Short Voyages
Bilbao, Spain
Discover one of Europe’s modern icons. Cobbled streets and squares will delight you, but the Guggenheim’s extraordinary titanium curves really grab your attention. Among the city’s charms are the jumble of bars and restaurants found in Siete Calles, the seven streets composing the city’s old quarter. Admire too, the city’s historic churches and arcaded squares and be sure to sample Rioja – a local speciality.
Highlights
CASCO VIEJO
Bilbao’s Old Quarter is located on the right bank of the Nervion River. The area has been restored since a devastating 1983 flood; many streets are open to pedestrians only.
GETXO
An elegant residential town with large, rambling houses with the Bizkaia Bridge – a Hanging Bridge nearby.
GUERNICA
On 26 April 1937, German aircraft levelled the ancient Basque capital of Guernica. The international outrage inspired Picasso’s monumental canvas, which today hangs in the Prado.
GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
Frank Gehry’s design honours Bilbao’s heritage with its flowing sails in titanium. The museum features exhibition space of 10,220 square metres and one of the finest collections of 20th century art in the world.
THE RIOJA
Spain’s Rioja is internationally renowned for the fine red wines produced from tempranillo grapes.
Shore Excursions