Bilbao is the most populous city in the Basque Region of Spain with 350,000 people. Its history has been as an industrial and port city but it has enjoyed a rebranding in the past couple of decades.
Bilbaos revitalisation was largely kicked off by the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997. The iconic Frank Gehry designed museum has become a major draw card and landmark of the city. Normally, over a million people visit the Guggenheim every year.
Bilbao has an active food scene sharing the Basque Regions passion for Pintxos. You could easily spend a very long time just checking out the amazing places to eat in the city. Of course there is no shortage of tours available to guide you through the gourmet offerings available.
The Old Town is a popular area with visitors and features many of the best places to eat.
The La Ribera Market is a great example of a traditional Spanish market with everything you need to create your next Basque feast.
The Casilda Iturrizar Park is a nice place to get away from the crowds and have a break. It is about a 12 minute walk from the Guggenheim.
The Maritime Museum provides a glimpse into Bilbaos rich nautical history.
The biggest celebration in Bilbao is Aste Nagusia. Usually held in August, the festival runs over 10 days and has something for everyone. This includes parades, concerts, street parties and more. If you can time your visit to include this festival you are sure to have a good time.
Flights are available from most major Spanish cities to Bilbao.
Vueling offers flights from most European countries to Bilbao.
Easyjet flies from UK and a few European destinations.
Ryanair flies to nearby Santander.
The train from Madrid to Bilbao will take around 4 hours 30 minutes.
Driving from Madrid to Bilbao will take around 4 hours 30 minutes.
Driving from Vitoria-Gasteiz will take just under an hour.
The bus will take about 2 hours.
The drive from Santander will take about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The bus will take about 1 hour 30 minutes.
The drive from nearby Donostia-San Sebastian will take around 1 hour 10 minutes.
A bus will take about 1 hour 30 minutes.