What is interesting to see in Bilbao - the most popular places, photos, attractions

Previously an inconspicuous city, today it has become a major center of modern architecture and historical attractions. Bilbao, which has become the epicenter of innovation in the Basque Country, amazes with its diversity and unique appearance. Even casual walks along its streets are filled with delight and discoveries.

Let's figure it out What to see in Bilbao? Santiago Cathedral, the Guggenheim Museum, the Basque Museum - all these and many other places attract tourists from all over the world. However, even just walking along its streets, you can find something interesting and unique.

So what to see in Bilbao first?

The city offers a variety of entertainment and shopping opportunities. From modern shopping centers to local markets where you can get acquainted with the local culture and traditions. The Nervión River embankment is an ideal place for walking and relaxing, where you can enjoy picturesque views and cozy cafes.

Thus, a visit to Bilbao promises to be a fascinating and memorable experience, full of discoveries and impressions. Despite the obvious advancement of the city in the field of architecture, it still remains devoted to folk traditions, and historical sights successfully complement modern objects of developed infrastructure.

Plaza Nueva or New Square

Don't know what to see in Bilbao, having only one day for sightseeing? One of the must-see places is this square, which resembles a large courtyard surrounded by majestic buildings. Along the perimeter there are palm trees, and in the square itself you can see a statue of King Ferdinand III and a flea market that operates on Sundays. This sunny place with cafes and cozy benches is ideal for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of the city. On holidays, mass festivities are often held here, adding even more liveliness and color to this place.

Bizkaia Bridge

If we talk about the main attractions of Bilbao in short, then we cannot ignore this unique bridge. Launched at the end of the 19th century, it is a transport bridge capable of continuously moving a suspended gondola with cars and passengers. Thanks to the panoramic elevator that takes visitors to the very top, it becomes possible to cross to the other side on foot - provided that you do not suffer from a fear of heights. The idea of ​​creating such a bridge and its implementation are truly amazing.

Guggenheim Museum

The sight of this structure takes your breath away. All tour guides in Bilbao recommend visiting it first. It’s hard to tell whether this futuristic 50-meter-tall building is a flower or a jetliner. Its walls are made of titanium plates shaped like fish scales and shimmer in the sun. Inside, you can see stone installations and running video projections, and sometimes exhibitions of works by famous artists are held here. At the entrance to the museum, there is a metal sculpture of a spider called “Maman” and a 13-meter terrier made of flowers. Overall, this place deserves its high rating.

Basilica of Begoña

The church, located on top of a hill, offers stunning views of the city. Inside the temple there is an icon of the Virgin of Begoña, who is considered the patroness of sailors. The history of this sacred building is full of intrigue and complex events. The church was rebuilt and captured many times, and at one time even served as a fortress for the Christian army. Not every tourist will find time to visit this place, probably only if you have free time after visiting the main attractions of the city.

Church of Saint Nicholas

Spanish sailors have always turned to saints for protection. Saint Nicholas is one of these saints; before going out to sea, sailors would always stop here to pray to their patron. When visiting Bilbao, don't forget to include a visit to this temple in your itinerary. The facade with the clock and towers, as well as the size and architectural style of the baroque temple will leave you in awe. The interior with its rich gilding is no less impressive. Situated on the river bank, the temple offers the opportunity to walk along the riverbank and go to the nearby bridge after visiting it.

Campo Volantin Bridge

In Basque, its name translates as "White Bridge" and it is one of the remarkable attractions of Bilbao. The base of this bridge, 75 meters long, consists of many cables, which suggests the authorship of the project. Santiago Calatrava, realizing his fantasies, created several similar "string" bridges, each of which is unique. The idea of ​​the arched suspended structure creates a feeling of lightness, and the bridge itself is lined with glass tiles, which, despite the inconvenience, makes it incredibly beautiful, as the reviews emphasize. At night, the glass fragments glow, creating a contrast between the white bridge and the black water.

Artxanda Funicular

This funicular, opened at the beginning of the last century, offers tourists an exciting journey to Mount Artxanda in just 3 minutes. At the top of the mountain you can find a hotel complex, restaurants, a recreation park and sports grounds. And of course, no trip is complete without memorable photos. The top of the funicular offers a magnificent view, which will be the perfect place for a memorable photo shoot.

Arriaga Theater

The theater attracts travelers with its exquisite architecture and location on the waterfront. Its successful integration into the urban landscape makes it visible from all sides. The magnificent interior decoration is not inferior to the beauty of the facade: immediately upon entering, the wide imperial staircase attracts attention. If you have the chance, it is worth going to one of the performances - it will be a truly unforgettable experience.

