A City Transformed Bilbao

A newcomer to the tourist trail, historically revolved around its port and ironworks industry. The arrival of the iconic Guggenheim Museum in 1997 marked a pivotal moment, attracting tourism and inspiring innovative architecture throughout the city. Notable structures include the striking Zubizuri Bridge and the Azkuna Zentroa, a transformed warehouse now housing a cinema, shops, restaurants, and more.

Casco Viejo

Bilbao's medieval old town, once protected by city walls, seamlessly blends the old and the new. The seven main streets, known as 'Las Siete Calles,' showcase historic sites like the 14th-century Santiago Cathedral and the Plaza Nueva. Amidst these historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, pintxo bars, and the Mercado de la Ribera, Europe's largest indoor market, add a modern touch.

Indulge in Txikiteo

A cherished ritual, involves friends navigating from bar to bar, savoring small glasses of wine and indulging in pintxos – tapas-style dishes. Pintxo routes are scattered across the city, with renowned spots concentrated in the Abando district around the city center.

The Heart of the Basque Country

While geographically part of mainland Spain, Bilbao takes pride in its Basque roots and traditions. While Spanish is predominant, locals often converse in Basque, and numerous city signs feature the native language. The city's connection to its Basque heritage is epitomized by its football team, Athletic Club, which exclusively recruits players from the Basque region, a policy maintained since its formation in 1898