Bilbao and San Sebastián

JG: On somewhat of a whim, we opted to head to northern Spain to the town of Bilbao, with a day trip to nearby San Sebastián. Great decision, as we found Bilbao to be one of our favorite cities. Clean, cultured, small but buzzing with activity, great architecture around every corner, and the best tapas and pintxos (smaller, gourmet version of tapas). I tell you this: we are bringing the latter back to North America with us.

Much of our time was spent navigating the steep streets and market squares, with regular helpings of pintxos along the way. Visited the Guggenheim museum, which is impressive (though, arguably, more so for architectural allure than art content). Not to mention the 40-ft dog made of flowers (see pics). 

Took a bus to San Sebastián for a day trip, which has a similar feel to Bilbao but a bit more upscale and resort-like, with the city built right along the Bay of Biscay. Checked out the aquarium and learned about the city's history as an important port city and fishing town dating back 500 years. Wished we had stayed longer to sample the cuisine more, as it's our understanding the city contain more Michelin starred restaurants than anywhere else on this planet. 

SS: I fell in love with Bilbao. Not really knowing too much about the city before hand, it exceeded any and all expectation  one could have. A clean, swimmable river through the picture sweet historic buildings that lined it. Quiet, yet a bustling city with all amenities, great shopping and seriously amazing food. The pintxos are gourmet mini tapas that are made of and full of love. We has ostrich carpaccio, foie gras delights, tuna chunk in oil with diced shallots, salmon empanadas, curry chicken baby wraps, and the list goes on and on. Luckily I took photos and made lists of ingredients to bring home these precious pleasures! The Guggenheim museum is a true work of art, designed by a Canadian! ;) This titanium and glass structures oozes beauty. 

San Sebastián is also a gem that is not so hidden. Although it's swarming with tourists, the old town streets are historic and quaint with a beautiful castle upon a coastal hill over looking the perfect semi-circle beaches on each side. The aquarium was the highlight of our visit as it displayed a variety of marine life and an abundance of the city's history.