Bilbao 'ideal for culture vultures'

Holidaymakers looking to fly to Spain this summer might be like to know that the northern city of Bilbao is fast becoming one of the most interesting destinations in the country.

This is according to Korina Miller of Lonely Planet, who said that Bilbao has reinvented itself over the years, turning into the ideal location for charming, culture-filled city break.

Bilbao offers many of the attractions that the Basque region is famous for, such as pintxos - a type of tapas - as well as the sport of handball.

Ms Miller suggested that travellers looking for a quiet break should head to the city in the winter; otherwise the period between May and September is perfect for sun-seekers.

"Those after something more cultural than beach resorts and slightly off the beaten track are tuning into Bilbao's charm," she commented.

"With an atmospheric old town, surrounding green hills, hip nightlife and beaches on the doorstep, there's little left to long for."

Bilbao is perhaps most famous for being one of the locations of the Guggenheim Museum. Other points of interest include the Euskalduna Concert Hall and Convention Centre, the Basque Museum and the Bullfighting Museum.

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