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In Quest Of: Picture-perfect Bilbao’s design, pintxos and culture

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Bilbao, the capital of Basque Country, is a foodie hot spot more relaxed than Spain’s major cities.

Bilbao, the capital of Basque Country, is a foodie hot spot more relaxed than Spain’s major cities.

ILLUSTRATIONS: SHIKHA SHAH

Shikha Shah

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BILBAO – Northern Spain’s industrial port city-turned-designer metropolis is a haven for curious, creative folks looking for worthy alternatives to tourist spots.

Founded in 1300, Bilbao is tucked into rolling, emerald hills, flanked by the La Ria estuary of the Nervion River. Like Barcelona, it hugs the coast, which means the beach is just a metro or bus ride from the city centre. For hikers, adventurers and sun-worshippers, the city is a delight.

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