Bilbao overview

Ancient, smoky, dirty Bilbao has thrown off the shackles of its industrial past and present and re-invented itself as a centre of art and recreation. It lies in the Basque region of northern Spain, between Santander and San Sebastian and is, today, best known for its quirky museums and striking architecture. Most people have heard of the Guggenheim Museum, a massive museum noted for its scaly skin and modern art. The city’s old quarter is worth a look, although is not on par with the likes of Granada or Toledo and may disappoint historians. There is, however, bags of charm and the Basque folk are great, while beaches and the Picos de Europa Mountains are both within reach. Bilbao has an airport and a major rail station.