Bilbao might not be the first city that springs to minds when you decide to plan a week away from home. As cities go it isn’t the biggest and it isn’t the most well known in Spain. But this incredible little city in the heart of Spain’s Basque region has everything that you want and more. In recent years the city has become a Mecca for art lovers from around the world all coming to enjoy the delights of the Guggenheim Museum and the Museo de Bellas Artes where visitors can appreciate some of the finest art to be found anywhere in Spain. The town has experienced something of a revival in tourism with stunning new architecture like that of the Guggenheim drawing in visitors from all over the world. The harbour area too has been rejuvenated by the influx of new tourism and there is much to see and do here both in the ancient medieval quarter of the city or in the more modern heart of Bilbao located on the eastern bank of the river.
Enjoying the Guggenheim
You simply cannot visit the city without spending at least one morning of your stay exploring the delights of the Guggenhein Museum. As you approach the museum you will discover that the entrance is guarded by a mythical beast, although it is a beast with a twist. A vast 40 ft Cerberus, the multi headed hell dog that guarded the gates to the underworld in Greek mythology, stands outside the museum. The twist is that rather than being a menacing and frightening beast this one is made entirely from flowers. Cerberus is the creation of Jeff Koons an American artist known for his colourful and kitsch creations.
As if the outside of the museum wasn’t interesting enough the inside will exceed all of your expectations. The central atrium of the museum measures and impressive 150ft in height, all of the different galleries of the Guggenheim radiate from this heart. There is also a raised walkway that will allow you to walk directly from the atrium to the water gardens outside. The exhibitions that are on display in the galleries changes throughout the year, but there is one permanent exhibition that you really should see. Called the ‘Matter of Time’ it is constructed from weathered steel, a staggering 1,000 tons of it and always managed to make an impression on a visitor.
Taste of the Region
After all of the sensory stimulation provided by the Guggenheim you will be ready for a spot of lunch, and if there is one thing that this region does exceptionally well it is food. Rather than sitting down and having a large meal, take yourself on a tour of the bars that are located in the old town and indulge in the Pintxos, the Basque version of the ever popular tapas that each establishment offers. With your energy levels restored it’s time to take in some of the sights of the city. There are seven remaining ancient streets that mark the original medieval town of Bilbao, known as the Siete Calles. Deep in this heart of the medieval town you will find the Plaza Nueva which dates from the 19th century, and as with many traditional Spanish plazas it is bordered by a number of cafes and bars. That market that takes place in the plaza is famous for antique books, old coins and antique postcards.
By the time you have finished exploring the town you should be ready for dinner. Head back to the Guggenheim and experience food the likes of which you will not have tasted before. Here you will find some of the traditional dishes of the region served with a contemporary twist. Though you really must book in advance if you want to enjoy a meal here. All of the restaurants in the city offer a selection of fresh seafood and chicken dishes that are guaranteed to please the palate.
Things to Do
If you have the energy to stay up into the small hours you should make your way to a few of the clubs where you will be able to enjoy a selection of live music or dance the night away to the music provided by their resident DJ’s. If clubbing is not your scene try spending an evening at the opera, take in a ballet or enjoy one of the many concerts that are always taking place in the city. For details of events check in with the local tourist information centre when you arrive. Enjoy the beach at San Sebastian, this beach the Playa de la Concha is the biggest beach in the area and is just perfect for relaxing after a day or two of exploring Bilbao. Visit in July and you will be in time for the annual Jazz festival. There is also an annual film festival that takes place here and in August the whole place is awash with colour for a weeklong festival of music and dance. Even if you don’t arrive in time for any of the festivals and celebrations you will still have a wonderful time exploring the city of Bilbao.
Author’s Bio
Elle loves renting a car from Bilbao airport to explore the region and the amazing sights it has to offer.
