5 day itinerary for Pais Vasco

Itinerary

The Basque Country (or "Euskal Herria") is a stunning region in northern Spain, known for its unique culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary for you and your friends to explore this vibrant area. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

Morning:

• Arrive in Bilbao and check into your accommodation. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a traditional Basque breakfast of tostada con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) and coffee at a local café.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Guggenheim Museum. This architectural marvel is not just about the art; the building itself is a masterpiece! Spend a few hours exploring the contemporary art exhibits.

Evening:

• Stroll along the Nervión River and enjoy the views of the city. For dinner, dive into some pintxos (Basque tapas) at La Ribera Market. Try the gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and txangurro (spider crab).

## Day 2: San Sebastián

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus or train to San Sebastián (about 1 hour). Once you arrive, head to La Concha Beach for a morning stroll. The beach is stunning, and the views are Instagram-worthy!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja). This area is packed with pintxos bars, so make sure to sample a few! Don’t miss the famous pintxo de tortilla (Spanish omelet).

Evening:

• Climb up to Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city at sunset. You can take a funicular up there! For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local restaurant. Try the merluza a la koskera (hake fish) for a true Basque experience.

## Day 3: Getaria and Zarautz

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short trip to Getaria, a charming fishing village. Visit the Cristobal Balenciaga Museum to learn about the famous fashion designer from the area.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood. Afterward, head to Zarautz for a beach day! You can relax on the sand or try surfing if you’re feeling adventurous.

Evening:

• Return to San Sebastián for dinner. Explore more pintxos bars or treat yourselves to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant if you’re up for it!

## Day 4: Vitoria-Gasteiz

Morning:

• Depart for Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country (about 1 hour by bus). Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria. The views from the top are fantastic!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old Town and check out the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. For lunch, try the local specialty, pintxos de setas (mushroom pintxos) at a nearby bar.

Evening:

• Visit the Artium Museum for contemporary art, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the bacalao al pil-pil (cod in a garlic and olive oil sauce) for a delicious treat.

## Day 5: Coastal Adventure in Mundaka and Bermeo

Morning:

• Head to Mundaka, famous for its surf breaks. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking the water. If you’re up for it, take a surf lesson or just relax on the beach.

Afternoon:

• Visit Bermeo, a picturesque fishing town. Explore the charming streets and the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (a stunning islet with a hermitage). If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the steps to the top for breathtaking views!

Evening:

• Return to Bilbao for your last dinner. Celebrate your trip with a feast at a traditional Basque restaurant. Don’t forget to try some local wine, like txakoli, to toast to your amazing adventure!

Tips:

• Make sure to check local transport schedules for buses and trains.
• Always ask locals for their favorite pintxos spots; they often know the hidden gems!
• Enjoy the Basque culture, and don’t hesitate to try speaking a bit of Basque (Euskara) – it’s a unique language!

I hope you and your friends have an unforgettable time in the Basque Country! Enjoy every moment! 🌍✨