Things to See and Do in the Basque Country

Now world-famous for its titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao offers far more than this architectural landmark. This formerly industrial city has undergone a real renaissance over the last 3 decades, reinventing itself into one of Spain's most vibrant urban destinations while proudly preserving its maritime heritage and distinct Basque identity.

Start by wandering through the atmospheric streets of the Casco Viejo (Bilbao's historic old town also known as the Siete Calles) and head straight to Plaza Nueva. This square is home to some of Bilbao's most legendary, grand old taverns where the counters groan under the weight of creative pintxos. Nearby, the Mercado de la Ribera—one of Europe's largest covered food markets—is a feast for the senses. Beyond the stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and artisan cheeses, you can also chill out at one of the bars with views overlooking the riverfront.

Just a short walk away stands the elegant Arriaga Theatre , with its magnificent neo-baroque façade, which reflects the city's cultural ambitions during the late nineteenth century. Then cross the river to discover a striking contrast of contemporary architecture, elegant shopping streets, cultural venues, and beautifully regenerated waterfront promenades.

The easy access to the coast is one of Bilbao’s greatest advantages. Hop on Norman Foster's sleek Bilbao Metro, and within 30 minutes you will be strolling along the beaches of Getxo or enjoying the relaxed seaside atmosphere of Plentzia. Not many cities in Europe manage to blend city life, standout architecture and Atlantic beaches quite like this.

And then there is the food. From traditional taverns serving some of the finest pintxos in the Basque Country to Michelin-starred restaurants pushing culinary boundaries, Bilbao is a destination where every meal feels like an event.

No visit of mine to Bilbao is complete without seeing the Guggenheim Museum, one of the world's most recognisable flagships of modern architecture. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the museum's striking titanium curves have become the defining symbol of the city's remarkable urban transformation. Even if contemporary art isn't usually your thing, the building itself and riverside setting are worth the trip alone.

Before stepping inside, take a moment to admire Puppy, Jeff Koons' giant, flower-covered dog sculpture that has welcomed visitors since the museum opened in 1997. We still find ourselves stopping to photograph its seasonal blooms every time we are in the city. Around the back, the Louise Bourgeois' towering bronze spider sculpture, Maman, is another iconic work of public art.

As an art lover, I always set aside at least two to three hours to explore the Guggenheim's temporary exhibitions, which regularly feature internationally acclaimed artists alongside permanent masterpieces like Richard Serra’s The Matter of Time. The experience isn't just about the artwork on display. Gehry's extraordinary use of space creates an immersive world where light, scale, and glass walls seamlessly integrate. 

Gastronomic tip: If you're visiting around lunchtime, consider staying to eat. The museum houses both a Michelin-starred restaurant (Nerua) and a more casual bistro, where we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Basque cuisine and the reasonable prices. Just remember that the museum is closed on Mondays.

Overshadowed by the futuristic curves of the neighbouring Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao (Bilbao Fine Arts Museum) remains a spectacular, yet frequently overlooked, cultural treasure. It boasts one of the most comprehensive and prestigious permanent art collections in Spain outside of Madrid. With works by Velázquez, El Greco, Zurbarán, Goya, and Picasso, as well as leading Basque artists and top-flight temporary exhibitions, art-historical purists will find an incredible timeline of European and Spanish masterpieces here. 

Just outside the Parque de Doña Casilda is also a very agreeable place to escape from the city's hustle and bustle. You can easily pair a morning of fine art with a peaceful walk through the park's green pathways.

Before You Go (2026 Travel Advisory): The museum is currently navigating an exciting new chapter with its Agravitas expansion project, designed by acclaimed architects Norman Foster and Luis María Uriarte. Because of ongoing construction and spatial reconfiguring, certain classic galleries or specific historic wings may face temporary closures or restricted access. Always check the official Bilbao Museoa exhibition schedules before your visit to see which thematic collections and temporary installations are currently on display.

