Bilbao, the capital of Bizkaia, is a city that perfectly combines modernity with tradition. This city, once an industrial area of shipyards, iron and steel companies and factories, has been able to reinvented itself over the years to become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, thanks in part to the villages, beaches and mountains that make up the province.
If you’ve arrived with suitcases in hand and are looking for a place to leave them, finding a left-luggage office is the ideal first step to enjoying this city without worries. At The Blue Lockers we offer you the solution, with luggage lockers in Bilbao, protected with maximum security.We tell you what to see in Bilbao after you drop off your bags, so you can enjoy an exceptional trip!
The Guggenheim Museum: The architectural jewel of Bilbao
You can’t talk about Bilbao without mentioning the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece designed by architect Frank Gehry. Inaugurated in 1997, this museum has been one of the most important drivers of urban transformation of the city. Its main attraction is its futuristic structure, but its interior with internationally renowned contemporary art exhibitions is not far behind.
The museum is famous not only for its art collection, but also for the sculptures that surround it, such as the iconic ‘Puppy’ by Jeff Koonsa dog made of flowers, which has become a symbol of the city, aswell the “Mamá” spider, by Louise Bourgeois.
Casco Viejo: The historic heart of Bilbao
For those who prefer to explore the local history and culture, Bilbao’s Casco Viejo is the perfect place. Also known as ‘Las Siete Calles’ (The Seven Streets), this medieval neighbourhood is the historic city centre and is full of narrow streets, charming squares and buildings with centuries of history. Here you will find the Cathedral of Santiago, an impressive Gothic building dating back to the 14th century, or the Church of San Nicolás.
The Old Town is also known for its lively social life..
No puedes dejar de pasear por sus callejones, llenos de bares y restaurantes donde podrás disfrutar de los famosos pintxos, pequeños bocados tanto de alta cocina como de recetas tradicionales que son una delicia para el paladar.
La Plaza Nueva, con su arquitectura neoclásica, es el lugar ideal para sentarse y disfrutar del momento.
La Ribera Market: Authentic flavours of Bizkaia
On the banks of the Bilbao estuary is the Mercado de la Ribera, easily accessible from the tram stop of the same name. It is one of the Europe’s largest indoor markets.
Este mercado no solo es atractivo de ver desde el exterior, también es un lugar donde puedes degustar productos frescos y locales.
Desde pescados y mariscos hasta carnes, frutas y verduras, la variedad es inmensa.
The Art Deco style building has been renovated in recent years and now also houses spaces where you can enjoy tapas and pintxos made with the freshest ingredients, as well as bars and restaurants. It is the perfect place for discovering Basque gastronomy in its truest form.
The Ensanche: the new Bilbao
El Ensanche is the neighbourhood that symbolises modern expansion. of Bilbao. After the demolition of the city walls in the 19th century, this area developed as a commercial and financial centre. Strolling along the Gran Vía is to discover a different Bilbao, with wide avenues, luxury shops, banks and stately buildings.
One of the highlights of the Ensanche is Plaza Moyúa, a key meeting point in the city and home to buildings such as the eclectic Chávarri Palace and the Charlton Hotel, one of the most luxurious places to stay. This neighbourhood is also home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city, offering a high-level gastronomic experience.
Doña Casilda Park: A green oasis in the middle of the city
Bilbao is not only art and architecture, it also offers green spaces where you can relax..
El Parque de Doña Casilda, conocido cariñosamente como “el parque de los patos” por sus estanques con estos animales, es un amplio espacio ajardinado en el centro de la ciudad.
Con un lago, fuentes y una gran variedad de árboles y flores, es el lugar perfecto para descansar después de un día de exploración.
Inside the park is the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, another of the city’s great museums, which houses a valuable collection ranging from ancient art to the avant-garde of the 20th century, with works of art that have nothing to envy to the Guggenheim’s exhibitions. In conclussion, Bilbao is a city that has it all: culture, history, gastronomy and modernity. From the impressive Guggenheim Museum to the charming Old Town, every corner of the city tells a unique story. So, if you’re arriving in Bilbao with luggage, don’t hesitate to leave your suitcase in a locker and delve into this fascinating city. With so much to see and do, your only worry will be what to visit first!
