Bilbao is in the heart of the Basque Country and you can believe us when we say that this city is so much more than just the Guggenheim museum.
The city of Bilbao has definitely reinvented itself and has been transformed from the grey and dark industrial town to this metropolitan jewel in the north of Spain. It breathes culture, architecture and, of course, food. The amazing pintxos (Basque tapas) and the perfectly balanced contrasts from old to new are going to steal your heart. From street culture to food and markets to viewpoints, here are the best things to do in Bilbao right now.
1. Visit the Guggenheim Museum
We know it seems obvious but this is a staple you can not miss. The Guggenheim Musuem, built in 1997 has shaped the future of Bilbao and it is really full of art from the outside to the inside. This magnificent work design by Frank Gehrry deserves every second of your time.
2. Stroll down the Old Town
The Old Town of Bilbao aka Casco Viejo is full of color and narrow streets and it holds the secrets of the Roman occupation of the city. The must stop points in the old town are the Santiago ‘s Cathedral, the Plaza Nueva, and the churches of San Nicolás and San Antón. If you happen to come to the city in a big group and you would like to find out about the secrets that Bilbao has to unravel, you can contact one of our private guides that will show you the best this city has to offer.
3. Shop at Ribera’s Market
The market sits just outside the old town just next to the river Nervion and it is the place to shop all the local and fresh products of the basque country to take home. The market is housed in an historic building, designed by Pedro Ispizua and built in 1929 and covering 10,000 m2, it is the biggest indoor covered market in Europe. It was built on the exact same site of the old market dating back to the 14th century, and inside you can find not only stalls, but also bars and restaurants.
4. Ride the funicular to Artxanda viewpoint
If you catch a sunny day in Bilbao the best thing you can do is to take the old funicular cable ride and go to the top of the view point in Artxanda and have one of the best panoramic views of the city. From up there you have stunning views, a number of paths and some amazing restaurants.
5. Explore the Azkuna Zentroa
The Azkuna Zentroa, formerly called the Alhóndiga, is a cultural and leisure center located in the city’s historic wine exchange building. This modernist structure was redesigned by French designer Philippe Starck and is supported by 43 distinctive pillars, each one a remarkable work of art.
6. Get to know the city like a true local: by eating and drinking!
This is where we step in, the best way to get to know Bilbao is really through its food. You are going to see a very lively city where the locals are often outside at the bars eating pintxos and drinking. Our local guides will lead you onto to amazing food tours that will give you the best food and drinking experiences in Bilbao. From pintxos to desert, all included.
