Short Breaks in Basque Country

Basque Country at a glance

Bilbao

Bilbao is 2018’s European City of the Year (awarded by The Academy of Urbanism) and with good reason, it has utterly transformed its industrial roots to an epic city soaring with popularity. Bilbao has a youthful energy and a charming historic centre, an unrivalled combination ready to excite and inspire. The city’s hallmark is the Guggenheim Museum, built around twenty years ago, its iconic metallic structure and contemporary façade is sure to wow visitors, it houses a vast modern art collection and is one of the best in Europe.

The Basque Country is often described as a foodie’s haven boasting over forty Michelin-starred restaurants, and around nine of which are located in Bilbao! Bilbao provides an atmospheric Pintxos (tapas) culture, a city where lovers of food can savour delicious Pintxos, day or night. 

San Sebastian

San Sebastian was just a humble fishing village when the Spanish royal family chose it as the destination for their summer retreat. The town already boasted impressive Gothic and Baroque churches and beautiful sandy beaches when, in the late 19^th and early 20^th century, it was given a makeover that has left a legacy of elegant Belle Epoque architecture. The magnificent City Hall, formerly the Gran Casino, looking on to Alderdi-Eder Gardens and the beautiful beachfront La Perla Spa, built for Queen Maria Cristina in 1912, are just two of many examples. San Sebastian’s contrasting styles, art galleries and open air sculptures, alongside its lively atmosphere and gastronomy have contributed to its status as European City of Culture in 2016.

Frequently topping lists of the world’s best places to eat, San Sebastian is a foodie’s paradise, renowned for its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and its Pintxos (tapas) culture which is incomparable to anywhere else in Spain.

Just as outstanding are San Sebastian’s beaches, with the Playa de la Concha perfect for basking in the sun and the surfing waves of Playa de Gros for the more energetic. The dynamic Parte Vieja (old town) lies across the neck of Monte Urgull, where the most popular pintxo bars can be found. South of Parte Vieja is the shopping quarter, and the east of the River Urumea is a pleasant and relaxed enclave.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

• A bustling atmosphere 
• Beachfront attractions 
• Indulgent cuisine
• A multi-centre break  

Getting around

Bilbao has a convenient metro system, with frequent trains during peak hours. Ticket prices are based on the number of zones your journey covers. A CreditTrans card, which comes in 5, 10 and 15 Euro denominations is a good option if more than a couple of journeys are anticipated, as it can provide up to half price discounts on each journey.

San Sebastian’s main bus stop is a 20-minute walk south of the Parte Vieja, the local buses number 28 and 26 connect with Alameda del Boulevard, this is also a good starting point for walking into the historic centre, especially pleasant when walking along the river. The city doesn’t have a proper station, but the bus companies have offices and ticket stands near the bus stop.

Dining in Basque Country

Food is an important part of Basque culture and a great way to experience the ingenuity of the region. Venture out to a traditional cider house on the hills of the Basque Country, where you will find quality grass-fed beef with distinct and complex flavours.

Much like the rebirth of Bilbao, traditional recipes are continually being reinvented with local produce and culinary expertise that has awarded many restaurants in the city with Michelin recognition.

Like Bilbao, San Sebastian is home to an impressive number of Michelin-starred establishments, foodies will enjoy gastronomic fusions of fresh produce and seafood specialities in many restaurants and bars.

Be sure to try the Basque Country’s version of tapas called Pintxos, traditionally served with bread on a toothpick.

Must-try local dishes:

• Bacalao al Pil-Pil – salt cod, seasoned with garlic and olive oil. 
• Piperrada – a traditional Basque dish consisting of onions, green peppers, and sautéed tomatoes flavored with red Espelette pepper..
• Txuleton – quality aged cut of beef, chargrilled, served simply with a sprinkle of sea salt. Found in traditional cider houses located on the hills of the region.
• Gâteau Basque – the region’s signature butter cake that comes with a variety of fillings including chocolate, black cherry or pastry cream.

Shopping in Basque Country 

The shopping areas of Piazza Moyua and Gran Via are great places to find high end and international brands, as well as large boutique shops, while historic Casco Viejo offers art galleries, small boutiques, as well as unique handcrafted items and gifts. For something a bit different, visit one of Europe’s largest indoor markets located on the south corner of the Old Town. Stretched along the riverfront, the market houses a large selection of local, fresh products including fish and seafood.

Shopping in San Sebastian is very convenient with shops concentrated in the same areas. Foodies, be sure to add local specialities like a jar of Cantabrian anchovies, Idiazabal cheese or a bottle of txakoli wine to your shopping list. The Old Town is also the venue for souvenir shops and designer stores, the centre is home to upmarket stores with recognisable international brands and the Gros District has a brilliant selection of art galleries, antique shops and sports shops. 

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to the Basque Country designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

• All travel and transfers on days of your choice
• Accommodation from our handpicked range of hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.