Bilbao, the capital of the Basque Country, is a modern city that combines a rich industrial past with cuttingedge architecture and vibrant culture. To truly appreciate its transformation, the best place to start is the Mirador de Artxanda. Located on the slopes of Mount Artxanda, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of Bilbao’s skyline, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum with its shimmering titanium curves, and the Nervión River that winds through the city. You can reach Artxanda by a scenic funicular ride, which departs from Plaza del Funicular and takes just three minutes. Once at the top, you’ll find a peaceful park, perfect for a leisurely stroll while soaking in the views, or a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic with a backdrop of the city’s most famous landmarks. From here, you can also see how Bilbao’s urban landscape is framed by the surrounding green hills, showcasing the city’s unique blend of urban and natural beauty. Another mustsee viewpoint is Mount Pagasarri, one of Bilbao’s two guardian mountains. A favorite among locals, Pagasarri is a popular hiking destination, offering numerous trails that cater to all levels of fitness. The most common route starts from the neighborhood of Basarrate and takes about an hour and a half to reach the summit. The hike is a rewarding experience, especially in spring when the hills are lush and the wildflowers are in bloom. At the top, you’ll be greeted by expansive views of the city and surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot to pause and reflect on Bilbao’s harmonious coexistence with nature. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Cantabrian Sea. After descending, treat yourself to a hearty Basque meal at one of the nearby traditional eateries, where you can indulge in local dishes like bacalao a la vizcaína (Basquestyle cod) or txangurro (spider crab). For those who prefer to stay closer to the city center, the Azkuna Zentroa, formerly known as the Alhóndiga Bilbao, is a cultural and leisure complex that offers a unique perspective of the city. Originally a wine warehouse, this historic building was transformed by French designer Philippe Starck into a vibrant hub for art, culture, and recreation. The rooftop terrace is a hidden gem, providing sweeping views of the city’s modern architecture juxtaposed with its historical heart. While you’re there, take the time to explore the complex’s other attractions, including its impressive indoor swimming pool, where swimmers appear to glide across the glass ceiling, and its eclectic collection of art installations scattered throughout the building. In the evening, the terrace becomes a lively social spot, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy a drink while watching the sun set over Bilbao’s rooftops.
For a different perspective of Bilbao, head to the modern Abandoibarra district, where the city’s cuttingedge architecture is on full display. Once a bustling industrial area, it has been transformed into a sleek urban space filled with green parks, cultural institutions, and contemporary buildings. The riverside promenade offers wonderful views of the city, especially at dusk when the lights reflect off the river, creating a magical atmosphere. Stroll along the Paseo de la Memoria, a walkway lined with sculptures by renowned artists, including Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza, that celebrate Bilbao’s artistic heritage. As you walk, you’ll pass by the Euskalduna Palace, a striking building that resembles a ship, symbolizing Bilbao’s maritime history. This multifunctional space hosts concerts, exhibitions, and conferences, making it a vibrant part of the city’s cultural scene. Another highlight of Abandoibarra is the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava. Its white, saillike structure spans the Nervión River, offering a unique vantage point to admire Bilbao’s skyline. The bridge connects the Paseo de la Memoria with the heart of the city, making it a convenient and picturesque route for exploring both sides of the river. As you cross, stop in the middle to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding buildings, including the iconic Isozaki Towers, which add to the modernist feel of the area. Nearby, you’ll find the famous Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture by Frank Gehry. Its undulating titanium façade resembles a ship in full sail, a nod to Bilbao’s naval history. The museum’s outdoor plaza is a popular gathering spot, where you can enjoy a coffee and admire the giant Puppy sculpture by Jeff Koons, a cheerful guardian of the city. From here, you can walk along the river to the nearby Calatrava Bridge, another architectural jewel that offers stunning views of the museum and the surrounding area, especially at sunset when the light plays off the titanium panels. For a taste of Bilbao’s traditional side, head to the historic Casco Viejo, the city’s old town. This charming district is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and lively bars. The Plaza Nueva, a neoclassical square in the heart of Casco Viejo, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Grab a pintxo, the Basque version of tapas, and take a seat at one of the outdoor cafés to soak in the lively atmosphere. From here, it’s a short walk to the Mercado de la Ribera, a bustling market where you can try local delicacies like txakoli, a refreshing Basque white wine, and bacalao a la vizcaína, a traditional cod dish. The market’s rooftop terrace offers a fantastic viewpoint to watch the comings and goings of the city below. Finally, for a glimpse of Bilbao’s industrial past, visit the Puente Colgante, or Hanging Bridge, in the nearby town of Getxo. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s oldest transporter bridge, still in operation since 1893. Its unique design allows it to carry people and vehicles across the Nervión River without obstructing maritime traffic. Take the elevator to the top for a breathtaking view of the river and the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Bay of Biscay, making it a perfect spot to end your exploration of Bilbao’s best viewpoints.
