Get to know Bilbao

Bilbao: modern architecture, tradition and cuisine

Bilbao is a cosmopolitan and modern city, which is a result of a transformation where the Guggenheim museum, by Frank Ghery, is one of the most important ingredients, but not the only one. Other good examples are the Underground, designed by Norman Foster, or the Zubi Zuri Bridge and the Airport, by Fernando Calatrava.

Although these projects have increased the popularity of Bilba, the heart of the city is still the "Casco Viejo". This charming old town is a pedestrian area with a combination of traditional and modern shops, bars and restaurants. Visitors will enjoy Basque gastronomy, considered highly prestigious both nationally and internationally, as well as night life.

Spanish Language in Bilbao

People in the area of Bilbao speak very fluent Spanish, very similar to the Spanish spoken in the regions of Castilla. It is clearer and much easier to understand than the Spanish spoken in the South of Spain, where people have a very strong accent. In fact, the first words written in Spanish were found in San Millán de la Cogolla, in La Rioja, 130 Km from Bilbao.

The other official language in the Bilbao is Basque, but everyone understands and speaks fluent Spanish, even those whose mother tongue is Basque.