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Fun Things to do in Bilbao, Spain

In the heart of the Basque Country in northern Spain, there's much to explore in Bilbao. Here is a list of fun things to do in Bilbao, Spain curated specially for you.

By Cruise Booking Team

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The industrial city of Bilbao is in Northern Spain, surrounded by green mountains. Moreover, it is the capital of the Basque Country. Bilbao’s unique geographical position provides it with a soothing climate throughout the year and the city is blessed with ample rainfall. The port of Bilbao drives the economy of this city and this region.

Moreover, historical places, museums, cultural sites, and architectural wonders add to the allure of Bilbao and bring tourists from across the world.

So, if you are looking for things to do in Bilbao, Spain, there are plenty of options.

5 Fun Things to do in Bilbao, Spain 

Let’s continue with some of the amazing things to try here while on a cruise trip in Bilbao. Find out more about these options below and see if they can give a great start to your vacation.

1. Visit the Guggenheim museum

If you make a highlight video of Bilbao, you cannot skip the Guggenheim Museum. The sheer aesthetic of this place will keep you amazed. Frank Gehry is the one behind the futuristic design of the place. The structure of this museum has been created using titanium, glass, and limestone.

The exterior portion of the museum is intricately decorated with numerous artworks from some of the most celebrated artists in the world. If you are an art connoisseur, you will surely appreciate the beauty that surrounds this architectural wonder. The Atrium situated in the interior portion, is the ‘heart of the museum’. Various artworks are on display in the museum's 20 galleries. So you can plan a visit to explore its collection, exhibitions, and activities there while making a plan for your upcoming trip.

2. Enjoy a funicular ride up Mount Artxanda

Since the mountains are an integral part of Bilbao, that is why the trip to Bilbao remains incomplete without exploring its hilly areas. Funicular Artxanda is a famous funicular railway that operates on the routes to Mount Artxanda. While riding on Funicular, you will get some of the most magnificent views of the whole city of Bilbao and also the perfect shots for your Instagram page.

Also, Read: Top 5 Biggest Landmarks in Spain

3. Explore the Mercado de la Ribera

Located on the right bank of Nervion river, this is one of the most famous and popular indoor markets in Europe. The beautiful location of Mercado de la Ribera gives the place an extremely colorful vibe and motivates you to take some beautiful pictures.

Shops here mostly sell local products like meat, fish, vegetables, or fresh fruits. Here you may get the chance to know local vendors, retailers, and farmers that can provide you with insight into their culture.

4. Explore Dona Casilda Iturrizar Park

This park is the biggest open space in Bilbao, next to the Guggenheim Museum. You can consider this location to be an excellent choice for an afternoon visit or an evening stroll. Everything about this location, from the vast green spaces, to the rides and water fountain ponds, makes a visit to this mesmerizing place worthwhile. The surroundings, artwork, and sculptures takes you to a bygone era and inspire you to learn about the history of this beautiful place.

Also, Read: What is the best msc cruise ship for families?

5. Enjoy the local cuisine

Bilbao is definitely a city for foodies and the local cuisine is not your typical Spanish food. Bilbao is popular for traditional Basque cuisine, for serving excellent pintxos (small plates) and the freshest seafood including salted cod prepared with garlic and olive oil (bacalao).

Spider crabs or txangurros are another Basque seafood delight, often eaten stuffed and baked. This traditional Bilbao food is prepared using a filling of crab meat, bread crumbs, tomato and onions, flavored with garlic, parsley, brandy and olive oil. The crabs are stuffed with this mouth-watering mixture and baked until they are crispy on top.

Final Words

When you talk about the best things to do in Bilbao, Spain, that discussion cannot end without mentioning football. If you are in this city, pay a visit to the stadium of Athletic Bilbao. As a major center of culture and art, every activity in Bilbao is exceptionally amazing.

Also, Read: 9 Must-See European Cruise Destinations

Header Image by ismaeljs at Depositphotos

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