Bilbao and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

BILBAO

Bilbao, which is the capital of the province of Bizkaia (Vizcaya), is one of the Basque cities that has undergone a major transformation in recent decades. Originally a key industrial center in the 19th century, Bilbao faced a severe economic crisis in the late 20th century, particularly affecting its shipbuilding industry. Over the following decades, the city reinvented itself, shifting its focus toward services, culture, and tourism. A symbol of this transformation is the Guggenheim Museum, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Proof of this is the Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao, one of the most known symbols of the city.

Guggenheim Museum
Once you arrive in Bilbao, in the center of the city, you’ll find the unique Guggenheim Museum, which has become a symbol of the city since 1997. This museum, designed by Frank Gehry, is one of the most impressive museums in the world. It is said that you never see the same museum twice because the impact of the sun's rays and the reflection of the clouds on the titanium structure change its tonality almost every day, transforming the museum according to the weather. In addition to the artistic exhibitions inside the museum, you will find "Puppy", an artwork made of flowers designed by Jeff Koons, welcoming visitors. Around the museum, you can also find more artworks, such as "Maman", a huge spider designed by Louise Bourgeois, and the "Fire Fountain" by Yves Klein.



Casco Viejo
The Casco Viejo (the Old Town), also known as Las Siete Calles, is the heart of the city, the origin of Bilbao. In Casco Viejo, there are different atmospheres, ranging from the most traditional to the most alternative scenes in the city. It´s a place where the diversity of the inhabitants of Bilbao is present in every corner. There are always people in the bars and shops, making it a lively place to visit. It’s the perfect place to start your day exploring and to end it enjoying delicious pintxos (Basque tapas).

 

Mercado de La Ribera
Located in Casco Viejo, Mercado de la Ribera is a prestigious market known for the quality of its products. Additionally, it is the largest covered market in Europe, with more than 10.000 square meters of surface area. Recently, this iconic building has been remodeled, maintaining its original structure, but incorporating modifications to adapt its appearance to the present day.

Since the renovation, there is also a bar-restaurant called La Ribera. It has become a popular place to enjoy live music, especially alternative and indie music.



Teatro Arriaga

Built in the late 19th century, the Arriaga Theatre is one of Bilbao’s most emblematic buildings. It was named after Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, a musical prodigy known as the "Basque Mozart". The theatre hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including plays, concerts, and stand-up performances.

It’s also the starting point of Aste Nagusia, Bilbao’s famous 10-day local festival, marked by the traditional txupinazo (opening firework). 
 

SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATXE

241 steps, rocks, sea, and wind.

The magical islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the must-see spots on the Basque Coast.

 This idyllic spot is located on a small islet, between the coastal towns of Bakio and Bermeo , connected to the coast by a stone bridge and a staircase of 241 steps. On top,

you will find the church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Built in the 10th century in honor of Saint John, the hermitage has survived multiple fires and attacks - the most recent in 1978, after which it was fully rebuilt. According to local tradition, if you climb the 241 steps to the top and ring the bell three times, your wish will come true. 

 

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is also known worldwide as a filming location for the seventh season of Game of Thrones, where it served as Dragonstone. For fans of the series, it’s an unforgettable place to visit.