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Nestled between the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees and the wild waves of the Bay of Biscay, the Basque Country in Spain is a region that captivates with its unique blend of tradition, modernity, and breathtaking natural beauty. This is a place where ancient languages echo through cobbled streets, where every village has its own story, and where the culinary scene is simply legendary. Your tour of the best cities to visit in Basque Country starts in Bilbao and ends in Segura. From the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the golden sands of La Concha Beach in San Sebastián, the Basque Country offers an irresistible mix of world-class art, vibrant festivals, and outdoor adventures.
What sets the Basque Country apart is its spirit of independence and deep-rooted culture. Here, you can wander through atmospheric old towns lined with pintxo bars, hike along dramatic coastal cliffs, or lose yourself in lush forests and mountain trails. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of Michelin-starred dining, the allure of historic sites like Gernika, or the simple pleasure of sipping txakoli wine by the sea, the Basque Country is a destination that rewards curiosity and invites you to slow down and savor every moment. This is a region that doesn’t just welcome visitors—it enchants them, leaving you with memories (and tastes) you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Best Cities to Visit in Basque Country
Bilbao
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Once again, while I was on my FAM tour in Tolosa and Ordizia, Paul took advantage to spend two days with TBEX friends, JayJay Maniquis of Jaycation, a YouTube content creator and Alain Schotland of Urban Bliss Life. They were lucky enough to be in Bilboa to watch Real Madrid win their sixth Champions League in 10 years!
Bilbao stands out in the Basque Country for its striking transformation from an industrial port city to a center of art, design, and urban renewal. The Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, is the city’s most recognized landmark and has played a key role in Bilbao’s revitalization. Its collection focuses on modern and contemporary art, and the building itself is often cited as one of the most important architectural works of the late 20th century. Just steps away, visitors will find the riverside adorned with public sculptures, including Louise Bourgeois’ Maman and Jeff Koons’ Puppy, both of which have become local icons.
Beyond its modern face, Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, or Old Town, preserves centuries of Basque history. This area is home to the Cathedral of Santiago, a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, and the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets. The Old Town’s narrow streets are lined with traditional shops, bars, and restaurants serving classic Basque pintxos. Bilbao is also known for its unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture, with bridges like the Zubizuri by Santiago Calatrava and the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge connecting its neighborhoods and reflecting the city’s ongoing evolution.
Must-see:
- Guggenheim Museum
- Casco Viejo (Old Town)
San Sebastián- Donostia
San Sebastián, or Donostia, is a jewel on the Bay of Biscay, celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and world-renowned culinary scene. This city is synonymous with the elegant La Concha Beach, a crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand perfect for a stroll or a swim. Another must-see is the historic Old Town (Parte Vieja), where you can wander narrow streets lined with pintxo bars serving the region’s famous bite-sized delicacies. San Sebastián is also known for its vibrant cultural life, hosting the prestigious International Film Festival and boasting architectural gems like the Victoria Eugenia Theatre.
San Sebastián is incredibly easy to reach from Bilbao, where we flew into. From the airport, the bus offers a convenient and direct connection to the city, picking you up right at the terminal. While there is also a train option, we found the bus more straightforward and comfortable. Once in San Sebastián, the city’s compact size makes it very walkable, but it also boasts an exceptional public transit system. Getting from our hotel to the convention center was effortless, and the hotel’s location was a perfect base—just a 10-minute walk to both the train and bus stations. Paul took full advantage of this for a couple of day trips during my conference.
San Sebastián is world-famous for its pintxo scene, and we made sure to dive into the local tradition of bar hopping. Think of pintxos as tapas but with an even greater variety and creativity. Each bar offers its own specialties, so sampling a range of pintxos across different spots is the best way to experience the city’s vibrant culinary culture. This lively, social dining style perfectly captures the spirit of San Sebastián and is not to be missed.
Must-see:
- La Concha Beach
- Old Town (Parte Vieja)
- Pinxtos bars
Getaria
While I was attending the conference in San Sebastián, my husband Paul decided to make the most of our time in the Basque Country by taking a few day trips outside the city. The ever-helpful receptionist at our hotel, Zinema7, suggested he catch a bus or train to Getaria—a tip that turned out to be a highlight of his trip. Paul’s mission was clear: visit the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, a must-see for anyone interested in fashion or Basque heritage.
After soaking in the museum’s impressive collection of Balenciaga’s iconic creations, Paul wandered down to the waterfront for a light lunch. He ended up at a charming seafood restaurant, Txoko, which, as it turns out, was recently featured on CNN’s “Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain.” He still talks about that simple meal! No visit is complete without sampling txakoli, the crisp local white wine, paired with fresh seafood while overlooking the port.
Getaria itself is a picturesque fishing village, nestled between the sea and lush vineyards. It’s famed as the birthplace of both Juan Sebastián Elcano, the first man to circumnavigate the globe, and Cristóbal Balenciaga.
Must-see:
- Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum
- Church of San Salvador
Hondarribia
Paul took a day trip to Hondarribia, a picturesque Basque town just over 16 kilometers (about 10 miles) from San Sebastián. The journey by bus is straightforward and takes roughly 35–40 minutes, making it an easy and rewarding escape from the city.
Hondarribia immediately charms with its well-preserved medieval quarter, cobblestone streets, and colorful Basque houses adorned with wooden balconies and flowers. The town is uniquely peaceful, offering a sense of tranquility. Exploring the old town, Paul was struck by the historic atmosphere—walled fortifications, the impressive Puerta de Santa María gate, and the lively Plaza de Armas at the heart of it all. Down by the water, the fishing district is equally inviting, with its vibrant homes and excellent seafood restaurants.
