Bilbao, Spain

Explore Bilbao, Spain: A Cultural Jewel of the Basque Country

Bilbao is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Spain's Basque Country, renowned for its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. With the Guggenheim Museum as its crowning jewel, the city is packed with artistic treasures, culinary delights, and stunning architecture. Cruising to Bilbao offers adventurers the chance to explore the scenic Basque landscape and experience the city's rich heritage. Fun fact: Bilbao is famous for its delicious pintxos, a local variation of tapas, ensuring food lovers have a treat to enjoy!

Activities and Attractions in Bilbao, Spain

Upon docking in Bilbao, cruisers have a plethora of activities waiting to be explored:

• Visit the Guggenheim Museum: Marvel at contemporary art and architecture at this iconic building designed by Frank Gehry. Don’t miss the outdoor sculptures, including the massive Puppy sculpture made of flowers!
• Stroll the Casco Viejo: Explore the old town's narrow streets filled with quaint shops, vibrant bars, and traditional restaurants. It's the perfect spot to sample delicious pintxos and soak in the lively atmosphere.
• Take a Funicular Ride: Ascend to Mount Artxanda via the funicular railway for breathtaking panoramic views of Bilbao and the surrounding mountains. The lookout point is ideal for fantastic photos.
• Discover the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: This museum boasts a diverse collection of art ranging from medieval to contemporary pieces, showcasing both Basque and international artists.
• Relax at Parque de Doña Casilda: Enjoy the beautifully landscaped pathways and tranquil gardens in this lovely park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic under the shade of trees.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

When cruising to Bilbao, consider especially these nearby harbours:

• Bordeaux, France: Known for its vineyards and fine wines, Bordeaux offers a scenic riverfront and historic architecture. Visit the Cité du Vin wine museum or take a wine tour in the surrounding vineyards for a true oenophile experience.
• La Coruña, Spain: This coastal city boasts stunning beaches and the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy coastal walks and delicious seafood at local restaurants.
• Lisbon, Portugal: Famous for its hilly landscape and vibrant culture, Lisbon offers historical attractions, delicious pastries, and lively neighbourhoods. Don’t miss the Belém Tower and the chance to ride a vintage tram.
• Vigo, Spain: As the gateway to the beautiful Cíes Islands, Vigo is perfect for nature lovers. Explore the city’s beaches or take a boat trip to the islands for hiking and exploring unspoiled landscapes.
• Leixões, Portugal: Serving as the main port for Porto, Leixões is close to a city famous for its port wine. Discover charming riverside cafes and enjoy tasting the region's renowned wines.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Bilbao, Spain

A cruise journey to Bilbao leads to a multitude of incredible regions:

• British Isles: Rich in history and diversity, the British Isles include countries like England, Scotland, and Ireland. Highlights include exploring London’s landmarks or the dramatic cliffs of Moher in Ireland.
• Mediterranean Sea: Known for its vibrant cultures and stunning coastlines, the Mediterranean includes beautiful destinations like Italy, France, and Greece. Enjoy sun-soaked beaches and a wealth of historical sites.
• Africa: A region of rich culture and diverse landscapes, countries like Morocco and South Africa entice adventurers with safari experiences and colorful local markets.
• South America: Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, South America offers iconic attractions like Machu Picchu in Peru and the beaches of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
• India and Indian Ocean: Exotic destinations of India combined with beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean create a rich tapestry of experiences, from the Taj Mahal to Mauritius's stunning beaches.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Bilbao, Spain

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess includes Crown Princess and Sky Princess among its ships visiting Bilbao. Departures typically occur from domestic ports like Sydney or international ones like Southampton. Princess Cruises is known for its wide variety of dining options and onboard entertainment, providing guests with memorable experiences.
• Royal Caribbean: Operating a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean features Liberty of the Seas and Independence of the Seas on itineraries to Bilbao, most often departing from Southampton. Known for its innovative ships and thrilling onboard activities, Royal Caribbean is perfect for families and adventure seekers.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23, MSC includes MSC Poesia and MSC Virtuosa on itineraries to Bilbao, departing often from Southampton or Buenos Aires. MSC Cruises is celebrated for its Mediterranean charm, offering diverse culinary options and entertainment for all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian features Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star visiting Bilbao, often departing from Lisbon or Southampton. Norwegian is known for its flexible dining options, allowing guests to curate their onboard experience freely.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of 16, Celebrity offers itineraries to Bilbao on Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Eclipse, primarily departing from Southampton or Amsterdam. Celebrity Cruises combines modern luxury with rich culinary experiences, delivering a top-notch cruise experience.

Visiting Bilbao, Spain Throughout the Year

Understanding the seasonal changes can enhance your visit to Bilbao. Here’s what to expect:

• Summer (June, July, August): Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making this the peak tourist season. Enjoy outdoor festivals, warm weather, and longer days perfect for exploring.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With temperatures between 10°C to 20°C, autumn showcases stunning foliage and fewer crowds. It's a great time to enjoy local food and wine festivals.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. While it can be chilly and rainy, Bilbao's festive Christmas markets and indoor attractions offer a cozy experience.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C, and the blooming flowers enhance the beauty of the city. Spring is ideal for enjoying the numerous parks and gardens Bilbao has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bilbao, Spain

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Bilbao generally range from $1,000 to $2,600 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury cruises may start around $4,500, depending on accommodations and cruise line.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $15 to $50 for casual meals, while fine dining experiences may exceed $80 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Bilbao offers ample dining options from pintxos bars to fine dining restaurants serving Basque cuisine. For shopping, explore the boutiques in the old town for unique fashion or local artisan goods.

What are transportation options?

Upon docking in Bilbao, taxis and public transport such as trams and buses are available. Many of the city's attractions are within walking distance from the cruise terminal.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases in local shops.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Bilbao is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant regarding your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is Spanish, and the Basque language (Euskara) is also spoken in the region. While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enrich your experience.

Are you ready to explore the rich cultural offerings and stunning landscapes of Bilbao? Book your unforgettable cruise holiday through CruiseAway today and embark on a remarkable journey through Spain!