Our recent trip to Bilbao was a mix of modern design, quirky surprises, and iconic art. As we arrived, we noticed the weather wasn’t far off from home, with temperatures hovering in the mid-teens—cool and comfortable for exploring the city.
Our home base for the stay was the Tayko Hotel, a trendy spot with a distinct industrial vibe. With exposed brickwork, visible metal framework, and glass lifts, the hotel was both contemporary and charming.
Our bedroom followed the same industrial theme with dark oak furniture, cement-panelled walls, and understated yet thoughtful touches. A boxed red preserved rose sat on our bed, along with heart-shaped chocolate lollipops and an assortment of milk and white chocolates—a welcome sweet treat.
Of course, we didn’t wait around to explore, so we headed out almost immediately and began wandering the streets of Bilbao. During our stroll, we stumbled upon a unique shop that stopped us in our tracks. This place had something we’d never seen before: shelves lined with hundreds, maybe even thousands, of small figurines known as Caganers. These figurines, all in the act of, well, having a poo, featured everyone from politicians to musicians—living or dead. While a little cheeky, we learned that the Caganer is a traditional Catalan Christmas figure, meant to bring luck and happiness for the year ahead. A funny and unexpected start to our adventure!
Next, we made our way to the city’s most famous attraction—the Guggenheim Museum. You can’t miss it. Before you even step inside, you’re greeted by Jeff Koons’ iconic giant floral sculpture, “Puppy.” A masterpiece in itself, this 43-foot-tall terrier covered in bright flowers is both charming and striking, welcoming visitors into a world where architecture and art blur together.
A Brief History of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which opened in 1997, was a game-changer for both the art world and the city. Designed by famed architect Frank Gehry, its groundbreaking titanium-clad structure redefined modern architecture and sparked the “Bilbao Effect”—a term used to describe how the museum revitalized the city’s economy and global image. Since then, the Guggenheim has become a symbol of Bilbao’s transformation into a cultural hub.
Inside the Guggenheim: Art that Makes You Think
Exploring the museum was a whirlwind of visual stimulation, featuring works from renowned artists like Andy Warhol and El Anatsui. I was especially captivated by El Anatsui’s Rising Sea, an intricate installation crafted from aluminium pieces possibly even bottle caps, showcasing the beauty of recycled materials. Other works included unexpected pieces like a TV monitor plugged in and placed on the floor, a face-down floating Pinocchio in a swimming pool, and even some metal step ladders that looked oddly inviting. I couldn’t resist incorporating my Timberland boots into a photo with the ladders—I felt it was missing just that extra touch of quirkiness!
Admittedly, not everything made sense to me, but that’s the beauty of contemporary art. It challenges, confuses, and sometimes just leaves you wondering. Mark, on the other hand, didn’t get it at all. But we both agreed: we’ll remember it. And isn’t that what art is all about?
After our tour, we made the obligatory stop at the Guggenheim shop, leaving with postcards, a Guggenheim coffee table book, and a fridge magnet—a little piece of the museum to bring back home. We then headed to a nearby café, enjoying a much-needed cappuccino and a slice of cake, reflecting on the experience and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.
A few Small Mishaps
Unfortunately, no trip is without its hiccups. I tripped and fell to both my knees, scraping them so badly that my bruises lasted an age. Initially it took my breath away I thought I’d broken bones but was fine after a second. Somewhere along the way, I got bitten on the hand—by what, I’m not entirely sure. By the time I got back home, the bite had turned into a small blister, and I had to take antibiotics. It wasn’t painful, just an inconvenience, as the antibiotics left me feeling sluggish. Still, it didn’t overshadow the overall experience. Just annoying!
Final Thoughts
Our time in Bilbao was a nice blend of art and culture. From the vibe of Tayko Hotel to the exhibits at the Guggenheim and our wanderings through the city streets, it was a trip that we can say we have done. Even Mark, who didn’t quite “get” the art, had to admit—it was an experience worth having. Another city ticked off our travel list. Although this part of Spain sadly left me feeling a bit ‘Meh’
