Welcome to Bilbao, located in the heart of the Basque Country in Northern Spain, Bilbao is a vibrant and charming city that is known for its unique culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. From its world-famous Guggenheim Museum to its charming Old Town and beautiful coastal areas, Bilbao has something to offer for everyone. Join us and explore Bilbao together!
Day 1:
In the afternoon we arrive in Bilbao. From the airport, we take the bus to the city and are dropped off in the center. It’s about a 15-minute walk from here to the hotel, which is located on the Nervion River. We leave our luggage there and start exploring. One fun way to discover a new city is to take public transport and get off at a random stop. We take the metro, which was designed by Norman Foster, one of the world’s leading architects who also designed the telecommunications tower in Barcelona and the Hong Kong airport. Along the way, we make a quick stop at a local bar and enjoy the famous pintxos.
Day 2:
Today, we explore the old town, Casco Viejo, with its narrow streets and historic buildings. A visit to the Guggenheim Museum is also a must, regardless of whether you are a fan of art or not. The museum is an experience in itself. There’s also a restaurant at the museum where you can have a great lunch. The whole city exudes culture, with first-class museums and beautiful architecture, including the bridges that cross the river.
Day 3:
There are also several beaches near the city. We take the metro and 20 minutes later we arrive at Playa de Ereaga. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the fresh air. Back in the city, we head to the Mercado de la Ribera for lunch, of course with various pintxos. We then continue to Mount Artxandra. You can take a cable car to the lookout point, where you’ll have a stunning view of the city. Our last dinner is at a place you wouldn’t expect when you’re in the city. A real American diner with all the bells and whistles.
Day 4:
We have a morning flight, so we take a quick stroll through the city center before taking the bus back to the airport.
To conclude:
Bilbao may not immediately come to mind when planning a city trip to Spain, like cities as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia or Sevilla, but it’s a rough diamond that deserves more attention. The Guggenheim Museum, the old town, and the nearby beaches offer plenty of things to do and see. Moreover, you can reach San Sebastian in just an hour’s drive. If you want to try something different and get off the beaten track, definitely visit Bilbao. Hopefully, this blog has inspired you. Have you been to Bilbao? Feel free to leave a comment and share your experience with us!
Good to know:
- Language: The official language of Bilbao is Spanish, but many locals also speak Basque.
- Currency: The currency used in Bilbao, and throughout Spain, is the Euro (EUR).
- Climate: Bilbao has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. It’s best to pack for the possibility of rain, even during the summer months.
- Getting around: Bilbao has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro system. Taxis are also readily available.
- Safety: Bilbao is generally a safe city, but like any other major city, it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.
- Food: Bilbao is famous for its culinary scene, particularly for its pintxos (Basque-style tapas). Make sure to try some of the local specialties, like bacalao (salt cod), txakoli (Basque white wine), and Idiazabal cheese.
- Culture: Bilbao is known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, art galleries, and historic sites to explore. The city is particularly famous for the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which features contemporary art and stunning architecture.
- Shopping: Bilbao has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets. The city is particularly famous for its leather goods and Basque textiles.
- Festivals: Bilbao hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Bilbao BBK Live music festival, the Aste Nagusia Basque festival, and the Bilbao International Film Festival.
