7-Day Bilbao and Basque Country

Experience the Charm of Northern Spain with a 7-Day Bilbao and Basque Country Tour

This 7-day guided adventure through Bilbao and the Basque Country promises a blend of vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and exquisite wine regions. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s an immersive way to see some of Spain’s most iconic spots with the comfort of private transport and expert guides.

What really shines about this tour is the combination of culture and scenic beauty — from exploring Bilbao’s famed Guggenheim Museum (though not included, it’s a popular add-on) to wandering through medieval towns like Laguardia and Elorrio. The tour also offers enough flexibility for leisurely exploration, especially in San Sebastian, which is renowned for its pintxos and panoramic bay views.

A potential consideration is the pace — with so many stops packed into just one week, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy schedule and want a rundown without heavy planning. The tour’s price makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a well-organized, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, especially given the included accommodations and some meals.

This tour is ideal for culturally curious travelers, wine lovers, and those wanting to see a mix of urban vibrancy and quiet village charm without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Feel: Six nights at 4-star hotels with breakfast and guided tours make this a mostly hassle-free way to explore.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Estefan make the experience richer, sharing insights and making navigation smooth.
• Diverse Destinations: From Bilbao’s Guggenheim to Basque coastal villages, you experience a wide variety of scenery and culture.
• Scenic and Cultural Highlights: Stops include iconic bridges, castles, wine regions, and traditional villages, offering a genuine taste of the Basque Country.
• Flexible Free Time: San Sebastian and Bilbao both have time built in for independent exploration, shopping, or just soaking in the views.
• Value for Money: The tour’s price includes transportation, accommodations, guided visits, and some meals, making it a practical choice for a comprehensive trip.

A Deep Dive into the 7-Day Bilbao and Basque Country Tour

The First Day: Arrive in Bilbao and Settle In

Your journey begins with a private transfer from Bilbao’s airport, easing you into the Basque ambiance. The day is free for you to explore Bilbao at your own pace. The city’s modern art scene and the famous Guggenheim Museum are often top of mind for visitors, but this initial day leaves room for personal discovery. It’s the perfect way to shake off travel fatigue while getting a first glimpse of the city’s blend of sleek architecture and historic charm.

Day 2: Exploring Bilbao’s Landmarks and Coastal Marvels

The adventure kicks into gear with a visit to the Puente Colgante Vizcaya, the world’s first transporter bridge, a stunning piece of engineering standing tall beside the Nervión River. The short stop here offers fantastic photo opportunities and a peek into industrial innovation.

Next, a quick stop at Castillo de Butrón, a fairy-tale fortress of medieval origins that looks like it belongs in a storybook. Its picturesque turrets and lush surroundings make it a favorite for photo ops and history buffs alike.

A highlight for many is the visit to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the islet with a hermitage perched atop, famous for being the filming location of “Game of Thrones.” The view from the viewpoint is breathtaking, with rugged cliffs and the Atlantic stretching beyond.

The coastal town of Bermeo introduces travelers to Basque fishing traditions. Its colorful houses and harbor give a true sense of local life, and a walk here is a tranquil contrast to the more structured city stops.

The day concludes with a visit to Gernika-Lumo, known worldwide because of Picasso’s famous painting. The Assembly House and town murals offer a glimpse into Basque resilience and history.

Day 3: Coastal Towns and San Sebastian’s Culinary Scene

Starting the day with a stroll in Biarritz, a French city renowned for its beaches and surf scene, offers a European flair with elegant villas and lively promenades. It’s a brief visit but enough to get a feel for this stylish seaside town.

Then, in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, the town’s timbered houses and lively old town are charming. It’s perfect for a short walk before heading into San Sebastian, a city famed for its pintxos (Basque tapas). Here, you get a guided walking tour of the old town, discovering narrow streets filled with vibrant bars and shops.

The panoramic tour up to Igeldo offers sweeping views of the Bay of La Concha — a highlight that leaves many travelers marveling at the scenic beauty of this seaside city. The combination of cultural sites and stunning vistas makes San Sebastian a standout stop.