One of the most unusual sights near Bilbao is the Bizkaia Bridge (Puente Colgante), which connects Portugalete and Getxo across the estuary. Built in the late 19th century, it was brilliantly designed so massive ships could still pass underneath while people crossed above—a clever solution that still works perfectly today.

What makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site so special is that it isn't a traditional suspension bridge. Instead, a hanging gondola suspended by steel cables glides back and forth just above the water's surface, shuttling cars and pedestrians between the colorful streets of Portugalete and the grand old palaces of Getxo every few minutes.

If you are feeling brave, you can buy a ticket to take a vintage lift up to the upper pedestrian walkway (pasarela), which sits a dizzying 45 meters above the river to offer spectacular, panoramic views of the Abra Bay.

However, as I suffer from vertigo, I opted for the much more relaxed ride below! For just a couple of euros, you can hop right into the hanging gondola and enjoy a completely stress-free, smooth shuttle across the river.

How to Loop the Trip via Metro: Start on the Portugalete side to explore its steep medieval old town, then ride the gondola over to Getxo. From there, take a lovely 15-minute waterfront walk past grand 19th-century mansions straight into the Puerto Viejo (Old Port)—a tiny neighbourhood of white fishing cottages that is perfect for a drink and a few pintxos.

You don't even need to walk back to the bridge to get home. Once you finish your food at the Old Port, just walk up the hill to the Algorta Metro Station (Line 1). It will zip you straight back into central Bilbao in about 20 minutes!

One of my favourite things about Bilbao is how easy it is to escape to the coast. You don't even need a rental car. All you have to do is jump on Metro Bilbao's Line 1 and, within half an hour, you'll be swapping city streets for sandy beaches and Atlantic waves:

Getxo: We love getting off at Neguri or Bidezabal to walk along Ereaga Beach and the dramatic cliffs of Arrigunaga. It's a fantastic spot for a morning stroll before heading up into the historic Old Port (Puerto Viejo) for a casual drink. Its narrow streets, colourful houses and lively terraces make it a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the sea views.

Sopela (Sopelana): For a world-class surf scene, get off at Larrabasterra to access Barinatxe (La Salvaje) and Arriatera, two of the premier surfing beaches on the Biscay coast.

Plentzia and Gorliz: Continue to the final stop at Plentzia. A pleasant walk across the Butrón Estuary leads to the broad sandy bay shared by Plentzia and Gorliz, a favourite with local families thanks to its calmer waters and relaxed atmosphere.

We've often found ourselves heading to the coast for just a few hours before returning to Bilbao in the evening — it's one of the easiest and most enjoyable day trips in the Basque Country.

Catching the Wind - Paragliding in Sopela: If you're feeling adventurous (I must confess I'm not), make time for paragliding in Sopela. Several local operators launch directly from the cliffs above the beach, and watching the colourful gliders soar over the Bay of Biscay is almost as impressive as taking part yourself.

Local insider tip: If you get off at Bidezabal in Getxo, don't miss the short walk to Aixerrota, a beautifully restored 18th-century windmill perched above the cliffs. The coastal path from here offers some of the best views near Bilbao, stretching across the Bay of Biscay and towards the beaches of Sopela. We often found ourselves coming here for sunset, when the golden light makes the coastline look particularly spectacular.

If you are based in Bilbao, you just need to head north-east for about 40 km towards the central Basque coast to discover the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1984, it is one of northern Spain’s most important protected natural areas and a vital refuge for migratory birds, wetland wildlife and coastal ecosystems. 

What surprised us most was how quickly the landscape changes. Along the coast, the drive reveals world-class surf at Mundaka, while just a few kilometres inland, the estuary opens into calm waters, marshes, bird-rich wetlands and traditional Basque villages.

Further inland, you will reach Gernika, a town with profound historical significance. Though it remains an important centre of Basque identity and political memory, Gernika offers a more authentic, less touristy experience of everyday local life. We'll explore its fascinating story in more detail later.

