Things to do in Basque Country
Discover the best attractions and experiences Basque Country has to offer
Historic Monuments
From futuristic architecture to medieval towns, the Basque Country blends old and new. Discover iconic landmarks across Bilbao, San Sebastián, and the Álava countryside.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Iconic museum designed by Frank Gehry that put Bilbao on the world map with its striking titanium curves.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Spectacular hermitage perched on a rocky island, connected by a winding stone path and bridge.
Laguardia – Medieval walled town
Well-preserved medieval town in Rioja Alavesa with cobbled streets and towers.
Museums
A mix of classic and contemporary art and Basque history awaits in major cities and towns.
Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao
Broad collection spanning medieval to modern art in a grand riverside building.
Museo San Telmo (Donostia)
Cultural museum housed in a 16th-century Dominican convent, focusing on Basque society.
Museo Artium (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
Center for Basque and contemporary art with rotating exhibitions.
Religious Monuments
Pilgrimage sites and stunning churches dot the region, from hilltop basilicas to Gothic cathedrals.
Basílica de Begoña (Bilbao)
Prominent Basque church perched on a hill with striking exterior and city views.
Iglesia de Santa María del Coro (Donostia)
Iconic pink-stone church in San Sebastián’s old town with a distinctive tower.
Catedral de Santa María (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
Gothic cathedral in the historic heart of the capital with a modern restoration.
National & Theme Parks
Lush protected landscapes offer hiking, coastal scenery and wildlife just a short trip from city centers.
Parque Natural de Gorbea
Spain’s largest oak forest with sweeping mountain scenery and great hiking.
Parque Natural de Urkiola
Valley and limestone peaks ideal for scenic hikes and wildlife spotting.
Parque Natural de Valderejo
Dramatic gorge landscapes and viewpoints in the Álava countryside.
Neighborhoods
Each area reveals a different facet of Basque life, from old towns to buzzing urban cores.
Casco Viejo de Bilbao
Historic old town with narrow streets, markets and riverfront views.
Parte Vieja de San Sebastián
Vibrant old quarter famed for pintxos bars and lively plazas.
Casco Histórico de Vitoria-Gasteiz
Medieval streets and towers within the compact historic center.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the Basque Country without spending a euro by exploring coastlines, parks and streets.
La Concha Beach (Donostia)
Iconic crescent-shaped beach perfect for a stroll, swim or sunset view.
Paseo del Nervión (Bilbao)
Riverside promenade with city views and bridges along the Nervión.
Monte Urgull (San Sebastián)
Hike to a hilltop fortress with sweeping city and sea panoramas.
Gastronomy
Basque cuisine is a pilgrimage in itself: pintxos, txakoli and cider houses await.
Pintxos in San Sebastián's Parte Vieja
Sample an array of bite-sized dishes at traditional bars.
Txakoli wine tasting in Getaria
Taste the light, sparkling white wine paired with seafood.
Sidrería experience in Astigarraga
Fresh Basque cider, rustic plates and hearty hospitality.
Mercado de la Ribera (Bilbao)
A bustling riverside market with fresh produce and bites.
Nightlife
From pintxos bars to live venues, evenings in the Basque Country are lively and diverse.
Pintxos bars in Donostia's Parte Vieja
Clustering bars pack the streets with tasting rooms and music.
Kafe Antzokia (Bilbao) – live music
Iconic venue for concerts and eclectic performances.
Azkuna Zentroa (Bilbao)
Cultural complex with bars, events and late-night vibes.
Entertainment
The Basque Country offers theatres, concert halls and cultural centers for night owls.
Teatro Arriaga (Bilbao)
Romantic-era opera house hosting performances and shows.
Victoria Eugenia Theatre (Donostia)
Historic venue with plays, opera and dance productions.
Kursaal Conference Centre and Auditorium (Donostia)
Contemporary venue for concerts, cinema and events.
Sports
Catch a football match or soak up Basque pelota culture at regional venues.
San Mamés Stadium (Bilbao)
Home of Athletic Bilbao and a fortress of Basque football.
Reale Arena (Donostia)
Modern stadium hosting Bay of Biscay football and events.
Frontón Bizkaia (Bilbao)
Historic Basque pelota court for a traditional sport experience.
Off the Track
Go beyond the usual sights with dramatic coastlines, hikes and coast-to-interior routes.
Flysch Route in Zumaia
Coastal cliff walk revealing dramatic rock formations along the Basque coast.
Gorbea Massif hikes
Steep trails through forests and peaks with rewarding views.
Getaria coastline walk
Scenic stroll by the fishing harbor and sea cliffs.