So, are you ready for your next adventure? Well, why not choose Basque Country, in Spain as your next stop? I’m here to help you to see what this vibrant and diverse region spanning northern Spain and southwestern France entails. This location boasts a unique unlike other areas in Spain or France, is rich in history, has fantastic food, and stunning landscapes. After reading this Basque Country Itinerary, you’ll be able to understand why Basque Country in Spain is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Basque Country is nestled between the rugged Pyrenees mountains and the Atlantic coastline. It’s an autonomous community in Spain that offers a blend of traditional and contemporary cultures, making it a compelling destination for solo travelers that is unlike most of Spain and France.
The Basque region, also known as Euskadi or País Vasc and extends all the way to the southwestern part of France. This country consists of three provinces: Álava, Biscay, and Gipuzkoa., and has three main cities in this region including Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. Despite being divided between two nations, the Basque Country is united by a distinct cultural heritage, including a unique language (Basque or Euskara), traditions, and cuisine.
Bilbao, a city that has undergone a fascinating transformation from an industrial heartland to a modern art hub, is your starting point—Marvel at the shimmering titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry and is well-known around the world.
Marvel at the shimmering titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum. Designed by Frank Gehry, this masterpiece has earned international acclaim. Who needs caffeine to wake up in the morning when you have the stunning architecture of the Guggenheim to jolt you awake? It’s like a giant piece of jewelry shining in the sunlight, begging for you to snap the perfect Instagram shot.
Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Casco Viejo. This place is a labyrinthine wonderland just waiting to be explored. Get lost in the narrow lanes, stumble upon hidden gems, and discover vibrant bars that are just begging for you to saunter in and sip on a local beverage or two. And while you’re at it, pay a visit to the Fine Arts Museum to get a deeper understanding of Basque culture. Because we’re all about expanding our minds while we explore, right?
Head to Mercado de la Ribera. This place is a foodie’s paradise, my friends. It’s a bustling market offering a mind-boggling array of local delights. And let me tell you, you’re in for a treat. Dive into the world of traditional Basque pintxos, which are like Spanish tapas but with a little extra pizzazz. Or, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, go for one of those chic modern restaurants where innovative Basque cuisine reigns supreme.
Next, move on to San Sebastian, a picturesque fishing port known for its amazing food. Donostia actually has the highest concentration of Michelin Star Restaurants in Europe., and who doesn’t love amazing food? While you are here you should also take some time to relax on the sandy stretch of La Concha Beach, and/or take a walk through the Parte Vieja, also known as Old Town.
Indulge in the culinary delights of San Sebastian. Get ready to feast like royalty because this place has the highest concentration of Michelin Star Restaurants in all of Europe. I’m talking top-notch gastronomic experiences that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. So put on your stretchy pants and get ready to savor every bite. And don’t forget to kick back and relax at La Concha Beach to start your day off right.
Explore the charming Old Town, or as the locals call it, Parte Vieja. This place is like a little wonderland with its narrow streets and historic architecture. Get lost in its maze and stumble upon hidden gems around every corner. And when you’re ready to take it up a notch, hike up Mount Igueldo for panoramic views. Trust me, the vistas will take your breath away and give you the perfect backdrop for that envy-inducing Instagram pic. Plus, it’s a killer spot for a picnic.
Visit the San Sebastian Aquarium for a unique marine experience. Who says aquariums are just for kids? Embrace your inner mermaid and immerse yourself in the beauty of the underwater world. From vibrant fish to graceful sharks, this place has got it all. And let’s not forget those adorable penguins. They may not be able to fly, but they’ve mastered the art of waddling. So grab your camera, channel your inner wildlife photographer, and capture these magical moments.
So, you’ve made it to Day 5 in this region. Hop in your car and bounce on over to the cities of Hondarribia and Guernica. Hondarribia is a beautiful city that has a colorful marina and a charming old town filled with well-preserved medieval buildings.
Explore Hondarribia’s colorful marina and charming old town. Picture this: You stroll along the marina, the sun glinting off the vibrant boats. The colorful facades of medieval buildings surround you, transporting you back in time. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, except without the talking animals or magical spells. Well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and a sense of history make Hondarribia a slice of pure charm.
Known for Picasso’s famous painting, this place has quite the historical clout. But we’re not just here for some famous artwork. No, my fearless females, we’re here to dive deep into Guernica’s history and resilience. Visit the Peace Museum and get a glimpse into the city’s tumultuous past. It’s a place that tells stories of strength and the human spirit in the face of adversity. And speaking of symbolism, make sure you don’t miss the Oak Tree, a significant Basque symbol. It’s like the Tree of Life, but with a twist.
