The Basque Country holds a unique place within Spain—culturally, politically, and geographically. While it’s officially part of Spain, the region maintains its own language, Euskara, and fiercely independent identity. Historically, the Basques have often sought autonomy, and today, the Basque Country enjoys a special level of self-governance, with its own parliament and police force. This distinct blend of Spanish and Basque heritage is reflected in everything from the local traditions to the incredible cuisine. Exploring this region means stepping into a world where old-world charm meets modern vibrancy, and where the people are as proud of their culture as they are of their pintxos.
Day 1: Arrive in Bilbao – Your Basque Starting Point
Fly into: Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Stay in: Bilbao
Transportation: Pick up a rental car at the airport
After landing at Bilbao Airport, head straight to the rental car counters inside the airport and pick up your vehicle. The freedom to drive will allow you to explore the Basque Country at your own pace. Bilbao is just 15 minutes from the airport by car, so once you’ve checked into your hotel, head straight to the Guggenheim Museum. After soaking in the architecture and art, stroll through the Casco Viejo for pintxos (the Basque version of tapas) in the historic old town.
Pro tip: Park your car in one of Bilbao’s many central garages and explore on foot for the day.
Day 2: Day Trip to Guernica – History and Reflection
Stay in: Bilbao
Transportation: Car (40-minute drive each way)
After breakfast, drive 40 minutes to Guernica, a town known for its tragic bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Visit the Gernika Peace Museum and the Casa de Juntas, the historic Basque parliament building. It’s a powerful day that offers deep insight into Basque history. Afterward, return to Bilbao to continue exploring the city or enjoy another night of pintxos.
Day 3: Bilbao to Getaria – Coastal Charm and Fresh Seafood
Stay in: Getaria
Transportation: Car (1-hour drive)
On Day 3, drive west to Getaria, a coastal gem known for its fishing traditions and as the birthplace of fashion icon Cristóbal Balenciaga. Park near the town center and spend the day exploring. Visit the Balenciaga Museum, wander the medieval streets, and have a seafood lunch by the beach. Try the freshly grilled fish, a local specialty, while taking in the peaceful coastal views. Stay overnight in Getaria, where the tranquil setting is perfect for unwinding.
Pro tip: While in Getaria, try the local Txakoli wine, a crisp, slightly fizzy white wine that pairs perfectly with the seafood.
Days 4-5: Getaria to San Sebastian – Culinary Bliss
Stay in: San Sebastian
Transportation: Car (45-minute drive)
After breakfast in Getaria, take the short, scenic 45-minute drive to San Sebastian, a city famed for its food. Park in one of the central garages (Parking La Concha or Parking Boulevard) and explore the city on foot. San Sebastian’s old town, Parte Vieja, is packed with pintxos bars offering mouth-watering bites. Spend the next two days relaxing on La Concha Beach, wandering the narrow streets, and sampling Michelin-star cuisine if you feel like splurging.
For more active travelers, take a hike up Monte Urgull for sweeping views of the city. Surf lovers can hit the waves at Zurriola Beach. Enjoy two full days of culinary heaven before moving on.
Day 6: Day Trip to Hondarribia – Border Town Beauty
Stay in: San Sebastian
Transportation: Car (30-minute drive each way)
On Day 6, drive 30 minutes to Hondarribia, a picturesque town right on the French border. The colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and blend of Basque and French culture make it a unique stop. Visit the Castle of Charles V and enjoy a peaceful afternoon wandering through the old town and fishing port. Return to San Sebastian for one last evening of pintxos and coastal views.
Day 7: San Sebastian to Vitoria-Gasteiz – The Quiet Capital
Stay in: Vitoria-Gasteiz
Transportation: Car (1.5-hour drive)
It’s time to head inland to the capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz. The 1.5-hour drive will take you through beautiful landscapes. Once there, park easily at one of the central lots and explore the medieval old town. Visit the Basque Parliament and the Artium Museum, or take a slow walk through the quiet streets, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This city offers a more relaxed pace, perfect for recharging after the energy of San Sebastian.
Day 8: Vitoria-Gasteiz to Gaztelugatxe – An Epic Hike
Stay in: Bilbao
Transportation: Car (1.5-hour drive to Gaztelugatxe, 30-minute drive to Bilbao)
Today, set out early for Gaztelugatxe, a stunning islet connected to the mainland by a steep, winding staircase. You’ll need to park at the designated lot and make the climb, but the breathtaking views from the top are worth every step. Game of Thrones fans will recognize this as Dragonstone, adding even more magic to the experience.
After your hike, drive 30 minutes back to Bilbao, where you’ll spend your final nights.
Day 9: Rioja Alavesa – The Heart of Wine Country
Stay in: BilbaoTransportation: Car (1-hour drive each way)
For your last full day in the Basque Country, take a day trip to Rioja Alavesa, the region’s wine heartland, famous for producing world-class Tempranillo wines. Drive about an hour from Bilbao and spend the day visiting wineries, such as Bodegas Marqués de Riscal or Bodegas Ysios, where you can sample Rioja reds and enjoy the stunning vineyard scenery. After indulging in the best of Basque wine, return to Bilbao for one final night.
Pro tip: While Txakoli is a Basque white wine, Rioja Alavesa specializes in red wines. You would have sampled Txakoli earlier in the trip at Getaria or Hondarribia.
Day 10: Fly Out of Bilbao
Transportation: Drive 15 minutes to Bilbao Airport (BIO), return your rental car
After a leisurely morning, drive just 15 minutes to Bilbao Airport, return your rental car, and prepare for your flight home. Reflect on the rich experiences you’ve had—pintxos, wine, hikes, beaches, and history—knowing you’ve truly explored one of Spain’s most beautiful regions.
The Basque Country Culinary Scene: More Than Just Pintxos
The food in the Basque Country is legendary, and while pintxos are a central part of the experience, there’s so much more to savor:
Basque Cheesecake: Light, creamy, and with a caramelized top, this is no ordinary cheesecake. Its rich, almost custard-like texture makes it dangerously addictive.
Txangurro: A baked spider crab dish, often served stuffed with vegetables and brandy. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Bacalao a la Vizcaína: Salt cod in a rich red pepper sauce. This traditional dish brings the essence of Basque flavors to your plate.
Gilda: An iconic pintxo made with green peppers, anchovies, and olives, named after Rita Hayworth’s character in Gilda. This bite-sized snack is the perfect way to start a pintxos tour.
The Basque Country isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. From the cities to the coast, from the food to the wine, every part of this journey offers something special. And when you’re ready to make it happen, let Jess.Travel take care of the details. Whether it’s booking the best pintxos tours, arranging winery visits, or mapping out your road trip, we’ve got you covered.
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