5-Day Basque Country Cultural and Nature Tour Itinerary

Cross over to San Sebastián and kick off your day with a sumptuous breakfast at La Viña del Ensanche, a local favorite. Then, take a guided walking tour of the city, visiting landmarks such as the Church of the Sacred Heart and the Moyua Square, while learning about the history and culture of this vibrant coastal destination.

For lunch, immerse yourself in the world of pintxos (Basque tapas) with a guided tour, visiting renowned bars and tasting a variety of local specialties. Afterward, take some time to relax on the beautiful La Concha Beach or explore the Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the bay.

As the evening sets in, enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Mina, known for its creative Basque cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Parte Vieja, the old quarter, and discover the vibrant nightlife with its many bars and live music venues.

Depart from Bilbao and head to the picturesque village of Labastida. Start your day with a guided visit to the Salt Valley of Añana (Valle Salado de Añana), a unique salt production site with a history dating back to the time of the Romans. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and learn about the traditional salt-making process.

For lunch, indulge in the local flavors at Boroa Jatetxea, set in a charming countryside location. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Rioja Alavesa wine region, visiting prestigious wineries and savoring the renowned Rioja wines.

Return to Bilbao and enjoy a relaxed evening with a casual dinner at El Perro Chico, known for its laid-back atmosphere and contemporary bistro-style dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the river or visit the Arriaga Theatre (Teatro Arriaga) for a cultural performance.

Travel to the charming town of Hondarribia and start your day with a hearty breakfast at Guria Taberna, a traditional Basque tavern known for its authentic dishes. Then, take a guided walking tour of the town, exploring its historic Old Town and visiting the Hondarribia Castle (Castillo de Hondarribia) for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

For lunch, enjoy the fresh catch of the day at Mundaka, a renowned spot for surfing and seafood. Afterward, take a nature walk along the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, enjoying the coastal landscapes and the diverse flora and fauna.

Return to Bilbao and savor the flavors of the Basque countryside with a dinner at Zortziko, known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients in its innovative dishes. Afterward, take a guided Bilbao Basque Food Tour with a Local Guide to discover hidden culinary gems and traditional pintxos bars.

Begin your final day in Bilbao with a guided e-bike tour, exploring both the classic and modern highlights of the city. Visit the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente de Vizcaya), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the panoramic views from the top. For a quick snack, stop by Arandia de Julen Abandoibarra for a taste of local pastries and coffee.

After the tour, take a guided visit to the San Mamés Stadium (Estadio San Mamés), home to the Athletic Club, and immerse yourself in the passion for football. For lunch, enjoy the innovative cuisine at Aizian, where traditional flavors are presented in a contemporary style.

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao), exploring its impressive collection of both classic and modern art. For a final dinner, return to an old favorite or try a new spot, such as Bascook, known for its fusion of global flavors with Basque traditions. Reflect on your journey over a glass of wine, and perhaps plan your next visit to this enchanting region.