Bilbao (Bilbo in Basque) is the capital of Biscay and the largest city in the Basque Country, located in northern Spain along the Nervión River. With around 348,000 inhabitants, it forms the core of Greater Bilbao, a metropolitan area with over one million people.
The Basque Country region
The Basque Country is known for its unique cultural identity, marked by its language, Euskara, and its rich culinary tradition. Surrounded by mountains and close to the Cantabrian Sea, Bilbao blends nature, history, and modernity in a privileged setting.
Highlights of Bilbao
Avant-garde architecture: The iconic Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, symbolizes the city’s urban transformation.
Old Town (Casco Viejo): The historic heart with its “Seven Streets,” full of bars, shops, and local life.
Gastronomy: Pintxos, cod “pil-pil,” and the best Basque cuisine in restaurants and taverns.
Culture and leisure: Museums, theaters, and festivals like Bilbao BBK Live.
Natural surroundings: Green mountains and nearby beaches, perfect for getaways.
Bilbao has evolved from an industrial hub into an international benchmark for design, culture, and sustainability, making it a must-see destination in northern Spain.