The Basque Country: Spellbound in Bilbao
The moment our plane touched down in Bilbao, we knew we'd entered a different Spain. Gone was the Mediterranean sunshine, replaced by a lush, green landscape that immediately signaled we had arrived somewhere special. This unique corner of the country—the Basque Country—holds centuries of distinct cultural identity, and we couldn't wait to discover what makes it so fiercely independent.
Walking through Bilbao's streets, you're immediately struck by the signs written in Euskera, Europe's oldest language with no relation to any other tongue in the world. This linguistic anomaly reflects the Basque people's determination to preserve their heritage despite centuries of pressure to assimilate. From street conversations to menu descriptions, the language surrounds you as a constant reminder that this autonomous community operates with its own cultural heartbeat.
The jewel in Bilbao's crown is undoubtedly the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural marvel that transformed this once-declining industrial port into a world-class cultural destination. The Frank Gehry-designed titanium structure shimmers differently depending on the light, creating an ever-changing exterior that matches the dynamic art housed within. Inside, we found ourselves literally dizzy from Richard Serra's towering steel installations and mesmerized by Rafiq Anadol's AI-generated landscapes that blur the line between technology and art. At just €15 for adults and free for children under 12, this world-class museum offers an accessible art experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Beyond the Guggenheim, Bilbao itself has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. Once shadowed by economic decline and the activities of the ETA terrorist group (which only officially disbanded in 2018), the city has reinvented itself through strategic cultural investments. Modern trams glide past beautifully maintained public spaces where families gather, while pintxos bars serve the region's famous small plates alongside txakoli, a slightly sparkling white wine grown on distinctive trellised vines.
We were particularly struck by the warmth of the Basque people—from taxi drivers who continued offering recommendations long after we'd reached our destination, to locals who greeted us with genuine hospitality. This welcoming atmosphere stands in sharp contrast to historical tensions, suggesting a region proud of its unique identity yet ready to share its treasures with curious visitors.
Ready to experience this cultural enigma for yourself? Subscribe to our podcast for more insights on Basque culinary adventures, art discoveries, and perfect day trips from Bilbao in our upcoming episodes. Have you visited the Basque Country? We'd love to hear your experiences—share them with us on social media!
Made in Spain
Whether you’re an expat chasing the dream, a traveller inspired by European elegance or a foodie seeking the perfect paella, Made in Spain is your insider’s guide to all things chic, cultural and quintessentially Spanish.
Join hosts Nalini Sharma and Laura Senior García for a glamorous mix of travel, food, fashion and the rich cultural narratives that make Spain a global icon of style and sophistication.
Nalini is a former Canadian TV presenter, who has previously covered red carpet and live events, and major news stories. She channels the same wit and curiosity to the Made in Spain podcast, offering sharp, unscripted takes on everything from Spanish traditions to expat surprises.
Laura, a seasoned leadership coach and global traveler, shares her deep, first-hand knowledge of Spain—not just as her birthplace, but as a country she continues to rediscover. With a British father and Spanish mother, she considers herself a global citizen with deep roots in Spain. Her insights connect Spain’s rich past with its modern evolution, offering a unique and personal perspective on life, culture, and luxury in Spain today.
Every episode of Made in Spain explores the country’s hidden gems and exclusive experiences, but it’s more than just a guide—it’s a conversation.
The show’s Slice of Life segment gives listeners an unfiltered peek into Nalini and Laura’s daily experiences – the joys, frustrations, and unexpected moments that make life in Spain, and beyond, full of surprises. Sometimes, it’s about the reality of settling into a new country – at other times, it’s about their travels, funny mishaps, or behind-the-scenes stories from researching the podcast. No matter the topic, listeners feel like they are right there with them, stepping into their world.
- No. of episodes: 14
- Latest episode: 2025-06-23
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