The Old Wastewater Treatment Plant, operational from 1906 to 1967, now showcases the evolution of architecture, technology and water management. It was a key part of Prague's modern sewer system, designed to collect and treat wastewater before discharging it into the Vltava river, significantly improving public health and aiding the city's development. Today, the site, managed by Tovarna z.ú., hosts exhibitions, concerts and themed events, featuring operational steam engines and showcasing the original machinery and craftsmanship. The plant is a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic, an anchor point of the European Route of Industrial Heritage, and a UNESCO candidate.

The Old Town marketplace with its pastel-coloured baroque houses and cathedral is one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Its centrepiece is a large statue of a prominent religious leader from the 1400s, Jan Hus. Numerous bars and cafés adorn the square.

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.

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.