Bilbao: the city of surprises

Bilbao is a city where history and modernity are uniquely intertwined. From its Old Town full of charm and tradition to its impressive architectural transformation led by the Guggenheim Museum, the capital of Bizkaia offers a complete experience for lovers of culture, gastronomy and architecture. With its rich culinary offerings, picturesque streets and avant-garde projects, Bilbao has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations in northern Spain.

HISTORY

Bilbao, the capital of Bizkaia, is a city that has reinvented itself over the centuries without losing its essence. Founded in 1300 by Don Diego López de Haro along the Nervión river, this port city grew around trade and the mining industry. The river, which runs through the city like a vital artery, has witnessed its growth and transformation, making Bilbao the industrial and cultural heart of the Basque Country.

The Old Quarter, affectionately known as “Las Siete Calles” (The Seven Streets), is the ideal starting point for delving into the city’s history. This charming maze of cobbled streets, full of traditional bars, shops, and markets, is a window into the past but also a vibrant place where Bilbao’s daily life unfolds. Among its most notable monuments are the Cathedral of Santiago, a gem of Basque Gothic architecture, and the Church of San Antón, which appears on the city’s coat of arms and is one of Bilbao’s most beloved symbols. Strolling through these streets reveals a Bilbao that has preserved its roots, where every corner tells a story, and the aromas of Basque cuisine fill the air.

A COMMITMENT TO MODERNITY

Beyond its history, Bilbao is a city that has embraced modernity, reinventing itself through architecture and urbanism. A pivotal moment in this transformation was the opening of the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry. Inaugurated in 1997, this spectacular titanium, steel, and limestone building is now one of the most important museums in the world and a work of art in itself. Its presence has placed Bilbao on the global map of contemporary art and has been a catalyst for the city’s urban renewal.

Around the Guggenheim, an ambitious urban plan has transformed the riverbanks. Former industrial land has given way to parks, promenades, and modern buildings designed by some of the world’s most renowned architects. Notable examples include Santiago Calatrava’s Zubizuri Bridge, the impressive Euskalduna Palace, and the Isozaki Towers, all of which give Bilbao a unique architectural profile, where the old and new coexist in perfect harmony.

THE GASTRONOMIC RITE

But Bilbao is not just about history and architecture. The city is also famous for its cuisine, considered one of the richest and most varied in Spain. Here, the culinary experience begins with the famous pintxos, small, flavour-packed bites found in every corner of the Old Quarter. The bars in Las Siete Calles are the perfect place to start a pintxos route, where you can taste everything from traditional recipes to innovative creations. Plaza Nueva, with its lively terraces, is one of the city’s gastronomic hubs, offering both classic and modern options.

For those seeking a more formal dining experience, Bilbao boasts some of the best restaurants in the Basque Country, blending tradition and innovation. Places like Arandia de Julen, specialising in authentic Basque cuisine, or Satea, with its creative haute cuisine at affordable prices, are just a few of the many options that will delight even the most discerning palates. And for those who want to enjoy a meal with a view, the Arbolagaña restaurant, atop the Museum of Fine Arts, offers modern dishes with a Basque touch in a spectacular setting.

RIVER CRUISE

A visit to Bilbao wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Nervión River, which has witnessed the city’s evolution. Today, cruising its waters is a unique experience that allows you to see the city from a different perspective. River cruises along the Nervión take you to its mouth, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Olabeaga district and the stunning Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante), a masterpiece of engineering linking Portugalete and Getxo. This river route is not only an opportunity to admire the landscape but also to immerse yourself in Bizkaia’s rich naval and industrial history.

THE FUTURE OF BILBAO

Bilbao’s future also looks promising. The city continues to evolve with ambitious projects like the transformation of the Zorrozaurre peninsula into a technological and residential island, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid. With this project, Bilbao is moving towards an innovative future, becoming a model of sustainable urbanism in Europe.

In short, Bilbao is a city that offers a complete experience. Its rich history, impressive architecture, and exquisite cuisine make it a unique destination. Whether you’re strolling through its historic streets, enjoying its modern life, or savouring its unrivalled culinary offerings, Bilbao has something to offer every visitor. If you’re looking for a city that combines tradition, modernity, and culture, Bilbao is the perfect place to explore.

Now, imagine complementing your visit with an afternoon of bullfighting in Bilbao. The excitement in the bullring, the passion that surrounds each bullfight…. All this will make your stay in Bilbao an unforgettable experience, a unique moment that you will remember forever. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the best of this city and its bullfighting tradition in a single trip!

TICKETS BULLFIGHTING BILBAO

Book your tickets for the bullfights in Bilbao. Official advance sale box office, where you guarantee the best seats to enjoy a unique experience. Check the calendar of shows, prices and seats available, and secure your place in the most awaited bullfights. Don't miss out on your tickets!

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