Hondarribia

Hondarribia is a charming coastal town in the Basque Country of Spain, known for its stunning views, delicious cuisine, and rich history. Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of what this lovely town has to offer!

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town and Coastal Beauty

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious Basque breakfast. Try a “tostada” (toasted bread) with tomato and olive oil, paired with a café con leche. There are several cozy cafés in the old town, like Café de la Marina.

• Stroll through the Old Town: After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the cobbled streets of the old town (Parte Vieja). Admire the colorful facades of the houses, especially the traditional Basque-style balconies. Don’t miss the Plaza de Armas, where you can see the impressive Castle of Charles V.

Midday:

• Visit the Castle of Charles V: Explore this historic castle, which now houses a Parador (a luxury hotel). The views from the castle are breathtaking, so make sure to snap some photos!

• Lunch at a Pintxos Bar: For lunch, dive into the local culinary scene by sampling pintxos (Basque tapas). Head to Calle San Pedro, where you’ll find a variety of bars offering delicious bites. Try the “gilda” (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and some fresh seafood.

Afternoon:

• Walk Along the Beach: After lunch, take a stroll along the beautiful Playa de Hondarribia. The beach is perfect for a relaxing walk, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Txingudi and the French town of Hendaye across the water.

• Visit the Marina: Head to the marina area, where you can admire the colorful fishing boats and yachts. It’s a great spot to relax and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant: For dinner, indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. Try the grilled fish or the famous Basque-style squid. A popular choice is Restaurante Gran Sol, known for its excellent seafood dishes.

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. The sunset views over the bay are simply magical!

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with a sweet treat from a local bakery. Try a “pastel vasco,” a delicious pastry filled with custard or jam, along with your morning coffee.

• Visit the Historic Sites: Spend your morning visiting some of the town’s historic sites. Check out the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, known for its stunning altarpiece and beautiful architecture.

Midday:

• Explore the Bidasoa River: Take a walk along the Bidasoa River, where you can enjoy the scenic views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak for a fun experience on the water!

• Lunch at a Local Cider House: Experience the Basque cider culture by having lunch at a traditional cider house (sagardotegi). Enjoy a hearty meal of “txuleta” (steak) and wash it down with some local cider.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Jaizkibel Mountain: After lunch, take a short hike up Jaizkibel Mountain. The trails offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding area. It’s a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air.

Evening:

• Dinner in the Old Town: For your final dinner in Hondarribia, head back to the old town and enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant. Try the local specialties like “merluza a la koskera” (hake in green sauce) or “bacalao al pil-pil” (cod in a garlic and olive oil sauce).

• Nightcap at a Local Bar: End your trip with a nightcap at one of the local bars. Enjoy a glass of local wine or a refreshing “kalimotxo” (a mix of red wine and cola) while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

And there you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary in Hondarribia that combines history, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌊🍷✨