Explore Bilbao, Biscay & the Basque Country

Bilbao is the largest inhabited city in the Basque Country and a clear example of urban transformation that has also maintained its unique identity – a city of contrasts combining avant-garde with tradition.

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✅ Things to do

A starting point for any trip to Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum where visitors can see an array of modern and contemporary art or just marvel at its fascinating architecture. Other sights contributing to the imaginative cityscape are Euskalduna Conference Centre and the Isozaki and Pelli towers. Make sure you allow time to explore the labyrinth of streets in the Old Town, representing the true heart of the city.

Nearby, Biscay offers the diverse Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, stunning San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and historic Gernika. The Basque Country also boasts Donostia-Sebastian's beaches and culinary scene, Vitoria-Gasteiz's medieval charm and the renowned Rioja Alavesa wine region. Whether you're into art, history or food, this region has something for everyone.

🏨 Accommodation

If you’re planning to stay overnight, book early to get the best rates.

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🙋‍♂️ Tourist info

ℹ️ There are two tourist offices in the city: Plaza Circular and Alameda Mazarredo.
🗣️ Euskara (Basque) and Spanish are spoken in Bilbao – learn the basics and impress the locals.
🍻 Drinking in the streets is forbidden - only drink inside or near authorised venues, tables and terraces.

For more information about visiting Bilbao, check out the official tourism website.

🚨 Emergency info

Emergencies can inevitably happen. Dial 112, the European emergency number, free of charge if you are involved in an urgent incident of any kind.