On days 6 and 7, you should cross the border to the French side of the Basque Country Itinerary to visit Bayonne and Biarritz. Bayonne is an enchanting city, with its half-timbered houses and narrow streets. Oh, and while you’re here, don’t miss out on the famous Bayonne chocolate—it’s mighty tasty and can be found throughout the city.
Explore the enchanting city of Bayonne. Picture this: half-timbered houses lining the narrow streets, the scent of chocolate wafting through the air. That’s right, ladies, Bayonne is famous for its chocolate, so indulge your sweet tooth and devour those heavenly treats available throughout the city. Take a stroll through the enchanting streets, soak up the old-world charm, and submerge yourself in the unique atmosphere.
Head to Biarritz, the glamorous coastal town. Are you ready for some beach vibes and a touch of luxury? Biarritz has got you covered, my fabulous ladies. This town is all about glitz and glam, with its stunning coastline and high-end resorts. So grab your swimsuit, slather on that sunscreen, and prepare to bask in the glory of Biarritz’s beautiful beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, feel the salty breeze in your hair, and maybe, just maybe, try your hand at surfing. Yes, Biarritz is a renowned surf destination, and who says you can’t ride those waves like a pro?
Enjoy a seaside dinner in Biarritz. Now, my fierce foodies, it’s time to tantalize those taste buds with a seaside dinner in Biarritz. Indulge in the fusion of French and Basque cuisine, because when two culinary powerhouses collide, magic happens. Savor the flavors, relish the ambiance, and treat yourself to a well-deserved culinary adventure. And don’t forget to raise a glass to a successful day of exploration, my fearless travelers.
The Basque Country region in Spain is an enchanting blend of stunning landscapes, fostering age-old traditions blended with dynamic modernism, a beautiful mix of the past and the present. Gastronomes also are well-known in this region and boast a reputation as a foodie paradise. This region offers everything from rustic pintxos bars to Michelin-starred dining experiences. Also, its distinct language, Euskara, predates many European languages and offers an enchanting sound that flows off the locals’ tongues.
Additionally, this region offers festivals, adrenaline-filled outdoor activities, and breathtakingly beautiful coasts. This area consists of mountainous landscapes which further elevate the region’s charm. It’s a destination that promises to cater to every traveler’s desire.
The best time to visit the Basque Country largely depends on your personal preferences and interests. With that being said, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September -October) are considered the most favorable periods.
Here’s why these seasons stand out:
Late Spring (May-June): The weather during late spring is typically mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. The region’s landscapes are vibrant and lush, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. It’s also a wonderful time to enjoy the local festivals and events that take place during this time.
Early Fall (September-October): Early fall offers comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The ocean is still warm enough for swimming or surfing without the temps outside being miserably hot. Additionally, you’ll find a wide variety of events and food festivals, such as the San Sebastian International Film Festival and the wonderful cider season.
The summer months (July and August) are also a great time to visit, especially for beach lovers, as the temps are very hot. Usually, the summer months are the busiest in terms of tourism, so it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance if you plan to travel during the summer months, even if you are traveling solo. you need to know the basics of the Basque Country Itinerary. Additionally, if you rent a car, finding a place to park can be tricky in the major cities of San Sebastien or Bilbao. Definitely talk to the people at the hotel or your hosts to ensure there is plenty of parking or determine the appropriate strategy for hiring a car.
The winter months are relatively mild in Basque Country compared to other parts of Europe. Snow is rare in these areas, and it’s the perfect time to visit to avoid crowds. While it’s always a great thing to avoid crowds, just be aware that you may have to battle the rainy and chilly weather. While in the cities you are generally safe from snow, you can find those fun winter sports in the mountains if that’s your preference.
No matter what the season is though, Basque Country Itinerary is important to know and it is renowned for its food, so no matter when you visit, make sure to enjoy the local cuisine. From pintxos bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, you’ll find plenty of goodies to consume.
You can start off your trip to this region by hopping an international or domestic flight into either Bilbao or Biarritz. Additionally, there are many direct trains and buses from Spanish and French cities that also connect through this region. Once you arrive in Basque Country, you will find a well-connected public transport system, in addition to a variety of rental car services available to make moving around the region effortlessly.
The most efficient way to get around in this country is Trains and buses. They are set up to run between major cities and towns and offer an inexpensive way to travel. Additionally, while you are there, biking and walking are also great ways to explore urban areas – especially if you are alone. One of my favorite things to do is to walk, as it offers the ability to really get into and understand a particular community.
