The Basque Country, or Euskal Herria, is one of the oldest cultures in Europe. The Basques have inhabited this region for thousands of years, long before the borders of modern Spain and France were drawn. Known for their unique language, Euskera, which is unlike any other in the world, the “vascos” have fiercely preserved their identity and traditions through centuries of political upheaval.
Our journey through the Basque Country was nothing short of magical. From the vibrant streets of Bilbao and the coastal charm of San Sebastián to the breathtaking beauty of the Basque coast, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. The region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and exceptional cuisine make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast eager to explore the world of pintxos, a history buff keen to delve into the region’s past, or simply looking for a picturesque escape, the Basque Country offers something for everyone.
Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a vibrant metropolis that has undergone a stunning transformation over the past few decades. Once an industrial powerhouse, Bilbao is now a cultural hub known for its striking architecture and lively streets.
There are many things to do in Bilbao and many things to see, but here are our personal recommendations.
Our journey started with a leisurely stroll along the Nervión River, which flows through the heart of Bilbao. The walk from the iconic Guggenheim Museum to the Ribera Market in the old town takes about 30 minutes and offers picturesque views of the city. For a different perspective, we highly recommend booking a one-hour ride on BILBOATS to see the city from the water.
No visit to Bilbao is complete without marveling at the Guggenheim Museum. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Frank Gehry, is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum itself is a work of art, with its undulating titanium exterior reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit.
For panoramic views of Bilbao, we took the Artxanda Funicular up to Mount Artxanda. The ride is short but rewarding, offering breathtaking vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Casco Viejo, or Old Town, is a maze of narrow streets known as “the 7 streets.” Here, we wandered through charming alleyways, visiting the Ribera Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. The market is a feast for the senses, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
Plaza Nueva, a beautiful neoclassical square, is a perfect spot to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. Nearby, the Cathedral of Santiago is a Gothic gem that adds a touch of history to our urban exploration.
One of the highlights of our trip was the food. Bilbao’s food scene is a testament to the Basque love for good food. Here are our top picks:
Located in Plaza Nueva, Gure-Toki offers a modern take on pintxos (Basque tapas). The tempura crab is a must-try, with its delicate crunch and flavorful filling.
Also in Plaza Nueva, this traditional bar is known for its gildas (olive, anchovy, and pepper skewers) and crab with octopus. The cold pintxos on the bar are perfect for a quick snack.
A favorite for its generous portions and reasonable prices, Irrintzi offers everything from croquettes to mini hamburgers.
Specializing in grilled meats and fish, Bar Santa María serves these delights in pintxo size. The quality of the products and the selection of wines are exceptional.
This famous bar in the Abando – Indautxu area is known for its gratinated crab pintxo and truffle tortilla. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for crowds.
Next to El Globo, La Viña del Ensanche offers a wide range of pintxos and a more elaborate restaurant section. It’s a great place to try a variety of dishes.
For a more local experience, head to Maestro Garcia Rivero street. Gaztandegi specializes in cheeses, while Desberdin offers a fine selection of wines along with its pintxos.
After soaking in the urban charm of Bilbao, we headed to San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, a stunning coastal city renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and culinary excellence.
San Sebastián is a year-round destination, but each season has its charm. Summer is perfect for enjoying the beaches, though it can be crowded. Spring offers mild weather and fewer tourists, but rain is possible. Visiting in January allows you to experience the Tamborrada, a 24-hour drumming festival that fills the city with music and celebration.
San Sebastián’s charm lies in its seamless blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Our first stop was the famous La Concha Beach, known for its crescent shape and golden sands. We walked along the promenade, breathing in the fresh sea air and admiring the stunning views.
Next, we ventured into the old town, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with lively bars and historical landmarks. To get a more comprehensive view of the city, we decided to rent bikes using the Dbizi app. For just 6 euros, we signed up and enjoyed the extensive bike lanes that crisscross the city. This allowed us to explore at our own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.
A visit to San Sebastián would be incomplete without taking the funicular up to Mount Igueldo. The ride itself was an adventure, and the views from the top were nothing short of spectacular. From this vantage point, we could see the entire city and the sparkling waters of the Bay of Biscay.
San Sebastián is a food lover’s paradise, especially known for its pintxos. In the old town, bars line the streets, each offering a unique twist on this Basque specialty. We visited many, but here these two you cannot miss:
Casa Urola
This bar offers elevated pintxos with excellent, elaborate, and seasonal products. Each bite is a culinary masterpiece.
Borda Berri
Known for its lively atmosphere, Borda Berri is always crowded but worth the wait. The pintxos here are creative and delicious.
Leaving San Sebastián, we embarked on a road trip along the Basque coast. The rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages made for an unforgettable journey. The best way to experience this coastline is by renting a car or a motorbike and taking the scenic route from San Sebastián to Bilbao.
Our first stop was Cala Tximistarri, a secluded beach perfect for a peaceful break. The clear waters and rocky surroundings make it a picturesque spot. We spent some time relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty before continuing our journey.
Next, we visited the Flysch cliffs at Baratzazarrak. These unique rock formations, formed over millions of years, offer stunning views and a glimpse into the Earth’s history. Standing at the Mirador Flysch, we were mesmerized by the dramatic landscape stretching out before us.
Driving along the coast, we explored several charming towns. Getaria, a fishing village known for its seafood and the Balenciaga Museum, was a highlight. We strolled through its narrow streets, savoring the fresh sea breeze and sampling the local cuisine.
Ondarroa, with its picturesque harbor and quaint streets, was another gem. We wandered through the town, admiring the colorful houses and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
Lekeitio, boasting beautiful beaches and a vibrant fishing culture, was our next stop. We spent some time on the beach, basking in the sun and watching the fishing boats come and go.
Elantxobe, a small village perched on a cliff, offered stunning views of the sea. We marveled at the panoramic vistas and felt a deep sense of tranquility as we took in the scenery.
Bermeo, known for its bustling port and lively streets, was our final coastal stop. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals made us feel right at home.
The highlight of our coastal tour was the monastery of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This iconic site, perched on a rocky islet, is connected to the mainland by a winding path and a stone bridge.
Unfortunately, we didn’t buy tickets in advance,but we were lucky enough to discover a local tip: a smaller path that leads to a viewpoint in the forest.
To find this hidden gem, head past the restaurant down the road on the right side. You’ll notice a less-trodden path that winds through the forest. Following this path, we found ourselves at a secluded viewpoint with equally breathtaking views of the monastery and the surrounding coastline. It felt like our little secret, away from the crowds, and gave us a unique perspective of this stunning landmark. If you find yourself without tickets, don’t miss this secret path for an unforgettable experience.
This post was last modified on 2024-07-22 9:01 pm
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