Reviewed on 12 Oct 2021
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2021
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2021
Tour the home of the Basque people, a region of culinary delights, coastal towns, historical gems and myriad landscapes ready to be explored.
The sunny beaches, traditional cuisine, spectacular modern architecture and green rolling hills of the Basque Country make a visit here a richly rewarding experience. Explore its long coastline, appreciate famous works of art and go bar hopping to savour a variety of tapas dishes.
One of the most popular destinations in Spain's Basque Country is Donostia-San Sebastian, an ancient city with a seaside setting. Stretch out on the beautiful Playa La Concha and people-watch in the Plaza de la Constitución in the heart of the old town, which used to host bullfights. Look up at the buildings that line the square to see numbers from when the balconies were used for seating. Visit the coastal town of Zarautz and Getxo for more beaches and to try local seafood dishes.
Head inland to tour Bilbao, once a gritty industrial city and now a destination filled with cultural attractions. The city’s transformation started with the construction of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a stunning gallery clad in shimmering titanium.
Less than an hour’s drive east of Bilbao is Guernica, a town that was almost destroyed in a bombing raid by German and Italian forces in 1937. The destruction was immortalized in one of Pablo Picasso’s most famous works, Guernica, which you can see in a ceramic reproduction on Pedro de Elejalde Street. Only a few buildings survived the attack, including the Biscayan Assembly House, which can still be visited today.
Guernica lies within the Urdaibai Nature Reserve, a protected area at the mouth of the Oka River. Hike along its trails to look for wildlife by the wetlands and take part in water sports on the river.
Throughout the region you’ll be tempted by pintxos, snacks similar to tapas that are served in many bars.
Fly into Bilbao or San Sebastián to experience the Basque Country’s cuisine, culture, history and architecture. Rent a car to explore the region or travel by bus or rail.