Exploring Bilbao – the most vibrant city in the Basque Country

Bilbao is the largest city and the capital of the Basque Country, located in northern Spain. It is a buzzing and vibrant city and it is known for its architecture, its art galleries, its street life, and its night scene. It also offers an exceptional array of attractions, which makes it one of the country’s most visited cities.

What are the best things to do in Bilbao?

Bilbao offers a wide range of activities. The Guggenheim Museum is without doubt the most popular attraction in the city, but there are also many other great things to do. Here are some highlights:

1. Take a stroll along the river Ria de Bilbao

The Ria de Bilbao is a beautiful river running through the city center, with plenty of parks and gardens along the banks. This is one of the city’s best places for cycling, jogging and simply taking in the scenery.

2. Visit Casco Viejo (Old Town)

Bilbao’s old town, known as Casco Viejo, is full of narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, some dating back to the 16th century. This area is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, as well as a range of boutique shops.

3. Spend a day at La Ribera

Located close to Bilbao’s old town is La Ribera, a popular destination for shopping, eating out and exploring the cultural side of the city. This area has some of the best restaurants in the city, as well as plenty of art galleries and historic buildings.

4. Enjoy Basque-style tapas

Bilbao’s dining scene is one of the richest in Spain. One of the highlights is its distinctive Basque-style tapas. Try different combinations of pintxos, as they’re known in Basque, and enjoy some local wine from a range of small bars and taverns.

5. Take a day trip to San Sebastian

San Sebastian is just an hour’s drive away from Bilbao and is a great place to explore for the day. This city is known for its stunning seaside promenades, its incredible cuisine and for hosting some of Europe’s best music festivals each summer.

What can I do in Bilbao that’s free?

Bilbao has plenty to offer, even if you are visiting on a budget. Here are some of the best ways to experience Bilbao without breaking the bank:

1. Explore the Guggenheim Museum

The iconic Guggenheim Museum is one of the city’s prime attractions and admission is free every Sunday all year round. Take a walk around the galleries, admire the works of art and learn about the building’s fascinating architecture.

2. Take a self-guided tour of Bilbao’s old town

Take a walk through Bilbao’s old town and explore its cobblestone streets, picturesque squares and old churches. This self-guided tour, which starts off at Plaza Nueva, is completely free and a great way to get to know one of Europe’s most unique districts.

3. Visit Casco Viejo on Wednesday evenings

From April to November, entrance to many museums in Bilbao’s old town Casco Viejo are free on Wednesday evenings. Just remember to check opening times before you plan your visit.

4. Watch films at Euskal Jaiak

Every year from mid-August to mid-September, Bilbao offers free films at its Euskal Jaiak festival. The films are shown in different venues across the city and feature many international films as well as local ones.

5. Explore Iberdrola Park

Iberdrola Park (Parque Iberdrola) is a lovely green space in Bilbao city center which is always free to visit. It covers more than 400 hectares, so you can get lost exploring its gardens, woodlands, monuments and sculptures for hours on end.

You can find out more about visiting Bilbao on SpainOnFoot. This website has detailed guides and tips on how to make the most of your trip to this amazing Spanish city.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Bilbao – The Most Vibrant City in the Basque Country

Bilbao is a city with a vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine that attracts visitors from all over the world. From the splendid museums and gorgeous beaches to the trendy cafes and upscale boutiques, Bilbao could easily become your favorite destination. To make the most of your trip, here’s an insider’s guide to the hidden gems, unique experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that only locals know.

Local Attractions

Bilbao has plenty of popular tourist destinations that you don’t want to miss out on, but there are also many lesser-known sites to discover. The Plaza Nueva, a historic square dating back to 1821, is a great place to start. Its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere make it a favorite spot for locals. Another fascinating attraction is the Basque Museum of Bilbao, which uncovers the history and culture of the Basque people. For a more romantic vibe, stroll along the Rioja street to indulge in its charming bars and cafes with lovely seating and eye-catching murals.

But if you’d like to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, try a visit to Plentzia, a less-visited coastal town close by. It boasts a long sandy beach, historic buildings, and a quiet ambiance that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Dining Spots

Bilbao’s food scene is shaped by the abundance of fresh produce from the surrounding countryside and the long culinary tradition of the Basque Country. When in Bilbao, you must sample pintxos, small plates of tapas-like food served in most bars across the city. Locals flock to Bar Gatz, a small tavern in the Casco Viejo neighborhood, for its fresh, tasty pintxos. There is also La Vina del Ensanche, reputed to have the best cheesecake in the world.

On the other hand, Mina restaurant combines a warm ambience with an exquisite, affordable degustation menu. The focus on cooking with local ingredients and inventive culinary combinations is what makes this restaurant stand out amongst Bilbao’s high-end dining options.

Cultural Experiences

One of the most exciting things about Bilbao is the depth of its cultural offerings. The city boasts a long history of artistic heritage, which is evident in the Guggenheim Museum, which houses spectacular modern and contemporary art. You can also take advantage of the Free Art Route, where you can visit different art galleries and showrooms for free.

If you’re seeking something more traditional, witness the Cherry Blossom Festival, held annually on March 31, where the city streets come alive with pink blooms and traditional dance performances.

Local History

Bilbao is steeped in history, with tales of wars and revolutions, which makes for a fascinating visit. Take a guided tour of the Old Town, Casco Viejo, to learn about the city’s past and architecture. It is a particularly fruitful place to explore the region’s bas-reliefs, which depict saints, kings, and other important figures throughout the ages.

For an even more in-depth exploration, have a peek at the Euskal Museoa Bilbao, where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Basque people. The museum chronicles the Basque language, identity, lifestyle, and traditions, amongst other topics, through a vast collection of photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something genuinely surprising in Bilbao, try testing your nerves with a game of Basque Pelota. The game is similar to squash, with two or more players hitting small balls against a wall. The catch here is that to play, one must visit an authentic Pelota court in one of the local clubs in the area.

Another unique experience is trying Basque cider, a crisp and refreshing beverage that’s ubiquitous in the region. The Etxeberria Sagardotegia cider house offers workshops for savoring fermented apple drinks along with traditional Basque meals.

Final Thoughts

Bilbao is a fantastic city wIth endless possibilities for relaxation, cultural exploration, gastronomical experiences, and more. This insider’s guide only scratches the surface of what Bilbao can offer, and we hope it has left you filled with inspiration and eager to explore further. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, this city is guaranteed to capture your heart.