Bilbao - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Guggenheim Museum: One of the most iconic landmarks in Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum is home to a world-class collection of contemporary art and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
- 2. Casco Viejo: Bilbao's historic old town, known as Casco Viejo, is a charming area filled with narrow streets, traditional Basque architecture, and bustling pintxo bars. It's a great place to wander around and soak up the local atmosphere.
- 3. Basque cuisine: Bilbao is known for its delicious Basque cuisine, which includes pintxos (small tapas-style dishes), seafood, and hearty stews. Be sure to try some of the local specialties at one of the city's many excellent restaurants.
- 4. Athletic Bilbao: The city's football team, Athletic Bilbao, is a source of great pride for locals. The team has a unique policy of only fielding players of Basque origin, making them one of the most distinctive clubs in Europe.
- 5. Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Another must-visit museum in Bilbao is the Fine Arts Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Spanish and Basque art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- 6. The Bilbao effect: The Guggenheim Museum's opening in 1997 marked the beginning of a period of urban renewal and revitalization in Bilbao, known as the "Bilbao effect." The city has since become a major cultural and economic hub in northern Spain.
- 7. La Ribera Market: Bilbao's largest covered market, La Ribera, is a bustling hub of activity where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and other local delicacies. It's a great place to experience the city's vibrant food culture.
- 8. Bilbao Metro: The city's modern metro system is not only a convenient way to get around, but also a work of art in itself. Many of the metro stations feature striking designs by renowned architects and artists.
- 9. Bilbao Weather: Bilbao has a mild, oceanic climate with relatively cool summers and mild winters. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so be sure to pack an umbrella if you're visiting in the fall or winter.
- 10. Basque language: While Spanish is the official language in Bilbao, many locals also speak Basque, a unique and ancient language that is unrelated to any other language in the world. Learning a few Basque phrases can be a fun way to connect with the local culture.