The 10 things to do in the Spanish Basque Country

Would you like to visit the Spanish Basque Country? Here are 10 things to do to embrace the culture of this unique region!

Do you want to change without going too far? Go to Euskadi, located on the other side of the Pyrenees. Forget the dry meadows and flamenco dancers, here we are in green Spain... and especially in Basque Spain! The region is bathed by this particular culture, whose origins are unknown and unique in Europe. Come listen to the Basque language sing to your ears and taste the tapas evenings! Not to mention the rich historical and natural heritage of the region. So how to visit the Spanish Basque country to take full advantage of it? Here is our selection of uncontourable!

1. Bilbao

The largest city in Euskadi, Bilbao is above all famous for its contemporary art museum, the Guggenheim. This metal structure glitters under the sun, offering visitors a real game of shapes and lights. An impressive architecture that gives it a world reputation. Keep up to date: one Friday per month, part of the collection remains open at night. You can enjoy it while enjoying a cocktail on the DJ mix in sight.

But Bilbao doesn't sum up at her museum. Visit its historic centre, melting pot of life and various architectural influences.

2. The monastery San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Looking for what to do in the Spanish Basque Country to live a time out of time? Go to Gaztelugatxe. This monastery with very ancient origins is perched like an eagle nest on a small islet. It is accessed by a narrow stone path that winds winds winding over 200 meters. All around, the Atlantic Ocean makes the place live, giving it a different atmosphere every day.

This simply magical place was already a place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages. Despite this, you will find a unique marine biodiversity, endemic to the Gulf of Gascogne. We're even talking about Gaztelugatxe's biotope!

3. Fontarrabie

Fontarrabie is located right in front of the French Hendaye. If five minutes are enough to cross the sea arm that separates the two cities, the change is total. Indeed, while Hendaye releases a calm at all events, Fontarrabie is a real Spanish city! Here the alleys are overflowing with life. All generations are at the end of the day to enjoy the famous paseo and enjoy tapas.

But Fontarrabie's main interest is its picturesque medieval centre. Located on a hill, it offers stunning views of the Atlantic coast.

4. San Sebastián

Beach, tapas and heritage... Three words that summarise very well why you have to go through Saint Sebastian to visit the Spanish Basque Country. Surrounded by the very beautiful beach of Las Conchas, the city has a historic centre of undesirable wealth. Beat its paved streets to discover its plaza Mayor, the Basilica of Santa María or the Church of San Vincente. But it is only once the night has fallen that San Sebastián unveils all its potential.

From all the Spanish Basque Country, this is the best place to eat tapas and party!

5. Guernica

Everyone knows Guernica. It is one of the most famous paintings of Picasso even one of the most famous paintings in the world. It represents the sinister events that took place in the small Basque town of Guernica on 26 April 1937. A bombing that killed hundreds of civilians, became a symbol of fascist barbarism.

What to do in the Spanish Basque Country to capture this facet of its history? Visiting Guernica is a key step. Although marked by events, today the city has a warm atmosphere. Visit the House of Assembly, the Guernica tree or the Peace Museum.

6. The Forest of Iraty

On horseback between France and Spain, the Iraty Forest houses bucolic landscapes with pastoral traditions. It is an ideal place to visit the Spanish Basque Country through the hiking tours. Its biodiversity is unique in the world and it is Europe’s largest beech. Among the leaf burning and the song of birds, you will cross etxolac and cayolar . These are the traditional cabins of Basque shepherds.

If you would like to know more about these millennial traditions, go to the chalet of Cizen, a thematic site dedicated to pastoralism.

7. Oñati

What to do in the Spanish Basque Country to embrace the complexity of the region? Visit Oñati, nicknamed "the Little Toledo" because of its architectural heritage. This town hidden in the mountains leaves nothing to imagine its wealth at first sight. Yet, as you go to discover its historic centre, you will take your eyes full!

