Bilbao

Fly to Bilbao: Where Art Dances with Industry and Every Bite Tells a Story

🎭 A City That Reinvented Itself

Once known as an industrial shipping town, Bilbao has blossomed into a European cultural capital. The transformation started with the opening of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in 1997 — a shimmering beacon of titanium that sparked what's now called the “Guggenheim Effect.” Today, the city buzzes with innovation, art, and culinary passion, all while staying true to its Basque roots.

🌟 Must-Experience in Bilbao

🖼️ 1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Why go: You’ve never seen a museum like this. Even if you don’t go inside (but you should), the architecture alone will leave you awestruck.
Pro tip: Visit at golden hour for amazing photos of the river and museum reflections.

🏙️ 2. Casco Viejo (Old Town)

Narrow streets, colorful buildings, and hidden bars.
Don’t miss La Ribera Market, where you can shop, eat, and sip wine by the river.

🍷 3. Plaza Nueva Pintxo Crawl

Bilbao's central square is lined with pintxo bars — order a drink, grab a bite off the bar, and repeat.
Try this: “Gilda” (olive, anchovy & pepper skewer) and txakoli, a crisp Basque white wine.

🌄 4. Mount Artxanda Viewpoint

Take the Funicular de Artxanda up the hill.
The views are perfect for photos or a sunset picnic.

🚶‍♂️ 5. Ría de Bilbao Walk

A scenic riverside stroll connects Guggenheim, parks, and cool neighborhoods like Abandoibarra.
Look out for street art and sculptures along the route.

🍽️ Local Food You Can’t Miss

Bilbao is a gastronomic treasure chest, from casual pintxo bars to Michelin-starred restaurants.

🔥 Must-Try Dishes:

Bacalao a la Vizcaína – Salt cod in a rich red pepper sauce.
Txuletón – A massive Basque-style beef steak, great for sharing.
Basque Cheesecake – Creamy, slightly burnt, and unforgettable.

🧭 Nearby Gems for a Day Trip

🌊 San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Just 45 minutes away. Cross a stone bridge to reach this magical island hermitage. You might recognize it as Dragonstone from Game of Thrones!

🏖️ Getxo & Sopelana

Gorgeous coastal towns with beaches, surf, and seaside cafes.

🍇 La Rioja Wine Region

Spain’s most famous wine country is just a short drive away. Tours and tastings are easily arranged.

🧳 Traveler Tips

When to go: May to October for ideal weather and events.
What to wear: Casual, with layers — Bilbao can get breezy.
Language: Spanish and Euskara (Basque). Most locals in tourism speak English.