Sign up for the inspiration trip to Bilbao, UNESCO Creative City of Design
Design region Kortrijk likes to be inspired. Every year we organize an inspiration trip to a creative destination. This year we take you to Bilbao, a dynamic city known for its progressive design and architecture in the heart of the Basque Country.
Join us from september 10 to 12, 2025!
Registration is open until June 13.
From an influential industrial city, Bilbao has transformed itself into a center of design and creativity, driven to constantly innovate. This transformation has been called the “Guggenheim effect. The opening of the iconic museum in 1997 kicked off the city's urban renaissance and international appeal.
Today, Bilbao is recognized as a city that puts design and culture at the center of its growth. The city has a large creative sector, including architecture, industrial and interior design, new technologies, fashion, audiovisual media, video games and crafts.
Bilbao is also known for its impressive architecture and design. Iconic buildings such as the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, the Euskalduna Conference Center and Concert Hall, which reflect the innovative spirit of the city.
According to UNESCO, Bilbao has developed into a vibrant and dynamic city, where important cultural facilities contribute to the economy in terms of wealth creation, employment and social welfare. Explore the modern architecture and creative dynamism of this city on the banks of the Nervión River.
Program
(Subject to change, visits may still change timing)
Wednesday - September 10 - Arrival
- Departure from Brussels at 2 pm. We stay overnight in a contemporary hotel in downtown Bilbao!
- We visit Azkuna Zentroa Alhóndiga, a former wine warehouse transformed into a cultural center. Combining historic architecture with modern functions, the building offers space for art, design and relaxation in the heart of Bilbao.
- After an apero in the city center, we will be hosted for a networking dinner by the city of Bilbao.
Thursday - September 11
Morning
- We will start the day at bicycle manufacturer Orbea in the Basque town of Mallabia, where we will get a behind-the-scenes look at the well-known bicycle brand. Orbea combines design, technology and sustainability in the entire production process. During the visit, we see up close how craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand in making their bikes.
- For lunch we head to the design school Kunstenhal, where we get a presentation of the participating 5x5 companies and designers and a tour of the creative spaces.
Afternoon
- After lunch, we will head to AS Fabrik. The AS Fabrik is an innovative center on the Zorrotzaurre Peninsula, where technology, entrepreneurship and urban development come together in an inspiring environment that focuses on the digital economy and industry of the future.
- We then take part in a guided tour of downtown Bilbao, focusing on architecture and design. In the process, we will gain more insight into the highlights and the story behind the Guggenheim Museum. Afterwards, there will be free time to explore the museum at your own pace.
Evening
- In the evening, we dive into Bilbao's rich food culture on a Pintxos Tour. Walking past cozy bars, we'll sample delicious Basque snacks and discover the city's culinary traditions.
Friday - september 12
Morning
- To start the day, we first visit some open design studios. Afterwards, we will visit Estudios Durero, a creative production studio where art, technology and innovation come together in impressive visual projects and tangible art experiences.
- To conclude, we will visit ESHBI, Bilbao's renowned hotel school, where we will have lunch. Gastronomy and hospitality take center stage there in a hands-on learning environment overlooking the city.
Afternoon
- 14:30: departure to airport
- Arrival in brussels at 6:45 p.m.
Practical information
We will stay at Hesperia Bilbao Hotel (or equivalent alternative)
Participation price incl. flights, hotel, transfers, lunches and dinners, visits:
Price single: 2,200 EUR
Price double: 2,000 EUR
Price adjustments may be possible due to changes in (airline) taxes and fuel surcharges.
(Not included: insurance, transfer to and from Brussels Airport)
For this trip we work together with MI AGENCY (member VVR - 7135).
Tel: 0495 79 54 55
Email: marianne@mi-agency.be
Upon receipt of your registration, MI AGENCY will send you the invoice.
Payment of 50% by return.
Balance is expected by no later than 01/08/2025
Cancellation fee:
After registration until July 7: 500 EUR
After July 7 and before August 15: 1,200 EUR
From August 15: full amount
Sébastien Hylebos
Sébastien assists businesses in innovation and design. He is also responsible for projects on circular economy and digitalisation in cooperation with companies and designers.
