When people think of visiting Spain, they often think of major cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. However, we invite you to the port town of Bilbao and then Spanish Basque Country side of San Sebastián.
HOW TO GET THERE
Bilbao is a port town located along the Bay of Biscay which connects to the Atlantic Ocean. That said, many cruise ships will stop in Bilbao. Additionally, Bilbao has an airport that you can fly into directly. And like any good European city, you can take a train or bus directly into the city center.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Explore Bilbao
Spend the day at the Guggeheim Museum
Wander around Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
Stroll through the parks
Your 3-day itinerary in Basque Country, Spain, begins in Bilbao. Bilbao is a port town located on the Bay of Biscay. Bilbao is most known as the home of the world-famous Guggeheim Museum . The city is home to thousands of residents and a sprawling city-scene. Spend your day wandering around the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) and the parks throughout the city.
Day 2: Travel to San Sebastian
Take the bus from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian
Spend time at Playa de la Concha
Explore Old Town San Sebastian
To start off day 2, take the train from Bilbao to Donostia-San Sebastian. The ride is only about 1.5hrs and costs less than $10USD. Upon arriving to San Sebastian you will be greeted by a 1,300m sandy beach and promenade, the Playa de la Concha. Visitors can spend the day enjoying the restaurants alongside the promenade, or relaxing on the beach. From all points you will see Mount Urgull on one side and Mount Igeldo on the other - these points not only create a beautiful back drop, but help to keep the water calm for beach goers to safely swim, kayak, and paddle board in the Bay of Biscay. End your day by exploring Old Town area which is known for its restaurants and lively nightlife.
Day 3: Winery & Head Home
Take a tour of the Bodegas Ysios (Ysios Winery)
Take the bus from Donostia-San Sebastian to Bilbao
For starters, the Spanish Basque Countryside is known for its wine and there are so many wine trails, 28 to be exact. With a quick google search you can find the Txakoli Route, the Ribeiro Wine Route, Ribera del Duero Wine Route, Ribera del Guadiana Wine Route, Rioja Alta Wine Route, Rioja Oriental Wine Route, Rueda Wine Route... the list goes on and on. During my time, I explored the Alta Wine Route and ended up at the absolutely magnificent Bodegas Ysios (Ysios Winery). With a modern, bold design the building poses a juxtaposition against the elegant mountain backdrop that will leave you speechless. As you make your way through the walkway you will be surrounded on all sides by rows of grapes used in their wines. At the winery, you’re able to partake in tastings and tours of the vineyard. After a full day there, it's time to head back to Bilbao via the Donostia-San Sebastian bus route.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
I had a great time in San Sebastian and Bilbao! Prior to visiting, I didn't do too much research (which I now regret), but it was such a pleasant surprise. Unlike other major cities in Spain, it's not highly talked about. After visiting and experiencing the more vacation-like towns, I would definitely go back.
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