Hola, Bilbao! The largest city in the Spanish Basque Country attracts visitors to the north of Spain with its charming old town streets, innovative buildings and traditional pintxo bars. Nestled between the green hills of the Cantabrian Mountains and the rugged Atlantic coast, Bilbao combines the originality of Basque culture with modern influences. The top highlight is the world-famous Guggenheim Museum – an architectural masterpiece made of titanium, glass and limestone, designed by star architect Frank O. Gehry. A feast for architecture fans!
Other eye-catchers are the Ribera Market, the Zubizuri Bridge and Norman Foster's elegant subway stations. A real Basque experience is a visit to a pintxo bar in the old town around the Nervión river. Basque tapas are small works of culinary art and a delicious snack at any time of day.
Bilbao not only offers urban highlights but is also an ideal starting point for excursions to the Spanish Basque Country, known as Euskadi. The Atlantic coast attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches and excellent surfing opportunities, while hikers and nature lovers get their money's worth in the surrounding mountains of the Cantabrian Cordillera. The elegant seaside resort of San Sebastián boasts Concha Bay and one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe. Medieval churches and traditional farmhouses are just a stone's throw away from the modern architecture that makes the Basque Country so special. A highlight is a trip to the rock church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which can be reached via a coastal path with numerous steps. Culturally, the Basque Country is characterised by its own language, Euskara, as well as lively festivals and centuries-old traditions.
1. the famous pintxos (the Basque version of tapas)
2. fish and seafood: e.g. grilled sole or squid in ink
3. classics: marmitako (tuna stew) or txangurro (crab stew)
4. txakoli and cider: sparkling white wine that goes well with pintxos
5. fresh from the market: Idiazábal cheese from the Mercado de la Ribera
1. Guggenheim Museum: a masterpiece of modern architecture
2. Zubizuri Bridge: an elegant, modern pedestrian bridge
3. Azkuna Zentroa: the cultural centre in the former winery
4. Isozaki Atea: the striking twin towers made of glass and steel
5. Teatro Arriaga: a magnificent neo-baroque style theatre
1. Zarautz: charming beach promenade with cafés
2. Playa de La Zurriola: urban vibes and active surfing community
3. Bakio: close to the rock church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
4. Sopela: picturesque cliffs, ideal for surfing
5. Meñakoz: secluded with a wild coastal landscape
Picture Source title:
© underwaterstas/stock.adobe.com
The information published on this page is current as of the date of publication or update.