Thinking about moving to Bilbao? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Bilbao.
Spain, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, is home to many beautiful cities. One such city is Bilbao, located in the northern part of the country. Bilbao is a city that has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades, evolving from an industrial hub into a thriving center for culture and tourism. But what is it like to live in Bilbao? Like any city, Bilbao has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the details.
Pros of Living in Bilbao, Spain
One of the biggest advantages of living in Bilbao is its rich cultural scene. The city is home to the Guggenheim Museum, a world-renowned institution that showcases contemporary and modern art. The museum’s unique architecture, designed by Frank Gehry, is a sight to behold in itself. Bilbao also hosts the annual Bilbao BBK Live, a music festival that attracts top international artists and music lovers from around the world.
Bilbao’s location is another significant advantage. Nestled between mountains and close to the sea, the city offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can hike in the nearby Basque mountains, surf in the nearby beaches of Sopelana and Plentzia, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Nervión River that runs through the city. The city’s green spaces, such as Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, provide a respite from urban life.
The city’s transportation system is efficient and reliable. Bilbao’s metro system, designed by the famous architect Norman Foster, is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. The city also has an extensive bus network and a tram line. For those who prefer to cycle, Bilbao has a bike-sharing program called Bilbon Bizi.
Another advantage of living in Bilbao is the food. The city is part of the Basque Country, a region known for its culinary excellence. Bilbao is dotted with pintxos bars, where you can enjoy these small, delicious dishes. The city also boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Azurmendi and Etxanobe.
Lastly, the people of Bilbao, known as Bilbainos, are friendly and welcoming. They are proud of their city and their Basque heritage. The city has a strong sense of community, with numerous local festivals and events throughout the year. For example, the Semana Grande, a week-long festival in August, features concerts, fireworks, and traditional Basque sports.
Cons of Living in Bilbao, Spain
Despite its many advantages, living in Bilbao also has its downsides. One of the main disadvantages is the weather. Bilbao is known for its rainy climate, especially during the winter months. The city receives more rainfall than most other parts of Spain, which can be a drawback for those who prefer sunny weather.
The cost of living in Bilbao is another potential disadvantage. While it is not as expensive as Madrid or Barcelona, Bilbao is still one of the pricier cities in Spain. Housing, in particular, can be quite costly, especially in the city center. However, there are more affordable neighborhoods, such as Deusto and Basurto-Zorroza.
While Bilbao’s public transportation system is generally good, traffic congestion can be a problem, especially during peak hours. Parking can also be difficult and expensive in the city center. However, the city is making efforts to promote sustainable transportation, such as cycling and walking.
Another potential downside of living in Bilbao is the language barrier. While most Bilbainos speak Spanish, the Basque language, Euskera, is also widely spoken. Although it is not necessary to speak Euskera to live in Bilbao, not knowing the language can make it more difficult to fully integrate into the local community.
Finally, while Bilbao has a vibrant cultural scene, it may not offer as much variety as larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona. However, the city’s size also means that it is less crowded and more manageable, which many people find appealing.
