Bilbao, architecture, tradition, life

The icon of the transformation of Bilbao is the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum with its stunning architecture, the work of Frank Gehry, of which you have probably heard already. You have to come and see for yourself how design and architecture impregnate the whole city, starting with the Paseo de Abandoibarra, very close to the museum itself, an undeniably charming area where tourists and locals, joggers and families, mix and meet every day.

Another design classic is the city metro, the work of Norman Foster, and Azkuna Zentroa.

La Ría de Bilbao and the bridges

During your visit to Bilbao you can take as your point of reference La Ría, the estuary, an artery along which ships used to arrive and which today remains a key part of city life. Following its course you’ll come to the Puente Bizkaia, a jewel of industrial architecture and a World heritage Site. Discovering La Ría and its bridges is a journey through the city’s history.

La Ría also takes you to the Casco Viejo, or Old Town of Bilbao, a lively area which is very close to the hearts of Bilbao’s inhabitants. Take a walk around its bustling “seven streets” and before you know it you’ll be trying pintxos and wine or “txikiteando”.

GETTING AROUND BILBAO:

Visiting Bilbao without having to carry coins in your pocket is as easy as getting a Barik card that will make easier for you to get to the most tourist areas of the city, or a Bilbao Card that also gives you access to a wide range of discounts. You can buy them at the Tourist Offices or buy them on-line.

• By metro: The  Metro Bilbao was designed by Sir Norman Foster. It allows you to get around the city in a comfortable way; to visit numerous nearby towns such as Santurtzi or Portugalete; or to visit the beaches of Sopela and Plentzia.
• By tram: Nowadays they make the Atxuri-Basurto route, with a central course that vertebrates the Abandoibarra area, with stops in front of several architectural landmarks, such as the Arriaga , the Guggenheim, or the San Mamés.
• By city bus: You can also travel within the city by using one of the 43 city bus lines that the city has
• By bicycle: There is an automatic bicycle loan service and numerous rental companies of conventional and electric bicycles.
• By boat: The company  Bilboats offers you two maritime-cultural visits.
• Artxanda funicular