From Bilbao: 3 Cities Basque Country 6-Day trip

Imagine exploring the vibrant cities and quaint villages of the Basque Country over six days, all with comfortable hotel stays and guided excursions. For just over a thousand dollars, this tour takes you from Bilbao’s modern art scene to San Sebastián’s famous beaches and Vitoria’s historic streets. Led by friendly guides like Juan or María, you’ll enjoy a mix of cultural highlights, scenic drives, and authentic local flavors.

Two things we really like about this experience are the well-paced itinerary, which balances sightseeing with free time, and the inclusion of entrance tickets to key attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and San Telmo Museum, meaning no extra expense or long lines. However, travelers should be aware that the transportation may vary depending on the group size, so flexibility is key.

This trip suits those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to the Basque Country, especially if you’re interested in art, history, and stunning coastal views. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided tours but also want time for personal exploration.

Key Points

• Main Cities Covered: Experience Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria with guided tours and free time.
• Authentic Villages & Scenic Drives: Visit charming villages like Getaria, Laguardia, and Loyola.
• Cultural Highlights Included: Entrance tickets to Guggenheim Bilbao and San Telmo Museum are part of the package.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Balance guided excursions with ample free time for individual exploration.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay at centrally located 4-star hotels with transportation included.
• Value for Money: The price includes transportation, guided tours, hotel, and many entrance fees, offering a lot of value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Basque Country Tour

Starting in Bilbao: Modern Art Meets Traditional Charm

Your adventure kicks off in Bilbao, a city famous for its groundbreaking architecture and vibrant arts scene. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and then have some free time to wander around. The highlight here is the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, where the building itself is a masterpiece of modern design, resembling a sculpture more than a museum. The included entrance ticket means you can skip potential lines, and you’ll love the way the building’s titanium panels catch the light.

Bilbao’s mix of old and new makes it a captivating city. We loved strolling along the Nervión River, where the city’s innovative architecture is on full display. The local guides, like Juan, typically share stories about Bilbao’s transformation from a traditional industrial hub into a cultural magnet.

Day 2: From Bilbao to San Sebastián via Historic Villages

This day is a blend of history, scenic drives, and coastal beauty. After breakfast, the tour takes you through picturesque villages surrounded by mountains. Our guide emphasized Loyola, the birthplace of St. Ignatius of Loyola, highlighting the impressive Basilica and the tower house where he was born—an insight into Basque religious history.

Next, you’ll visit Getaria, a medieval fishing village renowned for its narrow streets and seafood. It’s also the birthplace of famous figures like Captain Juan Sebastián Elcano and designer Cristóbal Balenciaga—adding a touch of local pride. We loved walking through its cobbled streets, imagining what life was like centuries ago.

Passing Zarauz, with its vast beach, you’ll arrive in San Sebastián in the afternoon. Here, a guided walking tour takes you through the Old Town, with its lively pintxo bars and historic buildings. You’ll get a chance to explore on your own, maybe trying some local seafood or shopping for artisanal crafts.

In the late afternoon, a visit to Mount Igeldo offers panoramic views of La Concha Bay that are hard to beat. The sight of the shimmering water framed by the city’s skyline is unforgettable. We found that this combination of coastal scenery and city charm makes San Sebastián a standout highlight.

Day 3: Free Day in San Sebastián

Today provides the freedom to explore at your own pace. The San Telmo Museum, included in the tour, houses an impressive collection of Basque art and history. You might choose to stroll along the beach, visit local galleries, or simply relax at a cafe.

San Sebastián’s relaxed vibe and stunning seaside setting make it an ideal spot for unwinding. Travelers who love picturesque streets and seaside views will feel right at home here.

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Day 4: From San Sebastián to Vitoria via Historic Villages and Sacred Sites

This day takes you inland through some of the most charming spots in the Basque Country. Starting in Ordizia, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of a town known for its medieval architecture and lively market squares. Then, Oñati’s Sancti Spiritus University stands out as a marvel of Renaissance civil architecture, perfect for history buffs.

