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The Zubizuri in Bilbao

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The Campo Volantin Bridge or The Zubizuri is the name that has been given to the new pedestrian bridge over the Nervion River in Bilbao,Spain. ‘Zubizuri’ means white bridge in basque. This probably refers to the bridge’s white colour.

Santiago Calatrava is the one responsible for this sleek white bridge’s exceptional design with its glass floor and use of white concrete and white steel which seem to have become this artist’s trademarks. The bridge features and unconventional curved path overshadowed by massive white steel cables that perform the function of holding the bridge in place. The translucent glass bricks on its floor give it a different feel too.

The bridge’s main purpose is to provide a link between the Campo Volantin right bank and Uribitarte left bank of the river. But it also serves as a convenient route for tourists to reach the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum. The bridge is also one of the first structures built in accordance with the enterprising plan to reinvigorate the city.

The bridge though a marvel to look at is impractical in several ways. Its glass bricks though fine on warm summer evenings, become extremely slippery during the winter. The cost of repairing the damages to these brick is also extremely high. Moreover Calatrava’s bridge connects the left bank to the Uribitarte dock and not to the higher street Alameda Mazarredo and Calatrava won’t allow the construction of a short foot bridge to Mazarredo either.

Zubizuri

The Basilica of Begona in Bilbao

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Bilbao in Spain lies on the banks of the Nervión, a tidal river. This green city also has a rich cultural and architectural heritage which makes it a popular tourist attraction. One of the landmarks in Bilabo is the Basilica of Begoña dedicated to the patron saint of Biscay, the Virgin Begoña.

Designed by Sancho Martínez de Arego, the basilica has three naves along with vaults. The main entrance of the basilica has a shape of a magnificent arch depicting Gothic style. The rest of the building retains the unitarian Gothic style.

The clock tower of the basilica houses 24 bells, with the heaviest weighing a tonne, and were built in Sumiswald, Switzerland. The history of the clock tower dates back to 1922, and currently, seven different melodies can be produced.

During the 19th century, the basilica was damaged as a result of it forming part of Bilbao’s city wall. The current tower and part of the exterior were designed by José María Basterra and built between 1902 and 1907.

The basilica comes to life during the celebrations every year on 15 August (Assumption of Mary), and 11 October, the saint day of Begoña. Midnight mass is celebrated on these occasions, with pilgrimages taking place as locals and visitors go to worship.

The basilica is open to the public from Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 1:30pm and 4:30pm to 8:30pm.

The Basilica of Begona in Bilbao

The Hanging Bridge of Bilbao

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The hanging bridge in Bilbao, one of the few of its kind, is called the Vizcaya bridge or more commonly as Puente Colgante. Built over the Nervion River, this bridge serves to connect the towns of Portugalete and Las Arenas in the Biscay province of Spain. Alberto de Palacio is the architect who designed it in 1887. It was finally built in 1893 and is one of the oldest bridges of its kind.

Though it is called a hanging bridge, its structure differs a lot from a normal suspension bridge. Its architect, a prime disciple of The Eiffel tower’s architect was praised much for this design. It solved the problem of connecting the two towns as it did not obstruct the marine traffic on the port Bilbao.

Considering its age and history, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. This bridge is significant since it marked a development in the transport system of the 21st century. It has been a constant landmark and suffered damages only once during the Spanish Civil War. The firing and bombarding then almost collapsed the bridge.

Its restoration was a source of many a debates. However finally it was decided that the bridge’s structure would not be modernized. As a mark of respect they would stick to the original structure as much as possible. However it absolutely requisite changes were brought about. To make it more compatible with the modern methods the passenger control systems were renewed and new gondolas were also installed.

Its recent refurbishment has made it not only a comfortable transport medium but also preserved it as an industrial era monument. This bridge is one you must walk upon.

Parks and gardens in Bilbao

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Bilbao happens to be a green city with a wide collection of parks and gardens sprawling across the city offering the people of Bilbao an opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and find some peace or have recreation with a range of outdoor activities and attractions in these green spots. Some of the choicest parks and gardens of Bilbao are:

Jardines de Albia (Albia Gardens)
Iglesia de San Vincente, Bilbao, 48001, Spain

This beautiful green spot with a number of seating facilities, pathways and green scenic spots stands close to Bilbao’s Plaza Circular. Visitors can enjoy their time here with a quiet stroll around its pathways or a few hours of quiet in its benches. The gardens stand next to many famous landmarks like the extremely historic San Vicente Church (Iglesia de San Vincente). It is open daily and admission is for free.

Parque de Europa (Europe Park)
Txurdinaga, Bilbao, 48004, Spain

This huge area stands in the Txurdinaga area of Bilbao and takes pride in its vast and precious collection of sculptures. The park offers a host of recreational opportunities, sporting activities and lies next to the Txurdinaga Multisports center. The park is open daily for free.

Parque de Dona Casilda (Dona Casilda Park)
Cerca de Palacio de Congresos Euskalduna, Bilbao, Vizcaya, 48011, Spain

This is the largest park in Bilbao and is as old as about 100 years. The major attractions of the park include large ponds, fountains, pathways, mature trees, benches and summer flowers. Tourists can also visit the popular Museo de Bellas Artes nearby. The admission is open daily for free.

