Mercado de la Ribera Market
Did you know that Bilbao’s Mercado de la Ribera Market was recognized by the Guinness Book of Records in 1990 for being the world’s largest municipal food market? Covering a surface area of 10,000 square meters over three stories, the market sits on the waterfront of the Nervión River. It is a feast for the senses with art deco windows and stained glass illuminating a vibrant palette of colorful fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood and premium cuts of meat. New spaces dedicated for Basque tapas known as pintxos have also appeared within the market, rendering it not only a must-see but a must-eat for any Bilbao sightseer.
Casco Viejo
No visit to Bilbao is complete without strolling along the Casco Viejo–seven 15th-century streets that formed the original medieval town. The heart of the city, these narrow pedestrian-only streets are lined with taverns and pintxos bars, shops and colorful homes with plant-laden balconies, as well as the Gothic Catedral de Santiago with its breathtaking interior.
Artxanda Funicular
Mount Artxanda is one of two small mountain ranges that border Bilbao. For more than a century, a charming red cable car known as the Artxanda Funicular has offered a delightful ride up to the mountain’s lookout platform every 15 minutes. There you can gaze out over the rooftops and even spot the point where the river meets the sea.
Bilbao Tiles
Originally created to stop people from slipping on rainy days, Bilbao’s flagstone pavements have their own unique rosette style. You’ll find this trademark design beneath your feet in many areas of the city. In fact, it has become a proud symbol of Bilbao and appears on the design of many souvenirs, local awards and even pastries!
Experience everything this lovely city has to offer as part of our 4-night Basque Country land program on our Taste of Bordeaux river cruise!
Our Basque Country land package is complimentary with your purchase of a 2021 or 2022 Taste of Bordeaux river cruise on select sailings by January 31, 2021.