The Arantzazu Sanctuary, a contemporary sacred monument, offers a stark contrast with its striking design—definitely a unique site to visit. Later, the guided tour of Laguardia, a medieval wine village, lets you wander narrow alleys and taste local wines.

Finally, a panoramic drive through Vitoria introduces you to its historic center, setting the stage for your overnight stay.

Day 5: Exploring Salt Valleys and Historic Towns

The day begins with a visit to Añana Salt Valley, where you can learn about the traditional salt mining industry. The landscape here is surprisingly dramatic, with salt terraces stretching across the valley. It’s a fascinating look at how ancient practices continue today.

Next, Orduña’s well-preserved town center offers a peek into Basque civil architecture, while a stop in Balmaseda for lunch provides a chance to enjoy local flavors. The Bizkaia Bridge, the world’s oldest transporter bridge, is a striking example of early engineering and offers great photo opportunities.

Returning to Bilbao, the blend of scenic views, historical towns, and engineering marvels makes this a rewarding day.

Day 6: Farewell to Bilbao

Your final morning is free for last-minute sightseeing or shopping. You’ll then be transferred to the airport or train station, ending your memorable journey through the Basque Country.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves to see a mix of cities, villages, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly good for travelers interested in art, history, and coastal views, and who don’t mind a moderate pace with guided explanations.

The inclusion of hotel stays in well-located 4-star accommodations adds comfort, making the experience more enjoyable. The guided tours and entrance tickets enhance the value, especially for first-timers eager to avoid long lines or get insider stories.

This trip works well for those who want a structured overview of the Basque Country, with enough free time to explore on their own or relax. It’s not ideal for travelers seeking an ultra-adventurous or highly flexible (DIY) itinerary, but the balance of guided and free time makes it a strong choice for most travelers.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?

The price covers transportation, guided tours of Bilbao, Vitoria, and San Sebastián, hotel accommodation in a 4-star hotel, entrance tickets to major attractions like the Guggenheim and San Telmo Museum, and some meals including lunch with drinks in Balmaseda.

Are there options for children or families?

Children up to 2 years old do not pay, but extra services like hotel services are paid directly. Children from 2 to 11 years get a 40% discount when sharing a room with two adults, making it family-friendly.

What is the group size?

The tour requires a minimum of 2 people to operate. Group size can vary depending on the number of participants on your chosen dates, which affects the transportation type used.

Can I customize the itinerary or choose different hotels?

The hotels are centrally located 4-star options, with specific hotels confirmed at booking. Customization is not specified, but the itinerary is fixed, balancing guided activities with free time.

Are the excursions available in English and Spanish?

Yes, the tours are offered in both languages, ensuring clear communication and helpful explanations.

What if I want more free time in certain cities?

The itinerary includes some free time, especially in San Sebastián and Bilbao, where you can explore on your own or relax. Additional activities can be planned independently.

Are entrance tickets included for all attractions?

Most major attractions, including the Guggenheim Bilbao and San Telmo Museum, are included, allowing you to avoid lines and extra costs.

What should I pack for this trip?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for city tours and village explorations. Layered clothing is recommended, as weather can vary with the season.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Basque Country tour offers a balanced look at urban vibrancy and rural charm, with a carefully curated mix of guided excursions and personal time. We appreciated how smoothly the itinerary flows, from the iconic Guggenheim in Bilbao to the coastal beauty of San Sebastián and the historic streets of Vitoria.

The inclusion of entrance tickets, well-located hotels, and transportation makes it a solid value for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning. Plus, the scenic drives through mountains, coastlines, and charming villages really showcase the diverse beauty of this region.

While it might not suit travelers seeking total independence or spontaneous adventures, it’s ideal for those who want an organized, insightful overview of the Basque Country, especially if you’re new to the area or short on time.

This tour offers authentic experiences, stunning views, and a chance to connect with Basque culture — perfect for curious travelers who want to come away with a real sense of this unique part of Spain.

You can check availability for your dates here: