s most advanced exhibition centers.

Video about Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC)

Advantages of the Centre

• Area: 251,055 m², including 150,000 m² of column-free space across 6 exhibition halls.
• Congress Centre: 18,000 m² with versatile halls for various purposes.
• Bizkaia Arena: A multi-purpose arena accommodating up to 20,000 people.
• Technology: High-speed Wi-Fi, smart navigation systems, and state-of-the-art security.
• Parking: 4,000 underground parking spaces directly on-site.

Conference Halls at Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC)

• Hall 1: Capacity for up to 340 participants, ideal for presentations and seminars.
• Halls 2, 3, and 4: Flexible spaces for 80 people each, with the option to combine them.
• Auditorium: Seats up to 950 guests, perfect for large-scale conferences and cultural events.
• Pavilions: Each of the 6 halls, ranging from 13,000 to 27,000 m², can be adapted for expos, concerts, or sports events.

How to Get to the Exhibition Centre

• Metro: Ansio station (Line L2) — right at the entrance to the complex.
• Train: RENFE to Barakaldo station, then a 10-minute walk.
• Bus: Lines A3136 and other local routes stop near BEC.
• Car: Easy access from the A-8 and N-637 highways, with ample parking available.
• Airport: Approximately 13 km from Bilbao Airport, reachable by metro or taxi.

Recommendations and Services for Visitors to Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC)

• Free high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the complex.
• Restaurants, cafés, and fast-food outlets offering a wide variety of cuisine.
• Lockers, medical station, prayer room, ATMs, and information desks.
• Free bicycle parking located under the office tower.

Major Events

• MTV Europe Music Awards 2018: The international awards ceremony held at Bizkaia Arena.
• Concerts by AC/DC, Rammstein, Iron Maiden, and other global stars.
• Regular international trade fairs: Ferroforma, World Maritime Week, Expovacaciones.

Requirements for Event Participants at Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC)

• Pre-registration and approval of booth designs.
• Compliance with fire safety regulations and setup/dismantling guidelines.
• Mandatory insurance coverage and agreement to participation terms.