Bilbao

The largest city in the Basque Country is Bilbao which is the capital of the province of Biscay. Bilbao is situated on the banks of the Nervion which is a tidal river. With a population of 372000 inhabitants, the city is financially, economically and industrially active and has contributed a lot to the Spanish economy. It is one of the best places to eat and drink in Spain with a friendly environment.

Bilbao was established as a village on 15 June 1300 and in the 19th and 20th century it developed its industrial era. The most important industries in Bilbao are Shipbuilding and iron and steel production. In Bilbao, football (soccer) and basketball are the most famous competitive sports. In addition many outdoor games are popular in Bilbao like hiking as well as rock climbing in the mountains.

Bilbao is a city full of greenery; even in the city centre you will find green mountainous slopes. The climate in Bilbao is mild oceanic with a temperature not rising more than 35 degree Celsius in summer and rarely falling below freezing point in winter. Therefore the city does not suffer extreme heat or cold.

The city’s celebrations which draw tourists’ attraction to the city are many. In the middle of August, a week of celebration takes place for Semana Grande where people enjoy fabulous fireworks and a colorful festival. The Herri Kirolak strong man competition is also another entertainment for tourists. The celebrations also include many other activities like free music performances, street entertainment and bullfighting. In winters, it is an off-peak season and you can find cheap flights. Therefore summer season is the best time to visit Bilbao.

The city is now focusing on its tourism and services and has recently undergone major urban renewal in order to get out of the industrial history of the city.

Bilbao is a beautiful city and in order to view great sceneries you can climb the Mallona stairs from Plaza Unamuno and Artxanda Funicular. These two places are the best places for sightseeing as the view from the top offers a sight of the city’s estuary.

Bilbao is famously known as the home for fine arts museums. Museums are Bilbao’s main attraction to tourists. Many famous museums can be found of which Guggenheim Museum is the most popular of all. Museo de Bellas Artes, Basque Museum and La Ría Maritime Museum are also popular museums.