Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a must-see attraction in Bilbao. It is known for its unique architecture and for displaying a modern and contemporary art collection.
The museum was designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry and opened in 1997. The building’s exterior is covered in titanium panels that reflect the sunlight and change color throughout the day.
Inside, the museum’s galleries are spacious and filled with natural light. The collection includes works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Mark Rothko, among others.
In addition to the art collection, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao also offers various temporary exhibits throughout the year, as well as educational programs and guided tours.
Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s stunning surroundings, including the Nervion River and the nearby La Salve Bridge.
Overall, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a must-visit for any art lover or architecture enthusiast traveling to Bilbao, and it’s definitely worth spending a few hours exploring the museum and its grounds.
Casco Viejo
Barrio Casco Viejo, or simply Casco Viejo, is the charming and historic district located in the heart of Bilbao. This area is packed with narrow streets, quaint squares, and colorful buildings, all reflecting the rich Basque culture and history.
One of the most well-known attractions in Casco Viejo is the Santiago Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure that has been standing since the 14th century. This cathedral is a must-visit attraction in the district and it’s worth taking the time to explore its myriad of architectural and artistic details.
Another must-visit attraction in Casco Viejo is the Mercado de la Ribera, which is the largest indoor market in all of Europe. Here, you can find fresh produce, seafood, meat, and other local products. The market is vibrant and lively, and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local cuisine and culture.
Other notable attractions in Casco Viejo include the Plaza Nueva, a beautiful and bustling square that hosts a weekly flea market; the Arriaga Theater, a neo-baroque structure that hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year; and the Basque Museum, which showcases the region’s unique history and culture through a range of exhibits and artifacts.
Aside from these top attractions, one of the best things about Casco Viejo is simply wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon, whether it’s a quaint café or a hidden street art mural.
If you’re a history buff or just looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Casco Viejo is the perfect place to spend a day (or more) exploring all that this charming district has to offer.
Plaza Nueva
Located in the heart of Bilbao’s old town, Plaza Nueva is the perfect starting point for any visit to the city.
The square, which dates back to the 19th century, is surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings and is a popular meeting spot for both locals and tourists.
During the day, it’s a great place to sip on a coffee and soak up the atmosphere. But, the action really starts in the evening when the square comes alive with pintxo bars and restaurants.
The streets surrounding the plaza are filled with some of the best pintxo bars in the city, and it’s a great place to sample some of the local Basque cuisine.
On Sundays, the square hosts a market where you can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.
Overall, Plaza Nueva is a must-visit spot on any trip to Bilbao. Whether you’re looking to relax during the day or have a night out sampling the local cuisine, it’s the perfect starting point for your visit to this vibrant city.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
If you are an art lover, then a visit to Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is an absolute must when you are in Bilbao, Spain. Featuring an impressive collection of art by some of the most famous artists in the world, this museum is a treat for the senses.
The museum is located in the heart of Bilbao’s art district and is housed in a beautiful modernist building that was designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry. The collection on display spans from the 12th century to contemporary art, with a focus on Basque art and everything else that relates to the Basque Country, including painting, sculpture, and ceramics.
Some of the most famous works on display include the Saint George and the Dragon by Paolo Uccello, the iconic pop art works of Andy Warhol, and the Portrait of Duchess of Alba by Francisco de Goya.
If you are not an art connoisseur, don’t worry, the museum offers guided tours and audio guides to explain the history and significance of each piece on display. And if you are traveling with children, the museum offers interactive exhibits and workshops to keep them entertained.
Overall, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is a gem of a museum that should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Bilbao, Spain.
Basilica of Begoña
If you’re visiting Bilbao, the Basilica of Begoña is a must-see attraction. Located on top of a hill that overlooks the city of Bilbao, this beautiful church is a true gem.
The church’s architecture is quite stunning and boasts a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The interior is just as impressive, with high ceilings, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate carvings.
A highlight of the church is the statue of the Virgin of Begoña, which is located in the main altar. The statue is made of wood and was created in the 16th century. Locals and tourists alike come to pay their respects and to ask for the Virgin’s blessing.
Make sure to take some time to explore the outside of the church as well. The views of the city from the church’s plaza are breathtaking, and there are plenty of spots to sit, relax and take in the scenery.
Overall, a visit to the Basilica of Begoña is a must for anyone visiting Bilbao. Whether you’re there for religious reasons or just to take in the beauty of the church’s architecture and surroundings, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
San Mamés Stadium
San Mamés Stadium is the home to Athletic Club Bilbao, a professional football club that has a rich history of over 120 years. The stadium is located in the heart of Bilbao, making it a popular destination for football enthusiasts and tourists alike.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 53,332 and offers a unique experience for football fans. The atmosphere on match days is electric, with passionate fans cheering on their favorite team. Visitors can tour the stadium and learn about the history of Athletic Club Bilbao, including their famous “Basque-only policy” where only players of Basque origin are eligible to play for the team.
The stadium also hosts other sporting events and concerts throughout the year, making it a versatile space for entertainment. It has been a host venue for several international football competitions, including the UEFA Europa League and the European Championship.
If you’re visiting Bilbao during the football season, be sure to catch a game at San Mamés Stadium. Even if you’re not a football fan, the stadium is still worth a visit for its impressive architecture and cultural significance in the Basque Country.
