What Makes Bilbao a Unique City in the Spanish Basque Country?

The Spanish Basque country and Bilbao

My itinerary in the Spanish basque country has been marked by several moments, one being my visit to its offbeat destination capital: Bilbao. But first, let me tell you what led me to explore this part of Spain. I’ve been captivated by how different it was from the rest of the country, whether it was about its people, landscapes, food, local culture, or history. 

In my opinion, the Basque country stands out from the rest of Spain. This autonomous community offers something unique you will not find elsewhere, and Bilbao provides the perfect blend and introduction to this region. Let me guide you into why Bilbao is such a unique city in the Basque country.

What makes Bilbao a unique offbeat destination?

My first impression of Bilbao

When I first arrived in Bilbao, I didn’t immediately realise why some people told me about it as an offbeat destination. From the outside, it seemed like everything was quite normal. I didn’t catch a specific atmosphere or features, making it stand out as a Slow Travel destination. Honestly, I didn’t quite like it. Something was not putting me at ease, and I couldn’t figure out what it was. 

However, after a day wandering in its streets, old town, talking with local inhabitants, and staying on a stranger’s couch for the night, I understood the reason. I started to perceive what makes this city special, my first impression was normal as I had only scratched the surface. But, when I willingly dived into its essence and history, it was crystal clear that Bilbao was welcoming, encouraging me to explore her deeper. 

Uncovering the charm of this offbeat destination

I soon realised that there is much to see in this offbeat destination. Whether you are a foodie explorer, a culture seeker, a people sympathiser, or a historian wanderer, Bilbao has something for your taste. If you are armed with curiosity and eager to understand the soul of this place, wonders will happen. 

In the past, Bilbao was an industrial city with many factories along the main river. Its inhabitants were workers, and the sky was often covered by a thin layer of dust and smoke. Due to this reputation, it wasn’t what I would call an attractive place for tourists. But, following the economic Spanish crisis in the 60s’, the government decided to dismantle what had made its past glory.

The iron walls fell, and a global re-organisation started to come into existence. Bye-bye to the old industrial look! The goal was to transform Bilbao into an attractive destination for international and national visitors. Today, the city still displays relics from ancient times, but a new era is born and constantly evolves. It is now a very enjoyable and offbeat destination for those who want to discover the Basque country and its people without getting to the countryside. 

Bilbao attractions and local gems

To help you better understand and explore Bilbao, I handcrafted a list of recommendations you would like to visit. Some are popular and touristy, while others allow you to get away from the main path and catch a glimpse of the locals’ life.

Guggenheim Museum

This is what some will call a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, named after one of the most important persons in charge of modern city design and evolution. Overall, the Guggenheim Museum reflects Bilbao’s transformation. It symbolises the differences between the old version of the city and the new one, letting visitors admire its past glory.

The building and its flowing titanium curves reflect the changing light, creating a dynamic and notable presence along the Nervión River. Inside, you’ll find an ever-evolving collection of modern art, with immersive installations that challenge your world’s perception. However, don’t stick to the indoor art, but wander around the museum’s open-air sculptures, such as the Puppy flower, the impressive metal spider, or the hypnotic Fog.

Street Art

Bilbao’s walls tell stories, and if you take the time to wander, one of the reasons I consider it an offbeat destination. Especially in the neighbourhoods of San Francisco and Bilbao La Vieja, you will see murals charged with political criticism and messages. These playful bursts of colour and the whole city’s street art reflect its inhabitants’ rebellious and creative souls. This attraction is best explored on foot with no set plan. Slow down, look up, and let the city surprise you.

Pintxos Culture

In Bilbao, as in the rest of Spain, eating is an institution. The Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, can be found in almost every city’s bars. It’s almost like a ritual every visitor should try at least once. Displaying a wide variety, from seafood bites to cheesy creations, there is one you will like. Best way to experience it? Hop from one spot to the next, grabbing a pintxo here, a sip of Txakoli there, and letting the energy of the evening carry you along.