Must-see:
- The historic walled old quarter, including Calle Mayor and Plaza de Armas
- The fishing district by the waterfront, perfect for a stroll and sampling local cuisine
Tolosa
Tolosa was very charming and had the best steak restaurant that I have ever tried. We began our tour of this mid-size Tolosa is a charming town steeped in history, located on the banks of the Oria River. Its medieval old quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets and squares, home to the impressive 17th-century Church of Santa María, a prime example of Basque Gothic architecture.
One of the most charming stops on our FAM was the International Puppet Museum. It has various floors of puppets, marionets, big heads, and other forms of puppetry. This is a must-see on your visit. Tolosa is also famous for its vibrant weekly market, where you can sample local produce, cheeses, and the town’s renowned sweets. The town is celebrated for its lively festivals, including one of the oldest carnivals in Gipuzkoa.
Must-see:
- Church of Santa María
- Weekly market at the Tinglado Market or Zerkausia
- International Puppet Museum in the Old Town
Biarritz
Biarritz, though just across the border in France, is an essential stop for any northern Spain itinerary. This elegant seaside resort is famed for its stunning beaches, especially the Grande Plage, a haven for surfers and sun-seekers alike. Another highlight is the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin’s Rock), a dramatic rock formation connected to the mainland by a footbridge. Biarritz is known for its blend of aristocratic charm and laid-back surf culture, as well as its vibrant food scene and thalassotherapy spas.
Must-see:
- Grande Plage
- Rocher de la Vierge
Vitoria-Gasteiz
It is pretty easy to visit Vitoria-Gasteiz in one day. It is the capital of the Basque Country, is celebrated for its well-preserved medieval quarter and its commitment to green urban spaces. The Santa María Cathedral, also known as the Old Cathedral, is a gothic marvel with a unique restoration project that allows visitors to explore its history up close. The city is also home to the Green Ring, a network of parks and gardens that encircle the urban area, earning Vitoria-Gasteiz the title of European Green Capital in 2012.
Must-see:
- Santa María Cathedral
- Green Ring (Anillo Verde)
Gernika (Guernica)
Gernika, also known as Guernica, holds a special place in the heart of the Basque Country as a powerful symbol of Basque identity and resilience. This historic town is internationally recognized for the tragic bombing it suffered during the Spanish Civil War in 1937, an event immortalized by Picasso’s famous painting “Guernica.” Today, Gernika stands as a center for peace, memory, and Basque traditions.
The Assembly House (Casa de Juntas) is the seat of the Basque Parliament and a site of immense cultural significance. Outside stands the legendary Tree of Gernika, under which Basque leaders have sworn to uphold the region’s liberties for centuries. The Gernika Peace Museum offers a moving exploration of the town’s history, focusing on the bombing and its impact, as well as broader themes of peace and human rights. Gernika’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Basque history, making it a must-visit for those seeking to understand the spirit and resilience of this unique region.
Must-see:
- Gernika Assembly House and the Tree of Gernika
- Peace Museum
Ordizia
Ordizia is a historic town in the Goierri region, renowned for its centuries-old weekly market that draws visitors from across the Basque Country. The market is a feast for the senses, offering local cheeses, produce, and artisanal goods.
Ordizia’s old quarter, declared a historical monument, is home to architectural treasures like the parish church of Santa María de la Asunción and the stately Zabala and Barrena Palaces. The town is also set against the scenic backdrop of the Txindoki Mountain and the Oria River.
Must-see:
- Weekly market
- Old quarter (including Santa María de la Asunción church)
Segura
Segura is a quintessential Basque village that perfectly captures the charm of small-town life in northern Spain. As you stroll along its cobblestone streets, you’re enveloped by the timeless atmosphere of old stone buildings, towering church steeples, and narrow lanes that invite slow exploration. The peacefulness here offers a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of larger cities, making Segura an ideal destination for those seeking authenticity and tranquility.
A must-see in Segura is the Iglesia de Santa María de la Asunción, a beautiful church that stands as a focal point of the town’s history and architecture. Segura is also known for its traditional Basque culture, including local festivals and artisan crafts. The village’s surrounding landscape, with rolling hills and verdant countryside, provides excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks, allowing visitors to connect with the region’s natural beauty while immersing themselves in its cultural heritage.
Must-see:
- Iglesia de Santa María de la Asunción
- Medieval Interpretation Centre
These destinations offer a perfect blend of culture, history, gastronomy, and natural beauty—hallmarks of a memorable northern Spain adventure. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Segura, savoring pintxos in San Sebastián, or standing in awe before the Guggenheim in Bilbao, each city reveals a different facet of Basque identity and hospitality. The region’s lush green landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant festivals provide endless opportunities for both relaxation and discovery, making it a destination that rewards both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
If you’re inspired by the Basque Country’s unique mix of old and new, consider extending your Spanish journey south to Andalucía. Regions like Andalucía offer their own unforgettable experiences, from the dramatic clifftop town of Ronda to the whitewashed village of Mijas and Moorish architecture that define southern Spain. For more on exploring the best cities in Andalucía, including a deep dive into Ronda’s charms, check out our dedicated post on the best cities in southern Spain.
🥾 Explore: Tours & Experiences
🏡 Where to Stay: Top Accommodations
🚙 Hit the Road: Car Rental Deals
🛫 Get Away: Find Flight Deals
🎒 Shop: Travel Essentials