Bilbao
We could also refer to this Basque Country destination as “The City of the Guggenheim”, as when this original museum was built in 1997, Bilbao was changed forever. In fact, to this day it is making an impact due to its groundbreaking structures created by prestigious architects, and it serves as an international reference point for modernity.
Although, curiously, its unique character comes from combining avant-garde with the traditional feel of its old town, full of charming streets and bars offering pintxos, proof that they are passionate about gastronomy around here. All this has earned Bilbao a place of honour on the lists of Spain’s most interesting cities.
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BIZKAIA, EUSKADI
Within the Basque Country, Bizkaia is a territory where tradition and innovation, nature and modernity coexist. Just minutes from its capital, Bilbao, visitors can discover spectacular landscapes of cliffs, forests, beaches and mountains. Bizkaia invites the visitor to enjoy a unique and welcoming destination.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN BILBAO, BIZKAIA, EUSKADI
1. THE OLD TOWN
As the oldest part of Bilbao, this is where it all began, and the neighbourhood still rings with the same traditional charm it always has. But it’s far from being a tame sort of place; the old town is alive with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops, and new spots are popping up all the time. It rides with the times. Come here for a pintxo (a small typical snack) or sip on a glass of wine at a local bar and take your time exploring the trinket shops in the area.
2- GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM
The Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao is a global icon of contemporary art and cutting-edge architecture. Designed by Frank Gehry, its striking structure of titanium, stone and glass has become the symbol of Bizkaia’s transformation. Hosting exhibitions by leading international artists, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the cultural transformation that put Bilbao firmly on the world map.
3. BILBAO’S BRIDGES
Bilbao has grown around its river and the bridges are essential to the city. From the 14th-century San Antón bridge and the recently-opened Frank Gehry to the Calatrava-designed Zubizuri and the Puente de Deusto (a drawbridge that opens up the city centre to vessel traffic), bridges of all kinds connect Bilbao’s two shores.
4- MUSEO DE BELLAS ARTES DE BILBAO
Even before the Guggenheim, Bilbao’s art gallery scene was excellent. The Bellas Artes Museum is home to fascinating collections of nationally renowned painters like Goya, El Greco, Murillo and Gauguin, and works from other influential Spanish and Basque artists. It might be a little older and less famous but the Museo de Bellas Artes is a delight.
5. SAN MAMÉS STADIUM
San Mamés Stadium, located in Bilbao, is an iconic sporting arena steeped in history and passion. Since 2013 it has been home to Athletic Club Bilbao, one of oldest European football clubs, and is renowned for its electric atmosphere and fervent supporters. The stadium’s design seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, paying homage to its predecessor while incorporating state-of-the-art facilities.
With a capacity of over 50,000, San Mamés Stadium will host its second set of EPCR finals in 2026, having previously welcomed the showpiece events for the first time in 2018. Its distinctive architecture and fervent atmosphere make it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts to Bilbao.
6- POZALAGUA CAVES
The Pozalagua caves, in the heart of the Karrantza Valley, are home to one of Europe’s greatest underground spectacles: a forest of eccentric stalactites that defy gravity and spread out in every direction. This unique geological phenomenon makes Pozalagua a magical place, transporting visitors to an underground world of whimsical and surprising shapes.
7. SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATXE
Linked to the mainland by a stone bridge and 241 steps, the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of Bizkaia’s most iconic landmarks. Perched between Bakio and Bermeo, this rocky island offers breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and is steeped in seafaring legends that make it a magical space. Its unique beauty has made it a setting for international film shoots and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the essence of the Basque coast.
8- SANTA KATALINA LIGHTHOUSE
The Santa Katalina lighthouse in Lekeitio is the only one on the Cantabrian coast open to the public as an interpretation centre. From this stunning vantage point, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the sea and the Basque coastline. Beyond its heritage value, it offers immersive experiences related to navigation, seafaring life and the fishing culture that have shaped Bizkaia’s identity for centuries.
9. NERVIÓN WATERFALL
Near the impressive town of Orduña, the Nervión waterfall is, at 270 metres high, the tallest waterfall in the Iberian Peninsula and one of the most spectacular in Europe. Located in a unique natural setting on the border between Bizkaia, Alava and Burgos, it makes for a breathtaking sight, especially after rainfall. From the viewpoint suspended above the gorge, visitors can enjoy a dramatic panorama of the waterfall and surrounding landscape, where nature and mountains meet in their purest form.
10- URDAIBAI
Urdaibai, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of Bizkaia’s great natural treasures. This estuary combines wild beaches, marshes, cliffs and forests, and is home to exceptional biodiversity. It is a place where nature, history and tradition come together, with picturesque towns like Mundaka and Gernika, and is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities in a truly unique setting.
9. OMA FOREST
The Oma Forest, created by artist Agustín Ibarrola, is a unique work where art and nature merge. In this magical spot in Kortezubi, the trunks of pine trees are painted with shapes and colors that, when viewed from specific angles, reveal surprising figures and scenes. Walking through this forest is an open-air artistic experience, located in the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, that invites visitors to see nature through new eyes.
