A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Bilbao was a thriving industrial hub for a significant part of the 20th century; however, after experiencing a period of economic downturn, the city embarked on a transformative journey in the 1990s.
Located in the north-central portion of Spain, approximately eight miles south of the Bay of Biscay, Bilbao is home to around 350,000 residents, ranking it as the 10th most populous city in the country.
After the Nervion River flooded in 1983, the industrial seaport of Bilbao presented a blank canvas, reimagined as the artistic centre of the Spanish Basque Country, hosting the famous Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and a plethora of other attractions.
When I moved to Spain, I quickly learned that the country’s cuisine is not only vast but also varied by region. One of the highlights is thepintxos, which are bite-sized snacks primarily from the Basque Country (País Vasco). Unlike tapas, which are generally larger and served on small plates,pintxosare perfect for eating with your hands. Having enjoyed them at various Spanish restaurants worldwide, I was eager to visit the region and experience them firsthand.
Strategically situated along the northern coast of Spain, Bilbao presents an outstanding opportunity for those exploring the Basque Country and further into Spain. This city continues to gain popularity, with new attractions emerging regularly, ensuring each visit offers fresh experiences.
The next day, which marked our final day in Spain, we ventured into the vibrant streets of Bilbao, searching for more local experiences. Our first stop was the local market, a significant part of Bilbao. This market, which has recently undergone renovations, now features a blend of fresh food offerings and tapas bars.
Bilbao is an industrial port city located in northern Spain. This vibrant destination is the largest city in the Biscay province and ranks as the 10th largest city in Spain overall. Among its notable attractions, the famous Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum showcases a variety of modern and contemporary artworks. Bilbao serves as the most likely arrival point for travelers coming to the Basque Country due to its primary airport. While navigating Bilbao’s complex train system, which includes six different networks, may seem daunting, this guide will help simplify your travel experience in this exciting city.
The Basque Country is a remarkable region to explore in Spain. Although it is less touristy than Andalusia, Madrid, or Barcelona, it still offers a wealth of experiences, particularly in terms of wine, cuisine, surfing, and modern art.