Take a walk in the shoes of a local with one of Bilbao’s most popular hikes. Pagasarri, at 673 m, is one of the smaller mountains surrounding the city, and most locals have tackled it at least once. Buses from the city centre take you to starting points around Zabalburu or Peñascal. At the summit, there’s a bar selling bocatas—baguette sandwiches stuffed with tortilla de patata, txistorra, or chorizo. If you’re feeling ambitious, continue on to Ganekogorta at 998 m, just a bit further along the ridge, for more sweeping views of Bilbao and the surrounding hills.

Chillida-Leku is an open-air museum near the city of Hernani, about an hour and a half from Bilbao, dedicated to the Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida. Around 40 of his monumental steel and granite works are dotted through meadows and woodland, with smaller pieces displayed inside the restored 16th-century Zabalaga farmhouse. The grounds are peaceful and easy to wander, and there’s also an organic café and shop on site.

For those seeking an escape to the vibrancy and energy of an artsy, chic community, then head to Downtown Centralia. Cafes, antique and boutique shops, and more are to be had. Also enjoy an eclectic mix of local galleries and specialties including handmade jewelry, handcrafted furniture, and homemade chocolates.

A winding stone bridge links the mainland to this rocky islet, followed by 240 steps up to the small hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. The chapel dates back to the 10th century, although it has been rebuilt multiple times following fires and pirate attacks. Even if the chapel is closed (which it often is), the climb is worth it for the stunning sea views, the cliffs carved into arches, and the remote, windswept feeling at the top - Game of Thrones fans will recognise the setting as Dragonstone. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Bilbao. You can also take a bus to Bermeo, a fishing town nearby, and continue by taxi or local bus. The trail is steep and uneven, so good shoes help.