BILBAO

Once known purely as an industrial port city, today, Bilbao is one of the brightest beacons on Europe's avant-garde landscape. The city's metamorphosis is perhaps most evident in its colossal Guggenheim Museum whose gleaming metal curves capture the light as much as the imagination. Even the bridges have transformed Bilbao's landscape: from the curved Zubizuri footbridge, designed by Calatrava, to the transporter bridge in Getxo, they entice you to stroll along the silvery Nervión River flowing through the city on its way to the Atlantic Ocean a few miles away.

The Basque city has preserved its districts well, each reflecting a different chapter in its history: Ensanche with its eclectic architecture, Abandoibarra where futuristic gardens border redeveloped shipyards, and Getxo, the seaside retreat on Bilbao's doorstep. The paved streets of Casco Viejo, Bilbao's compact old town centre, constantly beat to the rhythm of the locals who come together at the end of the day for a wonderfully sociable tradition: potear, hopping from bar to bar, to drink (in moderation) and snack on mouthwatering pintxos (Basque tapas). It is a chance to get lost in casual conversation as you admire the retro decor in Bilbao's buzzing establishments that seem to have resisted the passing of time.

Bilbao is a bold city, passionate about the finer things in life but also a firm believer in the zero kilometro – the locavore movement that promotes locally sourced food. It is also an inspiring city, where heritage and innovation converge in perfect harmony, offering you something different to discover on every visit.