A city almost forgotten by residents and previously overlooked by visitors; Bilbao boasts a beautiful medieval city centre on the right bank of the Nervión river. Today this maze of narrow winding streets is filled with trendy shops, delicious tapas bars and sunny terraces. Find your favourite spots on the shaded squares or along the river.
In the 1990s, the Casco Viejo (Old Town) was still the territory of junkies and the homeless. But just like the rest of the city, its old downtown experienced a revival after the inauguration of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the subsequent influx of tourists. The heart of the old town is formed by the Siete Calles, the 7 streets between the Gothic Santiago Cathedral and the meandering river, right at the spot where Bilbao was founded. Here are 3 tips for a fun afternoon in – and above – the Casco Viejo.