Day 4: The Rioja Wine Region’s Flavors and Elegance

Wine lovers will relish the day spent in Haro and Laguardia. In Haro, a guided visit to a local winery provides insight into the region’s renowned wines, often celebrated for their quality and tradition. Walking through Haro’s streets reveals a lively wine culture.

Laguardia’s medieval streets and wine cellars add a fairy-tale element to the day. The guided tour here highlights the historical architecture, and the optional wine tasting at a local cellar offers a taste of the region’s best.

A quick stop at Marqués de Riscal hotel, designed by Frank Gehry, showcases architectural innovation that’s as much a sight as the vineyards themselves.

Day 5: Religious Heritage and Coastal Charm

The Sanctuary of Loyola, built around the Loyola family’s tower house, is a spiritual and historical highlight. The guided visit takes you through centuries of Basque religious tradition.

Later, Getaria, a fishing village and Balenciaga’s birthplace, offers a picturesque stroll along its harbor, with traditional seafood restaurants and artisan shops. The panoramic view of Zarautz, home to the longest beach in the Basque Country, rounds out the day with some leisure time to enjoy the surf or relax.

Back in San Sebastian, the free evening allows for personalized exploration — whether that’s hunting for the perfect pintxo or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Day 6: Medieval and Renaissance Towns

Elorrio impresses with its well-preserved palaces and stately homes, giving a glimpse into Basque aristocratic life. The brief walk here is like stepping back in time.

Oñati offers another historic highlight with the Sancti Spiritus University, an architectural gem of the Basque Renaissance. Its peaceful ambiance and Gothic details make it worth a visit.

The day concludes with a stop at Santuario de Aranzazu, a modern sacred site that combines architecture and natural beauty — a fitting end to the day’s cultural exploration.

Day 7: Farewell in Bilbao

The last day offers free time in Bilbao before departure, giving a chance to revisit favorite spots or pick up souvenirs. The tour ends with private transportation back to the airport, leaving you with lasting memories of the Basque Country’s beauty and authenticity.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this tour apart is the balance between guided experiences and free time, allowing for both learning and independent exploration. The inclusion of accommodations at four-star hotels ensures comfort without luxury pricing, making it a good value considering the transportation, guided visits, and some meals included.

Guests consistently praised the knowledgeable guides—Walter R. called Estefan “the best,” highlighting how he enhanced the trip with insights and friendliness. The scenic stops, especially in Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian, seem to have left a lasting impression on travelers, with many mentioning the stunning views and authentic local experiences.

The logistical aspect—organized pickups, private transfers, and well-planned stops—means less stress and more time for what matters: enjoying the scenery, culture, and cuisine.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive yet relaxed way to see Bilbao’s modern art and architecture, Basque coastal towns, and the famous Rioja wine region without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suited for cultural enthusiasts, wine lovers, and travelers who prefer guided experiences. Those who appreciate a mix of scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and local flavors will find this a very satisfying way to spend a week.

It’s especially good for those who enjoy small group sizes (up to 15 travelers) and expert guides who add context and stories that bring each location to life.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Six nights at 4-star hotels, professional guiding, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, breakfast, and select meals.

Are flights included?
No, the tour begins with airport pickup in Bilbao and ends there as well. Travelers need to arrange their own flights.

How large are the groups?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, fostering a more intimate experience.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children can participate but may have special rates when sharing with two paying adults.

What if I want to visit Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum?
While the museum ticket isn’t included, many guests add it on. The tour schedule leaves some free time for personal visits.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is included in private vehicles, designed for comfort during the various stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a guided tour, major changes aren’t typical, but some flexibility exists around free time in cities like San Sebastian and Bilbao.

What’s the best time to book?
This tour is most popular about 118 days in advance, with availability from spring through late fall.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included each day; some lunches and dinners are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund; later cancellations are subject to reduced refunds.

To sum it up, this 7-day Bilbao and Basque Country tour offers a wonderful mix of culture, scenic beauty, and regional flavor. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and thoughtfully planned stops, it’s a fantastic way to experience northern Spain’s highlights without the stress of independent travel. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the region, this trip delivers a well-rounded taste of Basque life, history, and landscapes, making it a solid choice for an authentic, enriching adventure.