Bilbao, the place to live

PROGRESS AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

A modern, mid-size city, Bilbao is a welcoming place to live, work or visit. You can enjoy the sense of community in its public spaces. The city is calm and free from political or social instability. And you’ll feel safe thanks to excellent policing and public services. Perhaps that’s why so many people achieve the ideal work-life balance here.

Best european city 2018 
The Academy of Urbanism

Best tourist destination 2018
European Best Destination

Life expectancy 
World average: 72 years

Human Development Index
Global Human Development Index: 0,717

Social security spending 
European average: € 7,903

EU Regional Social Progress Index
European average: 66,5

PLENTY OF GREEN SPACES

There are plenty of green spaces to enjoy all over the city. From urban parks in the city, to forested areas in the Bilbao Green Belt. In fact, those living in Bilbao are less than 4km from the forest park.

AN EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

Bilbao has transformed over the last 15 years. To mitigate growth, the city promotes efficient energy management and renewable energy in buildings and infrastructures. Cultural and natural heritage is preserved through revitalisation programmes. And the region’s public green spaces are well maintained. Cementing Bilbao’s reputation as a city of the future.

Energy Efficiency Index score
85,1

Public transport energy consumption
The lowest per persona rate in Spain

Electric car use
The highest rate in the country

Energy Efficiency Index score
85,1

Public transport energy consumption
The lowest per persona rate in Spain

Electric car use
The highest rate in the country

CULTURE AND LEISURE

Bilbao is rich in culture, leisure and the arts. A magnet for tourism, it is home to 12 prestigious museums, including the eponymous Guggenheim Bilbao, which continues attracting more visitors, year after year. The city has also become a well-known destination for renowned cultural and international sporting events.

1,741 cultural 
events


BBK Live Festival


Premios MTV


Basque Fest

Guggenheim Bilbao Museum

1,265,756 visits

Fine Arts Museum

240,000 visits

International sport events


Rugby Finals 2018


Red Bull Cliff Diving


UEFA Euro 2020

GOURMET CUISINE

Internationally recognised for its nouvelle cuisine, Bilbao has a diverse collection of cafes, restaurants and bars – some with Michelin Stars. Here you can try exquisite pintxos (canapes) and embrace the tradition of poteo: going from bar to bar, sampling different wines.

Michelin Stars shared between 23 restaurants

Michelin Stars shared between 23 restaurants