Cultural Buffs Rejoice: Venture the Arts, Music, and Literature Scene of Bilbao

If you’re in Spain, artists and cultural buffs shouldn’t miss the Basque city for Bilbao tourist attractions. The metropolis is known as a major hub for arts, culture, architecture and design, music, and language. Bilbao is home to the oldest European language, award-winning cuisine, and many museum marvels. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Bilbao.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum and other museums and galleries

If you want to be introduced to Bilbao’s art scene, make sure to stop by the Guggenheim Museum, spectacular and other-worldly design by Frank Gehry. The sleek sets the momentum for the city’s art appreciation. Make a beeline to the Atrium and the museums 20-gallery exhibits.

Other must-see museum and galleries are:

• Archeological Museum
• Museo Bellas Artes
• Museo Vasco
• Museo Marítimo Ría de Bilbao

Embark into its famous historical landmarks and places

Bask on Bilbao’s old world charm by crossing the bridge to Casco Viejo – the city’s Old Town. Explore its quaint historic Seven Streets and corridors and enter to antique shops and mystical cafés.

Here’s what you can find in Casco Viejo:

• Teatro Arriaga
• Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari
• Plaza de Arriaga
• Plaza Nueva
• Paseo del Arenal

Cross its many bridges including a UNESCO Heritage Site

We’re talking about the famous Vizcaya Bridge, the world’s first bridge made of steel and iron. First, tourists are transported through a hanging gondola. There, they go up the walkway and take a tour of the bridge’s mechanism.

Other famous bridges you don’t want to miss:

• Zubizuri Bridge
• San Antón Bridge
• La Salve Bridge

Take a gastronomic culture tour

Bilbao is famous for its pintxos bites – a small piece of bread, topped with meat, seafood, olives and vegetables, and cheese. If you’re out and about to eat these treats, you can head to Gure Toki, El Globo, and La Olla. Remember to take any wine pairings or craft beers with it!

Other places you can eat or go see:

• Mercado de la Ribera
• Michelin-starred Mina Restaurant
• Café Bilbao
• Bascook
• Foodoo

Relax and enjoy the city views

If you want to take a break of your Bilbao tour there are plenty of plazas to take off your mind into. Why not go retail shopping as well? Bilbao has lively areas to pursue and admire the city’s architecture and art scene while trotting along retail shops and quaint cafés.

What to do and where to find scenic views:

• Ride a funicular to Mount Artxanda
• Shop at Gran Vía
• Visit Plaza Circular
• See Plaza de Federico Moyúa and the Chávarri Palace
• Unwind in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, Bilbao’s largest green space

Get there by car and convenience

Renting a car in Spain, in quality rates, is unmatched due to its convenience, especially when touring famous cities and landmarks. There are plenty of car rental companies to choose online starting from $20 a day. You can either pick up your car in the airport or in the hotel, you can find prices and read more here.

Drivers must be 21 years old, though those younger than 25 should pay a driver’s fee. What’s more, you need a valid driving license in your home country and top it with an international driver’s permit.