Travel to the heart of the Renaissance by visiting the monastery of Bidaurreta and Sancti Spiritus University, a real architectural gem. Finally, go to the sanctuary of Arantzazu. You will find a basilica made in 1950 by prominent avant-garde artists.

8. Urdaibai

Looking for what to do in the Spanish Basque Country to dive into nature? Visit the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, spectacular and wild. Here, large green cliffs caracolate on the Atlantic Ocean. Their rugged terrains are home to many pottoks, famous Basque ponies! Along these grandiose panoramas, time seems to be slowing down. Below you will find very beautiful beaches sprinkled with dark rocks. Among them, don't miss Laga and Laida.

Don't miss the town of Mundaka, located in the heart of the park. Very picturesque, it attracts surfers and surfers all year round. Indeed, it houses one of the longest left waves in the world!

9. Vitoria-Gasteiz

Welcome to the capital of the Basque Country! It is in Vitoria-Gasteiz that the headquarters of the Basque government and parliament are located. Surrounded by small mountains, it combines animation and tranquility. Its paved streets house some remarkable buildings. Among them, don't miss the beautiful Cathedral of Santa María.

To enjoy the sun (or shelter from the rain, we are in the Basque Country after all), go to the plaza de la Virgen Blanca . Lined with typical houses, it is always animated by a gentle agitation.

10. Pasaia

Here's a discreet destination but it's worth the detour. The city of Pasaia is full of narrow and charming alleys, some of which come into the ocean. Thus, some Basque houses find their feet in the water, drawing a unique landscape. You will also find a historic shipyard and a museum that retraces the history of fishing in the region. But the majority of visitors come mainly to taste Pasaia's delicious gastronomy!

After having tasted the specialties of the sea, follow the path that comes out of the city along the bay of Pasaia. It is a breathtaking landscape that awaits you, at the gates of the Atlantic Ocean!

What about Navarre?

Some might be surprised not to see Pamplona in this top. In fact, the so-called Basque capital is simply not located in Euskadi... but in the Navarre region! Many Basques will tell you that Navarre is the Basque country. And indeed, the kingdom of Navarre, founded by the Vascons, would be the cradle of Basque culture! Yes, but here it is, the Navarrois do not all claim this culture. These are two distinct autonomous communities.

However, we recommend visiting the beautiful Pamplona. His busy streets are full of heritage treasures. Still in Navarre, Bardenas desert Reales will surprise you with the change he offers. Its cornices and warm colours draw landscapes worthy of the Far West... in the north of Spain!

How to go to the Spanish Basque Country?

By car

To visit the Spanish Basque Country by car, you can go through the highway A63 department D810 . However, if you have time, we advise you to borrow the Corniche road . It allows you to reach Fontarrabie from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, along cliffs overlooking the ocean. One of the most beautiful roads in the Basque Country.

By train or bus

You can easily reach the Spanish Basque Country by train or by bus. The following cities are particularly well served:

• Bilbao ;
• Saint Sebastian ;
• Vitoria-Gasteiz ;
• Irun ;
• Pamplona.

Would you like to visit the Spanish Basque Country otherwise? The train Transcantábrico crosses all green Spain: the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia.

By plane

The main airports are those in Bilbao and San Sebastian. In particular Bilbao, which is served by many French and international cities. To find the best offers, you can use our partner's website Ulysses . It will select for you the cheapest flights according to your preferred dates.

Where to stay in the Spanish Basque Country?

Are you wondering where to sleep in the Spanish Basque Country? The big cities of Bilbao and San Sebastian are full of accommodation solutions. Airbnb , hotels, sleeping... Whether you're opting for a hotel, a B GivenB or a flat-hotel, feel like you're jaunting offers and pre-availability on a Compare hotels . This allows you to anticipate your trip on this aspect and benefit from advantageous fares.

If you are looking for tranquility, turn to one of the many small villages typical of the country. Some houses full of charm. In the summer, the Atlantic coast offers many opportunities to combine the discovery of Basque and fierce culture. Wherever you are, it will be easy to drive to the different points of interest!