From architectural gems to artistic masterpieces, Bilbao is a city steeped in cultural heritage.
There's also a thriving local food scene and attractive coastline, all framed by the rugged rolling beauty of the Basque Mountains.
Artistic licence
For an authentic and unforgettable experience of Bilbao’s rich cultural offering, a visit to the globally-renowned Guggenheim Museum is essential. An architectural triumph with a striking titanium exterior, designed by architect Frank Gehry, it was opened in 1997 by the then king of Spain, Juan Carlos I.
Inside you'll find an impressive array of modern art by the likes of Andy Warhol, Willem de Kooning and Yoko Ono.
The museum is located on the southern bank of the River Nervion, surrounded by scenic parks. Tickets can be booked online, and entry for kids under the age of 12 is free.
Cultural gems and culinary treats
The city boasts a rich variety of museums and galleries dotted around its central areas. The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, located just off the bustling Euskadi Plaza, contains an excellent collection of Spanish, Basque and wider European art from the Middle Ages onwards.
Also worth a visit is the arts and cultural centre of Azkuna Zentroa, found further south at Arriquíbar Plaza. It's housed in the wonderfully restored former municipal wine exchange, while there's also a swimming pool inside.
Another highly-regarded museum is the Euskal Museoa, which documents the fascinating history of the Basque region.
The cobbled streets of Bilbao offer a seemingly endless collection of restaurants, bars and cafés too, serving up tastes of traditional Basque cuisine. A good place to start is across the river to the east, at Plaza Nueva. Here you'll find a dizzying array of eateries lining the narrow streets, many serving delicious seafood and meats cooked over hot charcoal.
Meanwhile, further south and towards the river bank, Mercado de la Ribera is the largest covered food market in Europe. Frequented by locals and visitors alike, it boasts huge arrays of fresh produce, alongside numerous lively restaurants and bars, and offers a serene river-view setting.
The great outdoors
Few cities boast outdoor spaces as spectacular as Bilbao. Even within its most urban areas, you'll find picturesque parks and plazas perfect for unwinding. Among the most popular is the Parque de Doña Casilda de Iturrizar, set on the south bank of the Nervion.
Further afield, you can drive a short distance to the foot of Artxanda, a mountain offering magnificent views of the city and beyond. Here a funicular railway will take you to the top, where you'll also find restaurants and bars. Meanwhile, a short 15-minute drive north takes you to Getxo, a charming coastal town with some wonderful beaches.
Hiring a car in Bilbao means all this and more is within reach. Reserve your vehicle today and start planning your Basque adventure.