In Castaños, you taste the vernacular. It is Bilbao without frills, with an authentic atmosphere. Monte Artxanda offers stunning views.
Looking for a quieter but cosy area with the atmosphere of an old working-class neighbourhood, where you drink among the locals? Then this is the place to be. Walking along the wide river promenade, you can still see the occasional palacio. In the 20th century, affordable high-rise buildings took its place. The area turned into a real working-class neighbourhood with narrow streets, a central square and authentic one-man businesses. Especially late in the afternoon, the square fills up and buzzes with the sounds of bubbling locals and children playing. It is also the departure point of the historic funicular to monte Artxanda, for stunning views of the city and its surroundings.