Basque Country, Spain Travel Guide

Discover the Basque Country: A land of culinary delights, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage in the heart of northern Spain.

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Nestled in the northern part of Spain, the Basque Country is a region of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique traditions. It is a place where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life, offering visitors a captivating experience unlike any other. Whether you are strolling through the cobblestone streets of its charming villages or exploring its vibrant cities, the Basque Country has something for everyone. The region is famous for its culinary scene, boasting some of the best food in the world. From the bustling pintxo bars in San Sebastián to the Michelin-starred restaurants scattered throughout the area, food lovers will find themselves in a gastronomic paradise. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Basque dishes like bacalao a la vizcaína and txangurro. Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of the Basque Country's stunning landscapes. The rugged coastline offers breathtaking views and pristine beaches, while the lush green mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. The Basque Country is also known for its strong cultural identity. The Basque language, Euskara, is one of the oldest languages in Europe and is still widely spoken today. Festivals and traditional sports, such as pelota, are an integral part of Basque life and offer a glimpse into the region's proud heritage. Be sure to visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, an architectural masterpiece that houses contemporary art from around the world. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, the Basque Country is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Basque Country.

Learn a few basic phrases in Euskara to connect with locals and enrich your experience.
Visit during the Semana Grande festivals in August to experience the region's lively celebrations.
Try to avoid peak tourist seasons to enjoy a more authentic and less crowded Basque experience.
Sample the local txakoli wine, a refreshing white wine unique to the Basque Country.
Wear comfortable shoes; many of the region’s charming towns and cities are best explored on foot.

Top City Travel Guides in Basque Country

The cities of Basque Country, and the easiest places to base yourself.

San Sebastián

Bilbao

Pamplona

Explore Basque Country: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Basque Country

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Explore the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, where modern art meets breathtaking architecture in a cultural landmark of Spain.

4.5

Vizcaya Bridge

Discover the breathtaking Vizcaya Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting Getxo and Portugalete, blending history with stunning views in the Basque Country.

4.7

Zubizuri

Experience the architectural beauty of Zubizuri Bridge in Bilbao, where modern design meets stunning river views.

4.3

Miramar Jauregia

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Miramar Jauregia, a stunning convention center and park offering panoramic views and cultural experiences in Donostia-San Sebastian.

4.6

Best landmarks in Basque Country

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Plaza Nueva

Explore Plaza Nueva in Bilbao, a historic square filled with vibrant bars, exquisite dining, and lively cultural experiences in the heart of the city.

4.5

Artxanda viewpoint

Discover the stunning Artxanda viewpoint in Bilbao, where breathtaking cityscapes and lush landscapes come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.7

Zubizuri

Experience the stunning Zubizuri Bridge in Bilbao, a symbol of modern architecture with breathtaking views and vibrant surroundings.

4.3

Miramar Jauregia

Discover the enchanting Miramar Jauregia, a historic palace and park in Donostia-San Sebastián, offering breathtaking views and serene landscapes.

4.6

Best restaurants in Basque Country

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Restaurante Asador Txakoli Simón - Especialidad chuletón

Discover exquisite Basque cuisine at Restaurante Asador Txakoli Simón – home of the best chuletón in Bilbao.

4.5

Txakoli jatetxea

Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Txakoli Jatetxea in Bilbao - where traditional flavors meet modern dining.

4.1

Arzak

Experience exquisite Basque cuisine at Arzak in San Sebastián – where tradition meets innovation in fine dining.

4.8

Restaurante Etxe Zuri

Experience the best of Basque cuisine at Restaurante Etxe Zuri with delicious grilled dishes and vibrant tapas in a cozy atmosphere.

3.9

Best bars in Basque Country

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Bar Sport

Discover Bar Sport, an iconic tapas bar in Donostia-San Sebastián, offering a delightful array of local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere for food lovers.

4.7

Txepetxa Taberna

Experience the essence of Basque cuisine at Txepetxa Taberna, the home of unique anchovy pintxos in Donostia-San Sebastián.

4.7

MendaurBerria

Discover the vibrant flavors of Basque cuisine at MendaurBerria, a top-rated tapas bar in Donostia-San Sebastián, where every bite tells a story.

4.7

Ganbara

Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Ganbara, a top-rated grill restaurant in San Sebastián, known for its fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Basque Country

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Bataplán Disco

Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Sebastián at Bataplán Disco, where thrilling music and scenic views create an unforgettable party experience.

3.4

¡BE! Club

Discover the enchanting vibes of ¡BE! Club, a premier piano bar in San Sebastián offering unforgettable live music and a vibrant nightlife experience.

4.0

Budha Bilbao

Discover the heartbeat of Bilbao’s nightlife at Budha Bilbao, where great music and lively crowds create unforgettable evenings.

