By Bilbao, the jewel of Northern Spain and the capital of the Basque Country, is much more than just the famous Guggenheim Museum. The city is a crossroads of tradition and modernity, attracting visitors with its rich historical past, stunning landmarks, world-class gastronomy, and unique cultural heritage. In this blog, we will explore the history of Bilbao, its most famous attractions, and delve into the local culinary delights, from wines to chocolates and the famous Iberian ham.
The History of Bilbao: A City of Tradition
Bilbao’s history dates back to the 14th century when Don Diego López V de Haro, the city’s founder, officially established the settlement in 1300. The city’s rapid growth was due to its role as a major commercial hub, primarily through iron ore extraction and processing. In the 19th century, the iron and steel industries made Bilbao one of Spain’s industrial strongholds, bringing economic growth and urbanization. By the end of the 20th century, as heavy industry declined, Bilbao embarked on a new path, transforming into a cultural center that focused on tourism and creative industries.
Sights in Bilbao: The Harmony of Old and New
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, which has been drawing visitors to the city since its opening in 1997. The museum’s titanium cladding changes color throughout the day and with the weather. This avant-garde architectural masterpiece not only serves as an art gallery but also symbolizes Bilbao’s modernization. Around the museum, you’ll find several impressive outdoor sculptures, including Jeff Koons’ famous floral “Puppy.”
TIP: Guggenheim Museum Tour
Guggenheim Museum Private Tour
The historic center, known as Alde Zaharra or Casco Viejo, is Bilbao’s old quarter, where cobblestone streets, charming squares, and old buildings can be found. In the historic center, make sure to visit the Santiago Cathedral, Bilbao’s oldest building and main place of worship. Named after the city’s patron saint, it’s also a stop for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. The Plaza Nueva is a popular meeting spot for locals, filled with tapas bars and cafes.
Don’t miss the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, which houses one of Spain’s most important art collections, ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
To see how Bilbao became a symbol of modernity and avant-garde, you must visit areas where famous architects’ innovative works blend with more traditional parts. Modern Bilbao is concentrated on the left bank of the Nervion River, in the neighborhoods of Indauxtu, Abando, and El Ensanche.
One idea is to start at the shopping street Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro, filled with shops and elegant buildings, and head towards Plaza Moyúa, the true heart of the Abando district. Here, you’ll find a spectacular fountain surrounded by buildings of various styles. From here, continue to the Indauxtu neighborhood, where you can visit Azkuna Zentroa (Alhóndiga Bilbao), a former wine warehouse turned into a multicultural center, designed by Philippe Starck into an extremely original structure.
Gastronomic Delights
Bilbao’s gastronomy is famous worldwide, and the local dishes are true specialties. The Basque cuisine is rich in seafood, meats, and delicious cheeses. Don’t overlook the famous pintxos, which are the Basque version of tapas: traditional small bites often served on a slice of bread or in small dishes, topped with meats, fish, vegetables, or cheeses. The name comes from the Spanish word „pinchar,” meaning „to prick,” as many pintxos are held together with toothpicks. Pintxos are incredibly diverse, and in the Basque region, especially in Bilbao, pintxos hopping—visiting various bars and restaurants to try different pintxos—is a popular social activity. Since pintxos are typically small, one or two bites, you can sample many flavors in one evening.
TIP: Bilbao: Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour
Basque Food Tour
Wines
Bilbao is located near the famous Rioja wine region, one of Spain’s best wine-producing areas. The wines from this region are rich in flavor and aroma, making them the perfect accompaniment to Basque dishes. Local wineries offer special tastings, where you can discover the finest local reds and whites. If you’re interested in the history of this renowned wine region and its delicious wines, read our blog here.
TIP: Rioja Wine Tour
Private Wine Day
Rioja VIP Tour
Iberian Ham and Other Local Delicacies
Iberian ham is one of the most famous products of Spanish cuisine, and in Bilbao, you can taste this unique delicacy at many places. The rich and complex flavor of the ham comes from the curing process and the special breeds of pigs used. If you’re curious about the history of Iberian ham, check out our blog here.
TIP: La Rioja: Jamon Iberico Farm Tour
Bilbao is a city where traditional Basque culture and modernity walk hand in hand. The historical buildings and stunning modern architecture, the traditional dishes, and the creative gastronomy all contribute to making Bilbao a city every traveler should explore. Whether it’s culture, food, or simply the city’s unique atmosphere, Bilbao always has something new and exciting to offer.