Bilbao Hotels

Bask in Bilbao

How does Bilbao party so hard yet remain so civilised? Bilbao is capital of Spain’s Basque Country, a region that was once vastly different to the rest of Spain. However, after an architectural and cultural makeover, the vibrancy of Spain now comes through – even if some of the locals still dream of independence.

Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Ría Nervión, it’s not just Bilbao’s lifestyle that’s colourful. The sea-themed Museo Maritimo Ria de Bilbao’s interesting and engaging exhibits belie its space-age exterior, while the ancient artefacts in the Arkeologi Museo prove that Bilbao has been bustling for centuries. But if there’s one thing Bilbao does better than making over post-industrial sprawls, it’s lip-smacking cuisine. Café Iruna is an age-old classic, or head to El Huevo Fritofor something bite-sized. In Bilbao, if you’re still keeping it classy after 10pm, you’re doing something wrong…

Bilbao's Top 10

Bilbao History

• Casco Viejo - The old town area of Bilbao with a town square that dates back to the 1800s, a gothic cathedral and a lively market on Sundays.
• Catedral de Santiago - With an amazing Renaissance portico and lovely little cloister.
• Sanctuary of Loyola - Visit the home of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.
• Iglesia de San Anton - Gothic-style church dates back to the early 1400s with a mix of styles including a baroque tower and a renaissance portico.
• Puente de San Anton - The most emblematic bridge in Bilbao.

Bilbao Art & Culture

• Museo Guggenheim - Catapulted Bilbao and modern architecture to the 21st century with an inspired use of cliffs, flowering canopies, promontories, towers, ship shapes and flying fins.
• Open Air Gallery - A lovely place to enjoy art in gorgeous outdoors.
• Museo de Bellas Artes - An amazing collection with everything from gothic sculptures to pop art from the 1900s.
• Euskal Museoa - Housed in a wonderful old building and covers the culture and history of the basque region from the early days.
• Museo Maritimo Ria da Bilbao - Brings the maritime history of the area to life with bright, well-thought-out displays.

Bilbao Shopping

• Mercado de la Ribera - This local marketplace in Bilbao provides a marvellous experience.
• Gili-Gili - Outlet store and place to find top-brand labels of fashionable clothing and accessories.
• Elkar Megadenda - Local bookstore with a wonderful selection, including English books and an excellent section of maps and travel books.
• Dos de Mayo - On the first Saturday of each month, this flea market offers books, antiques and more.
• Hazel - The place to find simple but unique clothes and gorgeous shoes at affordable prices.

Gay & Lesbian Bilbao

• High - Cruising bar open until the wee hours of the morning.
• Balcon de la Lola - Local club with a young party crowd.
• La Bola de Cristal - Offers drag shows on Thursday nights.
• Conjunto Vacio - Great Bilbao club with lots of music.
• Lamiak - Quiet cafe by day and hopping bar at night.

Bilbao Events

Children’s choirs provide the backing tracks for the Easter celebrations of Semana Santa.

The best in local and international jazz music goes on show during July at the vibrant Getxo International Jazz Festival.

Also known, rather aptly, as ‘Big Week’, the cultural and artistic festival Aste Nagusia brings fresh flavour to the city in August.

Local farmers and growers showcase the fruits of their labour at December’s Christmas Markets, when preserves and sausages reign supreme.

When To Go

Autumn is the most pleasant time to visit Bilbao, when temperatures are pleasantly warm and the seawater is, too.

September’s International Film Festival brings hundreds to this small city, meaning prices soar.

Winter is especially unpredictable weather-wise, so come prepared.

Getting Around

With its narrow pedestrian streets built in the Middle Ages, Bilbao is not very car-friendly.

The Metro is a great way to get around and services most of the city’s main attractions.

Explore Bilbao on foot to increase your chances of discovering small alleyway bars and hidden boutiques.

General Information

Attractions

Activities

Restaurants

Nightlife

Climate

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