Bilbao Things To Do

El Casco Viejo
The compact old centre of Bilbao has charm and character to rival the oldest neighbourhoods of Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville. A strong sense of Basque identity and fabulous Basque food make strolling the Casco Viejo endlessly rewarding. A wonderful area for beautiful traditional cafes, bar hopping and superb tapas. Visit the Gothic cathedral, the gorgeous Arriaga Theatre, the graceful arcades of the Plaza Nueva and the Basque History Museum with its fine cloisters.

Guggenheim Museum
The European headquarters of the Guggenheim Foundation is simply one of the most striking buildings in Europe. Designed by Frank O.Gehry, the museum (and Jeff Koon’s giant flower puppy) has become a symbol of Bilbao’s impressive urban regeneration and the reinvention of its riverside districts. The permanent exhibition includes Picasso, Cezanne, Chagall, Warhol and Kandinsky, while temporary exhibitions focus on contemporary art. Many visitors find the riverside walk to the Guggenheim and the building itself far more rewarding than its contents. Reserve a table at the excellent restaurant. Move on to the nearby Museo de Bellas Artes for Goya, El Greco and Van Dyck.

Eating & Drinking
Basque cuisine is at the forefront of new Spanish cooking. Like so many Spanish cities, Bilbao nightlife revolves around spontaneous bar hopping rather than one individual venue. There is something for everyone in the busy pedestrian streets of the Old Town: elegant Art Nouveau cafes, idiosyncratic music bars, and a tremendous choice of tapas bars, tabernas and restaurants brimming over with Basque identity. The friendly atmosphere is superb by day and by night. The siete calles (seven streets) area of the Old Town is terrific fun. The Plaza Nueva is a great spot for pavement cafes. Bilbao has a reputation for indie-style live music venues and a healthy clubbing scene.

Getxo & Portugalete
These two fascinating historic waterfront suburbs of Bilbao are now easily accessed by metro. Getxo has fine old buildings, a superb promenade and renowned seafood restaurants. Cross the river to the equally charming neighbourhood of Portugalete via the extraordinary Hanging Bridge, a unique construction with UNESCO World Heritage status. Take the lift up to the walkway for great views. After exploring steep atmospheric streets you can go back across the river on the tiny ferry for a few cents.

Beaches
The river estuary and the coastal headlands provide Bilbao with an appealing choice of beaches. Once again, Bilbao’s superb metro makes a quick visit to the beach an effortless experience. Playa de Barinatxe, Sopelana and Plentzia all have their own distinct personality.

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