Big Basque Highlights
Two cities, two totally different vibes – San Sebastián and Bilbao, the perfect match.
One is stylish and gastronomic, with a laid-back seaside vibe. The other is energetic and innovative, bursting with art and culture. From tasting pinxos in charming streets to admiring modern art, there’s so much to discover. Unlike most of my recommendations, there’s nothing secret or local about these top tips, but no travel guide would be complete without them… So, let yourself be surprised by the very best of the Basque Country. Here are 5 Big Basque Highlights:
1. La Concha
La Concha means “the shell”, and this beach, nestled right in the heart of the city, is ranked among the most beautiful city beaches in the world. The combination of crystal-clear blue water, belle-epoque architecture and lush green surroundings creates a truly breathtaking view. The view of the island of Santa Clara is just spectacular. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere year-round, whether relaxing on the beach walk, taking a refreshing swim in the sea, or visiting the amazing salt water spa of La Perla.
2. Pinxo tours in either of the ‘old towns’
In San Sebastián’s Old Town, La Parte Vieja, you’ll experience the authentic charm of the Basque Country. Narrow streets, historic buildings, and of course, the famous pinxos bars where you can try delicious Basque bites like txangurro (stuffed crab) and bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic and olive oil sauce). I love the crab soup at Bar Sport where the owner makes a point of remembering your name, and I always get a racion of the incredicble morcilla (basque blood sausage) at La Cuchara de San Telmo where everything on the menu is genuinely exceptional. You’ll find a similar network of winding streets and bars in El Casco Viejo in Bilbao.
Fancy doing a pinxos tour with a proper local guide? Check out the tours we recommend in San Sebastián and Bilbao below.
3. Casco Viejo in Bilbao
Bilbao’s historic heart, the Casco Viejo, is a maze of charming streets filled with characterful buildings, cozy pintxos bars, and unique boutiques. The art-deco food market and incredible neo-baroque Arriaga theatre are on the verges and definitely worth a stroll around. The area is full of energy year round.
Tip: arrive just before Spanish dinner time, meaning before 8 PM. And as tempting as it may be to order everything at one bar, the real fun is in hopping from one spot to another, trying a different pinxo at each stop. Patience, and you’ll get to try ‘em all!
4- Highlights tour by bike
Having been cycling my entire life, as city transport or for distant adventures, I will always recommend a bicycles in any capacity. So, when you arrive in Bilbao or San Sebastián, join a bike tour! It’s the best way to quickly get to know the city, discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss and it’s a way to meet new people. Plus, the tours are led by a local guides who will share fascinating insights about life in the Basque Country. Baja Bikes operates across Europe and also offers tours in San Sebastián and Bilbao. Book your English-speaking tour here!
5- Guggenheim Museum
No trip to Bilbao is complete without admiring the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Designed by Frank Gehry, this architectural masterpiece houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Outside, you’ll find Puppy by Jeff Koons and the giant Maman spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois—both truly stunning to see in person.
Tip: In peak season, it can get very crowded. Make sure to book your skip-the-line tickets in advance via this link!
