Bilbao, and the wider Biscay area, is a treasure trove of unique Basque delights. From sandy beaches to architectural marvels, this sun-drenched metropolis is the ideal place for a European getaway.
Gawp at the Guggenheim
Bilbao’s Guggenheim was opened in 1997 by King Juan Carlos. The brainchild of architect Frank Gehry, it’s one of modern Europe’s great feats of engineering. Sat on the Nervion river, the building takes the form of a boat, reflecting the city’s maritime past. The museum is the third to be opened by the Guggenheim Foundation, after New York and Venice.
The museum is renowned for its large-scale installations of modern art, as well as a focus on Basque and Spanish artists. When it opened, the collection was formed by a combination of existing pieces in the Guggenheim collection plus newly acquired and specially commissioned works, such as Richard Serra’s 100-metre-long Snake. Alongside the main building you will find two mesmerising pieces – Jeff Koons’ Puppy and Louis Bourgeois’ Maman.
Medieval Meanderings
The Casco Viejo – known colloquially as Las Siete Calles (The Seven Streets) – is the medieval district of Bilbao city centre. So called because the Old Town consisted of just seven streets, Casco Viejo features many interesting buildings, including Plaza Nueva (built in 1821), a picturesque square which hosts a flea market every weekend.
The Seven Streets are an ideal place to wander around and explore. The area is known for its various restaurants and taverns, where you can stop for pintxos – the Basque version of tapas – and a tzakoli (sparkling white wine). The area also houses a number of popular small food shops, where you can buy local favourites, such as snails and tinned fish.
Get Wet at Getxo
Getxo is a coastal town in Biscay. It is roughly 12km from Bilbao city centre and can be reached by car in just 15 minutes via the N-637. An affluent area of approximately 80,000 people, the town is a favourite with sun seekers keen to escape the city.
A stroll along the promenade takes in the grand seafront villas, built in the 19th century by wealthy merchants. It’s worth stopping at one of the town’s many cafes to snack on the delicious fresh squid. After that, you’ll no doubt want to sample an ice cream from one of many the vendors on the seafront.
The town grew out of the port of Algorta, a historic shipping community on the shore of the Bay of Biscay. The 12th century Andra Mari Church is well worth a visit, as is the Aixerrota Windmill, the only remaining antique windmill in the region. Why not purchase some of the mill’s distinctive flour and try making your own bread...?
Car hire is the perfect way to explore the area and hiring a car at Bilbao could not be easier. Visit us at the airport arrivals desk, and let us hand you over a set of keys so you can get out and explore everything this incredible region has to offer.
