Vizcaya Bridge, San Juan De Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo & Gernika

This tour offers a fantastic window into the Basque Country’s stunning landscape, historic sites, and charming villages—all packed into around five hours. Designed for first-time visitors, it balances iconic sights with authentic local flavor, making it a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day out.

One of the biggest highlights? The chance to see the Vizcaya Bridge, a true engineering marvel and UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the striking film location of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe from Game of Thrones. The tour also combines scenic coastal views, quaint fishing villages, and meaningful historical landmarks.

A key consideration? The schedule is quite tight, especially given the distance between stops, and there’s no free time to linger at sites or enjoy a relaxed coffee or meal. That makes it ideal for travelers who want an efficient overview rather than a slow, leisurely exploration.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate history, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights of the Basque coast. If you love stories behind places and enjoy comfortable transportation, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Iconic Landmarks: Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites—the Vizcaya Bridge and the Tree of Gernika.
• Film & TV Fame: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a Game of Thrones filming location with incredible views.
• Authentic Towns: Bermeo provides a glimpse into traditional fishing village life.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gorka and Josu are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and engaging commentary.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel is in air-conditioned vehicles with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Value for Money: For around $70, you get a well-rounded tour with multiple stops, a local food tasting, and insightful commentary.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Vizcaya Bridge: The Engineering Wonder

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Bizkaia Bridge, better known as the Puente Colgante. Inaugurated back in 1893, it’s a marvel of 19th-century industry—one of the first transshipment bridges in the world, and still a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You’ll appreciate the metal structure’s uniqueness, especially its suspended platform that once allowed ships to pass underneath. According to reviews, the bridge’s views are spectacular, and it’s a piece of industrial history that still functions today, connecting Portugalete and Getxo. It’s easy to understand why this spot is considered a highlight and a top photo opportunity.

Most visitors note that while admission isn’t included in the tour, the experience of viewing the bridge from nearby viewpoints is more than worthwhile. Expect around 20 minutes here to take photos and absorb the impressive engineering.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: A Legendary Seaside Hermitage

Next, your journey takes you to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a rocky outcrop topped with a small hermitage linked to the mainland by a winding stone staircase. The site offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the Basque Country.

It’s no exaggeration to say this spot is picture-perfect—rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and the iconic church on top make it a must-see. Plus, it’s famous as a Game of Thrones filming location—used as the fictional Dragonstone—adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans.

However, a heads-up: The tour does not include time to walk all the way up to the hermit, so if you’re eager to explore on foot, plan separately. Expect about 15 minutes here to admire the views and snap photos, while keeping in mind the site’s natural beauty makes it worth the quick stop.

Bermeo: A Living Fishing Village

Your next stop is Bermeo, a picture-perfect fishing town that’s maintained its historic charm. Its colorful buildings, lively harbor, and maritime atmosphere make it an ideal place for a relaxed stroll.

Here, you’ll also enjoy a local pintxo tasting, a small but delicious sample of Basque cuisine, included in the tour. Several reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate this taste of local flavors, describing it as a “gourmet delicacy” that adds a genuine touch to the experience.

Expect around 40 minutes to wander and soak up the atmosphere. Many visitors note that Bermeo’s authenticity and scenic setting provide a contrast to the more touristy destinations, making it a memorable part of the day.

Gernika: Heart of Basque Identity

The final stop is Gernika, a town synonymous with Basque resilience and history. The Casa de Juntas, historically the seat of Basque political assembly, is a significant symbol of regional identity.

While the visit to the interior might be limited due to ongoing restrictions, you’ll get outside views of the Tree of Gernika, a powerful emblem of Basque freedom and rights. The town’s atmosphere, with its mix of history and rural charm, leaves a lasting impression.

Travelers have praised the guide’s storytelling here—mentioning guides like Gorka’s warmth and depth of knowledge—and many find the site a meaningful conclusion to the journey. Expect about 30 minutes here to explore the surroundings.

Transportation & Logistics

Travel is in air-conditioned minivans or buses, which makes for comfortable cruising along the scenic Basque coast. Group sizes are generally small, usually up to 50 people, with some reviews noting that smaller groups like six travelers can make for a more personalized experience.

The tour starts at 9:20 am with hotel pickup and ends back at the meeting point, making it a seamless half-day activity. The schedule is tight but efficient—every stop is designed to maximize your time and sightseeing.

One important detail: The tour runs rain or shine, so expect it to go ahead even if the weather isn’t perfect. With a total of about 5 hours, including driving time, it’s a quick overview, so don’t expect a leisurely pace or extended free time.

Budget & Value

At $69.39 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the number of sites visited and included food tasting. While not a full-day experience, the stops are thoughtfully curated to give you both scenic beauty and cultural insight.

The reviews suggest you’re getting good value, especially with knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary, though some travelers mention the schedule can be quite packed, leaving little room for spontaneous exploration or extra photos.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Feedback is generally positive, with many praising the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Gorka and Josu stand out as guides who make the experience engaging and informative.

One reviewer described Gorka as “full of knowledge, warmth, and enthusiasm,” which highlights how much good guides can elevate the experience. Others appreciated the spectacular views and authentic villages, with many noting the inclusion of a local pintxo tasting as a highlight.

However, not all reviews are glowing; some found the schedule too tight, with little free time, and a few were disappointed that certain sites, like the Casa de Juntas interior, weren’t accessible on all days.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This guided experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Bilbao who want a quick yet rundown of the region’s highlights. It’s perfect if you enjoy history, photography, and scenic coastlines, especially with a structured and informative guide by your side.

Those who value comfort and convenience will appreciate the hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport, while travelers on a budget may find the price reflects good value for the variety of sites covered.

Keep in mind, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or want more free time at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit crowded. Also, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the visit to Gaztelugatxe adds a special touch.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and finish without extra hassle.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 5 hours, including travel time between stops and site visits.

Can I visit the hermit at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe?
No, the tour does not include walking to the hermit, but you will see the site from a distance and enjoy its stunning surroundings.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour is not accessible for clients with mobility problems or those who walk slowly, due to the terrain and walking involved.

Is there a food or drink tasting?
Yes, there’s a pintxo tasting in Bermeo, regarded as a local gourmet delicacy, included in the tour.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The tour is operated in both Spanish and English, with guides explaining in both languages.

What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so it will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compact, well-organized way to see some of Bilbao’s most iconic and beautiful spots without the hassle of planning multiple trips. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and a mix of scenery, history, and local flavor, it’s a solid choice for travelers with limited time but a desire for a meaningful experience.

While the schedule can feel a bit rushed for those wanting to linger longer, the value lies in the diverse stops and storytelling that bring the Basque region’s character to life. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or a fan of Game of Thrones, this tour packs a punch.

For those who thrive on guided insights, authentic village visits, and stunning coastal vistas, this trip hits the sweet spot. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to see a lot in a short time.