Paseo del Arenal
San Nicholas de Bari, Bilbao, 48005, Spain

Standing in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo area, the Paseo del Arenal lies next to the city’s beautiful estuary and features various seasonal activities and outdoor concerts in the historic bandstand. It also has a worth seeing temple building and many green spots to enjoy some peaceful hours. The park is open daily for free.

Things to do in Bilbao

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Located on the northern side of Spain, the city of Bilbao is the largest and most lively city in the Basque Country. Various buildings and historic sites, particularly the Guggenheim Museum, makes this one of Spain’s most exciting cities. Bilbao is known for its breathtaking scenery, the number of restaurants and shops, vibrant nightlife and various sightseeing opportunities.

There are plenty of things one can do in Bilbao. One of the sites worth visiting is Plaza Funicular which can be reached by taking Funicular Railway up to Mount Artxanda. The train, operated by a pulley system, shoots up the vertical hillside, revealing stunning views as you rise above the city. It runs every 15 minutes and cost 85 cents one way. When you reach the top, you can get breathtaking views of the whole of Bilbao from the recreational park there.The place also has plenty of restaurants to relax and eat traditional Basque cuisine. Walk back down through the verdant hillside either to Parque Extberri with its giant chimneystack or down to the Abando district.

The tourists can also take the lift in the Casco Viejo down on Esperanza Street, next to the sports centre behind San Nicholas church. Once you reach the top walk along the passageway and turn left into Park Extberri and you will have a wonderful time enjoying the view and the greenery. Another place worth a visit here is the Basilica de Begona which has a lovely tree shaded courtyard to sit and relax in. If you do away with the lift and take the steps down, you will land up in the Plaza Unamundo in the Casco.

Another top tourist attraction is the Hanging Bridge which connects Portugalete to Gexto. The bridge can be reached by the train from Aband or San Mames to Portugalete. This giant structure has a small ferry for cars and people which hangs from it by cables. You get on and are carried suspended over the river as the cables slide along to the other side. It operates 24 hours a day every day of the year.

Petit Palace Arana Bilbao

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Overview of the Hotel: The air-conditioned rooms of this hotel are equipped with flat-screen TVs and hydromassage showers.Housed in an 18th-century building, the Arana Bilbao is located close to the city’s main tourist attractions, including the Guggenheim Museum and Bilbao’s most important shopping streets. It lies on the edge of Bilbao’s historic quarter.
Free newspapers and a free internet corner as well as a free bike loan service is available.

Amenities at the Hotel: Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Family Rooms, Elevator, Express Check-In/Check-Out, Safe, Heating, Design Hotel, Baggage Storage, Air Conditioning, Designated Smoking Area are some of the facilities provided. Other facilities include Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Business Center, Babysitting/Child Services, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, VIP Room Facilities, Ironing Service, Bicycle Rental, Car Rental, Tour Desk, Fax/Photocopying, Ticket Service, Bikes Available (free), Concierge Service, Suit Press, Vending Machine (drinks), and Vending Machine (snacks). Free Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel Rules:  The Check in time for the hotel is from 14:00-00:00 hours and the Check out time is until 06:00-12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 12 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1. American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Carte Bleue, Diners Club, JCB, Red 6000 are all acceptable credit cards. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival. Pets are allowed at no extra cost.

Hotel Room Types and Rates:

Petit room: €97
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Double or Twin room: €119
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Single room: €91
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Triple room: €129
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Double or Twin room: €113
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation
Family room: €183
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Guggenheim Package: €129
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Quintuple room (5 adults): €140
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Carlton Hotel Bilbao

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Overview of the Hotel: Its spacious rooms that have classical or contemporary design feature beds that are king-size and free wireless internet. King Alfonso XII, the writer Federico García Lorca and the singer Maria Callas are some of the famous guests that have enjoyed a stay at this esteemed hotel. Centrally located in Plaza de Federico Moyúa, this hotel is an architectural wonder with grand interiors and fabulous details such as a beautiful domed ceiling with stained-glass details and the wide staircase.

Amenities at the Hotel: Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, Elevator, Safe, Baggage Storage, Air Conditioning are some of the facilities provided. Other facilities include Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, and Fax/Photocopying. Fitness Center, Turkish/Steam Bath are provided to entertain guests. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 12:00 hours and the Check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 1 year stay free of charge when using existing bedding. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. All older children or adults stay free of charge for extra beds. Maximum capacity of babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Diners Club are all acceptable credit cards. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival. Pets are not allowed.

Hotel Room Types and Rates:

Double or twin room: €102
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Superior double or twin room: €174
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Superior double or twin room: €144
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Silken Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao

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Overview of the Hotel: Designed by the renowned artist, Javier Mariscal, this hotel looks out over the shining steel structure of the Guggenheim Museum – one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. This trendy hotel features a contemporary design which follows the innovative spirit of the gallery, with its unique angled windows, curved atrium and tall pebble sculpture and is full of fun features. The hotel’s rooftop terrace offers views of the Guggenheim, River Nervión and green hills. The reading corner – part modern art gallery and part comfortable lounge is a place where one can relax and enjoy a peaceful moment.
Popular dining areas include the bar, cafe and on-site restaurant, each of which are impressive venues, built in a distinctive style of the 20th century.

