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Guide to Bilbao: What Makes the City so Unique and Special?

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Guide to Bilbao: What Makes the City so Unique and Special?

Bilbao is a unique and vibrant city located in Spain’s Basque Country region. It’s often seen as the cultural heart of the country and has a reputation for offering some of the most stylish and modern destinations for tourists to explore. Boasting plenty of stunning architecture, delicious cuisine and bustling nightlife, it’s no wonder the city has become a hotspot in Europe. But what is it exactly that makes Bilbao stand apart from other big cities? Here we will explore what makes this city so special and unique, and why it should be your next European destination.

Stunning Architecture

One of the things that makes Bilbao so unique is its stunning architecture. Most visitors are immediately taken aback by the beautiful Guggenheim Museum, the iconic and unique building with its carved titanium walls. The museum is home to some incredible permanent collections and ever-changing exhibitions so there is plenty to see for culture vultures. Another architectural highlight is the Catedral de Santiago which dates back to the 14th century and features an impressive neoclassical façade which was completed in 1911.For those who like taking a stroll through the city, they will find plenty of scenery along the tree-lined Gran Via, one of Bilbao’s most iconic streets. The ancient casco viejo (old town) also has a mix of majestic Renaissance buildings, usually adorned with flowerboxes, and grand Gothic churches like La Iglesia de San Antón.

Delicious Cuisine

No trip to Bilbao would be complete without trying out some of its deliciously unique cuisine. The area is known for its traditional home-cooked dishes as well as plenty of standout restaurants. Popular specialities include txitxikis, tiny deep-fried fish from the Nervión River and kiriki, a scallop served with a sauce made from garlic and almonds. Be sure to sample some of the produce available in the Merca de La Ribera market such as oysters, sweet or salty tortillas or a slice of idiazabal cheese from the nearby mountain valleys.

Bustling Nightlife

The nightlife in Bilbao is known for being lively and eclectic. On most nights, visitors can experience a huge variety of live music, flamenco, DJs and theatre performances in bars and venues across the city. One of its most popular spots is Lekeitio which has a charming old-town atmosphere right by the river. Most people will meet up here before heading off to other bars around town such as La Raíz, Le Barrigón or Monte Carmelo which all have themes ranging from rock to hip-hop. For those looking for something more sophisticated, there are plenty of chic cocktail bars offering a great vibe and excellent drink selections.

Unique Shopping

A visit to Bilbao also wouldn’t be complete without exploring some of its unique shopping opportunities. From high-end fashion boutiques to local crafts markets, there is something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. Popular shopping spots include Calle Ledesma where visitors can find designer clothing stores such as Zara and Pull & Bear as well as artisanal items like leather products and jewellery. Closer to the old town is El Arenal where you can find a mix of traditional local shops selling everything from wine to antiques. There are also plenty of one-off craft stores and boutique outlets where visitors can find original handmade items crafted by passionate locals.

Unique Culture

At its heart, though, Bilbao is defined by its unique culture. It’s Catalan language reflects its close proximity to its French neighbour and tradition still plays a strong role in many aspects of local life. Whatever time of year travellers come to visit, local events are always worth exploring from local fiestas to gastronomic fairs celebrating Basque cuisine like pintxos and cider. There is even an annual Celtic festival held at Monte Bernorio which consists of music performances by traditional bands as well as a selection of food and drink stands. Overall, Bilbao is one of Spain’s most hip and modern cities but it still offers prospective travellers a unique look into the beautiful culture and traditions of Spain’s Basque Country region. Whether you want to tantalise your taste buds with delicious local produce or explore ancient architecture, there are plenty of reasons why you should make Bilbao your next destination. For more information on this wonderful city, Explore-Bilbao has useful information on what to see and do when you’re there.

Insider’s Guide to Bilbao: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of this Unique City

Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that has much to offer curious travelers. Known for its modern architecture, world-class museums, and legendary gastronomy, Bilbao is a thriving metropolis that seamlessly blends old-world tradition with modernity.

If you want to experience Bilbao like a local, here are some insider tips to help you discover the city’s hidden gems:

Local Attractions: Off the Beaten Path

While the Guggenheim Museum is certainly worth a visit, there are other lesser-known cultural gems in Bilbao that are also worth exploring. The Museum of Fine Arts, for instance, boasts an impressive collection of over 6,000 works of art, including paintings by Basque artists such as Ignacio Zuloaga and Aurelio Arteta. Another hidden gem is the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center housed in a former wine warehouse that is now home to a cinema, theater, and library, making it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

For a unique and unforgettable experience, head to the Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s charming Old Town. Wandering through the narrow winding streets, you’ll discover quaint cafes, boutiques, and historic architecture that offer a fascinating glimpse into Bilbao’s past.

Dining Spots: Delving into Bilbao’s Gastronomic Delights

Of course, no visit to Bilbao would be complete without indulging in the city’s legendary Basque cuisine. While pintxos (small plates like tapas) are a must-try, there are other lesser-known local delicacies worth seeking out. For example, the iconic dish of Hake in Green Sauce (Merluza en Salsa Verde) is a staple of Basque cuisine, and you’ll find it at many of Bilbao’s traditional and family-run restaurants.

A great spot to try some of Bilbao’s best pintxos is Plaza Nueva, a lively square in the heart of the old town. Here, you’ll find locals enjoying drinks and snacks at outdoor tables while soaking up the city’s charm.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Bilbao’s Rich Heritage

One of the best ways to engage with Bilbao’s cultural heritage is by attending one of the city’s many festivals. The Aste Nagusia festival, held annually in August, is the largest and most vibrant event in the city’s cultural calendar. During the nine-day festival, the city is transformed into a spectacle of color, music, and dance, with street performers, parades, fireworks, and concerts.

In terms of traditional Basque culture, you can find it alive and well in the nearby coastal towns. Here you can take part in traditional Basque sports like stone lifting (harrijasotzaile), rural sports (herri kirolak), and Basque language and dance events (euskal dantzak).

Local History: Unearth the Fascinating Stories of Bilbao’s Past

For an in-depth look at Bilbao’s history, head to the Museo Vasco, which is housed in a beautiful 17th-century building. Here you can learn about the city’s industrial past, its trade connections with the New World, and the struggles of the Basque people throughout history.

Perhaps the most fascinating chapter of Bilbao’s past is the period of the Spanish Civil War. If you’re a history buff, consider taking a day trip to the nearby town of Guernica. The town is famous for being the site of a horrific bombing during the Civil War, which inspired Picasso’s painting of the same name. Visiting the Guernica Peace Museum, you’ll discover the emotional story behind this tragic event and learn about its impact on Basque culture and identity.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discovering Bilbao’s Quirky Side

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Bilbao, why not try your hand at Basque pelota? This traditional sport, similar to handball, has deep roots in Basque culture and can be traced back thousands of years. Test your skills at one of the local frontones (pelota courts) and learn from the experts about the game’s rich history and traditions.

Alternatively, if you’re a lover of street art, Bilbao offers an abundance of unique and colorful graffiti that is sure to catch your eye. Head to the neighborhood of Bidebarrieta, where you’ll find a hidden alleyway filled with intricate street art that will leave you in awe.

In conclusion, Bilbao is a city that rewards the curious traveler who is willing to delve deeper into its rich history and culture. From hidden gems to traditional cuisine to cultural festivals, there is an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. By following this insider’s guide, you’re sure to fall in love with this unique and special city.

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Guide to Bilbao: What Makes the City so Unique and Special?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!