Bilbao and Castro Urdiales Full-day excursion from Santander

Planning a day trip from Santander that combines the vibrancy of a modern city with the scenic beauty of a coastal town? This full-day tour offers precisely that, taking you from the bustling streets of Bilbao to the peaceful, historic streets of Castro Urdiales. Whether you’re passionate about art, architecture, or just soaking in picturesque landscapes, this experience promises a well-rounded glimpse into the north of Spain.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive approach: it balances guided sightseeing with free time, allowing for personal exploration. The opportunity to see the iconic Guggenheim Museum’s exterior and interior, along with a boat trip on the Nervión River, adds a special touch. Plus, Castro Urdiales offers a chance to wander through ancient streets and admire Gothic and Roman ruins—an authentic taste of coastal Spain.

A potential consideration is the long travel time on the coach—about three hours total—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with bus journeys. Also, some activities, like visiting the Guggenheim or taking the boat ride, are optional and require extra tickets. Still, the overall value is high for travelers eager for a full, culturally rich day without the hassle of planning each detail.

This tour works particularly well for those interested in architecture, art, and coastal scenery, or travelers wanting a taste of both urban and seaside Spain in one day. It’s perfect for visitors who enjoy guided tours but also value time to explore on their own.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining guided tours with free exploration time.
• Highlights include Bilbao’s Old Town, Guggenheim Museum exterior, and Castro Urdiales’ historic center.
• Optional activities like the Guggenheim visit and boat trip add flexibility but come with extra costs.
• Comfortable transportation ensures smooth travel between destinations.
• Long but scenic coach rides provide ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the landscape.
• Suitable for those with an interest in architecture, coastal towns, and cultural history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour kicks off early at Calle Atilano Rodríguez, in front of the train station in Santander. This early start is a smart move—it maximizes your day in Bilbao and Castro Urdiales. Expect a 75-minute coach ride, giving you a chance to settle in and preview the landscapes of northern Spain. Traveling by coach or minivan, the group size is generally manageable, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Bilbao: A City of Contrasts and Culture

Arriving in Bilbao, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring the Old Town, a charming maze of narrow streets filled with history and lively cafes. Walking through the Siete Calles (Seven Streets), you’ll encounter architectural gems like the Gothic cathedral of Santiago and the church of San Nicolas. These structures evoke centuries of faith and community life, and their facades are a delight for photographers.

A highlight here is Plaza Nueva, a bustling square where locals gather and where you can indulge in a typical bilbainada—a local expression of pride. We loved how this part of the tour invites you to see how history and modern life coexist in Bilbao’s streets.

Next, you’ll walk along the Nervión River, passing landmarks like the Church of San Anton, the Ribera Market, the Arriaga Theater, and the City Hall. These buildings reveal Bilbao’s blend of tradition and commerce. From the riverbank, a crossing over the Salve Bridge offers stunning views of the Guggenheim Museum, arguably Bilbao’s most famous icon.

Guggenheim Museum: Exterior and Interior

While visiting the interior requires an extra ticket, many travelers find the exterior alone worth the visit. The building’s sculptural forms and sculptures like Puppy are striking. For art lovers, purchasing tickets (about €18 for adults) allows a deeper appreciation, but even those admiring only the architecture will find this a memorable sight.

Some reviews mention that the exterior alone can be mesmerizing, and the views from the Salve Bridge make for perfect photos. The museum’s bold design epitomizes contemporary architecture, transforming Bilbao into a city of innovation.

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Optional River Cruise

A boat trip on the Nervión River is offered at an additional cost (€15 adult, €11 children). If you choose to include it, you’ll glide past the Guggenheim and other landmarks, gaining a different perspective of the city’s skyline. It’s a relaxing way to see Bilbao from the water and appreciate its modern fabric.

Moving on to Castro Urdiales

After about two hours of free time in Bilbao, the bus takes you southward for roughly 30 minutes to Castro Urdiales. This seaside town is a picture-perfect spot—think cobbled streets, a majestic Gothic church, and Roman ruins. The town is part of the Camino de Santiago del Norte, adding spiritual and historical layers to its setting.

Here, you can visit the Gothic Church of Santa María de la Asunción, built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Its imposing facade and interior are a testament to medieval craftsmanship. Nearby, the Romanesque Church of San Pedro and the hermitage of Santa Ana, perched on a rocky outcrop, add to the town’s ancient charm.

The Roman Bridge offers stunning views over the coast, and wandering through the narrow streets reveals hints of the town’s past as a vital port. Many reviews highlight that Castro Urdiales feels authentic and less touristy, perfect for a relaxed stroll and some souvenir shopping.

Return Journey

After exploring Castro Urdiales for about 75 minutes, the coach heads back to Santander, with a scenic 75-minute ride. This allows you to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights before arriving back at the starting point.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a local guide, transportation, and guided visits to both Bilbao and Castro Urdiales. This setup offers great value, especially for those who prefer not to navigate on their own.

Extras like meals, drinks, or tickets for the Guggenheim and boat trip are not included, which means you can tailor your day based on your interests and budget. The optional activities are reasonably priced, but it’s worth considering whether you’ll want to purchase them beforehand or on the day.

The Practical Side

This tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. It’s a full 10-hour experience, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. The early start means you’ll need to rise early but also ensures you get the most out of your day.

While the group size isn’t specified, the use of coach or minivan suggests a manageable number of travelers, fostering a more personal experience. The tour operates with a minimum of four participants, so check ahead if you’re in a small group.

Authentic Experiences and Final Thoughts

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of architectural marvels, historic sites, and scenic coastal views. We especially appreciated the opportunity to see Bilbao’s modern face alongside its historic heart—something that many visitors overlook when only visiting the Guggenheim or the city’s museums.

Castro Urdiales, with its Gothic cathedral and Roman ruins, offers a glimpse into the past that feels genuine and untouched by mass tourism. The option to explore at your own pace adds a relaxed touch to this busy day.

This trip offers excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive look at northern Spain’s culture and scenery without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It is perfect for travelers interested in architecture, art, coastal towns, and local flavor. The scenic views, especially from the Salve Bridge and along the coast, provide memorable photo opportunities.

If you enjoy guided experiences that balance structure with free time, and you’re eager to see both city highlights and seaside charm in one day, this tour is a smart choice. Just be prepared for a full day on the move, and consider whether you want to add optional tickets for an even deeper experience.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Calle Atilano Rodríguez, in front of the Santander train station, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

How long is the coach ride?
The trip from Santander to Bilbao takes about 75 minutes, and the return from Castro Urdiales is also roughly 75 minutes, making for a long but scenic journey.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more travelers to enjoy the experience.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
The tour includes guided visits, but tickets for the Guggenheim Museum and boat trip are optional and must be purchased separately if you choose to do them.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through historic streets and possibly exploring outdoors.

Can I explore Bilbao and Castro Urdiales at my own pace?
Yes, the tour includes free time in both locations, giving you the chance to explore or relax as you see fit.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check starting times when booking — the tour lasts about 10 hours, so morning departures are typical. Confirm availability to fit your schedule.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for families, especially since it involves manageable walking and sightseeing. Just consider the length of the day for younger children.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing varies depending on optional activities and tickets purchased, but the overall value is good considering the guided experience and transportation included.

This full-day excursion from Santander offers an engaging mix of culture, architecture, and coastal scenery, making it a well-rounded introduction to the north of Spain. Whether you’re marveling at Bilbao’s innovative architecture or wandering through Castro Urdiales’ historic streets, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: