Visit Bilbao Art District to go on a cultural journey through a cluster of galleries and museums. This area of creativity, imagination and innovation in the city center is also home to dozens of open-air sculptures and striking architecture.
One of the district’s top attractions is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a glass and titanium-covered architectural marvel on the banks of the River Nervion. Before stepping inside, walk around the dark, metallic structure which was inspired by the form of a scaly fish. Stop to admire the 40-feet (12.4-meter) sculpture called Puppy. This monumental work outside the museum’s front door is carpeted with flowers and modeled after a West Highland terrier. Then enter the impressive building to see works by some of the most important modern and contemporary artists of the 20th century.
Afterward, take a less than 10-minute walk to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum for collections that span the 13th century to the present day. Appreciate collections of Spanish, Basque and European art that include pieces by masters such as Goya, El Greco and Bartolomé Esteban Murillo.
About a 5-minute stroll east of the museum is the Sala Rekalde contemporary art gallery. Look at abstract works and installations by up-and-coming artists and attend workshops, talks and screenings.
Among the other highlights of the Art District are antique stores, book shops, art galleries and the Bilbao Maritime Museum.
In between gallery and museum visits, amble along the riverbank to see the many open-air sculptures by contemporary artists. These includeMaman, a large bronze sculpture of a spider located at the rear of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, and Terpsichore: Muse of the Dance. This bronze piece by Salvador Dali stands next to the Euskalduna Palace Conference Center.
Find the Art District in the center of Bilbao. Travel here by tram, metro or bus. Street and underground parking are available for a fee in the neighborhood.
