things to do in bilbao spain
Bilbao, located in the Basque region of northern Spain, is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some top things to do in Bilbao:
Visit the Guggenheim Museum: This iconic museum is a must-visit attraction in Bilbao. Designed by Frank Gehry, it features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by artists such as Jeff Koons and Richard Serra.
Explore the Old Town: Bilbao’s historic center is filled with charming streets, picturesque plazas, and beautiful architecture. Visit the Plaza Nueva, the Cathedral of Santiago, and the Church of San Antonio Abad.
Take a stroll along the Nervión River: The river runs through the heart of the city and offers beautiful views, walking paths, and picnic areas.
Visit the Mercado de la Ribera: This bustling marketplace is a great place to sample local cuisine, including pintxos (Basque tapas), cheeses, and wines.
Go hiking in the nearby mountains: Bilbao is surrounded by beautiful mountains, including the Artxanda and Mount Pagasarri. Take a hike to enjoy stunning views of the city and countryside.
Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: This museum features a collection of art from the 12th to the 20th centuries, including works by El Greco, Goya, and Picasso.
Take a trip to the nearby beaches: Bilbao is close to some beautiful beaches, such as the beach in Getxo, which offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.
Experience the local cuisine: Basque cuisine is known for its delicious seafood, meat, and vegetable dishes. Be sure to try some pintxos, txuleta (steak), and bacalao (dried cod).
Attend a festival or event: Bilbao hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Bilbao Festival of Music, the Bilbao International Film Festival, and the Semana Grande (Big Week) festival.
Visit the nearby town of Getxo: This charming town is located just outside of Bilbao and features beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and a picturesque harbor.
Go shopping: Bilbao has a range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets. The Gran Vía and the Abando district are popular shopping areas.
- Take a tour of the city: There are several guided tours available, including walking tours, bus tours, and boat tours. These tours offer a great way to see the city’s main attractions and learn about its history and culture.
Some popular neighborhoods to explore in Bilbao include:
- Casco Viejo: The historic center of Bilbao, known for its narrow streets, picturesque plazas, and beautiful architecture.
- Abando: A bustling neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Indautxu: A trendy neighborhood with a lively nightlife, bars, and restaurants.
- Sarriko: A charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings, shops, and restaurants.
Some popular day trips from Bilbao include:
- San Sebastián: A beautiful coastal city located about 1 hour east of Bilbao.
- Vitoria-Gasteiz: The capital of the Basque region, located about 1 hour south of Bilbao.
- The Rioja wine region: A scenic region located about 2 hours south of Bilbao, known for its wine production and beautiful countryside.
- The French Basque Country: A scenic region located just across the border in France, known for its beautiful beaches, historic towns, and delicious cuisine.