3.5

The Caledonian

Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Sebastián at The Caledonian, where music and dancing unite in a lively disco atmosphere.

3.5

Best shops in Basque Country

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Boulevard Merkataritza Gunea

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Boulevard Merkataritza Gunea in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where style meets convenience and culture thrives.

4.2

Zubiarte merkataritza-zentroa

Discover the heart of Bilbao's shopping scene at Zubiarte Shopping Mall, where retail, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Ballonti merkataritza-zentroa

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Ballonti Shopping Mall in Portugalete, Biscay - a vibrant hub of culture and commerce.

4.1

Garbera Merkataritza Gunea

Explore Garbera Shopping Mall in Donostia-San Sebastian - a vibrant hub for shopping, entertainment, and local cuisine!

4.2

Explore Basque Country on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Basque Country, mapped for you.

Basque Country Essentials

The Basque Country is conveniently accessible through various means of transportation. The main international gateway is Bilbao Airport (BIO), with direct flights from major European cities. San Sebastián Airport (EAS) and Vitoria Airport (VIT) also serve the region, primarily for domestic flights. Alternatively, the French city of Biarritz, just across the border, has an international airport. For those preferring rail travel, high-speed trains connect Madrid and Barcelona to Bilbao and San Sebastián. Buses and car rentals are also viable options for reaching the Basque Country from various parts of Spain and France.
Public transportation in the Basque Country is efficient and well-developed. Euskotren offers a network of trains connecting Bilbao, San Sebastián, and other key destinations. Metro Bilbao is an excellent option for getting around the city. Buses operated by Bizkaibus, Lurraldebus, and PESA provide extensive coverage across the region. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify operate in larger cities. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the scenic countryside and coastal areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Spain is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in urban areas, and international cards can be used to withdraw cash. It is advisable to carry some cash when traveling to rural areas or small villages, where card payments might not be accepted. Contactless payments using smartphones are also becoming increasingly popular.
The Basque Country is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but as with any travel destination, it's important to remain vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Bilbao’s Old Town (Casco Viejo) and San Sebastián’s La Parte Vieja are popular tourist spots where petty crimes can occur. Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night and use common sense safety measures.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Major cities have well-equipped hospitals and clinics; Bilbao and San Sebastián have the most comprehensive medical facilities. Pharmacies are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacists can be a good first point of contact.
Fashion: Do dress smartly, especially when dining out or visiting upscale establishments. Casual attire is acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Dress modestly and remain quiet inside churches. Public Transport: Do queue politely and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek, depending on the formality of the situation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as pintxos. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience the Basque Country like a local, visit the traditional markets such as La Ribera Market in Bilbao or Mercado de la Bretxa in San Sebastián to sample fresh produce and local specialties. Attend a Basque pelota game or a local festival to immerse yourself in the culture. Don't miss out on hiking the stunning coastal paths or exploring the picturesque villages like Hondarribia and Getaria. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and proud to share their cultural heritage.

When is the best time to visit Basque Country?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Basque Country

