05/06/2025
7 things that, if you’re not from Bilbao, you probably don’t know (and if you are, maybe you don’t either)
Bilbao is much more than the Guggenheim, pintxos, and the San Mamés stadium. This northern city has a lot of character and a ton of stories to tell that go unnoticed—even by Bilbaínos themselves. At BYPILLOW we want to share with you 7 of these curiosities.
Think you know everything about Bilbao? Keep reading, and you’ll probably exclaim “¡Aibalaostia!” before you finish. Because Bilbao is a box of surprises.
A medieval jewel in the heart of the old town
Amid winding streets with centuries of history, there’s an architectural gem that goes unnoticed by many: the oldest house in Bilbao.
It’s on Pelota Street and dates back to the 14th century. Yes— the 14th century! This little medieval house has seen all kinds of passersby: from nobles brandishing greatswords to tourists wielding selfie sticks.
It has that kind of Julio Iglesias vibe, as if to say, “I’ve lived longer than you have, and you know it.” It’s a silent witness to the evolution of the borough. If those walls could talk, they’d surely spill plenty of juicy anecdotes.
It still retains original 14th-century elements, and although its façade is discreet, its presence connects you to centuries of Bilbaino history. It has survived wars, floods, renovations… and the passage of time itself.
At BYPILLOW, we make it easy for you to discover hidden corners like this. Stay in the heart of Bilbao with all the comfort you deserve.
The street where it all began
Everyone talks about the Seven Streets of the Old Town, but did you know that it all started with only three? That’s right: Bilbao was minimalist before it was trendy. The pioneers were Somera, Artecalle, and Tendería streets. And of all of them, Somera takes the gold medal.
It’s the oldest street and one of the first arteries where the town began to pulse back in the 14th century. Today it’s still as alive as ever—although no more carts trundle by, and sacks of grain are no longer exchanged; instead, you’ll find groups looking for the best pintxo or the strongest vermouth.
So the next time you walk down Somera, remember: it’s not just any street. It’s a historic runway… with centuries of Bilbaíno gossip under your feet!
At BYPILLOW, we offer you boutique hotels in Bilbao and hotels in the historic center of Bilbao that give you everything you need for your getaway in the north.
The “Spanish Mozart” was born in Bilbao
You might know the Arriaga Theater, but did you know it’s named after a musical genius born in the city? We’re talking about Juan Crisóstomo de Arriaga, known as the “Spanish Mozart” for his precocious talent. Like the Austrian composer, he was a child prodigy… and died far too young.
Arriaga was born in 1806 and, at just 13 years old, was already composing string quartets that left musicians of the day speechless. He studied in Paris, where he also amazed people with his musical maturity. Although he passed away at only 19, his legacy lives on: in the theater that bears his name, in festivals, and in recordings that revive his work.
Bilbao was the cradle of a musical prodigy who deserves a spot on every classical music lover’s playlist.
The Bilbao tile: a symbol
If you’ve ever walked around Bilbao, you’ve surely noticed very distinctive floor tiles featuring four circles in their design. Did you know they’re not just a decorative detail, but an authentic symbol of the city?
These tiles were designed to help with drainage in a city famous for its rain. Their geometric pattern channeled water toward the sewers and prevented puddles from forming.
Over time, their functionality gave way to myth: today they’ve become a Bilbaíno icon that decorates T-shirts, magnets, and even mugs.
At BYPILLOW, we offer well-located hotels near the Guggenheim, San Mamés, and the city’s most emblematic points.
The hotels in Bilbao we have for you are:
Where does “caer chuzos de punta” come from?
Have you ever said that “caen chuzos de punta” (literally, “spears are falling at sharp points”)? This expression might have Bilbaíno roots. In the City Hall, there are some old “chuzos” preserved: iron-tipped spears that were driven into the ground when the mayor left the city, as a symbol of authority. From there comes the comparison to an intense rain that falls like spears. One of those expressions that show that—even in Bilbao—the language has history.
The Basque Pelota Museum
If you thought everything in Bilbao revolved around football, you’re missing part of the game. Basque pelota is one of the region’s most deeply rooted sports, and in the city you can visit the Basque Pelota Museum, located in the Bizkaia Fronton.
Basque pelota can be played with the bare hand (protected with tape), with a wooden bat or paddle, or with a wicker basket, and has more than a dozen modalities. The museum walks you through the history of this ancestral sport and exhibits everything from traditional tools to modern equipment.
A different visit, very local, and perfect for discovering an essential part of Basque culture.
A metro of the future (or the past)
Bilbao’s metro is not only useful, it’s also beautiful. Its futuristic design, the work of architect Norman Foster, marked a before and after in the city when it opened in the late ’90s. The stations, with their curved shapes and metallic structures, feel like a time tunnel. And the iconic “shell” of the Abando Indalecio Prieto station has become part of the urban landscape. Riding the metro in Bilbao is like traveling in a time capsule… comfortable, punctual, and distinctly Bilbaíno.
Escape to Bilbao with BYPILLOW
Take a trip to Bilbao and discover its most authentic side. At BYPILLOW we’re waiting for you with hotels in the city center so you can experience Bilbao from the inside: comfortable, centrally located, and at your own pace.