Basque Country Full Day Tour With Lunch From Bilbao

Discover the captivating Basque region on a full-day tour from Bilbao. Explore the historic capital Vitoria, tour a centuries-old salt factory, and savor a traditional Spanish lunch. Rated 4.5 out of 5, this immersive experience includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and entrance fees. Wander through scenic landmarks like the Valley of Ayala and the iconic Vizcaya Bridge, while delving into the Basque’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. With an enticing itinerary and thoughtful inclusions, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of Spain’s most captivating destinations.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Bilbao explores the Basque Country’s history, culture, and cuisine, including a guided walk in the capital Vitoria and a visit to the Salinas de Añana salt factory.

• The tour includes a typical Spanish lunch at a local restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s culinary traditions.

• The itinerary covers various landmarks and natural wonders, such as the Valley of Ayala and the iconic Vizcaya Bridge, providing a rundown of the Basque region.

• The tour is led by a professional local guide who provides insights and commentary in both English and Spanish, ensuring an engaging and informative experience.

• The tour offers accessibility for strollers, and children aged 2-12 receive a 50% discount when accompanied by two adults.

Tour Overview

The Basque Country Full Day Tour with Lunch from Bilbao provides a comprehensive exploration of the Basque region. Priced from $106.26, this 18-review tour has an impressive 4.5 average rating.

It includes hotel pickup, a professional local guide, entrance fees, and a typical Spanish lunch. The tour covers key destinations like Vitoria, Orduña, Santurtzi, Portugalete, Salinas de Añana salt valley, and the Vizcaya Bridge.

Highlights include guided walking tours, visits to regional landmarks, and immersion in Basque culture and cuisine. With accessibility for strollers and discounts for children, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Basque Country.

Itinerary Highlights

Across the tour’s diverse itinerary, travelers explore Vitoria, the Basque capital, with a guided walking tour that provides a one-hour introduction to the city.

The tour also visits Salinas de Añana, one of the oldest salt factories, for a guided tour lasting an hour.

Plus, the tour takes visitors to regional landmarks like the Valley of Ayala and the iconic Vizcaya Bridge.

Throughout the day, participants enjoy a typical Spanish lunch at a local restaurant, seeing the culinary traditions of the Basque Country.

Meeting Details

Travelers meet at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, in the Abando district of Bilbao, next to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, at 7:50 AM for the 8:00 AM departure.

The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

The tour covers multiple destinations across the Basque Country, including the capital city of Vitoria, the Salinas de Añana salt valley, and the Vizcaya Bridge.

A professional local guide accompanies the group, providing insight and commentary throughout the journey.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller friendly, and children aged 2-12 receive a 50% discount when accompanied by two adults.

Accessibility and Policies

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessibility is available. Children aged 2-12 receive a 50% discount when accompanied by 2 adults. The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Accessibility	Details
Wheelchair	Not accessible
Stroller	Accessible
Children	2-12 years old, 50% discount with 2 adults

Customer Feedback

Guides are generally praised for their knowledgeability and ability to provide insightful commentary in both English and Spanish.

Travelers highlight the beautiful scenery and well-planned itinerary that covers multiple locations in a single day. The lunch experiences are also generally praised for their quality and local flavor.

However, some customers note that mixed language tour groups can affect the experience for non-Spanish speakers. Plus, a few travelers mentioned communication issues regarding hotel pickup.

Guided Walking Tour of Vitoria

Typically, the tour begins with a guided walking exploration of Vitoria, the captivating capital of the Basque Country.

During this hour-long experience, travelers learn about the city’s rich history and architecture. The guide leads the group through the charming old town, stopping at key landmarks like the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria.

Visitors admire the stunning Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings, gaining insights into Vitoria’s role as an important political and cultural center.

This guided walking tour provides an immersive introduction to the Basque region, setting the stage for the other destinations and activities visitors will experience throughout the day.

Salinas De Añana Salt Valley

After exploring the charming capital of Vitoria, the tour takes visitors to the Salinas de Añana, one of the oldest salt factories in the region.

Here, a local guide leads a 1-hour tour, providing insights into the centuries-old salt-making process. Visitors can witness the intricate network of pools and channels used to evaporate seawater and harvest the valuable mineral.

The Salinas de Añana is a unique and well-preserved example of the Basque region’s industrial heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s historical reliance on salt production.

The tour concludes with ample time for visitors to wander the salt valley and capture memorable photographs of the striking landscape.

Typical Spanish Lunch

Visitors then savor a typical Spanish lunch at a local restaurant, allowing them to indulge in the region’s renowned culinary traditions.

The menu features a selection of regional specialties, including:

1. Pinchos, the Basque version of tapas, featuring bite-sized delicacies.
2. Bacalao, a classic dish made with salt-cured cod.
3. Rioja wine, a renowned red varietal from the nearby La Rioja region.

Lunch provides a chance to refuel and immerse in the local gastronomic culture, before continuing the exploration of the Basque Country’s natural wonders and historic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free meal. The tour provider is generally accommodating of dietary requirements, as long as you let them know in advance. Just be sure to specify your needs when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour operator may allow participants to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about extended tour options when booking or prior to the tour date.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

The tour doesn’t explicitly prohibit bringing your own snacks and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator first, as they may have policies about outside food and beverages. Bringing your own provisions could be allowed, but it’s courteous to confirm.

How Many People Are Typically in the Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from small to medium, with anywhere from 10 to 25 participants. The exact group size can vary depending on booking demand and the day’s schedule. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information.

Do the Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Attractions to Visit?

The tour guides typically provide recommendations for local attractions to visit based on the group’s interests and time constraints. They aim to enhance the overall experience by suggesting relevant and engaging options throughout the tour.

Sum Up

This Basque Country tour from Bilbao offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the region’s captivating culture, stunning landscapes, and authentic cuisine. Guests will explore the charming city of Vitoria, the mesmerizing Salinas de Añana salt valley, and the iconic Vizcaya Bridge, all while savoring a traditional Spanish lunch. With knowledgeable local guides, comfortable transportation, and a well-planned itinerary, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the essence of the Basque Country.