Basque Country Suggested Itineraries
You could be forgiven for forgetting you’re in Spain when you visit the Basque Country (País Vasco). Its green, mountainous interior and rugged coastline seem to have served as a buffer from the outside world over the centuries, allowing a rich and distinctive culture to evolve that is sure to captivate you.
Embark on a voyage of discovery, from the cutting-edge art scene of Bilbao via the jaw-dropping Basque coastline and beyond. Lush countryside and cosmopolitan cities, medieval villages and world-class wineries await...
Day 1: Art and Surf
Art appreciation takes on a whole new meaning in Bilbao. The iconic and breathtaking Museo Guggenheim is merely one example of this city’s exciting cultural renaissance. Follow the river road to the coast, where dramatic cliffs, long sandy beaches and glorious views abound. See why seaside beauties Bakio and Zumaia are beloved by Basque summer tourists, and soak up the centuries in medieval fishing village Getaria.
Day 2: Fine Food and Fortresses
Like your food rich, bursting with seafood and artfully presented? Wait til you try San Sebastián’s pintxos! Unanimously considered Spain’s finest tapas, pintxos would be reason enough to visit this elegant coastal resort, but you’ll also be enchanted by its stunning beach and atmospheric old town. If you can bear to leave, head to the ancient fortress city of Pamplona, home of the (in)famous bull-running, and a living history lesson.
Day 3: History and Tempranillo
Vitoria, capital of the Basque Country, is renown for its quality of life and abundant green spaces. Its old quarter boasts several important sights, such as the 15th-century Inn 'el Portalon', historic plazas, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria, a true Gothic gem. To the south is La Rioj a, Spain’s celebrated wine region. Explore its charming villages and revel in its scenic countryside while you sample the fruits of its countless bodegas (wineries).
A really interesting tour of the countryside that ended up at a local wine cellar (not a vineyard, the vines and grapes are a few miles away) with a wine tasting and opportunity to buy wine direct from the producers. Our tour guide was very friendly, knowledgeable and spoke good English. We stopped for both coffee and lunch at excellent locations that our guide recommended. If you are staying in Bilbao then this is a trip worth making.
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Would highly recommend, even in cold and windy weather. A great way to see this region in a short amount of time. Very informative.
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We expected to visit several wineries, but only visited one, which turned out ok because the whole day was really enjoyable! Vitoria was a visual treat and John's sense of humor made everyone have a good time. The visit to the winery was one more fun thing in a whole day of fun.
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Basque Country Suggested Itineraries Written by Viator
Rioja Wine Region Written by Viator
Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao Written by Philippa Burne
