Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a vibrant and intriguing destination recognized for its gorgeous architecture, world-class museums, wonderful food, and bustling culture. Bilbao has something for everyone, from the famed Guggenheim Museum to the quaint old town and vibrant marketplaces.
Bilbao has something for everyone, whether you like food, art, or history. To make the most of your stay to Bilbao, here are some of the top things to do in Bilbao:
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao exploration
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a municipal icon and a must-see for art lovers. Frank Gehry designed the museum’s stunning architecture. Visitors can see pieces by Jeff Koons, Anselm Kiefer, and Richard Serra in the extensive collection of modern art.
Strolling Through Old Town
Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s lovely old town, is ideal for a stroll. Colorful buildings, traditional Basque pubs, and handcraft shops line the small alleys. The Gothic Santiago Cathedral and the Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest indoor market, are also worth seeing.
Basque cuisine indulgence
Bilbao’s cuisine is influenced by the Basque Country’s diverse culinary heritage. At the city’s many bars and restaurants, visitors can have pintxos, the Basque equivalent of tapas, or traditional delicacies like marmitako (tuna stew) and bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic and olive oil sauce).
Azkuna Zentroa Visit
The Azkuna Zentroa cultural center was a wine warehouse. It now contains a cinema, library, and cultural and artistic exhibitions. The rooftop patio offers great city views for visitors.
Checking Out Puente Colgante
Bilbao’s industrial past is symbolized by the Hanging Bridge, a UNESCO World past Site. The city’s ancient transporter bridge connects it to Portugalete, where visitors can admire the river and environment.
Discovering San Mames Stadium
Athletic Club Bilbao, one of Spain’s oldest football teams, plays at San Mames Stadium. Visitors can visit the stadium and enjoy city views from the rooftop terrace while learning about the team’s history and culture.
Mount Artxanda’s Views
Locals and tourists go to Mount Artxanda for its breathtaking views of the city and mountains. Visitors can ride a funicular to the top of the mountain and enjoy a dinner at the restaurant, a walk in the park, or the views.
Exploring Basque Music and Dance
Aste Nagusia, the city’s yearly festival, showcases Basque music and dance. Live music accompanies traditional dances like the jota and fandango.
Visiting the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
With a collection spanning the Middle Ages to the present, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is another must-see for art aficionados. Goya’s masterpieces are the museum’s highlights.
Resting in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park
Gardens, fountains, and a lake are at the city’s Parque de Doña Casilda Iturrizar. Visitors can rest in the shade of the trees, take a calm stroll, or have a picnic.
At the Euskal Museoa, Learning Basque History and Culture
The Basque Country’s history and culture are explored at the Euskal Museoa, often known as the Basque Museum. Visitors can learn about the region’s fishing, whaling, and shipbuilding history, as well as its language, traditions, and folklore.
Mercado of la Alhóndiga shopping
The trendy Mercado de la Alhóndiga sells everything from fresh fruit and seafood to souvenirs and homemade crafts. One of the market’s many bars or restaurants serves drinks and food.
Bilbao Museum of Fine Arts visit
The Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao has a world-class collection of Spanish and Basque art from the 12th century to the present. El Greco, Francisco de Zurbarán, and Eduardo Chillida are among the artists on display.
Admiring Basque Architecture Bilbao is noted for its unique architecture, which blends traditional Basque characteristics with contemporary design. The University of Deusto, Basque Health Department Building, and Palacio de Congresos y de la Música Euskalduna can be seen by visitors.
Beach Relaxing
Bilbao is on the Bay of Biscay, so visitors can spend a day at the beach in Getxo or Sopelana. Surfing, paddleboarding, and spectacular sea and coastline views are available on the beaches.
Attending an Arriaga Theater performance
The Teatro Arriaga, a historic theater, hosts opera, drama, and dance acts. Visitors may enjoy Bilbao’s colorful culture at the theater.
Bilbao, in Spain’s Basque Country, is a bustling city with a unique mix of Basque culture and modern architecture. The city has transformed into an art, culture, and food hub.
The Guggenheim Museum, created by Frank Gehry, is a must-see in Bilbao. The museum has a large collection of modern and contemporary art, including pieces by Jeff Koons, Yves Klein, and Anish Kapoor. The museum’s outdoor sculptures and gardens create a beautiful backdrop for the artwork.
Bilbao’s historic Old Quarter, the Casco Viejo, is another must-see. This picturesque neighborhood’s tiny lanes are lined with beautiful ancient buildings, classic stores, and pleasant cafes. The Gothic-style Santiago Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, and Europe’s largest covered market, the Mercado de la Ribera, are among the area’s attractions.
Bilbao has a great selection of Basque cuisine. Pintxos, Basque tapas eaten on little slices of bread, are famous throughout the city. At the city’s many pubs and restaurants, pintxos are served with a twist. The Bay of Biscay provides fresh fish and shellfish for Bilbao’s seafood.
One of the finest ways to see the city’s colorful culture is to attend a festival or event. The Bilbao BBK Live music festival, Aste Nagusia Basque festival, and Semana Grande de Bilbao, a weeklong Basque culture and tradition celebration, are among the city’s cultural events.
Bilbao has abundance of outdoor activities and natural beauty to escape the city. The city’s lush hills and mountains offer hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor sports. The adjacent Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a beautiful protected region with wildlife and sceneries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bilbao is a fascinating city that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, food, or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Bilbao that will capture your attention and leave you with unforgettable memories.
From the iconic Guggenheim Museum and the charming Old Quarter to the delicious pintxos and stunning natural beauty of the surrounding hills and mountains, Bilbao truly has something for everyone. The city’s unique blend of traditional Basque culture and modern architecture creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that is both welcoming and captivating.
For those looking to explore Bilbao further, You must check this Things to do in Bilbao. Tourist information centers throughout the city provide maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations to help visitors make the most of their stay.
Overall, Bilbao is a must-visit destination that offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and modernity. It is a city that has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the result is a vibrant and dynamic place that is worth exploring. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, be sure to add Bilbao to your itinerary and discover all the amazing things to do in this unique city.
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