From Bilbao: Loyola, Getaria, Zarauz and San Sebastian Tour

The Basque region of Spain is a captivating destination, and this tour from Bilbao offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich history and stunning landscapes. From the hallowed Sanctuary of Loyola to the charming fishing village of Getaria and the breathtaking beaches of Zarauz, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. But the real highlight may be the guided exploration of San Sebastian’s Old Town, where visitors can witness the city’s vibrant culture and architecture up close. With convenient transportation and an array of inclusions, this tour provides a seamless way to discover the best of the Basque region.

Key Points

• This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Basque region, including visits to Bilbao, Sanctuary of Loyola, Getaria, Zarauz, and San Sebastian.
• The tour provides guided tours of the Sanctuary of Loyola, Getaria’s medieval fishing village, and San Sebastian’s Old Town.
• Highlights include scenic viewpoints, such as Mount Igeldo, and opportunities to experience the local culture and cuisine.
• The tour is priced from $83.34 per person, with a 50% discount for children aged 2-12 when accompanied by two adults.
• The tour includes transportation, entry tickets, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the option for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Basque region, taking visitors from Bilbao to the historic Sanctuary of Loyola, the charming fishing village of Getaria, the scenic town of Zarauz, and the vibrant city of San Sebastian.

Priced from $83.34 per person, the 8-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour includes transportation, entry tickets, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Highlights include guided tours of the Sanctuary of Loyola, Getaria, and San Sebastian’s Old Town, as well as a photo stop at Mount Igeldo.

Children aged 2-12 receive a 50% discount when accompanied by at least two adults.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Sanctuary of Loyola, where visitors will embark on a 45-minute guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this important religious site.

Afterward, the group will explore the medieval fishing village of Getaria, where they’ll enjoy a 30-minute guided tour.

The next stop is Zarauz, known for its expansive beach, before heading to San Sebastian’s Old Town for a 30-minute walking tour.

Sanctuary of Loyola

The Sanctuary of Loyola stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order.

Visitors embark on a 45-minute guided tour through this stunning religious complex, exploring:

• The Basilica, with its impressive Baroque architecture and ornate interiors
• The Holy Chamber, the birthplace of Saint Ignatius
• The pilgrim’s route, leading to the original 16th-century house
• The museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits on the saint’s life
• The lush gardens and tranquil grounds, offering a peaceful respite

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of Saint Ignatius and the Jesuit tradition, making it a highlight of the tour.

Getaria: Medieval Fishing Village

After leaving the Sanctuary of Loyola, the tour then takes visitors to the quaint medieval fishing village of Getaria.

Located along the Basque coast, Getaria’s charming old town is filled with winding cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and traditional fishing boats in the harbor.

The 30-minute guided tour allows guests to explore this picturesque seaside setting, admiring the 16th-century Gothic-style Church of St. Mary and learning about the town’s maritime heritage.

With its colorful houses, lively seafood restaurants, and stunning coastal vistas, Getaria offers a glimpse into the unique character and culture of Spain’s Basque region.

Zarauz and Its Beach

Next, the tour passes by the town of Zarauz, renowned for its expansive beach – the largest in the Gipuzkoa region.

Visitors can observe the long, sandy stretch of coastline that attracts beachgoers year-round.

Some key features of Zarauz’s beach include:

• Stunning views of the Basque Country’s rugged cliffs
• A promenade lined with restaurants and bars
• Gentle waves suitable for swimming and water sports
• Plenty of space for sunbathing, walking, and enjoying the seaside ambiance
• Accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly access points and facilities

Though the tour doesn’t include a stop in Zarauz, the brief drive-by provides a glimpse of this picturesque coastal town and its renowned beach.

San Sebastian’s Old Town

Following the drive-by of Zarauz, the tour makes its way to the historic Old Town of San Sebastian. Here, visitors embark on a 30-minute guided walking tour, exploring the charming streets and notable landmarks.

The guide shares insights into the city’s rich heritage, pointing out significant buildings and plazas. Travelers can admire the grand Baroque architecture, lively pintxo bars, and bustling atmosphere of this beloved coastal destination.

After the guided portion, guests are free to wander and enjoy lunch at their leisure, sampling the renowned Basque cuisine. The Old Town serves as a delightful introduction to San Sebastian’s vibrant culture and scenic setting along the Bay of Biscay.

Mount Igeldo Viewpoint

The tour next makes a scenic photo stop at the Mount Igeldo viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of La Concha Bay.

Visitors can take in the breathtaking panorama from this elevated location, which provides an excellent vantage point to admire the crescent-shaped bay and the surrounding cityscape.

The 20-minute visit allows time to capture stunning photographs and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Key highlights of the Mount Igeldo viewpoint include:

• Panoramic views of La Concha Bay and San Sebastian
• Opportunity to photograph the iconic cityscape
• Elevated perspective for optimal sightseeing
• Easy access from the tour’s itinerary
• Chance to take a break and enjoy the scenic overlook

Transportation and Inclusions

This tour includes transportation via a comfortable bus or coach, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. Along With the transportation, the tour also includes entry tickets for the Loyola Sanctuary and the Mount Igeldo viewpoint. Hotel pickup and drop-off is provided, allowing you to start and end your tour with ease.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Transportation	Food and drinks
Entry tickets for Loyola Sanctuary and Mount Igeldo	N/A
Hotel pickup and drop-off	N/A

The tour is priced from $83.34 per person, with a 50% discount for children aged 2-12 when accompanied by at least two adults.

Things To Know

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

This tour does not offer a private option. It’s a shared group tour, providing transportation and guided experiences at the various stops along the way. Private tours may be available for an additional fee, but are not specifically mentioned in the tour details provided.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

While the tour has a set itinerary, travelers can speak with the tour operator to customize the experience within reason. Flexibility may be available to adjust the time spent at each location or incorporate personal interests.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, this tour offers a 50% discount for children aged 2-12 when accompanied by at least 2 adults. However, there doesn’t seem to be any mention of discounts for seniors or students in the provided details.

Can I Make Any Stops During the Tour for Personal Reasons?

The tour doesn’t allow for personal stops. It’s a structured 8-hour itinerary with set activities and schedules. Participants must stick to the planned route and timeline to ensure the smooth operation of the group tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via bus/coach, and guided visits, so the group size is likely small enough to provide a personalized experience.

Sum Up

This tour offers an immersive experience of the captivating Basque region. Explore the historical Sanctuary of Loyola, the charming fishing village of Getaria, and the stunning beach at Zarauz. Discover the vibrant Old Town of San Sebastian and enjoy scenic views from Mount Igeldo. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the best of the Basque Country.