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Basque Country. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloKaixo
  [kai-sho]
- GoodbyeAgur
  [ah-goor]
- YesBai
  [bye]
- NoEz
  [ez]
- Please/You're welcomeMesedez
  [meh-seh-dez]
- Thank youEskerrik asko
  [es-keh-rik as-ko]
- Excuse me/SorryBarkatu
  [bar-kah-too]
- How are you?Zer moduz?
  [zer moh-dooz]
- Fine. And you?Ondo. Eta zu?
  [on-do. eh-tah zoo]
- Do you speak English?Ingelesa ulertzen duzu?
  [in-ge-leh-sa oo-lert-zen doo-zoo]
- I don't understandEz dut ulertzen
  [ez doot oo-lert-zen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNahi nuke menua ikusi, mesedez
  [nah-ee noo-keh meh-noo-ah ee-koo-see, meh-seh-dez]
- I don't eat meatHaragia jaten ez dut
  [ha-ra-gee-ah ha-ten ez doot]
- Cheers!Osasuna!
  [o-sah-soo-nah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseOrdaindu nahi nuke, mesedez
  [or-dain-doo nah-ee noo-keh, meh-seh-dez]
- Help!Lagundu!
  [lah-goon-doo]
- Go away!Joan zaitez!
  [ho-ahn sigh-tez]
- Call the Police!Deitu Poliziari!
  [day-too poh-lee-zee-ah-ree]
- Call a doctor!Deitu medikuari!
  [day-too meh-dee-koo-ah-ree]
- I'm lostGaldu naiz
  [gal-doo nah-ez]
- I'm illGaixo naiz
  [guy-show nah-ez]
- I'd like to buy...Erosi nahi nuke...
  [eh-ro-see nah-ee noo-keh]
- I'm just lookingBatez ere, begira nabil
  [bah-tez eh-reh, beh-gee-rah nah-beel]
- How much is it?Zenbat balio du?
  [zen-bat bah-lee-oh doo]
- That's too expensiveGehiegi da
  [geh-ee-eh-gee dah]
- Can you lower the price?Prezioa jaitsi dezakezu?
  [preh-zee-oh-ah hi-ch-tee deh-zah-keh-zoo]
- What time is it?Zenbat ordu da?
  [zen-bat or-doo dah]
- It's one o'clockOrdu bat da
  [or-doo baht dah]
- Half past (10)Hamabostak
  [ham-ah-bostak]
- MorningGoizean
  [goy-zee-an]
- AfternoonArratsaldean
  [ah-rah-tsahl-dean]
- EveningArratsalde
  [ah-rah-tsahl-deh]
- YesterdayAtzo
  [aht-so]
- TodayGaur
  [gour]
- TomorrowBihar
  [bee-har]
- 1Bat
  [baht]
- 2Bi
  [bee]
- 3Hiru
  [hee-roo]
- 4Lau
  [lah-oo]
- 5Bost
  [bost]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Zazpi
  [zaz-pee]
- 8Zortzi
  [zort-see]
- 9Bederatzi
  [beh-deh-rat-see]
- 10Hamar
  [ha-mar]
- Where's a/the...?Non dago...?
  [non dah-go]
- What's the address?Zer da helbidea?
  [zer dah hel-bee-deh-ah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mapan erakutsi dezakezu?
  [mah-pahn eh-rah-koot-see deh-zah-keh-zoo]
- When's the next (bus)?Noiz da hurrengoa (autobusa)?
  [noyz dah hoo-ren-go-ah (ow-to-boo-sah)]
- A ticket (to ....)Sarrera (....)rako
  [sah-rreh-ah (...-rah-koh)]

History of Basque Country

The Basque Country, or Euskadi, is home to one of the oldest and most enigmatic cultures in Europe. The Basque people are believed to be the descendants of the original inhabitants of Western Europe, predating the arrival of Indo-European tribes. The Basque language, Euskara, is a unique non-Indo-European tongue that has no known relatives. This ancient heritage is reflected in the region's unique customs, traditions, and folklore.
During the Roman Empire, the Basque Country was known as Vasconia. Despite the Romans' extensive influence across the Iberian Peninsula, the Basques maintained a significant degree of autonomy. Roman roads and settlements can still be found in the region, but the Basques' fierce independence and mountainous terrain helped them resist full Roman assimilation.
In the medieval period, the Basque Country was divided among several small kingdoms and counties, most notably the Kingdom of Navarre. Founded in the 9th century, Navarre reached its zenith under the reign of Sancho III in the early 11th century. The kingdom played a crucial role in the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule, and maintained its sovereignty until it was gradually absorbed by Castile and Aragon in the late Middle Ages.
The Basques were instrumental during the Age of Exploration. Their excellent shipbuilding skills and seafaring expertise made them valuable participants in global exploration and trade. Notably, Juan Sebastián Elcano, a Basque navigator, completed the first circumnavigation of the globe after the death of Ferdinand Magellan. Basque fishermen also established early transatlantic trade routes, particularly in the cod and whale fisheries of Newfoundland.
The Carlist Wars of the 19th century were a series of civil wars in Spain, with significant impact on the Basque Country. The Basques largely supported the Carlist cause, which advocated for traditionalism and regional autonomy against the centralizing tendencies of the Spanish monarchy. The wars resulted in significant loss of life and property in the Basque region and influenced the push for greater Basque self-governance in subsequent years.
The Basque Country was a stronghold of Republican support during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). The region suffered greatly, with the bombing of Gernika by Nazi Germany's Condor Legion becoming an iconic symbol of the war’s brutality. Following the Nationalist victory, General Francisco Franco's regime imposed harsh repression on the Basque people, banning the use of the Basque language and suppressing cultural expressions. This period of repression fueled a resurgence of Basque nationalism.
In the post-Franco era, Spain transitioned to democracy, and the Basque Country was granted significant autonomy under the 1979 Statute of Autonomy of the Basque Country. This statute established the Basque Autonomous Community, with its own parliament and government, and recognized Euskara as an official language alongside Spanish. The autonomy statute marked a new chapter in the region's history, allowing for the revival and flourishing of Basque culture and identity.
The opening of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in 1997 marked a turning point for the Basque Country, particularly in terms of cultural and economic revitalization. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the museum became an instant architectural icon and helped transform Bilbao from an industrial city into a vibrant cultural destination. The 'Guggenheim Effect' is often cited as a prime example of how cultural investments can drive urban regeneration and boost tourism.