8 day itinerary for Pays Basque Espagnol

Itinerary

The Pays Basque, or Basque Country, is a stunning region in Spain known for its unique culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a delightful 8-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and charm of this area. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in San Sebastián

Morning: Arrive in San Sebastián, the culinary capital of Spain! Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Stroll along La Concha beach, one of the most picturesque urban beaches in Europe. Grab a light lunch at a beachfront café.

Evening: Head to the Old Town (Parte Vieja) for pintxos hopping! Try local favorites like gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and txangurro (spider crab).

## Day 2: San Sebastián Exploration

Morning: Visit the iconic Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city. You can take a funicular up and enjoy a coffee at the top.

Afternoon: Explore the San Telmo Museoa to learn about Basque history and culture. Afterward, relax at the beautiful Zurriola Beach.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Basque dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to try merluza a la koskera (hake fish) paired with a glass of local white wine, txakoli.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Getaria and Zarautz

Morning: Take a short drive or bus ride to Getaria, a charming fishing village. Visit the Balenciaga Museum dedicated to the famous fashion designer.

Afternoon: Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch at a seaside restaurant. Afterward, head to Zarautz, known for its long beach and surf culture. You can relax on the beach or take a surf lesson!

Evening: Return to San Sebastián and enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps with a stroll along the promenade.

## Day 4: Bilbao Bound

Morning: Depart for Bilbao (about 1 hour by bus). Check into your hotel and then head to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

Afternoon: Explore the museum and its stunning architecture. Afterward, wander through the Casco Viejo (Old Town) and grab lunch at a local café.

Evening: Try the famous bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic sauce) for dinner. If you’re up for it, check out the nightlife in Bilbao!

## Day 5: Gernika and the Coast

Morning: Visit Gernika, a town with a rich history and the site of Picasso’s famous painting. Explore the Peace Museum and the Gernika Tree, a symbol of Basque freedom.

Afternoon: Head to the nearby coastal town of Mundaka, famous for its surf breaks. Enjoy lunch with a view of the estuary.

Evening: Return to Bilbao and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Try some chuleton (Basque steak) if you’re feeling hungry!

## Day 6: Biarritz and Bayonne (France)

Morning: Cross the border into France and visit Biarritz, a glamorous beach town. Stroll along the Grande Plage and visit the Rocher de la Vierge.

Afternoon: Head to Bayonne, known for its beautiful old town and chocolate shops. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro and explore the charming streets.

Evening: Return to Biarritz for dinner. Try the local specialty, piperade (a Basque pepper stew), and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 7: Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Hondarribia

Morning: Visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a lovely coastal town. Relax on the beach or explore the quaint streets.

Afternoon: Head to Hondarribia, a picturesque town with a beautiful old quarter. Enjoy lunch at a terrace overlooking the marina.

Evening: Return to San Sebastián for your last night. Celebrate with a special dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant if you can!

## Day 8: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps do some last-minute shopping for Basque souvenirs, like local cheeses or espadrilles.

Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you might squeeze in a visit to the Mercado de la Bretxa for some local delicacies before heading to the airport.

And there you have it! An 8-day adventure filled with culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes in the beautiful Pays Basque. Enjoy every moment of your trip! 🌍✨