Amenities at the Hotel:  Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Terrace, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Safety Deposit Box, Soundproofed Rooms, Heating, Design Hotel, Luggage Storage, Shops in Hotel, Airconditioning are some of the facilities provided. Other facilities include Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Business Centre, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, VIP Room Facilities, Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, Souvenirs/Gift Shop, Shoe Shine, Car Hire, Tour Desk, and Fax/Photocopying. Sauna, Fitness Centre, Solarium, Massage, Library, Turkish/Steam Bath etc are provided to entertain guests. Wi-fi is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge.

Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 12:00 hours and the Check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots. All children under 12 years stay free of charge for extra beds. All older children or adults are charged EUR 27 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1.Any type of extra bed or baby cot is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Diners Club are all acceptable for payment. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.

Hotel Room Types and Rates:

Double Room with Interior View: €139
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Double or Twin Room: €170
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Double or Twin Room: €174
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Executive Double or Twin Room (Museum View): €180
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Executive Double or Twin Room: €194
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Abba Parque Hotel Bilbao

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Overview of the Hotel: Located in the commercial heart of Bilbao, close to San Mamés Bus and Metro Stations, Hotel Abba Parque features a gym, Turkish bath and free Wi-Fi throughout the building. Each of its room is air-conditioned and features a minibar, satellite TV, and bathrooms that include a hairdryer and amenities. A varied breakfast buffet, as well as daily set menus at lunchtime is served at The Abba’s Botavara restaurant. Spacious lounge areas and a 24-hour reception with tour desk are among other facilities provided here. It is located close to Iturriza Casilda Park, Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, Euskalduna Conference Centre and The Guggenheim Museum.

Amenities at the Hotel: Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, Family Rooms, Elevator, Express Check-In/Check-Out, Safe, Heating, Baggage Storage are some of the facilities provided. Other facilities include Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Business Center, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Ironing Service, Honeymoon Suite, Bicycle Rental, Car Rental, Tour Desk, Fax/Photocopying. Fitness Center, Solarium, Turkish/Steam Bath are provided to entertain guests. Wi-fi is available in the entire hotel and charges are applicable.

Hotel Rules: The Check in time for the hotel is from 14:00 hours and the Check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. One child under 2 years stays free of charge in a baby cot. One child under 12 years stays free of charge in an extra bed. One older child or adult is charged EUR 20 per night in an extra bed. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1. Any type of extra bed/cot or crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel. Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel. Pets are allowed .Charges may be applicable. American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard are all acceptable for payment. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.

Hotel room Types and Rates:

Double or Twin Room (1-2 Adults): €120
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Double or Twin Room: €101
Included in room price: 8% VAT, breakfast
FREE cancellation

Standard Triple Room: €115
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Family Suite (4 Adults): €150
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Executive Double or Twin Room (1-2 Adults): €130
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Executive Triple Room (3 Adults): €105
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Ercilla Hotel Bilbao

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Overview of the Hotel:  Located in central Bilbao, this modern hotel offers a fitness centre with city views, Turkish baths, an award-winning restaurant and stylish accommodation with a flat-screen TV. All its comfortable rooms are equipped with satellite TV and have a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Spa and gym offering fantastic views are found on this hotel’s top floor. An in-room massage service is available.Its Bermeo Restaurant serves typical Basque food. Cakes and drinks are served at a café. a bar with avant-garde furniture and live music is also present.

Amenities at the Hotel:  Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Safety Deposit Box, Heating, Design Hotel, Luggage Storage – are some of the facilities provided. Other facilities include – Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Business Centre, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, Souvenirs/Gift Shop, Packed Lunches, Car Hire, and Fax/Photocopying. Fitness Centre, Jacuzzi, Turkish/Steam Bath, Hammam – are provided to entertain guests. Wi-Fi is available in the entire hotel and costs EUR 10.44 per hour. Private parking is possible on site (reservation is not possible) and costs EUR 18 per day.

Hotel Rules:  The Check in time for the hotel is from 14:00 hours and the Check out time is until 12:00 hours. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type. One child under 12 years stays free of charge when using existing bedding. All older children or adults are charged EUR 20 per night per person for extra beds. Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. American Express, Visa, Euro/Mastercard, Diners Club, JCB, Red 6000, Maestro – are all acceptable. The hotel reserves the right to pre-authorize credit cards prior to arrival.

Hotel Room Types and Rates:

Standard Double or Twin Room: €175
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Standard Double or Twin Room: €103
Included in room price: 8% VAT
Non-Refundable

Guggenheim & Fine Arts Museum Double or Twin Room: €115
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Basic Double Room: €125
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation

Superior Double or Twin Room: €130
Included in room price: 8% VAT
FREE cancellation