Tourist Places To Visit In Bilbao

The largest city in the Basque region of Spain, Bilbao continues to be a major tourist draw. The city offers visitors a fantastic blend of modern and historic masterpieces that makes for an eclectic mix of cultures and structures. The Guggenheim Museum itself is the best place to visit in the city and so much of major draw that it created a term known as “The Bilbao Effect”. This part of Spain is also famous for its Basque-inspired cuisine and the Pinxtos Bars in the Old Town are sure to attract hungry visitors. The Fine Arts Museum is another rich cultural space that houses some of the finest modern and classical artworks in the world. Bilbao continues to go from strength to strength as a tourist-favourite destination in Spain.

This is hands-down the best place to visit in Bilbao. The structure itself is a modern work of art and a shining example of 20th century architecture. Frank Gehry built this incredible museum between 1993 and 1997 and drew inspiration from the aerospace industry when doing so. The museum holds works from majority of the world’s leading sculptures and painters and is not be missed at any cost. It makes for educative experience for adults and kids alike.

Another one of the best places to visit in the city, this museum is divided into 2 buildings, each home to its own spectacular collection of artworks. One is dedicated to historic European, Basque and Flemish Paintings. The other, a modern building is dedicated to contemporary Spanish artists. Additionally, Restaurante Zortziko, one of Bilbao’s Michelin-starred restaurants is also located in this space. This space is perfect for intellectuals and curious visitors alike.

This charming neighbourhood, known as Casco Viejo is one of the best and most popular places to visit in Bilbao. This area is connected by 5 bridges and the heart of the area lies around the Siete Calles. The stunning narrow lanes, cute cafes and peaceful yet historic atmosphere make it a tourist hotspot throughout the year.

A structure designed by French Architect Daniel Buren to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Guggenheim, it has become one of the most popular places to visit in the city. It is located close to the museum and visitors can get amazing views of the structure and its grounds by catching an elevator that will take them to the viewing points available. These points offer incredible views of the city.

Built in the neoclassical style in the 19th century, this square is a popular tourist spot due to the number of boutique stores, restaurants, galleries and most importantly Pinxtos Bars. These bars serve up delicious alternatives to Tapas offering meats and vegetables on small pieces of bread, in the traditional Basque style. This is a great place to grab a meal with loved ones. In the evening the plaza is buzzing with people keen on grabbing a drink and a bite to eat.

This is a fantastic place to visit for tourists keen to know more about the origins of the Basque culture and its rich history. Located in the centre of the Old Town, the museum is divided into 3 primary departments namely, Archaeology, Ethnography and History. Historians and curious visitors will thoroughly enjoy this space.

The Santiago Cathedral was constructed back in the 19th century. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it was originally spoiled in 1571 due to a fire, only to be reconstructed in the 19th century in the Neo-Gothic style. The cathedral is open daily for the general public and offers visitors guided tours of the space on request.

A relatively newer structure opened up in only 2008, this museum situated in the Old Town is one of the best places to visit for travellers keen on learning about the Basque culture’s evolution. The space often exhibits items from local archaeological sites, relics etc. Additionally, there are educational programs organised for young kids and adults who might be interested to learn more about these items.