NEED TO KNOW
LOCATION The Guggenheim is in downtown Bilbao, northern Spain
CONSTRUCTION 1993–7
ACCESS Open to visitors with tickets
DAYTIME TEMPERATURES Jan:
48°F (9°C); Apr: 54°F (12°C); Jul: 70°F (21°C); Oct: 61°F (16°C)
On its completion in 1997, Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Bilbao forever changed the way critics viewed museums, providing a striking intersection between art and architecture.
Overnight, the industrial city of Bilbao appeared on everyone’s radar, with visitors coming from all over the globe to see the museum’s soaring curves and funky angles.
Situated along the Nervion River, the structure is made of glass, titanium, and limestone, reflecting light off its many odd angles. Visitors to the main entrance are greeted by Puppy, a 43-ft- (13-m-) tall topiary terrier by artist Jeff Koons, which has also become a symbol of the city. Truly a benchmark in modern architecture, the Guggenheim Bilbao is a visceral reminder of the power of the medium.
Practical Information
Getting There and Around The airport is located 7 miles (12 km) outside Bilbao. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach the downtown area.
When to Go Visit during special performances and exhibitions, though they bring additional ticket costs and extra visitors.