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Facts of Bilbao – a big city with a friendly atmosphereIt is a good idea to find out some facts of Bilbao before coming for a visit. The history of this city began oficially in the year 1300 when it was founded by Don Diego López de Haro, Lord of Biscay. Bilbao is the financial, cultural and tourist center that powers this geografic region. The city is located in a valley. Hence it is sometimes called “El Botxo”, (the hole) by its inhabitants. Two beautiful green mountains, Artxanda and Pagasarri embrace the city from the north and the south.
The main entrance of the Guggenheim museum with the flower sculpture "Puppy".
Located in northern Spain, in the Basque Country, Bilbao is the capital of Biscay. It’s near to the Bay of Biscay (just 20 kilometers from the sea) and close to some great beaches. It is located upon the river Nervión.
Bilbao is a major cosmopolitan area. However, one of the things I like most about this great town is its human size. It is big enough to offer all you can ask for: restaurants, culture, shopping etc. But it is not overwhelming. It’s a compact city. Most main attractions are within reasonable walking distance. Put on a pair of comfortable walking shoes, and you are all set to go. Click here for an interactive map of Bilbao. If you do choose to use public transport you are in for a pleasant surprise. The metro is one of the most modern in the world. The buses are punctual and adapted for people with wheel chairs and parents with baby strollers. The taxis are plenty and the prices are reasonable.
The Basque region enjoys its own culture and language, unique to the rest of Spain. The two official languages are Spanish and Basque. You will find that all signs are written in both languages.
“Always keep sunglasses and umbrella handy” is an useful advice I received about the moody weather in this town. One moment the rain is pouring down. Half an hour later, the sun is shining happily again. Bilbao has a humid oceanic climate, generally mild, with not too extreme temperatures. The summers are moderately hot (average 20ºC). The winters are often rainy and not too cold (average temperatures 8ºC). Snow is rare. Last year (2005) we had the streets covered with shining white snow one single glorious day. Young and old alike streamed out to the streets and nearby mountain hills to enjoy the novel fun... Knowing some general facts of Bilbao will make your holidays even more interesting.
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