Bilbao

Bilbao sits on the Bilbao Abra bay and along the Estuary of Bilbao in the Basque Country of northern Spain, a region that borders France. The main cruise terminal, known as Olatua, is located approximately 15 km from downtown Bilbao, in the nearby area of Getxo. The port serves primarily as a port of call on voyages exploring the northern European coast and Atlantic routes.

The city carries seven centuries of maritime heritage. Founded in the late 13th century, Bilbao became one of the commercial hubs of the Basque Country, thriving on the export of wool and iron commodities to ports across Europe. Throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Bilbao experienced heavy industrialisation, making it the centre of Spain's second-most industrialised region, behind Barcelona. That industrial past remains visible in the river valley and surrounding landscape. A new dock was built in Getxo to meet increasing cruise ship traffic, particularly after the opening of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in 1997, which has brought many more tourists and put Bilbao on the cruising routes.

The climate is wet and temperate, sustaining lush dairy pastures and forests that give the region a character distinct from southern Spain. The city itself blends old and new. The lively old town dates from the 14th century, with winding alleyways of the Casco Viejo offering tapas at many exceptional local bars and restaurants. Modern Bilbao centres on the Guggenheim, a striking titanium-clad museum designed by Frank Gehry, which stands alongside other significant cultural institutions. The Museo de Bellas Artes houses works dating from the 12th century through to pieces by Cézanne and Gauguin.

The Basque identity is strong and visible throughout. Spanish and Basque are both spoken, and the local food culture remains distinctive. Pintxos, or pinchos, are similar to tapas but generally smaller, ranging from simple bites like potato and onion omelette or anchovies through to scallops or foie gras with white beans. The city suits those seeking a blend of art, history, food and a feel of authentic Basque culture, in a compact urban setting framed by green hills.