If you are planning to visit Bilbao, here is a list of places not to be missed in the jewel of the Basque Country.

Bilbao is without a doubt a must-visit city if not only for its food, as Basque cuisine is one of the most delicious and most distinct in Spain.

The first thing you need to know is that whatever time of year you travel to Bilbao, there will always be some celebration that you can take part in and enjoy. While it is true that there are certain special dates in the year, Bilbao is a city that always knows how to have a good time.

One thing is for sure, every visit to Bilbao should include a day put aside especially for a pintxo route through the city. This style of eating or dining is an experience that is unique to the Basque Country and, without a doubt, it is one of the most authentic ways to really get to know its spirit.

There are plenty of things for kids to do on a family trip to Bilbao: going up Mount Artxanda on the funicular, sailing along the Nervión river, riding bicycles and visiting the Maritime and Guggenheim museums are just a few of them.

Basque cuisine is one of the most famous in the world and many of the finest chefs come from the region. The food of Bilbao in particular has a lot of personality and local produce of a high quality.

The city centre, the Ensanche area and the large shopping centres are full of the best stores, both national and international, so you can give free rein to your shopping urges.

The church of the patron saint of Biscay, the subject of legends, miracles and military sieges, has overlooked the city of Bilbao and the Nervión river for centuries.

Going out for pintxopote in the Casco Viejo, viewing the city from Mount Artxanda and escaping to Plentzia beach are just some of the many ways for experience-loving couples to enjoy Bilbao.