From Bilbao: Excursion to San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria

Explore the captivating coastal towns of the Basque Country on this comprehensive day trip from Bilbao. Uncover the medieval charm of Hondarribia, savor the vibrant pintxos in San Sebastián, and discover the historic landmarks of Getaria. With comfortable transportation and expert guides, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage. What hidden gems await you in these picturesque seaside destinations?

Key Points

• A comprehensive day trip from Bilbao to San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria, with guided visits, walking tours, and historical insights.
• Includes transportation via private, air-conditioned bus and a provided lunch as part of the excursion package.
• Explores the medieval charm of Hondarribia, the beaches and pintxo bars of San Sebastián, and the Church of San Salvador and Balenciaga Museum in Getaria.
• Features expert local tour guides who provide in-depth historical and cultural information throughout the tour.
• Positive customer feedback on the tour guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with some reported language barriers, primarily in Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The excursion offers a comprehensive day trip from Bilbao to explore the charming coastal towns of San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria.

Over 10 hours, the tour provides guided visits to each destination, including a walking tour of San Sebastián’s beaches and pintxo bars, a tour of Hondarribia’s medieval streets and castle, and a guided exploration of Getaria’s highlights like the Balenciaga Museum.

With convenient transportation, expert local guides, and included lunch, this excursion is an excellent way to discover the history, culture, and scenic beauty of the Basque Country.

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion starts at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 66 in Bilbao, where participants board a private, air-conditioned bus.

The first stop is Hondarribia, where a 75-minute guided tour showcases the medieval streets and Hondarribia Castle.

Next, a 105-minute guided walking tour in San Sebastián explores the beaches and pintxo bars.

The final stop is Getaria, with a 40-minute guided tour of the Church of San Salvador and the Balenciaga Museum, followed by free time to explore.

The return to Bilbao includes scenic views of Zumaya along the way.

Transportation and Guides

Participants board a private, air-conditioned bus at the starting point, Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 66 in Bilbao.

Throughout the excursion, guests are accompanied by expert local tour guides who provide:

• Guided walking tours in San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria

• In-depth historical and cultural insights about each destination

• Assistance with navigation and logistics

• Fluency in multiple languages, including English

The guides’ expertise and local knowledge enhance the overall experience, allowing participants to delve deeper into the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere of the Basque Country.

Hondarribia: Medieval Charm

As the excursion progresses, the group arrives in the charming town of Hondarribia, where they embark on a guided tour through the medieval streets.

Wandering the well-preserved historic center, the tour explores the imposing Hondarribia Castle, a 10th-century fortress with Basque architectural elements.

Visitors marvel at the quaint plazas, colorful buildings, and narrow alleyways that transport them back in time.

The guided experience provides insights into the town’s rich history and cultural significance as a strategic location along the French-Spanish border.

With 75 minutes allocated, travelers have ample time to soak in the medieval ambiance of this picturesque Basque destination.

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San Sebastián: Beaches and Pintxos

After exploring the medieval charm of Hondarribia, the excursion leads the group to the breathtaking coastal city of San Sebastián.

Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant food scene, the guided walking tour takes visitors through the highlights of this Basque gem:

• Strolling along the iconic Concha Bay, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand framed by the Urgull and Igeldo hills.

• Wandering through the charming Old Town to discover the lively pintxo bars, where visitors can savor the local delicacies.

• Admiring the grand architecture, including the Neo-Baroque Buen Pastor Cathedral.

• Panoramic views from Monte Igueldo, accessible by vintage funicular railway.

Getaria: Balenciaga and More

The excursion now heads to the charming fishing village of Getaria, known for its connections to the iconic fashion designer Balenciaga. Guests enjoy a 40-minute guided tour, learning about the town’s history and landmarks, including the Church of San Salvador. They then have free time to explore further, perhaps visiting the Balenciaga Museum to discover the designer’s life and creations. This stop offers a unique blend of fashion, architecture, and seaside charm.

| Highlights | Duration | Inclusions |

| — | — | — |

| Guided tour of Getaria | 40 minutes | Expert local guide |

| Free time for exploration | – | Admission to Balenciaga Museum |

| Church of San Salvador | – | – |

| Balenciaga Museum | – | – |

Return to Bilbao

With the visit to Getaria now complete, the excursion commences its return journey to Bilbao. The private air-conditioned bus offers scenic views of the coastal town of Zumaya along the way.

Some key highlights of the return trip include:

• Breathtaking vistas of the Basque Country’s picturesque landscapes

• A chance to rest and recharge after a full day of exploration

• Opportunity to reflect on the incredible sights and experiences from the tour

• Comfortable transportation to end the day back in Bilbao

The tour guide provides context and commentary to enhance the journey, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all participants.

Customer Experiences

Customers who’ve experienced this excursion have provided insightful feedback on their overall satisfaction.

The tour guides received praise for their knowledgeability and friendliness, while the comfortable transportation and stunning locations also garnered positive comments.

However, some participants noted language barriers, as the majority of the tour was conducted in Spanish.

Some participants noted language barriers, as the majority of the tour was conducted in Spanish.

Despite this, the excursion maintains an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

This suggests the tour offers a well-rounded experience, showcasing the best of San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria, though language considerations may be an important factor for some travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to receive a full refund. This flexible policy gives travelers the option to change their plans without incurring any penalties.

Do the Tour Guides Speak English?

The tour guides speak both English and Spanish on the excursion. While the majority of the tour is conducted in Spanish, the guides can provide English explanations to ensure all participants understand the information shared at each destination.

Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Option Available?

Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian/vegan lunch option. Customers can request this when booking, and the tour provider will accommodate their dietary needs. This ensures all participants can fully enjoy the included meal during the excursion.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated in Each Destination?

The tour provides free time of 40 minutes in Getaria, allowing visitors to explore the town independently. Free time is also allocated in San Sebastián, following the guided walking tour, though the duration is not specified.

Is There Any Dress Code or Special Requirements for This Tour?

There is no specific dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should avoid bringing prohibited items like weapons or pets. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to accessibility issues.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive day trip from Bilbao offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Basque Country’s stunning coastal towns. Comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and delicious local cuisine enhance the experience. Explore the medieval charm of Hondarribia, indulge in San Sebastián’s vibrant pintxo culture, and discover Getaria’s rich history and fashion legacy. It’s an excursion that showcases the best of the region’s natural beauty, architecture, and culinary delights.

You can check availability for your dates here: