Welcome to Bilbao, an industrial city in the heart of the Basque Country that has transformed into a cultural hub and a culinary paradise. Here’s your Lonely Planet-style visitor guide to exploring this vibrant city in northern Spain.

Getting There:
The easiest way to reach Bilbao is by flying into Bilbao Airport, which is just 12 km outside of the city center. Alternatively, you can take a train from Madrid or Barcelona, or drive to Bilbao via the A8 motorway.

Sights:
The highlight of Bilbao is undoubtedly the Guggenheim Museum, a futuristic building designed by Frank Gehry that houses contemporary art exhibitions. For a more traditional experience, head to the Casco Viejo (Old Town), which is filled with charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional Basque pintxo bars. Other must-see sights include the Puente Colgante (hanging bridge), the Basilica de Begoña, and the Athletic Club Museum.

Food and Drink:
Bilbao is renowned for its gastronomy scene, particularly its pintxos (small bites of food on a slice of bread), which are an integral part of Basque culture. The best places to sample pintxos are in the Casco Viejo, specifically in the streets of Calle Somera and Plaza Nueva. Don’t miss out on trying the local Basque dishes of Bacalao al pil-pil (cod served in garlic and olive oil sauce) and Txangurro (crab served in its shell with breadcrumbs and a rich sauce).

Nightlife:
Nightlife in Bilbao is lively and diverse, with a mix of casual bars and trendy clubs. The Plaza de Indautxu is a buzzing area filled with bars and pubs, while the Calle Licenciado Poza is a street famous for its lively nightlife scene. If you’re after a more cultural experience, the Bilborock venue has live music performances and cultural events.

Shopping:
Bilbao has a variety of shopping districts catering to different tastes and budgets. The Gran Via is the main shopping street with both international and local brands, while the Casco Viejo has a range of independent boutiques and artisan shops. Don’t miss the Alhóndiga cultural center, which has a modern design store with local and international designs.

Outdoor Activities:
Surrounded by hills, nature, and beaches, Bilbao lends itself nicely to outdoor activities. Hiking in Mount Artxanda offers beautiful city views, while surfing along the nearby Atlantic coast is a must-do for water sports lovers. If you’re after a more leisurely activity, head to the Parque de Doña Casilda, which has beautiful gardens and lakes.

Bilbao is a city that truly has something for everyone, from culture and gastronomy to nature and nightlife. So pack your bags and explore this Basque gem.