Over the last decade, Bilbao (pop. 354,000) has made a technological, cultural, and aesthetic turnaround. The economic engine of the Basque country and a major shipbuilding center since the 1700s, Bilbao, known as “Botxo” to Basques, was an important trade link between Castilla and Flanders. Bilbao has diversified from its industrial roots by appealing to tourists with its forward-thinking architecture, busy shopping streets in the casco viejo, and pleasant green spaces. Its incredibly efficient public transportation, built around a futuristic subway system and the recently overhauled international airport, remains the envy of other big cities. Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum, whose graceful gleaming curves embody the spirit of the new Bilbao, has powerfully fueled the city’s rise to international cultural prominence. Enjoy Basque cuisine, summer festivals, and unforgettable art in this booming tourist destination.
Ferrocarriles Vascongados/Eusko Trenbideak (FV/ET): Estación de Atxuri, Cl. Atxuri, 8 (☎ 902 54 32 10; www.euskotren.es), Trains to San Sebastián (2hr.; 17-18 per day M-F 5:57am-8:34pm, Sa-Su 6 ...more
The Ría de Bilbao runs through the city, separating the historic casco viejo to the east from the newer parts of town to the west. The train stations are directly across the river from the casco viejo ...more
During Semana Grande (Aug. 17-25), rates are higher than those listed below. Plaza de Arriaga and Calle Arenal, near the casco viejo, have budget accommodations, while upscale options pepper the river ...more
Restaurants and bars in the casco viejo offer a wide selection of local dishes, pintxos, and bocadillos. The new city has even more variety. Mercado de la Ribera, on the riverbank at the end of C. Somera ...more
MUSEO DE BELLAS ARTES. Although it can’t boast the name recognition of the Guggenheim, the Museo de Bellas Artes wins the favor of locals. The museum has an impressive collection of 12th- to 20th-century ...more
Bilbao has a thriving bar scene. In the casco viejo, revelers spill out into the streets to sip their txikitos (chee-KEE-tos; small glasses of wine), especially off of Barrenkale, one of the seven original ...more
The massive fiesta in honor of Nuestra Señora de Begoña takes place during Aste Nagusia, a nine-day party in late August, with fireworks, concerts, theater, bullfighting—you name it. Pick up a Bilbao ...more
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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