6 day itinerary for Côte Basque Espagnole

Itinerary

The Côte Basque in Spain is a stunning region known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 6-day itinerary that will let you soak in the culture, scenery, and flavors of this enchanting area. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in San Sebastián

Morning:
Arrive in San Sebastián, the jewel of the Basque Country! Check into your hotel and freshen up. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Basque pastries like pintxos or tarta de queso.

Afternoon:
Stroll along La Concha beach, taking in the stunning views of the bay. Don’t forget to snap some photos! Afterward, head to the Old Town (Parte Vieja) for lunch. Sample some pintxos at the bustling bars—try the gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and txangurro (spider crab).

Evening:
As the sun sets, take a walk up to Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city. For dinner, indulge in a Basque meal at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on trying bacalao al pil-pil (cod in a garlic sauce).

## Day 2: San Sebastián to Getaria and Zarautz

Morning:
After breakfast, take a short drive or bus ride to Getaria, a charming fishing village. Explore the narrow streets and visit the Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to the famous fashion designer.

Afternoon:
Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants. Try the local specialty, txakoli wine, paired with fresh grilled fish. After lunch, head to Zarautz, known for its long beach. Relax on the sand or take a surf lesson if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening:
Return to San Sebastián for dinner. Explore more pintxos bars in the Old Town, and perhaps join a pintxos tour to discover hidden gems and local favorites.

## Day 3: Biarritz and Bayonne

Morning:
Cross the border into France and head to Biarritz, a glamorous seaside town. Start your day with a visit to the Rocher de la Vierge for breathtaking views of the coastline.

Afternoon:
Stroll through the town, visiting the shops and the beautiful beaches. For lunch, try a galette (savory crepe) at a local crêperie. Afterward, take a short trip to Bayonne, known for its historic architecture and chocolate shops.

Evening:
Explore Bayonne’s charming streets and visit the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie. For dinner, enjoy a traditional Basque meal, perhaps axoa (a meat stew) at a local bistro.

## Day 4: Hondarribia and Pasaia

Morning:
Head to Hondarribia, a picturesque town with a medieval old town. Explore the cobblestone streets and visit the Castle of Charles V. Don’t forget to check out the colorful houses!

Afternoon:
Have lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the marina. Afterward, take a short boat ride to Pasaia, a quaint fishing village. Explore the charming streets and enjoy the waterfront views.

Evening:
Return to Hondarribia for dinner. Try the local merluza (hake) or chipirones (squid) at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the waterfront.

## Day 5: Bilbao Day Trip

Morning:
Take a day trip to Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country. Start your day at the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The architecture is as stunning as the art inside!

Afternoon:
After exploring the museum, head to the Casco Viejo (Old Town) for lunch. Try a bocadillo (sandwich) or some more pintxos. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets, visiting shops, and perhaps stopping by the Mercado de la Ribera for local delicacies.

Evening:
Return to San Sebastián. For your last night, treat yourself to a special dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a local favorite. Savor the flavors of Basque cuisine one last time!

## Day 6: Departure

Morning:
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a final stroll along the beach or through the Old Town. Pick up some souvenirs, like local cheese or wine, to take home.

Afternoon:
Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance for one last pintxo or a visit to a local market. Then, it’s time to say goodbye to the beautiful Côte Basque!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to ask. Safe travels! 🌊🍷✨