A Guide to Experiencing the Best of Bilbao on a Guided Pintxos Tour

Bilbao is a cultural and culinary jewel of the Basque Country. Eating pintxos, the region’s vibrant tapas-like dishes, is one of the best ways to get to know this delightful corner of northern Spain. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, there are guided tours offering the opportunity to try out several pintxos hot spots in one evening. Read on for a closer look at what makes a guided pintxos tour so special.

What Is Pintxos?

If you’re new to the Basque cuisine, it’s worth taking a moment to understand what exactly a pintxo is. In essence, they are small snacks or tiny portions of food, which are often served warm and can be eaten with the hands. Some of the most popular variations include classic dishes like grilled salmon and tender beef with mushrooms, as well as modern interpretations such as fried squid and crispy octopus. The fact that pintxos are made small means you can sample a range of delicious combinations without reaching food overload.

Why a Guided Pintxos Tour?

For those truly wanting to experience the best of the Basque region’s gastronomy, a guided pintxos tour is the way to go. This type of tour normally consists of visiting four to five different bars, where you’ll be able to sample many pintxos creations in an evening. Each bar typically has unique creations, so that you can sample a variety of combinations. The guide also gives insights into how each dish is prepared and can recommend the best wines to go with each pintxo.

But it’s not just about the food – on a tour, you get to explore different parts of the city. While experiencing each distinct atmosphere and culture, your guide points out places of interest along the way. Bilbao has a rich history of art and architecture, so you can learn more about fascinating aspects such as the city’s Gaudí-style buildings while sampling some delectable treats.

How to Find the Right Tour

If grabbing a guided pintxos tour there are several factors to consider when choosing a provider. Perhaps most important is booking with a guide who genuinely loves introducing people to the Basque Country’s appetizing culture, as this means they’ll be able to give you plenty of inside info en-route. You may wish to verify that these tours comply with local regulations and other safety requirements as well.

It’s also essential that no two tours are alike! Check out some customer reviews and find out which tour appeals to you most, from the route taken to duration, and even languages spoken by the guide – most guides will be happy to provide personalized tours in English (or even French or Italian!). That way, you can be sure of choosing a tour that best meets your interests.

Finally, you may wish to ensure that your tour is supported by excellent customer service – something that many providers on GetYourGuide can offer, 365 days a year.

A Memorable Evening Out

Going on a guided pintxos tour is a superb way to take in all that Bilbao has to offer – from its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture, to its delicious gastronomy. By booking with a reputable guide and provider, you can be sure of an unforgettable evening in one of Europe’s most unique cities. So why not book your own tour today?

Find all your options for Bilbao Guided Pintxos Tours and choose from many different providers on GetYourGuide. Get ready for an experience you won’t soon forget!

A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Best of Bilbao

Bilbao is a city rich in culture, history, and culinary delights. Known for its incredible architecture and museums, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler. However, to experience the real Bilbao, you have to go beyond the typical tourist spots. That’s why I’ve created this insider’s guide to help you explore the hidden gems and local favorites of this captivating city.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While the Guggenheim Museum is undoubtedly a highlight, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions that are worth a visit. One such gem is the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, where you can learn about the unique language, traditions, and history of the Basque people. Another MUST-visit attraction is the Artxanda funicular, which takes you up a mountain offering panoramic views of the city, and ends with a charming little village square where you can sit down with the locals for a drink or meal.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Delights

The food in Bilbao is not just delicious but often story-worthy. The city is known for its pintxos, the bite-sized tapas-like snacks that you eat in bars while standing and socializing, and the best way to explore them is on a pintxos tour. My personal recommendation is the tours by Mimo Bilbao, where your guide will take you to the best pintxos bars in the city, trying out various cuisines and interacting with the friendly locals. Aside from pintxos, the city’s cuisine extends to cod dishes (bacalao), grilled meats (chuleton), and traditional desserts (like gâteau Basque and pantxineta). Make sure to visit the Mercado de la Ribera in the Old Town, which is a fabulous market with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as having fantastic food stalls where you can have meals and drinks!

Cultural Experiences: The Soul of the Basque Country

Bilbao has a rich cultural history that is waiting for you to explore. The first notable one is the Athletic Bilbao, the only football club in the world to field exclusively local players. It is truly an essential part of the city’s identity, and if you can catch a game at the San Mamés Stadium, it will be a memory which you won’t forget! Another cultural experience is to attend a Basque music concert or dance in one of the city’s traditional Basque clubs. The city has multiple venues where you can watch traditional and contemporary theater, music, and dance, like the Euskalduna Palace. And finally, take part in one of the many festivals celebrated throughout the year, like the Aste Nagusia or the Bilbao BBK Live with artists like The Killers, Liam Gallagher, and Placebo performing.

Local History: From Industrial to Modern Wonder

Bilbao has gone through a significant transformation since the 80s when the city was an industrial center. You can see this change in the impressive architecture, where the modern and old buildings coexist beautifully. One must-visit landmark is the Zubizuri Bridge, an elegant white pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava. If you want to take a step back in time, don’t miss the Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao, where you can see traditional Basque architecture and learn about the city’s history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Your Own Memories

Finally, if you want to make your visit to Bilbao truly unforgettable, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Firstly, take a day trip to the Urdaibai Bird Center, where you can see various species of birds in their natural habitats. Secondly, visit one of the city’s indoor climbing walls to get a completely different perspective on Bilbao’s industrial past. Finally, go on a kayaking tour from the river, which will take you to the Nervión estuary and nearby coves. It’s an unusual experience, but you’ll get a fantastic view of the city’s skyline.

In conclusion, Bilbao has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, there is a lot to explore in this beautiful city. To make the most of your visit, make sure you step out and experience the local culture and hidden gems, which make Bilbao such a unique destination. Happy exploring!