A week in Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bilbao sounds like a fantastic adventure! Both cities are rich in culture, history, and delicious food. Let’s dive into an ideal 7-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and culinary delights.

Day 1: Arrival in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Morning:

• Arrive in Vitoria-Gasteiz and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get settled.
• Head out for a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try some “tostada con tomate” (toasted bread with tomato) and a café con leche.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old Town (Casco Viejo). Wander through the charming streets, visit the Cathedral of Santa María, and don’t miss the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca.
• Grab lunch at a pintxos bar. Sample local specialties like gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers).

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant. Try the bacalao al pil-pil (cod in a garlic and olive oil sauce).
• Stroll through the city center and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Vitoria-Gasteiz

Morning:

• Visit the Artium Museum to see contemporary Basque art.
• Take a walk in the Florida Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a morning stroll.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a local eatery, perhaps trying txangurro (spider crab).
• Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes to admire classical and modern art.

Evening:

• Head to the Calle Cuchillería for more pintxos hopping. Try the chistorra (a type of sausage) and croquetas.
• Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, perhaps a glass of txakoli, a refreshing Basque white wine.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Rioja Wine Region

Morning:

• Rent a car or join a tour to the Rioja Alavesa wine region. Start with a visit to a winery like Bodegas Ysios for a tour and tasting.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant, sampling local dishes paired with exquisite wines.
• Visit another winery, perhaps Bodegas Marqués de Riscal, known for its stunning architecture.

Evening:

• Return to Vitoria-Gasteiz and have a relaxed dinner at a local tavern. Try the pimientos de padrón (small green peppers).

Day 4: Travel to Bilbao

Morning:

• Check out of your hotel and take a bus or train to Bilbao (about an hour).
• Check into your hotel in Bilbao and grab a quick breakfast nearby.

Afternoon:

• Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Spend a few hours exploring the modern art exhibits and the stunning architecture.
• Have lunch at the museum’s café or nearby.

Evening:

• Stroll along the Nervión River and enjoy the views of the city.
• Dinner in the Casco Viejo area. Try the merluza a la koskera (hake fish) for a local flavor.

Day 5: Bilbao

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. It has a fantastic collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
• Take a walk through the Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at a local market, like the Mercado de la Ribera, where you can sample various local foods.
• Explore the Bilbao La Vieja neighborhood, known for its street art and trendy shops.

Evening:

• Dinner at a restaurant specializing in Basque cuisine. Try the txuleton (a large steak) if you’re feeling hungry!
• Check out a local bar for some live music or a fun atmosphere.

Day 6: Day Trip to San Sebastián

Morning:

• Take a train or bus to San Sebastián (about 1.5 hours). Start your day with a walk along La Concha Beach.
• Enjoy breakfast at a beachfront café.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Old Town and indulge in pintxos at various bars. Don’t miss trying the seafood!
• Visit the Peine del Viento sculpture by Eduardo Chillida.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the sunset views.
• Return to Bilbao for the night.

Day 7: Bilbao and Departure

Morning:

• Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any spots you may have missed.
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café, soaking in the last moments of your trip.

Afternoon:

• Depending on your departure time, you might have a final lunch in Bilbao. Try a Basque cheesecake for dessert!
• Head to the airport or train station for your departure.

And there you have it! A week filled with culture, food, and beautiful sights in Vitoria-Gasteiz and Bilbao. Enjoy every moment of your Basque adventure! 🌟