Bilbao is a city in Spain, the largest city in a region called Basque country, located on the Northern border of Spain. As with most areas of Spain this city, especially being so large has its own sense of identity demonstrated by its culture, cuisine, architectural and historical heritage. Most of the tourist accommodation and facilities lies in a part of the city next to the Nerion River, with tourist attractions such as the historical parts of the city being elsewhere or across this river. Examples of places to visit in this city include the historic part of the city with its architecture known as the Old Quarter. Basilica de Begona and the Cathedral de Santiago are religious buildings within this city with an interesting past and containing pieces of old pieces of art from local artists. If you are interested in Art then there is a local Museum of Fine Art, for a taste of the local goods available there is a Sunday Flea Market. Car hire can be picked up directly from the airport so that you can enjoy the full extent of the city and the culture on offer.
Bilbao Airport information
Bilbao Airport (BIO) is located 12 km north of the city, in Lou. It handles approximately 3.6 million passengers a year and is composed of one terminal. Food outlets are available on level P2 for departures and P0 for arrivals and include restaurants and cafeterias. ATMs are available in arrivals and departures and Bureau de change is also located within the terminal. Lost and found assistance is on P2 but for lost luggage the individual airlines can be found on P0.
There are two VIP lounges available: the Bristol VIP Lounge and the Iberia VIP Lounge. cheap car hire in Bilbao is available and can be booked from the airport. Further assistance can be found at the information offices located in arrivals. In terms of facilities for people with disabilities there are toilets, elevators, parking spaces and wheelchairs on request.
Places to visit around Bilbao
To gain a better insight into the city the Old Town is a beautiful network of winding alleys. The summer is a fantastic time to indulge in pintxos at picturesque cafés which overflow onto the streets. For architectural grandeur, the oldest building in Bilbao is the Cathedral de Santiago,thought to have been built even before the city was established. The Basilica de Begoña is a beautiful example of Gothic brilliance and dates back to the 17th century. The spires of this resplendent building can be seen throughout the city. Bilbao’s city hall is another building that shouldn’t be overlooked. Built in the late 19th century, it’s a fine amalgamation of balconies and columns topped by a magnificent spire.
Alternatively, this area is also well known for being a popular shopping district in Bilbao where tourists can splurge in the high class boutiques before sitting down to indulge in choice restaurants. Afterwards, you should take a wander into the center to Euskalduna Palace. It’s worth aiming for a guided tour of this massive complex, renowned for being one of the most highly regarded buildings created by contemporary Spanish architects.
Bilbao is a culturally rich city. It’s especially recognized for the Guggenheim. This cultural center is not only attractive for its galleries but for its architectural brilliance. The Fine Arts Museum is another gem and contains art dating back to the 12th century. For those interested in Bilbao’s maritime past, the Ria de Bilbao Maritime Museum is located aptly in the Euskalduna shipyard. Visitors can peruse exhibitions as well as wander around the old docks.
In order to truly appreciate the gorgeous Spanish heat, Bilbao offers a wide array of green spaces in which to relax. You can enjoy fountain spray in Dona Casilda Iturrizar Park or stroll along the Memorial Walkway which runs beside the estuary on the left bank. The Zubi Zuri, or white bridge, is another top contemporary attraction and its beauty is especially prominent at night. Those feeling more adventurous should take the funicular up Mount Artxanda and enjoy amazing views of Bilbao. There also beautiful hiking trails up Mount Pagasarri.
car hire in Bilbao not only gives you easier access to the city but also to the intriguing area surrounding it. There’s a wonderful array of picturesque villages and towns, including Gernika, Balmaseda and Durango. The bigger cities of Santander and San Sebastian are also only a short drive away. If you come in May you could even drive over to Pamplona and witness the running of the bulls.
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