Bilbao Travel Guide 2025 | Explore the Guggenheim, Pintxos & Basque Culture

Bilbao, Spain

🌆 Bilbao, Spain: A Vibrant City of Culture, Innovation, and Flavor

A Modern Urban Jewel Nestled in the Basque Hills

Bilbao, located in the heart of the Basque Country in northern Spain, is a city where old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity coexist in a beautiful and balanced way. Known for its innovative architecture, rich cultural heritage, and outstanding gastronomy, Bilbao is a city that surprises visitors at every turn.

🏙️ 1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – A Masterpiece of Modern Architecture

Arguably the most iconic landmark in Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum is a must-visit for any art or architecture lover. Designed by Frank Gehry, this futuristic building is renowned for its sculptural curves and innovative titanium exterior. It houses an impressive collection of modern art, with works from famous artists like Jeff Koons, Anselm Kiefer, and Richard Serra. The museum itself is as much a piece of art as the exhibits it showcases.

Tip: Don’t miss the outside installations, such as the giant puppy by Koons, and take a stroll along the Nervión River that runs beside the museum.

🍽️ 2. Bilbao’s Gastronomy – A Culinary Adventure

Bilbao is a paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that is as innovative as it is delicious. Known for its Basque cuisine, the city offers a wide range of traditional dishes, fresh seafood, and innovative modern fare.

Pintxos Bars: Head to the Casco Viejo (Old Town) to explore Bilbao’s pintxos culture. Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, are served in bars, each with its own take on classic flavors like bacalao (salted cod) and chistorra (Basque sausage). Try hopping from bar to bar and sampling different pintxos.
Michelin-Starred Dining: Bilbao is home to some excellent Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Azurmendi by chef Eneko Atxa, which offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and modern Basque techniques.
Seafood: Bilbao’s location by the coast makes it an excellent destination for fresh seafood. Txangurro (spider crab), chipirones (squid), and merluza (hake) are local favorites.

🏛️ 3. Casco Viejo – Bilbao’s Old Town Charm

Bilbao’s Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a charming maze of narrow streets, cobblestone alleys, and colorful buildings. This historic neighborhood is full of Basque culture, from its traditional shops and bars to its rich history. Key highlights include:

Plaza Nueva: A lively square where locals gather for food and drinks. Here, you can sample traditional pintxos or grab a coffee while watching street performers.
Bilbao Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of the Old Town and features a cloister, stunning stained-glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Siete Calles: The seven streets that form the heart of the Casco Viejo are lined with bars, boutiques, and artisan shops that sell everything from leather goods to Basque espadrilles.

🌉 4. Puente Zubizuri and Bilbao’s Stunning Bridges

Bilbao’s architecture isn’t just about the Guggenheim; it’s also about the city’s beautiful bridges that span the Nervión River. The Puente Zubizuri, also known as the White Bridge, is a striking example of modern design, with its curved, white structure designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.

Tip: Take a walk along the river and admire the blend of modern and historic architecture, especially around the Estación de Abando and Azkuna Zentroa.

🏞️ 5. Mount Artxanda – Panoramic Views of Bilbao

For one of the best views of the city, take the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda. This hilltop park offers stunning panoramic views of Bilbao and the surrounding Basque mountains. You can hike to the summit or take the funicular, which is a fun and easy way to experience the city’s skyline. At the top, you’ll find parks, walking trails, and places to relax while soaking in the views.

🎭 6. Bilbao’s Cultural Scene – Museums, Festivals, and More

Bilbao has a lively cultural calendar with many festivals, museums, and events year-round.

Museo de Bellas Artes: Bilbao’s Fine Arts Museum houses a collection of over 10,000 works from Goya and El Greco to contemporary Spanish artists.
Bilbao BBK Live: A popular annual music festival that attracts big names in rock, electronic, and indie music.
Semana Grande: This summer festival celebrates Bilbao’s maritime heritage with concerts, fireworks, bullfights, and street parties.

🌳 7. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park – Bilbao’s Green Oasis

A relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a beautifully landscaped public park with large ponds, fountains, and lush greenery. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, go for a walk, or simply relax and watch the swan-filled lakes.

🌟 Final Thoughts on Bilbao

Bilbao is a city that thrives on innovation while maintaining a strong sense of tradition. From the Guggenheim Museum to the bustling Old Town and the panoramic views of Mount Artxanda, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an art lover, a food enthusiast, or someone who loves exploring historic neighborhoods, Bilbao promises a memorable experience.