7 day itinerary for Pais Vasco

Itinerary

¡Hola! What a fantastic adventure you’re about to embark on in the beautiful Basque Country! With your own car and a group of friends, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 7-day itinerary that includes your must-visit spots: Zarautz, Hondarribia, and Bilbao, all while enjoying the stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine of the region. Buckle up!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lekeitio

• Morning: Arrive in Lekeitio, check into your accommodation, and get settled. Take a moment to soak in the coastal views.
• Afternoon: Stroll around Lekeitio’s charming old town. Don’t miss the beautiful Santa María Church and the picturesque harbor.
• Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Try the “merluza a la plancha” (grilled hake) – it’s a local favorite!

## Day 2: Explore Lekeitio and Surroundings

• Morning: Head to the nearby island of San Nicolás (if the tide allows). It’s a short walk from the beach and offers stunning views.
• Afternoon: Visit the beautiful beaches of Lekeitio. You can relax, swim, or even try some water sports if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Evening: Grab some pintxos at a local bar. Pair them with a glass of Txakoli, the local white wine.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Zarautz

• Morning: Drive to Zarautz (about 30 minutes). Start your day with a coffee and a pastry at a local café.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Zarautz Beach, one of the longest beaches in the Basque Country. You can sunbathe, surf, or just enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere.
• Evening: Explore the town and have dinner at a pintxos bar. Don’t forget to try the “gilda” – a classic Basque pintxo!

## Day 4: Hondarribia Adventure

• Morning: Head to Hondarribia (about 30 minutes from Zarautz). Start with a visit to the historic old town, where you can admire the colorful houses and the medieval castle.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with views of the bay. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the promenade.
• Evening: Return to Lekeitio and have a relaxed dinner. Maybe try some local Basque cheesecake for dessert!

## Day 5: Bilbao Bound

• Morning: Drive to Bilbao (about 1 hour). Start your day at the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The architecture is as stunning as the art inside!
• Afternoon: Explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town) and grab lunch at the Mercado de la Ribera. Sample local delicacies and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Evening: Head to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the city as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant.

## Day 6: More of Bilbao and Surroundings

• Morning: Visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum or take a stroll along the Nervión River. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a short hike in the nearby hills for panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Drive to the nearby town of Getxo to see the beautiful coastline and the famous hanging bridge, Puente Colgante.
• Evening: Return to Lekeitio and have a farewell dinner with your friends. Celebrate your trip with some local cider!

## Day 7: Relax and Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a final stroll along the beach in Lekeitio. Maybe pick up some souvenirs!
• Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you could visit a nearby town like Gernika, known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes.
• Evening: Head back home, filled with wonderful memories and maybe a few extra pounds from all the delicious food!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the local tide times for visiting San Nicolás.
• Always have a camera ready; the Basque Country is incredibly photogenic!
• Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable trip with your friends! Enjoy every moment in the Basque Country! 🌊🍷✨