bilbao

Hello, bilbao

One of the jewels of northern Spain, Bilbao is a city full of surprises and delights. It boasts a unique blend of tradition and modernity, which is reflected in its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and outstanding cuisine. At its heart lies the magnificent Guggenheim Museum, one of the most impressive structures in the world. Its streets are alive with the sound of Euskara, Europe's oldest and most enigmatic language, while the Casco Viejo (Old Town) is full of traditional bars for sampling pintxos.

Best things to do in bilbao

Plenty of things to do and see

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Basilica of Begoña

Perched above Bilbao on Artagan Hill, the Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña was built starting in 1511 on the very spot where, legend says, the Virgin Mary appeared. The church mixes styles: mainly Gothic inside, a Renaissance front with a grand arch, and a belfry added in the early 20th century. Inside, there’s a polychrome wood carving of the Virgin of Begoña ('Amatxu' to locals) from the 14th century. Sailors often used to name their boats after her, and every 15 August (Assumption) and 11 October (Feast of Begoña), the place fills with pilgrims.

Algorta Old Port

Algorta’s Old Port is a small fishing quarter in Getxo, just 20 minutes from central Bilbao by metro. Whitewashed houses line the narrow streets down to the water. On summer evenings, locals gather outside bars for a beer or cider, often with green olives or fried calamari.

Arriaga Theatre

Inaugurated in 1890, the Arriaga Theatre is a Neo-baroque opera house named after the Bilbao-born composer Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, often referred to as the 'Spanish Mozart'. Inspired by the Paris Opera House, it became a key cultural venue in Bilbao. The original theatre burned down in 1914 and was rebuilt, reopening in 1919. Today, it hosts opera, ballet, classical concerts, and theatre productions. Guided tours give a behind-the-scenes look at the staircases, Royal Box, and costume collection.

Plaza Nueva (Plaza Barria)

Plaza Nueva is Bilbao’s oldest surviving square, built in 1849. Pop by for some coffee, watch locals and visitors pass by, or try some of the city’s top pintxos. Café Bar Bilbao is one of the most famous here, known for its squid pintxo and the ham-and-onion version, which are local favourites.

Best things to do in bilbao

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