Urdaibai also offers access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Basque coast. In the summer, Laida Beach, known for its shifting sandbanks and changing shape with the tides, and Laga Beach, set beneath the cliffs of Peñón de Ogoño, are very popular with locals. Don't miss the several natural viewpoints across the reserve that offer exceptional panoramas over the estuary and coastline.

In recent years, conservation projects have also focused on restoring local biodiversity, including the reintroduction of ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) from Scotland — a clear example of the ongoing ecological recovery efforts in this unique landscape. Whether you're interested in wildlife, beaches or simply escaping the crowds, Urdaibai is one of the most rewarding day trips from Bilbao.

Practical tip: If you're driving from Bilbao, try to arrive early in the morning, especially in summer. Parking around Mundaka, Laida and Laga fills up quickly on sunny days, and the light over the estuary is at its best before mid-morning. It also gives you a much better chance of enjoying the viewpoints and beaches before the day-trippers arrive.

As mentioned above, Gernika occupies a unique place in Basque history and identity. It is home to the Tree of Gernika, beneath which Basque assemblies were traditionally held and Castilian monarchs swore to uphold the region's historic fueros (local laws). To this day, the tree remains one of the most powerful symbols of Basque self-government.

The town is best known internationally for the devastating bombing of 1937 during the Spanish Civil War, later immortalised by Pablo Picasso in his famous painting Guernica. While not as picturesque as some of the nearby coastal towns, Gernika offers a fascinating glimpse into Basque culture and history and contemporary art, including works by Henry Moore and Eduardo Chillida. We found it noticeably less touristy than many destinations along the Basque coast, making it a rewarding place to experience everyday local life.

Insider tip: If you’re in Gernika on a Monday, make time for the local market — it’s when the town really comes alive. Farmers from the surrounding valleys set up stalls with seasonal produce, cheeses and vegetables, and it feels much more like everyday Basque life than a tourist attraction. Go early if you can, before it gets busy, and take a slow walk through the stalls rather than rushing it.

If Gernika lies further inland along the Urdaibai estuary, Mundaka is at its mouth, where the river meets the sea. A small fishing town, it's best known for its world-class left-hand surf wave. Despite its global reputation among surfers, the town itself remains quiet and traditional, especially off-season.  With narrow streets and a small working harbour, it’s a pleasant place to explore on foot.

A short drive along the coast also brings you to Bermeo, one of the most important historic fishing ports in the Basque Country. Still very much a working town, it offers a more authentic glimpse into daily maritime life, with a colourful harbour and excellent seafood restaurants.

Our advice: If you're spending the day in this part of the Basque coast, take advantage of the opportunity to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, just a short drive away. This striking hermitage is set on a rocky islet connected to the mainland by a narrow stone bridge and a steep staircase of over 200 steps carved into the cliffs. The walk up is steep but incredibly rewarding, with sweeping views over the Cantabrian Sea and rugged coastline.

In recent years, Gaztelugatxe has also gained international fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones (Dragonstone), so it’s best to arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon, especially in summer, as access is now managed and can require timed entry during peak periods.

Insider tip: For the best view of the famous surf wave, head to the small path above the harbour early in the morning, especially on big swell days. You’ll often see surfers in perfect glassy conditions before the wind picks up—and without the crowds that arrive later in the day.

The eastern coast of Biscay is dotted with some of the most characterful fishing towns in the Basque Country. From the impossibly vertical cliffs of Elantxobe through to the traditional port of Ondarroa, this stretch of coastline offers a glimpse into the region's deep maritime traditions, where colourful fishing boats still bring their daily catch ashore.

Our absolute favourite stop along this route is Lekeitio. It is a gorgeous seaside town that manages to feel lively without being overwhelmed by tourism. Its attractive harbour, excellent seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches make it an easy place to spend a few hours—or an entire afternoon.

