Local Customs & Etiquette in Bilbao, Spain
1. Basque Greeting
A firm handshake is common in Bilbao. Locals may also use the traditional Basque greeting 'uste-habe', which translates to 'how are you?'
- Different Greeting: A distinctive Basque greeting is used instead of the more common Spanish 'hola'
- Firm Handshake: The handshake in Bilbao is often firmer than in other regions of Spain
- Language Diversity: Understanding both Spanish and Basque can be beneficial when greeting locals
2. Eating Etiquette
Eating with your hands is generally not acceptable in Bilbao. Use cutlery and be aware that it's considered rude to start eating until everyone at the table has their food.
- Use of Cutlery: Eating with your hands is discouraged in Bilbao
- Patience: Wait for everyone to receive their food before starting to eat
- Table Manners: Be aware of appropriate table manners, such as not speaking with food in your mouth
3. Tipping in Restaurants
In Bilbao, a service charge is usually included in the bill. It's customary to round up the amount if you are satisfied with the service.
- Service Charge: A service charge is often included in the bill
- Rounding Up: It's customary to round up the amount if you are pleased with the service
- Check for Service Charge: Always check your bill for any included service charge before tipping
4. Bilbao Market Etiquette
At markets in Bilbao, haggling is not common. Prices are fixed, but friendly banter with stallholders is expected and appreciated.
- Fixed Prices: Prices at markets in Bilbao are usually fixed
- Friendly Banter: Stallholders expect and appreciate friendly conversation
- Respectful Negotiations: If you have a question or concern, do so politely and respectfully
5. Public Space Behavior
In Bilbao, public spaces are used for socializing. It's common to see groups of friends chatting and relaxing in parks or by the river.
- Socializing in Public Spaces: Public spaces are often used for social gatherings
- Relaxing in Parks: Parks and riverside areas are popular spots for relaxation
- Respect Public Spaces: Always respect the spaces, cleaning up after yourself when necessary
6. Drinking Customs
Bilbao has a vibrant cafe culture. It's common to drink coffee at the bar rather than sitting down, and it's customary to order 'un café con leche' (coffee with milk).
- Cafe Culture: Bilbao has a strong cafe culture
- Standing at the Bar: It's common to drink coffee at the bar, rather than sitting down
- Ordering 'un café con leche': The local favorite is 'un café con leche', or coffee with milk
7. Dining Time
Lunch is usually served between 2 PM and 4 PM in Bilbao, while dinner is typically enjoyed later, around 9 PM.
- Late Lunch: Lunch is served later than in many other places
- Early Dinner: Dinner is typically served earlier than lunch
- Flexible Timing: Restaurants may have flexible hours, so it's a good idea to call ahead
8. Public Transport Manners
In Bilbao, passengers give up their seats for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Also, talking loudly on mobile phones is discouraged.
- Giving Up Seats: Seats are offered to those who need them
- No Loud Phone Use: Talking loudly on mobile phones is discouraged in public transportation
- Respectful Behavior: Always be considerate of other passengers and their personal space
9. Bilbao Fiestas
Bilbao has numerous festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is La Semana Grande (The Big Week), a week-long celebration filled with music, dance, and fireworks.
- Variety of Festivals: Bilbao has many festivals throughout the year
- La Semana Grande: La Semana Grande is one of Bilbao's most popular festivals
- Joining Locals: Festivals are a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture
10. Basque Dancing
The traditional Basque dance is called 'Saila'. It's a lively and energetic dance that often involves couples or groups dancing in a circular pattern.
- Traditional Dance: The traditional Basque dance is called 'Saila'
- Lively and Energetic: 'Saila' is a lively and energetic dance
- Group or Couple Dance: The dance can be performed by couples or groups
11. Pintxos Culture
Pintxos are a popular snack in Bilbao. They are small, bite-sized dishes that can be found in bars throughout the city.
- Small Dishes: Pintxos are small, bite-sized dishes
- Found in Bars: Pintxos can be found in bars throughout Bilbao
- Variety of Pintxos: There is a wide variety of pintxos to choose from
12. Local Music and Dancing
The Basque Country has its own unique music and dance traditions. One popular form is 'Txalaparta', a percussion instrument made from logs.
- Unique Music Traditions: Basque Country has distinctive music traditions
- Txalaparta Instrument: 'Txalaparta' is a unique percussion instrument made from logs
- Local Dance and Music Events: Attend local events to immerse yourself in the music and dance culture
13. Gaztelugatxe Visit Etiquette
At Gaztelugatxe, a coastal sanctuary near Bilbao, it's customary to climb the steps on one foot and knock three times on the door for good luck.
- Climb Steps on One Foot: Climbing the steps on one foot is a local custom
- Three Knocks for Luck: Knocking three times on the door brings good luck
- Respectful Behavior: Always respect the sanctuary and its visitors
14. San Juan Festivity
The San Juan Festivity, celebrated on June 23rd and 24th, is a major event in Bilbao. It involves bonfires, singing traditional songs, and jumping over fires for good luck.
- Bonfires: Large bonfires are a key part of the San Juan Festivity
- Singing Traditional Songs: Traditional songs are sung during the festivity
- Jumping Over Fires: Jumping over fires is believed to bring good luck
15. Basque Language Classes
Learning some Basque phrases can help you connect with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Many language schools offer classes for visitors.
- Immerse Yourself in Culture: Speaking Basque can help you connect more deeply with locals
- Language Schools: Many language schools offer classes for visitors
- Basque Phrases: Learn common Basque phrases to get by in daily life