From Old Town to Guggenheim History and Gastronomy of Bilbao

We will start next to the Teatro Arriaga, one of the most beloved corners of the city. From here we will look at El Arenal, the Bilbaine Society and the historic Station of Hope as we discover the stories that shaped Bilbao today.

Before Bilbao existed as a villa, there was already a temple in this place. In front of the Cathedral of Santiago we will discover the origins of the city and some of the stories that still hide among the oldest streets of the Old Town.

Next to the estuary we will find one of the places that best reflect the character of Bilbao. From here we will enjoy the views of the Church and the Bridge of San Anton as we talk about the importance of gastronomy in the daily life of Bilbaons and how this corner has accompanied the city for generations.

Surrounded by some of Bilbao’s oldest streets, we will meet the figure of Miguel de Unamuno and his relationship with the city. Here, among shops, bars and neighbors, the Old Town continues to show its most authentic side.

Plaza Nueva has been one of Bilbao’s great meeting points for almost two centuries. Under its portals we will find the headquarters of the Basque language, the Royal Academy of the Basque Language, and we will talk about the importance of Basque in the local culture. We will also discover why this square is one of the favorite places to enjoy the atmosphere of the Old Town and some of its famous pintxos.

Between the Church of San Nicolás, the House of Music and the estuary, we will find one of the most beloved places for Bilbaons. As we walk through El Arenal, we will talk about the daily life of the city and how this corner has been for generations a meeting point and celebration.

With the Isozaki Towers as a backdrop, we will stop by one of Bilbao’s most recognizable bridges. This will be a good place to talk about the transformation of the city and how the estuary has remained the linchpin connecting its past and its present.

Today it is hard to imagine Bilbao without Guggenheim. From different points of view we will discover how this museum became the symbol of a city that knew how to reinvent itself looking to the future. We’ll also dwell on some of the works that surround it, such as Puppy, Maman or Tall Tree & The Eye, which have made their outdoor spaces an essential part of the experience.