Basque Country’s cultural treasure trove
Though most people go to Bilbao for the Guggenheim Museum – complete with 40ft West Highland terrier made of flowers – there’s much more to discover. Take in its colourful Old Town where busy bars sit alongside ancient arches and cobbles and serve up original takes on authentic pintxos (tapas). Explore one of the world’s biggest covered markets for riverside bites and cool jazz and walk an urban art trail. Save enough energy for the city’s flower and flea markets.
Start at in the historic Siete Calles (seven streets) of the Old Town (Casco Viejo) to imbibe the colourful, cobbled streets before heading centrally to the futuristic looking Guggenheim – its architecture inspired by Bilbao’s industrial ship-building past. Take in the Basque Health Department’s amazing origami-style building before heading to any one of the city’s museums on art or maritime history. For the ultimate in living the high life, take the funicular up Mount Artxanda and dine while overlooking the city in its valley and the wild Basque mountains beyond.
Book flights to Bilbao and start exploring today.