About
Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. It sits on the Nervión river and works as a major port and economic centre for the region, so it has the feel of a working city as well as a place for visitors.
What draws visitors
The city is best known for the Guggenheim Museum, which is the reason many travellers come here in the first place. Its striking architecture is a landmark in its own right, and a visit to the building is a natural starting point for any trip to the city.
Bilbao is also known for its industrial heritage. Its port and riverside past are part of the story of the place, and walking along the river gives a sense of how the city grew around trade and industry.
Planning a visit
- Allow time for the Guggenheim Museum, which anchors most itineraries.
- Explore the riverside and port areas to see the industrial character of the city.
- Use Bilbao as a base for the wider Basque Country, which lies within easy reach.
Bilbao suits visitors interested in modern art, architecture and the working history of northern Spain. Its mix of a major museum and an active port makes it a distinctive stop in the Basque Country. It is also known as Bilbo.