Port of Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao was a beautiful port we visited while on our Oceania cruise in 2022. The city's rich history and vibrant culture fascinated us as we strolled through its mesmerizing streets. The stunning architecture, ranging from the iconic Guggenheim Museum to the charming Old Town, left an indelible mark on our memories. The warm and welcoming locals added to the charm of Bilbao, making our visit an unforgettable experience.
Seeing Bilbao in One Day from a Cruise Ship
When we docked in Bilbao, we had to take a bus from the ship to reach the city center. From there, we embarked on an enchanting stroll along the beautiful cobblestone streets, as if stepping into a storybook scene.
We decided to forego seeing the Guggenheim since it appeared overly touristy and expensive. Instead, we craved an experience that was off the beaten path, one that would reveal the true essence of Bilbao. After considering our options, we made a choice: to ride the Funicular de Artxanda. However, reaching our desired destination proved to be an undertaking in itself.
In our pursuit of the Funicular de Artxanda, we encountered numerous taxi drivers who were unfamiliar with its location. Just when we began to worry, luck smiled upon us, and we stumbled upon a gracious taxi driver who understood our desire. The only issue was, the driver dropped us off at the peak of Artxanda instead of the bottom. The winding drive up to the summit made us somewhat queasy. As we disembarked from the taxi, a breathtaking panorama of Bilbao unfolded before our eyes, rewarding us for the unexpected turn of events.
The small town nestled atop the cliff did not boast a multitude of attractions, particularly due to the impact of the pandemic on local businesses. However, we discovered unexpected beauty in the abandoned buildings that seemed frozen in time. Like whispered stories from the past, these weathered structures captivated us, emanating an eerie yet fascinating allure. It was a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human presence and nature's relentless reclamation.
After hours of exploration and filming we made our way back to the funicular, ready to descend from the captivating heights of Artxanda. Eager to relish the final moments of our adventure, we procured our tickets from the automated machine, as it stood guard at the entrance to the building. Walking through a room steeped in the rich history of the Funicular de Artxanda added a touch of nostalgia to our journey, deepening our appreciation for the marvels of engineering and the transport's cultural significance.
As the doors of the funicular closed behind us, we were met with a leisurely descent, affording us ample time to savor the mesmerizing view of the city below.
After disembarking the funicular, we eagerly embarked on a journey through Bilbao's old town. The moment we set foot in this district, we were instantly transported to a bygone era seeped in history and splendor. The momentous architecture that adorned the old town was nothing short of breathtaking. As we wandered through the labyrinthine cobblestone streets, every corner we turned brought forth new wonders.
With our day drawing to a close, we couldn't help but recommend a visit to Bilbao's old town as an indispensable part of anyone's itinerary. Its stunning architecture, charming streets, and vibrant atmosphere provide a captivating insight into Bilbao's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone seeking an enchanting experience, the old town of Bilbao promises to be an unforgettable destination.
A Great Way to End the day…
As the day slowly came to a close, Mike and I sat on the balcony of our cruise ship. A spectacle of nature's wonders unfolded before our very eyes. The dolphins leapt playfully from the ocean against the backdrop of the fading daylight.
In that moment, we realized the true value of having a balcony on a cruise ship. While some may argue that it is unnecessary, we firmly encourage anyone with the means, to indulge in this luxurious experience. Throughout our journey, our balcony became our solace, our front-row seat to the unfolding tapestry of landscapes and seascapes. We reveled in the gentle sea breeze caressing our faces, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the ship's hull.
We created YouTube video that captures the essence of our journey in Bilbao. Although we cannot transport you physically to Bilbao, we hope that our video will ignite a spark of wanderlust within your hearts.
