The white structure of the impressive pedestrian bridge over the Nervion River can be seen from far away on a sunny summer’s day in Bilbao. It's extra special since the bridge was designed to look like a sailboat, ten metres above the river. Zubizuri connects Campo Volantín Boulevard with Uribitarte, and from the bridge, you have a stunning view of the Guggenheim Museum. There used to be a glass floor, but after complaints, the city decided to place a non-slip mat. So even on a rainy day, you can walk there safely.

Now here's an experience hard to come by elsewhere: the Rastafari Indigenous Village, just outside city limits, is a neat introduction to Jamaica's indigenous religious movement that has gained followers worldwide since its emergence in the 1930s. A guided tour is good way to learn more about Rastafarianism and its central tenants, as well as witness the daily and cultural life of its Jamaican adepts.

Plentzia is a happening resort just outside Bilbao, in the province of Biscay. Located atop a hill, its streets pour down the hillside leading to lovely sandy beaches. Plentzia is a popular weekend destination from Bilbao, as it takes a short 30 minutes to get there on the overground metro service from the centre of Bilbao. In the town of Plentzia, there are plenty of bars and cafés which serve locally caught fresh seafood. The town also has an indoor court for the sport of Basque pelota. Here you can watch this traditional game, which involves two teams of players who hurl a small hard white ball at a wall swinging at it with the full force of the palms of their bare hands.