Bilbao

The Basque capital, Bilbao, is a very industrialised port city. However, it has conserved a particular charm that is revealed in the small alleys of the old city, around the Plaza Nueva, on the right shore of the Nervión river. The Cathedral, the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Basque Archaeological, Anthropological and Historical Museum compose the main cultural attractions of the city. West of Bilbao, the village of La Reineta, accessible by a funicular, offers a wide view over the ancient docks. On the eastern shore of the estuary, Algorta is an elegant seaside resort.

West of Bilbao, the village of La Reineta, which can be accessed via a cable car, offers an expansive view over the ancient docks. On the eastern side of the estuary lies Algorta, an elegant seaside resort.

Bilbao has managed to maintain a particular charm that can be seen in the small streets of the old city, around the Plaza Nueva on the right bank of the Nervión river. Its cathedral, the Guggenheim Museum, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Basque Archaeological, Anthropological and Historical Museum are the city's main cultural attractions.

The shops and banks tend to be located around the Gran Via. The most emblematic, not-to-be-missed buildings are the Arriaga Theatre and Santiago Cathedral. This is where the market is held every Sunday, as well as the celebrations for the Santo Tomás festival.

The best place to try different pintxos is in the old town (and notably 'Siete Calles', which has plenty of restaurants).