Every time we embark on the Camino del Norte, we eagerly anticipate visiting Bilbao. This charming, contemporary city has become a key centre for Spanish insurance companies, banking, and industry. However, don’t let this deter you from including it in your Camino del Norte journey. Bilbao is far more than just a business hub!
The city retains its amazing culture, and the area’s prosperity has led to an influx of trendy new eateries, attractions, bars, and cafes.
10 Reasons to Visit Bilbao
Bilbao is packed to the brim with things to do. Here are our Top 10 reasons why you need to visit:
1. The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is world-famous and synonymous with Bilbao. The artwork begins with the stunning architecture of the building and the sculptures that surround it. Inside the Guggenheim’s uniquely constructed walls, you’ll find exhibitions by the world’s greatest modern artists. This place is mind-blowing.
2. The Seven Streets
The Old Town in Bilbao is known as Casco Viejo (The Seven Streets). These streets are jam-packed with personality and capture the character of Old Bilbao. Take a break and chill out in one of the traditional Basque cafes or restaurants.
3. The Theatre
The two theatres in Bilbao, The Arriaga Theatre and The Campos Eliseos Theatre, stare across the river at each other. They are glorious to view from a distance, and you can also catch some great shows inside!
4. El Ensanche
El Ensanche is an upmarket neighbourhood located to the west of the city. Its wide streets are lined with old townhouses. This is a shopper’s metropolis, home to famous fashion house brands. Try to be conservative with your credit card, as some of the fashion is as irresistible as it is expensive!
5. Pintxos
You may have heard that tapas and Pintxos are very similar. Our tip is to visit a few bars and get a miniature meal with a drink. The Camino del Norte and the Basque region, particularly, are famous for their cuisine. This is the ultimate method of tasting the most extensive variety of food in a limited timeline.
6. Santiago Cathedral
Santiago Cathedral is the crowning glory of Bilbao’s old quarter. The Gothic-style building is named after St. James, patron saint of Galicia and star of the Camino de Santiago.
Seeing the scallop shell in the Cathedral will remind you that, while you’re enjoying this fantastic city, there’s still more walking ahead!
7. Athletic Bilbao
It’s not often that a football club makes a CaminoWays.com list, but Athletic Bilbao’s heritage is admirable, to say the least. The club has managed to stay at the top of Spanish football despite limiting themselves to employing Basque players only since 1912. This celebration of Basque Nationalism is a testament to the club and its community.
8. Artxanda Lookout
A cable car, Bilbao Funicular, takes you from the city to Artxanda Lookout. This vantage point towers 250 metres above the city, allowing you to spot all the sites we’ve listed from a birds-eye view. The green mountainous backdrop should remind you that the Camino trail awaits you.
9. Vizcaya Bridge
Vizcaya Bridge is a UNESCO heritage site, so you know it’s got something special! The world’s oldest transporter bridge connects two sides of the city across the Nervion River. The structure is a prime example of industrial ingenuity in the nineteenth century and still operates today.
10. River Maritime Museum
This epic museum celebrates Bilbao’s rich fishing culture. Local boat owners participate in the free exhibition area, proudly showcasing their handiwork. Essentially, it’s an open mic for ships, and the sense of community is obvious to everyone. Pop down and learn why the seafood you’re eating is so tasty!
If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, check out our blog on Bilbao’s Hidden Gems: Uncovering the City’s Best-Kept Secrets.
Discover the routes:
- Camino del Norte From San Sebastian to Bilbao in 1 Week
- Camino del Norte From Bilbao to Santander in 1 Week
Contact our travel specialists for more information on visiting Bilbao as part of one of our Camino del Norte walking or cycling tours.
