Complete Guide to Basque Country (2026)

Bilbao, located in Spain’s northern Basque Country, is a dynamic riverside city where contemporary design meets rugged green hills and Atlantic light. Once known primarily for its industrial heritage, it has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, symbolized by the shimmering titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum. Visitors arriving here often find a city that feels both cosmopolitan and deeply regional, with Basque traditions woven naturally into modern urban life. The city’s size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and its distinct blend of innovation, culture, and gastronomy has helped position Bilbao as one of the best places to visit in Spain.

A stroll along the Nervión River reveals much of what makes Bilbao so appealing. The regenerated waterfront is lined with architectural landmarks, art installations, and outdoor cafés that buzz with conversation well into the night. From here, it’s easy to wander into the Casco Viejo, the old quarter, where seven medieval streets spill out into lively plazas filled with pintxo bars and markets. The mix of languages, the scent of grilled seafood, and the rhythm of people hopping from one bar to another create an atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Basque people-sociable, proud, and inventive.

Beyond its urban energy, Bilbao offers quick access to the stunning natural landscapes that surround it. The metro connects the city to Getxo’s beaches and the dramatic Basque coastline, where surfers and walkers share the same Atlantic breeze. Inland, rolling green hills and vineyards hint at a slower pace, perfect for day trips or weekend escapes. It’s this balance-between art and industry, mountains and sea, modern energy and traditional soul-that makes Bilbao such an unforgettable destination for travelers exploring northern Spain.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the seat of government and the capital city of the Basque Country and the province of Araba/Álava in northern Spain. It hosts the autonomous community’s House of Parliament, the Government headquarters, and the Lehendakari’s official residence. The municipality, which includes the city and the surrounding 63 agricultural villages, is the largest in the Basque Country, covering a total area of 276.81 km², with a population of 252,571 people. Residents of Vitoria-Gasteiz are known as vitorianos or gasteiztarrak, and traditionally as babazorros.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a multicultural city with notable strengths in healthcare, aeronautics, the vehicle industry, and gastronomy. It consistently ranks among the top five best places to live in Spain. It was the first Spanish municipality to receive the title of European Green Capital and has also been recognized by the UN with the Global Green City Award. The old town features some of the best-preserved medieval streets and plazas in the region and is one of the few cities with two cathedrals. The city hosts well-known festivals such as the Azkena Rock Festival, FesTVal, Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival, and the Virgen Blanca Festivities.

The vicinity of Vitoria-Gasteiz is home to world-renowned wineries such as Ysios and the Marqués de Riscal Hotel. It boasts significant heritage sites, including the Neolithic remains of Aizkomendi, Sorginetxe, and La Chabola de la Hechicera; Iron Age settlements such as Lastra and Buradón; ancient remains like the settlement of La Hoya and the Salt Valley of Añana; and numerous medieval fortresses such as the Tower of Mendoza and the Tower of Varona.

Ludwig van Beethoven dedicated his Opus 91, often called the “Battle of Vitoria” or “Wellington’s Victory,” to one of the most famous events of the Napoleonic Wars: the Battle of Vitoria. In this battle, a Spanish, Portuguese, and British army under the command of General the Marquess of Wellington defeated the French army and nearly captured the puppet king Joseph Bonaparte. It was a pivotal point in the Peninsular War and a precursor to the expulsion of the French from Spain. A memorial statue commemorating this event can be seen today in Virgen Blanca Square.

San Sebastián, located in Basque Country, is a city renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, world-class cuisine, and elegant charm. One of its most famous attractions is La Concha Beach, a stunning crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and clear waters that make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a relaxing seaside stroll. The beachfront promenade, lined with historic railings and stylish cafés, invites visitors to enjoy the magnificent ocean views while experiencing the relaxed yet refined atmosphere of San Sebastián. Whether indulging in water sports or simply enjoying the serenity of the waves, La Concha is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.

Beyond its coastal beauty, San Sebastián offers a vibrant culinary scene, widely regarded as one of the finest in the world. The city is famous for its pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, served in lively bars throughout the Parte Vieja (Old Town). Visitors can spend their evenings hopping between taverns, sampling exquisite small plates such as txistorra sausage, bacalao (salted cod), and Idiazabal cheese, paired with local cider or Txakoli wine. San Sebastián also boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, where chefs craft groundbreaking dishes that elevate Basque cuisine to an art form. The fusion of traditional flavors and avant-garde techniques makes dining in the city an unforgettable experience.

For those who love scenic viewpoints and cultural excursions, Monte Igueldo offers spectacular panoramas of the city and coastline, accessible via a funicular ride that dates back to the early 20th century. Meanwhile, the city’s cultural festivals, including the internationally acclaimed San Sebastián Film Festival, bring excitement and artistic flair throughout the year. Whether enjoying stunning landscapes, indulging in exceptional food, or soaking in its cultural richness, San Sebastián delivers a dynamic yet relaxing getaway that encapsulates the essence of Basque Country.