Why choose Bilbao
Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.
Bilbao's strategic role in Spain's maritime trade has positioned it as a central node in European commerce, drawing attention from global businesses and tourists alike. Despite its prominent status, the city retains corners yet to be fully unveiled by popular travel blogs and social media, such as the enchanting streets of the Seven Streets district in the Old Quarter. The world has looked to Bilbao's successful model of urban regeneration, particularly how the city revitalized its post-industrial landscape into a flourishing arts and cultural scene, exemplified by the Guggenheim Museum. This transformation has inspired cities worldwide to rethink how they leverage art and architecture for economic revitalization.
Pintxos, Bilbao's answer to tapas, deliver an explosion of flavors in just one bite, with creations like Gilda, skewered olives, anchovies, and pickled peppers. This culinary tradition showcases the inventive use of local ingredients such as Idiazabal cheese and txakoli wine, which are produced in the Basque region and seldom found outside it. Each pintxo bar in Bilbao offers a unique twist on these snacks, inviting food lovers to a casual yet rich dining experience that requires no bravery, just a willingness to try bitesize delights. Among these, the marmitako, a hearty Basque fisherman’s stew, provides a warm welcome with its robust flavors of tuna, potatoes, and peppers.
Cruise lines such as Azamara and Celebrity Cruises include Bilbao on their European itineraries, capitalizing on the city’s unique blend of modernity and tradition. Shore excursions often highlight the architectural marvels of the Guggenheim Museum, while also delving into the lesser-explored areas that reveal Bilbao’s revival. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that focus on the art and architecture, including the Puente Bizkaia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the industrial era’s innovation. Famous local figures like the painter Francisco de Zurbarán are celebrated through exhibits in the Fine Arts Museum, giving travelers a comprehensive insight into the creative spirit that permeates the city.
