In February 2023 we wrote about why Spain is a must-visit country and although we had been around Spain and into San Sebastian a few years ago, we had not been to Bilbao. We were fortunate to visit for the first time in November 2023.
Bilbao is a vibrant city in Spain's Basque Country that has undergone a remarkable transformation from its industrial roots of iron, steel and ship building from the mid-1800’s to becoming a dynamic cultural hub.
Built on the Nervión River, which leads to the Bay of Biscay, Bilbao combines contemporary architecture with rich cultural heritage. With a population of almost 350,000 people the official langugages are Basque and Spanish. The city is well known for its architecture, thriving arts scene, mix of historic neighbourhoods and markets and fabulous food!
Here are the top six places we enjoyed in Bilbao.
- The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is arguably the most iconic landmark in Bilbao and a symbol of the city’s transformation. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the museum’s futuristic titanium-clad building is very impressive and blends well into the creative vibe of Bilbao.
Inside are collections of modern art, including works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Richard Serra. There is also the surrounding Guggenheim Museum Park, sculptures beautiful views of the river and the city.
Our favourite piece is the Jeff Koons Puppy living artwork of a West Highland Terrier – a testament to our adventurous Westie, Hamish, who is travelling with us. The artwork is 12.4 metres high and is made from steel inside and flowering plants on the outside so the puppy is always in bloom.
Photo: Guerro de la Luz
2. Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Casco Viejo or Old Town, is the historic heart of Bilbao, characterized by its narrow, winding streets and charming plazas. We loved strolling at night and immersing ourselves in the city’s history.
You can visit Santiago Cathedral a Gothic church dating back to the 14th century Plaza Nueva which is a square surrounded by arcades and cafes and shops. The Casco Viejo is also home to the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets, where you can eat your way through local produce, cheeses, and cured meats.
- Walk Along the Nervión River
The riverside walkway stretches from the Guggenheim Museum to the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava. The route shows Bilbao’s blend of old and new with historic buildings standing alongside modern buildings. The Ría de Bilbao area has been revitalised with parks, cafes, and public art installations.
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
This is another gem and has an extensive collection of Spanish and Basque art from the Middle Ages to modern works.
The collection includes pieces by famous artists such as Francisco de Goya, Joaquín Sorolla, and Eduardo Chillida.
- Basque Cuisine
Bilbao is a culinary heaven and experiencing its food is a highlight of any visit. The city is famous for its pintxos — small, delicious tapas-like dishes served on skewers or small plates. We visited Calle del Perro, a street lined with bars and pinntxos!
Casco Viejo has numerous traditional Basque restaurants with local specialties such as bacalao a la vizcaína (salted cod in a rich tomato sauce) and chuletón (a large steak for my meat-eating friends).
- The Azkuna Centre
The Azkuna Centre, also known as Alhóndiga Bilbao, is one of the must-sees of Bilbao.
It’s a former corn exchange built in 1909 but in was renovated and in 2010 reopened as a cultural and leisure with cinemas, library, shops, restaurant and cafes, gym (and two swimming pools with glass bottoms that can be seen by people standing on the ground floor) and 43 columns which are fascinating in themselves as they symbolise different cultures, religions, wars or architectural styles. We've travelled a lot and have never seen a community-oriented facility like the Azkuna Centre.
For us, Bilbao is a city that represents the successful interaction of historical charm and modern innovation.
Its unique blend of past and present; of industry and creativity and food and wine makes it a fantastic destination for singles, couples and groups.
Main photo Guggenheim Museum from the Nervión River by David Vives