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Zubizuri Bridge in Bilbao, Spain

Moving to Bilbao, Spain

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 01, 2023

Summary: Moving to Bilbao , Spain: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to Bilbao .

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What do I need to know before moving to Bilbao?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bilbao, they said:

"Bilbao, located in the Basque Country of Spain, is a city rich in culture, history, and modernity. The official languages are Spanish and Basque, with Spanish being more commonly spoken, but learning a few phrases in Basque can be appreciated by locals. The cost of living in Bilbao is relatively lower compared to other major Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but it's still higher than in many other parts of Spain. The city is known for its rainy weather, so it's advisable to always carry an umbrella. Bilbao is famous for its food, particularly pintxos, which are the Basque version of tapas, and the local wine, txakoli. The city is also home to the Guggenheim Museum, a world-renowned museum of modern and contemporary art. Public transportation in Bilbao is efficient and reliable, with a metro system, trams, and buses serving the city and its suburbs. Healthcare in Spain is of a high standard, and Bilbao is no exception, with numerous hospitals and clinics throughout the city. Bilbao is a safe city, but like any other city, it's advisable to take precautions, especially in crowded areas. The city is also very walkable, with many pedestrian-only areas in the city center. The people of Bilbao are known for their friendliness and hospitality, but they are also very proud of their Basque culture and traditions. Therefore, it's important to respect their customs and way of life. Finally, it's worth noting that Bilbao has a strong industrial heritage, which is reflected in its architecture and cityscape. However, in recent years, the city has undergone significant regeneration and now boasts a mix of old and new, with modern buildings sitting alongside traditional Basque houses," remarked one expat in Bilbao , Spain.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Zubizuri Bridge in Bilbao, Spain

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