How to Experience the Best Things to Do in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao is a city world-renowned for its beauty, quaint villages, and unique culture. Located in the Basque region of Spain, it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe. With winding cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, a vibrant nightlife, and out of this world cuisine, Bilbao is the perfect place for an unforgettable experience. Planning your trip to Bilbao can be a daunting task and so we have compiled a guide to the best things to do, see, and eat while you are in this gorgeous city.

Getting There:

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Bilbao is by plane. There are two airports located near the city: Bilbao Airport and Santander Airport. However, most international flights will fly into Barcelona before heading to Bilbao. There are numerous airlines offering flights from destinations around the world such as American Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa and Air France. Once you’ve arrived in Bilbao you’ll need to get to your accommodation and the easiest way to do this is by taking a taxi. Taxis can be found at a stand located outside the arrivals hall or can be ordered in advance. Another option is taking the bus from both Barcelona and Madrid directly to Bilbao. Both cities have several buses per day, such as the Alsa network, which will take approximately seven hours for a direct journey.

Sightseeing:

The first stop on your tour of Bilbao should be the city’s iconic Guggenheim Museum. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the structure is an art mecca in itself and houses some of the finest modern and contemporary art works in all of Europe. Aside from the exquisite artwork, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the manicured grounds of the museum or head to the nearby Iriphas Park to admire the nearby plants and flowers in bloom. Another must-visit spot is San Juan de Gazteluze Church, located in Casco Viejo or “Old Town”. The Gothic Revival style building is full of history and art and is home to some spectacular stained glass windows. For a dose of culture, visitors can head over to The Basque Museum located in Barrio Antiguo to explore Basque culture throughout time. And experience one of the oldest markets in Spain, La Ribera Market, which offers an array of produce, meats, seafood and more.

Activities:

Bilbao has something for everyone – from active adventurers to foodies to history buffs – and there’s no shortage of things to do here. For outdoor enthusiasts, mountaineering and rafting are popular activities in the nearby mountains located north of the city. The Mino River is a prime spot for rafting and kayaking and there are numerous schools offering day long group excursions or private tours. The nearby beaches are also a great place to spend a day – locals and visitors alike enjoy soaking up the sun and swimming in the Atlantic waters. A fun activity for the whole family is riding on the city sightseeing bues which takes you through all of Bilbao’s major attractions including Paseo de Zorrotzaurre, popular shopping destination Gran Vía and landmark buildings like Deusto Bridge.

Food:

The city’s trademark Basque cuisine is one reason why Bilbao attracts so many visitors every year. Head over to La Viña for some exquisite Exqisito Cheese Pies along with a glass of Txakoli (local sparkling wine). For dinner, make reservations at Restaurante Fundación Juan Muguerza – known for its Basque specialties such as Kabecilla (anchovy stuffed with Grilled red peppers) or Salted Tuna Loin with Onion Soup. Lastly for desert make sure to grab some Intxaursaltsa (the city’s version of the French pastry mille-feuille) at Casa Vazaios Bakery.

Conclusion:

Bilbao has so many amazing sights, activities and dishes that make it an unforgettable place to visit – whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back for more. From admiring magnificent works of art at the Guggenheim Museum, rafting down the Mino River, or sampling exquisite Basque cuisine the city has something for everyone to enjoy and become entranced in its unique culture. For anyone looking for an unforgettable experience with beautiful architecture and mouth-watering delicacies, look no further than Bilbao. VisitBilbao is an excellent resource for planning your trip with everything from hotel information and sightseeing activities to restaurants and events happening around town.

Insider’s Guide to Bilbao, Spain: Experience the Best of the City

Bilbao, one of the largest cities in the Basque Country of Spain, is known for its industrial heritage, art, and culture. While most tourists head straight to its famous Guggenheim Museum, there are plenty of other lesser-known attractions that are off the beaten path for you to discover. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you beyond the tourist traps and show you Bilbao’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions: Find the Hidden Gems

While the Guggenheim Museum is undoubtedly a must-see attraction in Bilbao, there are many other lesser-known gems worth discovering. One such gem is the Elcano Museum, which exhibits maritime material related to Juan Sebastian Elcano, the man who completed the first circumnavigation of the earth. Another hidden spot is the Basque Museum, where you can learn about the Basque culture and its history through its unique collections and exhibits.

If you’re looking for a slice of nature, head to the Artxanda funicular, which takes you to the top of a hill overlooking the city, offering some breathtaking views.

Local Cuisine: Taste the Flavors of the City

Bilbao has a rich food culture, and the local cuisine is a feast for the senses. Apart from the world-famous Basque pintxos, which are small appetizers usually served on bread, there are many other local delicacies to try. One of the lesser-known dishes is the Marmitako, a Basque tuna stew made with potatoes, onions, and tomatoes.

Apart from the local food, Bilbao is also famous for its cider houses, where you can experience the Basque tradition of txotx, which involves pouring cider directly from a massive wooden barrel. Take a seat, enjoy the food, and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a Basque cider house.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the City’s Traditions

The Basque culture is rich in traditions, and Bilbao has many festivals and events throughout the year that give visitors a glimpse into the Basque way of life. One such festival is Aste Nagusia, a week-long celebration in August with music, dancing, concerts, and fireworks.

Another cultural experience is to attend the Basque Opera. The opera in Bilbao, known as ABAO, has a reputation for its exceptional performances and productions.

Local History: Discover the Stories of the City’s Past

Bilbao has a rich and diverse history, and there are many interesting stories that will captivate your imagination. One such story is that of the Old Town (Casco Viejo), which was built in medieval times and has preserved its narrow, winding streets and traditional architecture.

Another historical spot is the Mercado de la Ribera, which is the largest covered market in Europe. The market has been a hub of commerce and activity for over a century. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the city’s rich history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unforgettable Experiences

For those looking for unique and unforgettable experiences, Bilbao offers plenty of surprises. Head to the Pil Pil Hostel, a unique hostel decorated with surfboards that gives you the opportunity to sleep in a rooftop airstream trailer, which offers stunning views of the city.

Another attraction is the visit to El Raton, a small fishing village located just 20 minutes from Bilbao. The village is known for a historic rock carving, which dates back to the Bronze Age.

In Conclusion

Bilbao is a city with a rich history, culture, and traditions, and we hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to explore all that this beautiful city has to offer beyond its famous tourist attractions. From its hidden gems and local cuisine to its cultural experiences, historical tales, and unique off-the-beaten-path attractions, Bilbao has something for everyone. Ready to experience the best of Bilbao, Spain? Plan your trip today!