Mercado de La Ribera
If you are looking for a great place where you can enjoy the culinary scene of Bilbao, then you must visit the Mercado de La Ribera. This market is not only the biggest indoor market in the city but also in Europe, measuring over 10,000 square meters. It is located in the bank of the Nervion river and has been serving locals with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and seafood for almost a century.
The market is divided into three levels, with each level having various stalls offering different kinds of foods. You can find everything from traditional Basque dishes to international cuisines, sweets, and pastries. There are also bars and restaurants where you can sit and have a drink, tapas or a full meal. Among the recommended dishes include the pintxos, a kind of Basque tapas, which is a must-try in this market.
The market is not only a great place for foodies but also a great destination for architecture lovers. The building itself has an interesting history – it has undergone major remodeling and renovation several times, including a complete overhaul after a fire in 1984. The modern style of the current building, which was completed in 2010, is fascinating and a sight to behold.
The market is open daily from morning until late in the evening, so you can visit any day and time that suits your schedule. Some tips if you plan on visiting the market; arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, bring cash as not all stalls accept cards, and try out different foods from different stalls, to get the full Mercado de La Ribera experience.
Euskal Museoa Bilbao
If you’re planning a trip to Bilbao, Spain, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the top attractions this city has to offer. One of the most popular attractions you should consider visiting is the Euskal Museoa Bilbao.
Euskal Museoa Bilbao, also known as the Basque Museum, is a cultural museum that tells the story of the Basque people and their history. The museum houses more than 26,000 exhibits and is known as one of the most comprehensive museums in the world.
Inside the museum, you’ll find exhibits that showcase the Basque history and culture, including their art, pottery, and traditional clothing. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the Basque language and traditional Basque sports like pelota.
If you want a more interactive experience, the museum offers guided tours that take you through the Basque culture and history. You’ll have the opportunity to see traditional Basque dances and live performances, making for an unforgettable experience.
Overall, the Euskal Museoa Bilbao is a must-visit attraction in Bilbao. You’ll learn about a unique culture and history that you can’t find anywhere else in the world, making for an enriching and educational experience.
Teatro Arriaga
Teatro Arriaga is a must-visit attraction in Bilbao, especially for those interested in culture and the arts. This beautiful theater is located in the heart of the city, and it is one of the main landmarks of Bilbao.
The theater was first opened in 1890 and quickly became one of the most important cultural centers in the Basque Country. The architectural style of the building is a blend of Neo-baroque and Modernist influences, with a stunning façade that features sculptures and ornate decorations.
Teatro Arriaga is named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, a famous composer who was born in Bilbao. Over the years, the theater has hosted a wide variety of performances, from operas and ballets to concerts and plays.
If you are interested in catching a show at Teatro Arriaga, be sure to visit the theater’s website and check the schedule. You can also take a tour of the building to learn more about its history and architecture. The guided tour lasts about an hour and includes access to the stage, dressing rooms, and other behind-the-scenes areas.
Overall, Teatro Arriaga is an iconic attraction in Bilbao that offers a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re a fan of the performing arts or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, this is a must-visit destination in the city.
Puente Colgante
Puente Colgante, also known as the Vizcaya Bridge, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Bilbao, Spain. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this bridge is an engineering marvel and a perfect example of industrial revolution architecture. The bridge connects the two banks of the Nervion River, and its construction was completed in 1893.
What makes Puente Colgante different from other bridges is that it is a transporter bridge. The bridge is suspended by steel cables, and a gondola can carry people and vehicles from one bank of the river to the other. This type of bridge was an innovative solution at the time and was built to save time for the workers who had to cross the river every day to get to their jobs at the docks on the other side.
The bridge is still in use today and has become a popular attraction for visitors to Bilbao. From the top of the bridge, you can get a stunning view of the city and the river. You can also take a ride on the gondola and travel from one bank of the river to the other, experiencing the thrill and wonder of this unique engineering feat.
Visitors can access the bridge easily by taking the metro to the Portugalete station. From there, it’s a short walk to the bridge. There is an admission fee to take the gondola across the river, but it’s worth it for the experience and the breathtaking views.
In conclusion, Puente Colgante is a must-see attraction in Bilbao. Its unique design, historical significance, and stunning views make it an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you take a ride on the gondola or simply admire the bridge from afar, it’s a sight that you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an art lover, a culture vulture, or simply seeking unique experiences, Bilbao, Spain offers attractions that will surely tickle your fancy. Among the notable must-see places in the city are the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao’s modern art exhibits and Frank Gehry’s titanium exterior, Casco Viejo’s historic and cultural streets and buildings, Plaza Nueva’s bustling square, the Basilica of Begoña’s magnificent hilltop view, San Mamés Stadium’s exciting football games, Mercado de La Ribera’s gastronomic heaven and largest indoor market in Europe, Euskal Museoa Bilbao’s comprehensive look into Basque heritage, Teatro Arriaga’s opulent lobbies and performances, and the Puente Colgante’s transportation marvel and UNESCO heritage status. Each destination offers a unique experience that transports visitors to different parts of Bilbao’s rich past and present, inevitably leaving a lasting impression once their journey comes to an end.
