What to see in Bilbao city center

Inaugurated in 1997 and designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture that has transformed Bilbao's image. With its distinctive titanium facade, the museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as internationally renowned temporary exhibitions. Don't forget to stroll around its surroundings to admire outdoor art installations, such as the famous Puppy sculpture, a giant dog covered in flowers.

The Old Town, known as the Seven Streets, is the historic heart of Bilbao. Here you will find a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with bars, shops, and restaurants where you can savor traditional pintxos and a glass of txakoli. Don’t miss the Santiago Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, and the Plaza Nueva, a social gathering spot that hosts an antique market every Sunday.

The Gran Vía of Bilbao is the city's main artery, perfect for shopping and architecture enthusiasts. Along this avenue, you’ll find impressive buildings in both classical and modern styles, as well as a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés. Make a stop at Moyúa Square, where you can relax and soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the area.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bizkaia Bridge or Hanging Bridge connects the banks of the Bilbao estuary and stands as a testament to 19th-century architectural ingenuity. From its observation platform, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the estuary. This bridge, the first of its kind in the world, remains a symbol of Bilbao.

This charming park, inaugurated in 1907, is the green lung of the city and a perfect place to relax. Doña Casilda Park features beautiful gardens, ponds, and play areas for children, as well as a diverse array of flora and fauna. If you're looking for a moment of tranquility, you can enjoy a walk along its paths and sit on one of its benches to take in the scenery.

The Fine Arts Museum is another must-see in Bilbao. Its vast collection spans from medieval works to contemporary art, featuring pieces by artists such as Goya, El Greco, and Oteiza. The museum's architecture, a fusion of styles, is also worth a visit. Be sure to check the schedule of temporary exhibitions, as it frequently hosts high-level artistic events.

For football enthusiasts, a visit to San Mamés Stadium, known as "The Cathedral," is a must. This modern stadium, inaugurated in 2013, is home to Athletic Club de Bilbao. If you have the chance, attend a match to experience the passion of Bilbao's fans. You can also explore its facilities, which include a bar overlooking the stadium interior.

The Bilbao estuary is a beautiful natural setting that divides the city in two. Taking a walk along its banks is an excellent way to enjoy panoramic views of Bilbao, including the iconic Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Alternatively, you can opt for a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective, passing by landmarks such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Euskalduna Palace.

The Azkuna Center, formerly a wine warehouse, is now a vibrant cultural space hosting exhibitions, cinemas, restaurants, and a gym. Designed by Philippe Starck, this center is renowned for its unique architectural design and its Atrium of Cultures, featuring 43 columns in various styles. Be sure to explore its cultural programming and special events.

The Ribera Market, located in the heart of the Old Town, is one of the largest markets in Europe and an ideal place to immerse yourself in Basque gastronomy. You can find fresh regional products as well as enjoy a wide variety of tapas and pintxos at its many bars and restaurants. The building's architecture, which combines Art Deco and Rationalist styles, is also worth admiring.

To enjoy a panoramic view of Bilbao, head to the Artxanda Viewpoint. You can access this viewpoint via the Artxanda funicular, which will take you from the city center to the top of the hill in just a few minutes. Once there, you'll be treated to stunning views of the estuary, the Old Town, and the city's modern architecture.