The 10 best places to visit in Bilbao and the surrounding area

There are huge amounts of things to see and do in Bilbao and the near area. Narrowing them down to a list of 10 has been a very tricky process! But having been here a little over 2 months, visiting all of the major sights, I have settled on the following. You can view photos with captions on our Facebook Page to find out more. Enjoy!

Number 10: The Arriaga Theatre

The Arriaga Theatre is one of the most recognisable buildings in Bilbao. Originally constructed between 1885 and 1890, it cost 1 million pesetas! It takes the name of Juan Crosótomo de Arriaga, a composer from Bilbao, who died at the tragic age of 19. The Theatre is located between the Old Town and Abando. As a school we visit the Theatre on a monthly basis to enjoy music, dance and plays of all kinds.

Number 9: The Cathedral of Santiago, Bilbao

The Cathedral was built, firstly, in the 14th century, but since then has been reconstructed several times. It is an extremely impressive building that acts as the nucleus of the Old Town. Inside you find a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Number 8: Mundaca (Mundaka)

The name of this municipality comes from the Latin “munda aqua,” which means “clean water.” Situated to the North-East of Bilbao, the town rests on the Mundaca Estuary. Apart from boasting a pretty town, with traditional and attractive architecture, it is also an incredible place to surf! The left-hand wave of Mundaca is considered to be one of the best in the world.

Number 7: The Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum was designed by Frank O. Gehry and constructed between 1991 and 1997. It’s a truly unique and amazing structure. Since its inauguration the Museum has hosted works from the finest contemporary artists and was very much the catalyst for the renovation of Bilbao as a dynamic and modern city. The “Guggenheim Effect” is a frequently spoken concept; today you can see the results in terms of economy and tourism.

Number 6: Biscay Bridge/Hanging Bridge

We go to the Biscay Bridge every month. A popular tourist destination, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Connecting Portugalete with Las Arenas, a district of Getxo, it is the first bridge at the mouth of the river Nervión. Inaugurated in 1893, it was a symbol of the second wave of the Industrial Revolution in Spain.

Number 5: Las Arenas

A beautiful walk along the coast with a relaxed atmosphere, imposing mansions and unbeatable views, Las Arenas has also been given the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Very much worth the trip, especially if it is sunny!

Number 4: The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

Founded in 1908, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum offers a wide variety of works of art, including contemporary, baroque, romanticism and impressionism that spans across 10 centuries. The Museum is in the middle of the beautiful Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Even though the building itself does not match that even the Guggenheim, it boasts a greater range of art. Which is better is entirely based on personal preferences.

Number 3: San Juan Gaztelugatxe

Gaztelugatxe is a small island, part of the Bermeo region, around 35 kilometres north east of the centre of Bilbao. The island offers fantastic views and a fascinating history. Up the 241 steps to the top of the island you find a small church, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The place has an almost fictional appearance. It looks like something out of Harry Potter!

Number 2: Beaches in Sopelana

The Arrietara and Atxabiribil beaches in Sopelana have it all. Both are sand beaches, separated by white rock face, from the top of which you can see amazing views of the coast. The waves are moderately strong, more than enough to surf, however, you can also swim. The beaches both obtained the Blue Flag in 2014. Quite simply, if you like the beach, you’ll love Sopelana.

Number 1: The Artxanda Funicular

In the end I had to choose the Artxanda Funicular as the best place to visit in the Bilbao area. Rising up in the cable car is an experience in itself, that ends with a view of the entire centre of Bilbao. Once you reach the top you are delivered into a small park with a pleasant café. You can go up at any stage of the day to relax, contemplate the views or to get to know the layout and sights of the city for the first time. In summary, Artxanda offers a special experience for everyone, which always impresses.

If you would like to get to know Bilbao through a Spanish course, click here!

Thanks for reading.