The Spanish city of Bilbao is the capital of Spain’s Basque region, located on the country’s north coast.

An important industrial centre and seaport, Bilbao is rapidly gaining a reputation for innovation thanks to exciting urban regeneration projects that are driving development around the Gulf of Biscay.

The stunning Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry with its sinewy, steel-clad exterior draws fans of contemporary architecture from around the world. With a very agreeable, temperate oceanic climate, Bilbao is conducive to walking tours and general sightseeing.

Culture vultures will fall in love with this city which has a packed arts calendar year-round and two of the best art galleries in Spain.

A vibrant, energetic metropolis with a relaxed atmosphere, Bilbao holds its own against European capital cities and is becoming a sophisticated holiday hotspot. We aim to help you plan your day away from your luxury MSC cruise ship with ease by offering a complete program of excursion packages and day trip deals that suit everyone from honeymooning couples to active families!

With the presence of the Guggenheim Museum, art is certainly on the menu in this city, but those who prefer to explore the soul of Bilbao can wander the back streets of Casco Viejo - the old town.

Ensure you don’t return to the ship empty handed and check out the boutiques around Plaza Moyúa and the Gran Via. Bilbao offers the best of European city pleasures and is a great up-and-coming vacation destination on our Mediterranean cruise itinerary.