S05E05 - Bilbao, Spain: More Than a Museum

In this episode of the TSJ CruisePod, the Transfer Tour 2026 aboard MSC Magnifica reaches the Basque Country in northern Spain.

The ship docks in Getxo, near the mouth of the Nervión River, rather than directly in central Bilbao. From there, we take a taxi straight to the Guggenheim Museum, with tickets already booked in advance.

Inside, the art itself is not necessarily the main attraction for me. Instead, it is Frank Gehry’s extraordinary building that leaves the strongest impression. Its sweeping curves, titanium surfaces, changing reflections, large interior spaces, and unusual perspectives make the museum feel almost like a giant walkable sculpture.

After the visit, rising temperatures make a long city exploration less appealing, so we return to Getxo. A later shuttle ride into town reveals mostly closed shops, and the day ends back aboard MSC Magnifica.

A focused port call with one very clear highlight – and a reminder that sometimes the building containing the art can become the most memorable work of art itself.