5 Days Bilbao and Basque Country

Bilbao and the Basque Country offer a captivating 5-day journey for the intrepid traveler. From the iconic Guggenheim Museum to the charming streets of Old Town, this region seamlessly blends art, cuisine, and culture. Visitors can indulge in the famous pintxos, traditional Basque small plates, and embark on a scenic day trip to the coastal gem of San Sebastián. With professional guides and comfortable accommodations, this immersive experience promises to showcase the Basque traditions and breathtaking landscapes. Those ready to uncover the hidden gems of this dynamic destination won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to…

Good To Know

• Explore Bilbao’s highlights, including the Guggenheim Museum, Old Town, and a pintxos crawl, providing a immersive introduction to Basque culture.
• Discover the renowned Basque cuisine through traditional dishes like pintxos, txakoli wine, and pil pil cod.
• Enjoy a day trip to San Sebastián, experiencing its stunning Playa de la Concha beach and vibrant Old Town.
• Delve deeper into Basque traditions by visiting a cider house and exploring the charming fishing village of Getxo.
• Reflect on the unique architecture, language, and hospitality that define the Bilbao and Basque Country experience.

Arrival and Accommodation

Your 4-night stay in Bilbao begins with a private transfer from the airport, train, or bus station to your 4-star hotel.

Breakfast is included each morning. Lunch and dinner are also provided throughout your stay, allowing you to fully learn about the local cuisine.

Your hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as arrival and departure private transfers, are all included, ensuring a seamless experience.

With a maximum of 54 travelers per tour and a professional guide leading the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Bilbao and the Basque Country at a comfortable pace.

Exploring Bilbao’s Highlights

Bilbao’s iconic landmarks and cultural attractions await as the tour begins. Explore the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece by Frank Gehry, and marvel at its incredible contemporary art collection. Next, venture to the Old Town, where narrow streets lead to the imposing Santiago Cathedral and the picturesque Plaza Nueva. Savor the flavors of the Basque Country with a delectable pintxos crawl, sampling the region’s renowned small plates.

Highlights	Duration
Guggenheim Museum	1.5 hours
Old Town	1 hour
Pintxos Crawl	2 hours
Ribera Market	1 hour
Funicular to Mount Artxanda	30 minutes

The tour continues with a visit to the bustling Ribera Market, a foodie’s paradise, and a ride on the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda for panoramic city views.

Discovering Basque Cuisine

The Basque Country’s renowned cuisine takes center stage as the tour delves into the flavors that define this vibrant region.

From succulent seafood fresh from the Bay of Biscay to the hearty stews that warm the soul, the Basque culinary experience is a delight for the senses.

Discover:

1. Pintxos – the Basque version of tapas, bite-sized masterpieces that pack a punch of flavor.
2. Txakoli – the crisp, slightly effervescent white wine that perfectly complements the local fare.
3. Idiazabal – a rich, smoky sheep’s milk cheese that melts in the mouth.
4. Pil pil – a traditional cod dish cooked in a garlic and olive oil sauce.

The tour ensures travelers enjoy the essence of Basque gastronomy, savoring each unique dish and local specialty.

Day Trip to San Sebastián

After exploring the culinary delights of Bilbao, the tour takes a day trip to the charming coastal city of San Sebastián.

Travelers will enjoy a private transfer to the city, where a professional guide will lead them on a walking tour. Highlights include the stunning Playa de la Concha beach, the historic Old Town, and the iconic Parte Vieja neighborhood.

Visitors can sample pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, at local bars and cafes. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

With a maximum of 54 travelers, this day trip provides an intimate and personalized exploration of San Sebastián’s cultural and gastronomic delights.

Taking in Basque Culture

1. Visiting the Guggenheim Museum, a stunning architectural marvel that showcases Basque and international modern art.

2. Attending a lively cider house, where guests can savor the region’s renowned cider and witness traditional Basque cuisine and music.

3. Exploring the medieval Old Town of Bilbao, with its winding streets, historic buildings, and lively plazas.

4. Discovering the picturesque fishing village of Getxo, renowned for its beautiful seaside promenade and Basque coastal scenery.

Unique Experiences in Bilbao

Beyond the renowned Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao offers a wealth of unique experiences that immerse visitors in the Basque culture.

Explore the charming Old Town, known as Casco Viejo, with its narrow streets, quaint plazas, and lively tapas bars.

Visit the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest indoor markets, to sample local delicacies and interact with friendly vendors.

Take a stroll along the picturesque Nervión River, admiring the city’s modern architecture.

For a panoramic view, ride the historic funicular railway up to Mount Artxanda.

Whether you’re seeking culture or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Bilbao promises an unforgettable exploration of the Basque heart.

Departure and Reflection

As the Bilbao adventure draws to a close, travelers reflect on the wealth of experiences that have immersed them in the region’s captivating Basque culture.

With a heavy heart, they prepare to depart, knowing they’ll carry the memories of:

1. Exploring the iconic Guggenheim Museum and marveling at its cutting-edge architecture.

2. Savoring the vibrant flavors of Basque cuisine, from pintxos to cider houses.

3. Experiencing the unique Basque language and its rich traditions firsthand.

4. Connecting with the warm and welcoming local community, whose hospitality left a lasting impression.

With renewed appreciation for the Basque Country’s cultural richness, travelers depart, eager to share their journey and plan a return visit.

The Sum Up

This 5-day journey through Bilbao and the Basque Country offers an immersive experience that celebrates the region’s iconic art, mouthwatering cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. From the Guggenheim Museum to the charming streets of Old Town, and the scenic beauty of San Sebastián, travelers will create unforgettable memories while discovering the unique traditions that make the Basque Country a captivating destination.