Txakoli Wine

One of the Basque country and Bilbao’s region specialities: the Txakoli Wine. This alcoholic beverage is crisp, effervescent, and with fresh citrus notes. Its particularity?  This light white wine is served from high above the glass to bring out its natural sparkle, matching well with a plate of seafood.

You’ll find it in every pintxos bar in Bilbao, but for the full experience, take a day trip to the nearby vineyards overlooking the sea. 

La Ribera Market

Like every local market in Spain, La Ribera Market is a feast for the senses. Located alongside the river, the whole structure is an attraction, mixing old and new styles. There, you will find the best local produce, fresh seafood, and mouthwatering Basque specialities. Whether you’re here to compose your picnic or to soak in the atmosphere, the buzz of vendors and the freshly grilled fish make it an unmissable stop. And if you need a break, grab a drink at the market’s lively bars and watch the world go by. An enjoyable idea for every Slow Traveller.

The Old Facade of the Train Station

It is one of the most fascinating train station facades I have ever seen. Standing proudly in the heart of Bilbao, the city’s historic train station is made of iron, glass, and intricate stained-glass windows.

Even if you’re not catching a train, stop for a moment to admire the details. This is a nice reminder of Bilbao’s industrial past and artistic spirit. A well-worthy stop for all the train nerds like myself. 

Casco Viejo

The soul of Bilbao beats in its old town, the heart of this offbeat destination. Although touristy, the maze of narrow streets has evolved with centuries of history, and the daily life of locals still impregnates each corner.

In this restricted space, churches stand alongside lively pintxos bars, and hidden plazas invite you to slow down and take it all in.

A piece of advice, there’s no better way to explore than getting lost in this old town. Let yourself stumble upon hidden bookshops, traditional bakeries, and small boutiques along the way. Whether day or night, Casco Viejo is where Bilbao feels most alive.

Euskal Museoa (Basque Museum)

Away from Casco Viejo, the Basque Museum is a quiet and unpopular place for visitors. But this is a grave mistake! It allows us to dive into the region’s unique culture, history, and traditions.

Many relics from the past and exhibitions show the construction of the Basque identity and community deeply connected to their land and the sea. It is a chance to understand what makes the Basque Country so distinct and fiercely proud. Take your time wandering through the collection, and you’ll leave seeing Bilbao through a new lens.

The eclectic and revolutionary side of Bilbao 

However, the list above wasn’t what surprised me the most in this offbeat destination. During one night, I had the chance to be hosted by a local, born and raised in Bilbao. Between a couple of beers, we talked about many topics, but none of them were as interesting as the following one.

Previously, I remarked that in many streets and neighbourhoods, signs were hanging on balconies or stuck on the walls with the same common point: they were all spreading a politically engaged message. Don’t get me wrong, I know that every city has it, just that in Bilbao it was A LOT. 

When I bring that point into our discussion, a spark lights up my new friend’s eyes. He told me that locals here are particularly engaged in whatever causes or NGOs. The result? A proud and constant manifestation of their values and engagement through strikes, signs, and more. It appears that the pride of the Basque people is reflected in its capital inhabitants, another sign of their uniqueness. 

An offbeat destination awaits you in Bilbao. 

Bilbao stands as a unique and offbeat destination in the Spanish basque country. Its features, history, and soul transmitted through its inhabitants make it a mandatory stop if you are planning to visit this part of Spain. 

The first impression you will have of the city might not be the most attractive, but if you take time to uncover what makes it stand out, the rewards are worth every effort. As with every destination, the best way to explore it is yours. If you are equipped with curiosity and a Slow Traveller mindset, a whole new universe will open with as many new possibilities. 

Where will you go next? Will you keep venturing throughout the fantastic Basque Country? Or are you looking forward to go down south and explore Valencia? 

Bon voyage!

Wander with purpose – Connect with Heart.