Casco Viejo Bilbao | Bilbao

Casco Viejo (Old Town) is the historic heart of Bilbao, Spain, and one of the city’s most charming and lively districts. Known for its winding cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere, Casco Viejo offers a blend of Basque culture, historic landmarks, and a lively food scene centered around traditional pintxos bars. Dating back to the 14th century, this area was once the entire extent of Bilbao until the city expanded in the 19th century.

Key Features and Attractions

1. Siete Calles (Seven Streets)

• At the core of Casco Viejo are the Siete Calles (Seven Streets), the original medieval streets that form the backbone of Bilbao’s Old Town. These narrow, pedestrian-only streets—such as Somera, Artekale, and Tendería—are lined with colorful facades, small shops, cafes, and pintxos bars.
• Each street has its own unique character, with artisan shops, vintage boutiques, and traditional Basque goods, making it a delightful area to explore on foot.

2. Santiago Cathedral

• Santiago Cathedral is Bilbao’s oldest church, dating back to the 14th century. Built in Gothic style, this cathedral features beautiful stained-glass windows, an ornate main altar, and a stunning Gothic cloister. The cathedral is named after Saint James (Santiago), the patron saint of Bilbao and an important figure in the region.
• The church’s façade and interior are a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, reflecting the historical changes over centuries.

3. Plaza Nueva

• Plaza Nueva (New Square) is a 19th-century neoclassical square surrounded by arcaded buildings, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants, the square is one of the best places in Bilbao to sample pintxos (small Basque tapas) and txakoli (Basque white wine).
• On Sundays, Plaza Nueva hosts a flea market, where you can browse for antiques, books, and handmade crafts, adding to its vibrant, community-focused feel.

4. Mercado de la Ribera

• Just on the edge of Casco Viejo, Mercado de la Ribera is one of Europe’s largest indoor markets and a hub of fresh, local produce, seafood, and traditional Basque foods. The market’s Art Deco architecture and colorful stained-glass windows make it a landmark in its own right.
• Inside, the market is divided into sections selling everything from fresh fish and meat to vegetables and pastries. A visit here provides an authentic taste of Bilbao’s culinary culture.

5. Teatro Arriaga

• Teatro Arriaga is a beautiful Neo-Baroque theater near Casco Viejo, named after the famous Basque composer Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga. Built in 1890, it hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and theater.
• The building’s design is inspired by the Opéra Garnier in Paris, with a grand façade, intricate detailing, and a splendid interior that adds to the historical charm of the area.

Culture and Pintxos

• Pintxos Bars: Casco Viejo is famous for its pintxos culture. These small, flavorful snacks are a staple of Basque cuisine and can be found in almost every bar and tavern across the area. Locals and visitors alike enjoy hopping from bar to bar, sampling pintxos that range from traditional options like bacalao (salted cod) to more inventive creations.
• Basque Festivities: Casco Viejo is often the site for traditional festivals and events, including Aste Nagusia (Great Week), Bilbao’s biggest annual festival held in August. During this time, the streets are filled with music, dance, parades, and performances, creating a lively, communal spirit that showcases Basque culture at its finest.

Shopping and Artisan Boutiques

Casco Viejo is a great place for boutique shopping. Here, you’ll find small, independent shops selling Basque crafts, fashion, jewelry, and artisanal products. From Basque berets to handmade ceramics, the area is ideal for picking up unique souvenirs that reflect the region’s heritage.

Practical Information

• Accessibility: Casco Viejo is mostly pedestrianized, making it easy to navigate on foot. Some areas are cobbled, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
• Best Time to Visit: Visiting Casco Viejo is enjoyable year-round, but weekends are particularly lively, with markets and bustling nightlife.
• Nearby Transportation: Casco Viejo is well-connected to other parts of Bilbao by metro and tram, and it's just a short walk to other attractions, such as the Guggenheim Museum and Bilbao Fine Arts Museum.

Conclusion

Casco Viejo is more than just Bilbao’s historic district; it’s the beating heart of the city, where past and present come together in a lively atmosphere of tradition, food, and culture. Whether you’re exploring its ancient streets, enjoying pintxos with locals, or shopping for Basque souvenirs, Casco Viejo offers an authentic taste of Bilbao’s rich heritage and vibrant lifestyle.