Don’t miss out on Bilbao’s wealth of attractions and adventures
Guggenheim Museum
You’ll struggle to read any article or guidebook on Bilbao that doesn’t include at least a passing reference to the Guggenheim Museum; that is, unless it pre-dates 1997.
Since then, Frank Gehry’s masterpiece has attracted hordes of tourists to the Basque country. Shaped like a gigantic ship, a whale or even Marilyn Monroe’s skirt in The Seven Year Itch (depending on the observer), the Guggenheim is recognized as one of the most important modern architectural buildings. Inside, the museum is equally impressive with works from some of the 20th and 21st century’s finest artists, including Picasso and Andy Warhol.
Trip to San Sebastian
The city of San Sebastian is just a tantalizingly short journey away from Bilbao.
Famed for its beautiful beaches and gourmet restaurant scene, the city is a popular summer retreat for the beautiful people of Spain. La Concha, a glimmering carpet of sand is the city’s most famous beach, popular with visitors and locals alike. The restaurants of San Sebastian are held in a similar regard to those of Paris; this really is one of the premier cities to enjoy an epicurean evening. Arzak and Martin Berasategui are two favorites, but there are many other highly rated restaurants and bars to enjoy pintxos, the distinctive Basque version of tapas. Tenedor Tours will organize trips to and from the city and arrange cultural and culinary tours.
Gabriella Ranelli de Aguirre
+34 94 439 6060
PO Box 5070, San Sebastian
Zortziko
Cuisine: Basque
Style / Ambiance: Helmed by famous Spanish chef Daniel García, Zortziko regularly ranks as one of the finest restaurants in the Basque country.
Bearer of a Michelin star and popular with critics, the restaurant offers traditional Basque cuisine, including local favorites such as Roast Baby Squid with Peppers and Scallops on a bed of Tomato Carpaccio. Zortziko offers three different dining rooms; one has a Versailles feel to it, another is English influenced, while the third has a more contemporary, laid-back vibe. The best option, however, is to dine in the wine cellar beneath, where you’ll be seated at a rustic wooden table surrounded by premium vintages. Just remember to book ahead; Zortziko is often fully booked weeks in advance.
Daniel García, General Manager
+34 94 423 9743
Calle Alameda de Mazarredo 17, 48001
