Note 17 - Tangible assets - Subsidiaries (Details) - EUR (€) € in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Tangible Assets By Geography [Line Items]
Tangible Assets	€ 7,191	€ 8,941	€ 9,944
Issued in Euros [Member]
Tangible Assets By Geography [Line Items]
Tangible Assets	2,574	3,692	4,584
Total foreign [Member]
Tangible Assets By Geography [Line Items]
Tangible Assets	€ 4,617	€ 5,249	€ 5,360

The amount of tangible assets that: (a) are held for use in the production or supply of goods or services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes; and (b) are expected to be used during more than one period. (c )The amount of property (land or a building - or part of a building - or both) held (by the owner or by the lessee under a finance lease) to earn rentals or for capital appreciation or both

No definition available.

Name:	bbva_Tangibleassets
Namespace Prefix:	bbva_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant