5-Day Basque Country Adventure in Bilbao and Beyond Itinerary

Start your day with a walk across the architectural marvel of the Zubizuri Bridge, also known as the White Bridge. Enjoy the morning breeze as you head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. For breakfast, savor the pastries and coffee at El Globo taberna, a charming spot with a rich history.

After the park, take a guided tour of the Arriaga Theatre (Teatro Arriaga), one of the main cultural landmarks of Bilbao. For lunch, indulge in the traditional Basque cuisine at Mugi taberna, known for its warm ambiance and excellent service.

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river to the Euskalduna Palace (Palacio Euskalduna), a modern architectural gem. Cap off the evening with a sumptuous dinner at Bar SantaMaría, where you can taste the freshest seafood dishes in a cozy setting.

Spend your morning exploring the impressive collection at the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao), home to masterpieces by renowned artists. For a quick bite, visit Isipil Bar and enjoy their signature pintxos.

Take a short drive to the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente de Vizcaya), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy a guided tour with breathtaking views. For lunch, head to Ledesma taberna and savor their traditional Basque dishes.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Sanctuary of Arantzazu (Santuario de Aránzazu), a spiritual and architectural gem nestled in the mountains. Return to Bilbao for a memorable dinner at Sorgínzulo, known for its fusion of Basque and international flavors in a lively atmosphere.

Embark on a day trip to the charming coastal town of Mundaka, famous for its surfing waves and picturesque setting. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at El Huevo Frito, known for its traditional Basque breakfast dishes.

After exploring Mundaka, continue to the historic town of Guernica (Gernika), with its rich cultural and political significance. Have a memorable lunch at El Puertito de Ledesma, a hidden gem offering fresh, local cuisine.

Return to Bilbao and unwind with a relaxing evening at Moyua Square (Plaza Moyúa), surrounded by elegant buildings and upscale shops. For dinner, indulge in the culinary delights of Víctor jatetxea, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative dishes and impeccable service.

Start your day with a visit to the lesser-known Salt Valley of Añana (Valle Salado de Añana), a unique cultural landscape where salt has been harvested for centuries. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about this fascinating tradition. For breakfast, stop by Bacaicoa taberna for a selection of local specialties.

Explore the offbeat charm of Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural and leisure center housed in a former wine warehouse. Have a casual lunch at Bar Rotterdam, known for its diverse menu and laid-back atmosphere.

Conclude your trip with a visit to the quirky Puppy, a floral sculpture outside the Guggenheim Museum. Then, enjoy a farewell dinner at Iturriza Taberna, where you can sample a variety of pintxos and wines, reflecting the true spirit of Basque cuisine.