My Advice: you should follow my Basque Country Itinerary tips. If your budget allows, once you land, if you can rent a small car, you can see some or all of the sights suggested below. You can rent a car for as little as $40 a day and explore a much larger area. While you are in town though, I highly recommend that you grab a local train as the systems are set up so well and you won’t have to worry about always finding a parking space. This way you can dig in, but you can also explore a large portion of the Basque coast.
If you’re all about adventure, this is an area that is ready for you. Basque Country offers excellent hiking opportunities, with trails running through natural parks like Urkiola and Aiako Harria.
Basque Country Itinerary also offers a ton of amazing surfing beaches for your water pleasure. If you are into surfing or would like to give it a try, the beaches around San Sebastian and Biarritz have great waves year-round. If you do travel to this area, just be mindful of the intense sun in summer. Here, it doesn’t take long to get a burn that you’ll spend the next week agonizing over. So, make sure you stock up on sunscreen and wear a surf hat to avoid getting frazzled. If you are traveling on your own, it’s easy enough to book a private surf lesson or go with a bigger group and make some lifelong connections along the way.
If you’d like to try something a bit out of the ordinary by the way of sports, you should take in a traditional Basque game – Pelota.
Now that you know a bit about the Basque Country Itinerary and the adventure that awaits you, let’s make sure you are fully covered with this region’s festivals. The area boasts such a vibrant culture which is certainly reflected in its numerous festivals. The locals love a party, so why not join in?
A few of these parties include the San Sebastian Film Festiva and the Semana Grande in Bilbao. This festival is filled with music and fireworks, there’s always something to celebrate. So, what’s the best part of every festival? The food of course! So, let’s check that out next Basque Country Itinerary.
Perhaps the most iconic of Basque foods, pintxos are similar to tapas but with a Basque twist. They are beautifully crafted small bites served atop slices of baguette. Pintxos can range from simple combinations like anchovy and pepper (yes, that’s one of the favorites) to intricate culinary creations involving seared foie gras or local Idiazabal cheese. Exploring pintxos bars, hopping from one to another, is a quintessential Basque Country Itinerary experience you can’t miss.
This is a traditional Basque dish that showcases the region’s love for seafood. Bacalao, or salted cod, is slowly cooked in a rich and vibrant red sauce made from choristers peppers, onions, and garlic. The result is a deeply flavored, savory dish where the tender flakes of cod beautifully meld with the spicy-sweet pepper sauce.
Originally a fisherman’s stew, Marmitako is hearty and warming. It’s made with bonito tuna, potatoes, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. The name ‘Marmitako’ comes from ‘marmita,’ the pot in which it is cooked. This humble stew has bold, comforting flavors that reflect the region’s maritime roots.
For meat lovers, Txuleta is a must-try. It’s a large, bone-in ribeye steak, often served rare to medium-rare, seasoned only with sea salt to let the quality of the meat shine through. This dish is a staple in Basque cider houses, and it’s traditionally served alongside a simple green salad and plenty of local cider.
This sweet treat from the French Basque Country Itinerary rounds off our list. Gâteau Basque is a filled cake, with a buttery, tender crust enveloping a center of either black cherry jam or vanilla-infused pastry cream. This classic dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, making it the perfect end to a Basque meal.
In this region, you’ll be happy to know that when you visit this area, you’ll have a variety of language choices. While they do have their own dialect, they speak Spanish and French, and you’ll find that English is commonly spoken. In this area, it is important to know that the Euro is the local currency, and tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes. The one issue that you may find in this area, which is common in Europe is that local restaurants and bars like to only use cash. I found this very common in Portugal as well. So, try to keep a stash with you at all times for those moments when you need a cool izozkia (ice cream in Basque) or a frothy coffee.
One other important Basque Country Itinerary tip to note is that particularly in high season, make sure to keep an eye on your possessions. Petty crime is a thing here, so try not to bring or wear expensive items that could make you an easy target.
From world-class art and cuisine to untouched natural beauty and vibrant traditions, the Basque Country is a destination like no other.
Immerse yourself in the region’s unique cultural tapestry and discover the rich heritage and warm hospitality of the Basque people – you never know, you might not want to leave! And don’t forget to Travel Till You Drop!
Matt Hapgood is a father, surfer, and entrepreneur. He has worn many hats in his career, from being a removal guy in Vancouver to teaching elementary kids in the UK, as well as a parking valet in the French Alps. He’s the founder and main contributor to MattHapgood.com and is currently living in the Algarve, Portugal.
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Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.
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