Bilbao

Top 7 things to do in Bilbao

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  1. Guggenheim Bilbao

  Modern and contemporary art lovers will be thrilled with all the specialized works inside this architectural wonder along the Nervion River.

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  2. Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

  The Fine Arts Museum has stood since 1908. Its gigantic collection of more than 6,000 objects from the 12th century to the present day should not be overshadowed by the Guggenheim.

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  3. Plaza Nueva

  This giant Neoclassical square is surrounded by gift shops, restaurants, Sunday flea markets and folk festivals—the perfect place to take in the local culture.

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  4. Zubizuri

  Walking across this curved steel suspension bridge is a must during your visit. Zubizuri means “white bridge” in Basque, the indigenous language to the region.

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  5. The Euskalduna Conference Centre and Concert Hall

  Check the schedule of this monumental expo center—there’s an auditorium for opera, a theater, four conference rooms, eight meeting rooms, a press room, a gallery, and a restaurant.

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  6. Doña Casilda Iturrizar park

  This century-old park is the green lung of Bilbao. Pack a lunch or a book and relax by the duck pond in this picturesque English-style park.

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  7. Teatro Arriaga

  This stunning neo-Baroque opera house shows modern and classical works. Seeing a performance in the golden dome of Arriaga’s hall is an absolute treat.

Frequently asked questions about Bilbao

Planning Your Visit

• Bilbao Climate: Pack for Rain

  Northern coastal Spain can get pretty rainy. Bring an umbrella and some waterproof shoes.

• Pintxos Are Not Tapas

  The regional pub snack, the pintxo, is called such for its ‘spike’ or toothpick through them, and they’re a staple of Basque culture. Unlike tapas, they’re typically served earlier in the evening, so don’t be surprised when Bilbao restaurants stop serving around 9:00PM or 10:00PM.

• Take Advantage of the Bilbao Metro

  For a city of its size, Bilbao, Spain, is amazingly well connected. Public transportation is clean, safe and can take you just about anywhere in the city and surrounding countryside—even the beach.