The Basque Gem of Innovation

Bilbao, a city in Spain’s Basque Country, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades. From its industrial roots, it has emerged as a beacon of innovation, art, and culture. In this comprehensive guide to Bilbao, we’ll provide you with all the essential information to explore this dynamic city and experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

🇪🇸Getting to Bilbao from Madrid:

Bilbao is easily accessible from Madrid via various transportation options. The most convenient way is to take a direct flight from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) to Bilbao Airport (BIO), with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can choose to travel by train, with a journey time of about 4 to 5 hours, or take a scenic drive along well-maintained highways, which takes around 4 to 5 hours.

Check here companies that make this route, with prices, dates, departure and arrival times:

By Bus:

Alsa

By Train:

🏛️What to See in Bilbao:

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Marvel at the iconic architecture of Frank Gehry’s masterpiece and explore its contemporary art collection.
Old Town (Casco Viejo): Wander through charming narrow streets, visit the Santiago Cathedral, and savor pintxos at traditional taverns.
Euskalduna Palace: Discover this modern architectural gem that hosts concerts, conferences, and cultural events.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Explore a rich collection of Spanish, Basque, and European art, housed in a neoclassical building.
Vizcaya Bridge: Cross the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge, a unique transporter bridge that connects Portugalete and Las Arenas.

🏰A Brief History of Bilbao:

Bilbao’s history is closely tied to its industrial heritage and location on the Nervión River. The city played a vital role in Spain’s industrialization, with the growth of the steel and shipbuilding industries. In recent decades, Bilbao has reinvented itself as a hub of culture and design, with the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao at the forefront of its transformation.

🌞Best Time to Go:

Bilbao experiences a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The best time to visit is during the late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. Summers can be warm but are ideal for exploring the city’s beaches.

🌆Nightlife in Bilbao:

Bilbao offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and cultural events. In the Old Town, you’ll find traditional taverns that come alive in the evenings. The Indautxu and Ensanche areas also offer a variety of bars and music venues for a night on the town.

🏘️Recommended Neighborhoods to Stay in Bilbao:

Casco Antiguo (Old Town): Immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of Bilbao’s Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to historic churches, quaint squares, and traditional taverns. Explore centuries-old architecture and discover hidden gems around every corner.
Ensanche: Discover the bustling heart of Bilbao in the Ensanche neighborhood, characterized by wide avenues, elegant buildings, and bustling commercial activity. Stroll along Gran Vía, the main thoroughfare, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and admire the architectural grandeur of landmarks such as the Chavarri Palace.
Indautxu: Experience the vibrant energy of Indautxu, a lively neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and trendy boutiques. Explore the bustling streets around Plaza Moyúa, where you’ll find upscale shopping districts, theaters, and chic cafes.
Deusto: Explore the vibrant riverside neighborhood of Deusto, home to the prestigious University of Deusto and a diverse array of cultural institutions, including the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Wander along the banks of the Nervión River, visit the iconic Deusto Bridge, and enjoy scenic views of the city skyline.

🍝 Recommended Places to Eat in Bilbao:

Bilbao boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a mix of traditional Basque cuisine and international flavors. Here are some recommended dining establishments to explore:

Restaurante Mina: Address: Calle de Lersundi, 2, 48009 Bilbao. Indulge in innovative Basque cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients in a sophisticated setting.
La Ribera Bilbao: Address: Muelle de la Merced, s/n, 48005 Bilbao. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bilbao’s largest covered market, where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood, pintxos, and regional specialties.
Restaurante Azurmendi: Address: Corredor del Txorierri, 1, 48195 Larrabetzu, Bizkaia (located just outside Bilbao). Embark on a culinary journey at this Michelin-starred restaurant known for its avant-garde Basque cuisine and stunning countryside setting.

🏟️Getting Around Bilbao:

Bilbao is a compact city with an efficient public transportation system. You can explore the city on foot, use the metro, tram, and buses, or rely on taxis. Consider purchasing a Bilbao Card for convenient access to public transport and discounts on attractions.

🔑Bilbao’s Hidden Charms – Secrets Shared by Locals:

To truly experience Bilbao like a local, consider these hidden gems cherished by Bilbainos:

Pintxos in the Santutxu Neighborhood: Venture to this less touristy area to discover authentic pintxos bars, such as La Viña de San Francisco.
Caserío Zabalaga: Visit this 16th-century Basque farmhouse in the middle of the city, which hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
Basque Maritime Museum: Explore this lesser-known museum dedicated to the maritime history of the Basque Country.
Monte Artxanda: Take the funicular to the summit of Monte Archanda for panoramic views of Bilbao.
Bizarro Café: Enjoy live music and a relaxed atmosphere at this local haunt in the Old Town.

Best Places to Stay and Best Spots to Eat in Bilbao

Here we provide complete information about our recommendations for the best hotels for a great stay, as well as restaurant options at various prices for all palates.