Cathedral of St. James

For connoisseurs of ancient churches in Bilbao, we recommend visiting the cathedral, which is a striking example of classical Gothic. The cathedral is decorated with pointed arches and high pointed spires, which makes it an impressive structure. Inside the cathedral, special attention should be paid to about fifty chapels, as well as statues of saints that have existed since the Middle Ages, as well as other historical artifacts. In the courtyard of the cathedral you can find fruit trees, creating a special atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

Alhondiga Entertainment Complex

If you want to have fun and interesting time in Bilbao, then this entertainment complex will be an excellent choice. Here you will find concert venues, discos, night clubs, restaurants, a library, as well as a central courtyard illuminated by artificial sunlight! You can go up to the top floor to enjoy the transparent bottom of the pool, which will be a great entertainment for lovers of original recreation.

Museum of Fine Arts

This museum is a traditional institution with a rich collection of fine art. In its collection you can find works by such masters as El Greco, Goya, Tapies, Bermejo and many others. It is especially convenient that the museum halls are divided into time periods, which allows visitors to navigate the exhibition.

Palace of the Council of the Province of Biscay

This building, also known as one of the landmarks of Bilbao, was built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries in a unique eclectic style. Before its construction, two competitions were held for the best architectural project. The result was a unique and memorable structure with monumental and richly decorated decor. Particularly attractive are the original lanterns in front of the main entrance, made in the form of eagles with lanterns in their beaks, cast in cast iron. At the beginning of this century, the building was restored.

Maritime Museum

This museum also attracts attention with its unusual architecture and original presentation of exhibits, some of which are exhibited in the open air. If you do not know what to see in Bilbao, then this museum is worth visiting! On the third floor you can see a collection of schooners, boats, barges and ships from different eras. Other exhibits include cabins of scientists and researchers, various marine instruments, and objects related to the work of fishermen and their daily life.

Basque Museum

Created at the beginning of the last century with the aim of preserving the Basque culture, this museum presents the first exhibitions from gifts from citizens who generously shared old things of historical value, such as clothing, artifacts, books, dishes and much more. Today, there are over a thousand exhibits, making the museum a fascinating place for anyone interested in Basque culture and the history of the region.

Euskalduna Palace

This building, designed in the shape of a huge ship, houses the city symphony orchestra. In addition to the usual venues for concerts and events, there are also opportunities for shopping and relaxation, represented by restaurants (one of which has a Michelin star) and a gallery with shops.

Bilbao Attractions: What Else to Visit in Bilbao?

Before setting off on a trip, looking at photos and descriptions of Bilbao attractions, you involuntarily strike the contrast between modern architecture and ancient buildings, with their dignified restraint. However, this contrast captures the imagination and awakens the desire to see it all with your own eyes.

Concordia Station

In the immediate vicinity of the station there are famous hotels in Bilbao, offering high-quality European service. The area where they are located began its development at the beginning of the 19th century. The station building was built in the early years of the last century in the Art Nouveau style. Despite the relative modesty of the decor, the building attracts attention with its architecture.

San Mames Stadium

Football fans are recommended to visit this impressive stadium. Built just a few years ago, it can accommodate up to 40 thousand spectators, and construction work is currently ongoing. Tourist reviews note the stadium's comfort and convenient location.

Bilbao City Hall

This building, decorated with a spire, sunken in classical style, is located on the banks of the river. It is an example of classical architecture, with clear lines and balanced proportions, devoid of unnecessary decorative elements. Although its beauty may not seem so insanely attractive, it is still striking, especially from the other side of the river. The front of the building is always crowded, and sometimes you can witness rallies and demonstrations taking place in front of the city hall.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park

After a busy day of sightseeing in Bilbao, a walk in this park will help you relax. You will enjoy the English style of the garden, a pond with swans and ducks, and peacocks gracefully walking around the grounds. You can also visit the Museum of Fine Arts. Visitors can enjoy the singing fountain and the evening variety shows.

Ribera Market

One of the largest in Europe, this market is one of the attractions of Spain. The market building is designed in the shape of a liner with three decks and offers a wide range of shops with fish, vegetables and seafood, as well as restaurants. On the top floor there is a farmers' market.

Bilbao is different from the traditional Spanish stereotype with its conquistadors and graceful girls. The charm of this city lies in the preservation of ancient traditions, the mystery of the people and the uniqueness of its life. The Basque Country is a special place that will certainly surprise you! Explore the sights with the travel agency Turpoisk and get inspired for your next trip to Spain.