Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
homes with red roofs. Bilbao enjoys a vitality and well-worn charm befitting its status as
a regional capital of culture and industry.
Planning Your Time
For most visitors, the Guggenheim is the main draw (and many could spend the entire day
there). But with a little more time, it's also worth hopping on a tram to explore the at-
mospheric Old Town (Casco Viejo). With extra time, take the Mount Artxanda funicular
for a breathtaking overview of the entire area. Don't bother coming to Bilbao on Monday,
when virtually all its museums—including the almighty Guggenheim—are closed (except
in July-Aug).
When you're in the center, Bilbao feels smaller than its population of 350,000. The city,
nestled amidst green hillsides, hugs the Bilbao River as it curves through town. The Gug-
genheimismoreorlesscentrallylocatednearthetopofthatcurve;thebusstationistothe
west;theOldTown(CascoViejo)andtrainstationsaretotheeast;andasuper-convenient
and fun-to-ride green tram called the EuskoTran ties it all together.
