Discover the unique character of northern Spain on a 6-day Bilbao & Basque Country Discovery journey. Based in vibrant Bilbao, this itinerary combines fascinating cultural experiences, spectacular coastal scenery, historic landmarks, and the renowned wines of La Rioja. Explore the spiritual heritage of Loyola, the elegant seaside city of San Sebastián, the dramatic cliffs of Gaztelugatxe, historic Guernica, and traditional wineries surrounded by Rioja’s picturesque vineyards. With a free day in Bilbao, you’ll also have time to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy its famous culinary scene.
Upon arriving at Bilbao International Airport (BIO), meet your driver in the arrival hall for a transfer to your hotel in Bilbao. After checking in (available from 14:00), you’ll have free time to explore your hotel at your leisure. Please note that early check-in is subject to availability upon arrival.
After breakfast, walk to the nearby meeting point for your group tour. It’s just a short distance from your hotel. The meeting point is at Tourism office bus stop - Guggenheim Museum (Alameda Mazarredo, no. 65). LANGUAGE: Spanish, English. SCHEDULE: Tuesdays at 08:50 AM. DURATION: 9 hours (approximately). Highlights Visit the iconic Loyola Sanctuary, birthplace of Saint Ignatius and spiritual landmark of the Basque Country Free time to explore Getaria, a charming fishing village with centuries of maritime tradition Stop in Zarauz, a surfing and gastronomic destination, perfect for relaxing by the sea Panoramic tour of San Sebastián, with incredible views of the bay from Mount Igueldo Included Multilingual official guide. Transportation during the visit. Excluded Lunch and beverages. Entrance fees to the monuments. Tips / Gratuities (Optional). Other services not specified. Description Embark on a journey that reveals the authentic soul of the Basque Country, combining tradition, history and postcard-perfect landscapes. The route begins in Bilbao and winds through valleys, mountains and small towns until it reaches the impressive Sanctuary of Loyola — a symbolic place where Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, was born. Between the imposing basilica and the house-museum, this is a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural origins of the region. The adventure continues towards the coast, with a stop in Getaria, a fishing village full of character, where the smell of the sea and the stories of sailors are part of the scenery. You will have free time to explore the sloping streets, discover the medieval church of San Salvador and stroll through the historic Catrapona arch. Next is Zarauz, a popular summer destination known for its perfect waves that attract surfers from all over the world. Here, the atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for enjoying the local cuisine or simply relaxing by the sea. To end the day in the best possible way, San Sebastián awaits you with all its elegance: the charm of the Old Town, the legendary La Concha beach and the unforgettable panoramic view from Mount Igueldo complete this experience. A modern, vibrant and irresistible city that captivates every visitor. A complete excursion, designed for those who want to make the most of the diversity of the Basque Country — from the spirituality of Loyola to the cosmopolitan glamour of San Sebastián.
Enjoy a relaxing free day in Bilbao to discover the city according to your own interests. Wander through the atmospheric Casco Viejo, browse local shops and markets, admire the city’s architecture, or visit one of its renowned museums. Take time to enjoy traditional Basque pintxos in a lively bar, stroll along the Nervión River, or simply relax at a café and soak up the city’s atmosphere. The day is yours to experience Bilbao at your own pace.
After breakfast, walk to the nearby meeting point for your group tour. It’s just a short distance from your hotel. The meeting point is at TMazarredo Zumarkalea, 63 - Bilbao LANGUAGES: English and Spanish DURATION: 6 Hours MEETING POINT: Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 63 - Bilbao SCHEDULE: Everyday at 9 a.m. Highlights Visit the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a Game of Thrones filming location, with breathtaking views of the ocean. Discover the picturesque fishing village of Mundaka, famous for its scenery and maritime tradition. Explore Guernica and learn about its remarkable history and the symbolic Tree of Guernica. A complete experience with an expert guide, combining nature, culture, and heritage in a single day. Included Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle Admission ticket to the Gaztelugatxe Hermitage trail Official tour guide Excluded Pick-up from your accommodation Rain gear and an umbrella Lunch Description Exploring the natural beauty of Biscay (Bizkaia in Basque) is an unforgettable experience, and this tour from Bilbao will take you to discover some of the region’s most iconic places. The first stop is the impressive Hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, internationally known as “Dragonstone” from the Game of Thrones series, a magical location reached by climbing 241 steps between the sea and the rocks, offering spectacular views of the Basque coastline. After this visit, the tour continues to Mundaka, a picturesque fishing village located in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, famous for its left-hand wave that attracts surfers from around the world and for its charming maritime tradition. Finally, we dive into Basque history and culture with a visit to Guernica, where you will discover the symbolic Tree of Guernica, explore sites full of memory and understand the impact of the bombing that inspired Picasso’s famous painting. This tour combines breathtaking landscapes, living history and Basque culture in one day, accompanied by a bilingual guide who will make the experience authentic and enriching. ITINERARY: 09:00h – Departure from Bilbao 09:45h – Arrival at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe route and walk to the hermitage 11:30h – Departure and arrival in Mundaka. Guided walk through the village (harbour, church, Urdaibai Estuary viewpoint) 20 minutes free time for lunch in a local bar (not included) 13:00h – Guided visit of Guernica 15:00h – Return to Bilbao
After breakfast, walk to the nearby meeting point for your group tour. It’s just a short distance from your hotel. The meeting point is at Tourism office bus stop - Guggenheim Museum (Alameda Mazarredo, no. 65). LANGUAGE: Spanish and English.. SCHEDULE: Mondays at 08:50 a.m. DURATION: 9 Hours. Highlights Visit to CVNE, a century-old winery, including Gustave Eiffel's barrel room and underground cellars, with wine tasting Guided tour of the historic centre of Haro and the Station district Discover the charming medieval village of Laguardia, exploring its picturesque streets Stop in Elciego to admire the iconic Marqués de Riscal building Included Official bilingual guide. Visit to a traditional winery to taste its wines. Transportation during the visit. Tour through Rioja. Excluded Lunch and beverages. Entrance fees to the monuments. Tips / Gratuities (Optional). Other services not specified. Description Enjoy a day trip that offers a unique experience to discover La Rioja, taste high-quality wines and immerse yourself in the region's wine culture. The trip begins with departure from Bilbao to Haro, the capital of Rioja wine. Here, we will visit the emblematic CVNE, a century-old winery, where we will take a guided tour of the essential areas, including the barrel room designed by the legendary Gustave Eiffel and the underground cellars, also called the ‘cemetery’, accompanied by a tasting of exceptional wines. Next, we will take a guided walking tour of the historic centre of Haro, passing through the Plaza de la Paz, and explore the Station district, where the largest number of century-old wineries in the region are concentrated. The next stop is the charming medieval village of Laguardia. Here, we will stroll through its narrow, picturesque streets and visit a small traditional winery, learning about the winemaking process in a more intimate and familiar way. After the visit, there will be free time for lunch (not included). Before returning to Bilbao, we will make a brief stop in Elciego to admire the iconic Marqués de Riscal building, an impressive example of modern architecture and a symbol of the La Rioja region. A complete experience, perfect for wine and culture lovers, combining tradition, history and breathtaking views of Spain's most famous wine region.
After breakfast, meet your driver and transfer to Bilbao International Airport (BIO). We recommend scheduling your hotel pick-up up to 4 hours before your flight departure time. Please note that hotel check-out is at 12:00 noon, and late check-out will be subject to availability.
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