Discovering the Basque Country: 8-Day Trip to Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Vitoria-Gasteiz Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the Bilbao San Mamés Museum and Stadium Tour, where you'll discover the history of Athletic Club Bilbao and explore the impressive San Mamés Stadium. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Basque cuisine at Etxanobe Atelier, a restaurant known for its innovative dishes. In the afternoon, join a Bilbao Basque Food Tour with Guide to explore the city's culinary scene, sampling pintxos and local specialties.

In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bilbao's old town, Casco Viejo. Enjoy a traditional Basque dinner at El Perro Chico, a charming restaurant offering a cozy and welcoming ambiance.

Begin your day with a visit to the Bilbao Guided Highlights Small Group E-Bike Tour, a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city's landmarks. After the tour, enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes in the vibrant Plaza Moyúa.

For lunch, head to Bascook, a restaurant known for its creative approach to Basque cuisine. Afterward, visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao), home to an impressive collection of Spanish and Basque art.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the riverside and enjoy the illuminated facades of the city. For dinner, experience the culinary excellence of Zortziko, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience.

Travel to San Sebastian, a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning beaches and culinary scene. Start your day with a visit to the Monte Igueldo, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Biscay.

For lunch, indulge in the world-renowned pintxos at La Viña del Ensanche, a traditional bar offering a wide variety of delicious small bites. Afterward, take a stroll along the iconic La Concha Beach (Playa de la Concha), one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe.

In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of San Sebastian's old town, Parte Vieja. Enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood at Aizian, a restaurant known for its innovative approach to Basque cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to the San Telmo Museum, where you'll discover the history and culture of the Basque Country. Afterward, take a walk to the nearby Church of San Vicente (Iglesia de San Vicente), a beautiful example of Basque Gothic architecture.

For lunch, head to Mina, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a gastronomic journey through the flavors of the Basque Country. In the afternoon, explore the charming fishing village of Getaria, known for its picturesque streets and excellent seafood restaurants.

In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along the Comb of the Wind (Peine del Viento), a series of sculptures by Eduardo Chillida set against the dramatic backdrop of the sea. For dinner, experience the culinary delights of Boroa Jatetxea, a restaurant located in a restored farmhouse in the countryside.

Travel to Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country. Start your day with a visit to the Vitoria-Gasteiz Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Vitoria), a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city. Afterward, take a walk through the charming old town, exploring its medieval streets and squares.

For lunch, enjoy the flavors of traditional Basque cuisine at Arandia de Julen Abandoibarra, a restaurant known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Salt Valley of Añana (Valle Salado de Añana), a unique cultural landscape where salt has been produced for over 6,500 years.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the Green Ring of Vitoria (Anillo Verde de Vitoria), a network of parks and green spaces that surrounds the city. For dinner, experience the culinary excellence of El Portalón, a restaurant located in a historic building in the old town.

Return to Bilbao and start your day with a visit to the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente de Vizcaya), a UNESCO World Heritage site and an engineering marvel. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and operation of this iconic bridge.

For lunch, head to El Perro Chico, a charming restaurant offering a modern take on traditional Basque dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Arriaga Theatre (Teatro Arriaga), the city's main opera house and a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture.

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the riverside and enjoy the illuminated facades of the city. For dinner, experience the culinary excellence of Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao, a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Guggenheim Museum.

On your final day, take a From Bilbao Gaztelugatxe, Gernika, and Mundaka Group Tour to explore the Basque Coast and visit the iconic Gaztelugatxe, a picturesque island with a medieval hermitage. Take in the breathtaking views of the coastline and the Bay of Biscay.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the charming fishing village of Mundaka, known for its excellent surfing conditions and relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, visit the nearby town of Bermeo, where you can explore its historic port and enjoy the freshest seafood at one of the local restaurants.

In the evening, return to Bilbao and enjoy a farewell dinner at Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao, savoring the flavors of Basque cuisine one last time. Reflect on your memorable journey through the Basque Country and start planning your next visit to this enchanting region.