From Bilbao: 3 Cities Basque Country 6-Day Trip

Exploring the Basque Country’s cultural gems has never been easier. This 6-day trip from Bilbao offers a comprehensive itinerary, diving into the region’s vibrant cities and picturesque villages. Visitors will marvel at the iconic Guggenheim Museum, savor the flavors of renowned Rioja wineries, and uncover the artisanal salt extraction process in Añana. With private transfers, guided tours, and ample free time, travelers can enjoy the Basque way of life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this trip promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Northern Spain.

Key Points

• A 6-day itinerary exploring the cultural and culinary highlights of the Basque region, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Bilbao.
• Visits to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, historic towns like Getaria and Laguardia, and immersion in the Basque Country’s renowned cuisine and wine.
• Discover the birthplace of St. Ignatius at the Sanctuary of Loyola and the striking modern architecture of the Arantzazu Sanctuary.
• Explore the picturesque salt valley of Añana and the well-preserved medieval architecture in towns like Orduña and Balmaseda.
• Ample free time in Bilbao to revisit the Guggenheim, wander the old town, and savor the city’s lively culinary scene.

Arrival and Guggenheim Museum

The tour begins with the arrival in Bilbao, where participants are provided a private transfer to their hotel.

From there, they’ll visit the iconic Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, one of the city’s top attractions. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the museum’s striking titanium and glass exterior is a work of art in itself.

Inside, visitors can explore the museum’s impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Koons. With ample time to wander through the galleries, guests can enjoy the Basque Country’s vibrant cultural scene, setting the stage for the rest of their 6-day adventure.

Loyola, Getaria, Zarauz, and San Sebastian

Leaving the Guggenheim Bilbao behind, the tour moves on to the next stop – Loyola, Getaria, Zarauz, and San Sebastian.

Participants will visit the Sanctuary of Loyola, the birthplace of St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuit order.

Next, they will discover the charming fishing villages of Getaria and Zarauz, with their quaint harbors, beaches, and medieval architecture.

Exploring San Sebastian

Visitors spend their day exploring San Sebastian’s stunning crescent-shaped bay, taking in the vibrant Old Town, and indulging in the city’s exceptional cuisine.

They’ll stroll along the wide, sandy beach of La Concha, one of the world’s most beautiful urban beaches.

In the Old Town, they’ll wander through charming plazas, admire the neo-Gothic San Sebastian Cathedral, and sample pinchos (Basque-style tapas) at the lively bars.

Foodies won’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants or the atmospheric cider houses.

With its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, San Sebastian offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

Ordizia, Oñati, Arantzazu Sanctuary, and Laguardia

On Day 4 of the tour, travelers will visit the charming town of Ordizia, known for its bustling weekly market.

From there, they’ll head to the historic town of Oñati, home to the stunning Arantzazu Sanctuary, a renowned Franciscan pilgrimage site.

The day concludes with a visit to Laguardia, a picturesque medieval village in the heart of the Rioja wine region.

In Ordizia, visitors can:

1. Browse the lively market stalls for local produce and crafts.
2. Explore the town’s historic buildings and charming plazas.
3. Enjoy a traditional Basque meal in one of the local restaurants.

At the Arantzazu Sanctuary, travelers will be captivated by the striking modern architecture and the serene atmosphere of this important religious site.

In Laguardia, they can wander the narrow streets, visit the medieval fortress, and sample the renowned Rioja wines.

Añana Salt Valley, Orduña, and Balmaseda

Travelers on Day 5 will explore the Añana Salt Valley, a unique natural landscape where salt has been harvested for centuries. They’ll witness the artisanal process of extracting salt from the shallow pools and learn about the valley’s rich history.

Next, they’ll visit Orduña, a historic town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive 13th-century Gothic church. Wandering the quaint streets, they’ll get a glimpse into the town’s storied past.

The day ends in Balmaseda, a charming village situated along the banks of the Nervión River. Here, travelers can stroll across the iconic medieval bridge and browse the local shops and restaurants before returning to their hotel.

Departure and Free Time in Bilbao

The tour concludes with free time in Bilbao before private transfers whisk participants to the airport or train station for their onward journeys.

Travelers can use this final day to revisit favorite Bilbao spots, such as:

• The iconic Guggenheim Museum, to soak in one last glimpse of its stunning contemporary architecture.
• The old town’s charming plazas and pintxos bars, to savor the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
• The lively riverfront promenade, for a leisurely stroll while taking in sweeping views of Bilbao’s skyline.

With cherished memories of the Basque region’s highlights, participants depart for their next adventure, eager to return and explore more of this captivating corner of Spain.

Accommodation, Guided Tours, and Transportation

This comprehensive 6-day tour of the Basque Country includes accommodation, guided tours, and transportation for a seamless experience.

Participants will stay in carefully selected hotels throughout the region, with knowledgeable local guides leading each day’s activities. All transportation, whether by private transfer, coach, or public transit, is provided, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

The tour includes visits to the major cities of Bilbao, Vitoria, and San Sebastian, as well as excursions to cultural and natural sites like the Guggenheim Museum, Loyola, the Rioja wine region, and the Añana Salt Valley.

With all the logistics taken care of, travelers can fully enjoy the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of the Basque Country.

Tour Overview and Highlights

At the heart of this comprehensive Basque Country tour lies a captivating 6-day itinerary that takes visitors on a deep dive into the region’s cultural and natural wonders.

Highlights include exploring the architecturally stunning Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, discovering the seaside charm of San Sebastian, and visiting the historic towns of Vitoria and Rioja.

The tour also features:

1. Guided tours of key cities and sites to provide deeper insights into the Basque heritage and traditions.
2. Ample free time to allow for personal exploration and discovery.
3. Seamless transportation and accommodation arrangements to ensure a stress-free travel experience.

This immersive journey through the Basque Country promises to leave lasting memories and a greater appreciation for this captivating corner of Spain.

Recap

This 6-day Basque Country trip from Bilbao offers an immersive cultural experience.

Travelers will visit iconic landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum, charming fishing villages, historic towns, and renowned Rioja wineries.

The itinerary also includes the serene Arantzazu Sanctuary, the artisanal salt extraction process in Añana, and ample free time to savor Bilbao’s culinary delights.

With private transfers and guided tours, this comprehensive tour provides a seamless and enjoyable exploration of the vibrant Basque region.