Insider tip: If you visit Lekeitio, timing is everything. At low tide, a natural sandbar reveals itself, allowing you to walk right across the harbour floor from Isuntza Beach over to the uninhabited island of San Nicolás (Garraitz). Just keep an eye on the water level so you don't get stuck out there when the tide rolls back in!

Inland from Bilbao, the source of the Nervión river makes for a great excursion with truly spectacular views. This is where you will find the awe-inspiring Salto del Nervión. Plunging a staggering 222 meters into the Delika Canyon below, it holds the title of the tallest waterfall in Spain.

To get there from Bilbao, head south for the spa town of Orduña and over the mountain pass of the same name to cross the border from the Basque Country into the province of Burgos. Just beyond the pass, you’ll find the Monte Santiago Nature Reserve. There are three consecutive parking areas inside the park. Drive past the first two and park at the final lot, Hoyo de la Fuente (near the Park Information Centre). From here, it's about half an hour’s fairly flat walk to the falls (don’t miss the Loberas, ancient wolf traps). You can enjoy a scenic picnic on the edge of the limestone cliffs while watching Griffon vultures soar on the thermals beneath you.

Insider tip: Unless you go when it’s wet or just after snow, the falls are almost always dry or at best a trickle, but the views are well worth it anyway.

Guided by local friends, I first visited San Sebastián (Donostia) 15 years ago, and I must confess I fell instantly in love. Set around the spectacular golden crescent of La Concha Bay and framed by elegant Belle Époque architecture, it is small wonder that this is celebrated as one of Spain's most beautiful seaside destinations. The city beautifully captures the proud spirit of the Basque Country while carrying a sophisticated French flair—a natural byproduct of its close proximity to the border and the long-shared history between the two countries. At its heart lies the atmospheric Parte Vieja (Old Town), a captivating maze of historic streets packed with traditional taverns serving some of the finest pintxos in the country.

No matter when you plan your trip, there is always something happening here:

• Visit in December for the bustling Santo Tomás Fair, or experience the city's unique midnight drumming Tamborrada celebrations in January.
• Soak up the coastal sun during the legendary San Sebastián Jazz Festival (Jazzaldia) in July, or join the high-energy street festivities throughout August.
• For a touch of autumn glamour, every September, the prestigious San Sebastián International Film Festival transforms the city into a star-studded hub for global cinema lovers.

But don’t feel bad if your visit does not coincide with a festival; San Sebastián will always remain a delight. Spend the morning strolling along the sands of La Concha Beach, climb Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the bay, and finish the day hopping between pintxo bars while sampling the exceptional cuisine that has made the city a global gastronomic destination.

At the mouth of the Bidasoa River, where Spain meets France on the Bay of Biscay Hondarribia (known in Spanish as Fuenterrabía) is one of the most charming towns in the Basque Country. Despite its beauty, it still doesn't feel as overcrowded as nearby San Sebastián.

Our impression when we first visited the village was that we wondered how much variety could be packed into such a small place. The beautifully preserved walled medieval Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets and colourful balconies, sits above the lively fishermen's quarter of La Marina, where many of the town's best pintxos bars can be found. Add a pleasant fishing harbour, a long sandy beach and excellent coastal walks beneath Mount Jaizkibel, and you have all the ingredients for a perfect day out.

A little-known fact: Hondarribia was used as the setting for the opening scenes of the iconic 1973 film Papillon, starring Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman. They spent weeks filming the prisoners' march through these exact streets, using Hondarribia's old architecture to replicate the French port town of Saint-Martin-de-Ré.  

Parking tip: If you're visiting for the day, don't bother trying to park in the Old Town; it is entirely pedestrianised and restricted to residents. Head straight for the massive pay-and-display parking lot down by the beach (Aparcamiento de la Playa) or the lot near the marina (Aparcamiento de la Marina). From there  it's just a short flat walk away to both the fishermen’s quarter and the medieval gates.

See the reconstruction of a 16th-century whaling ship at the fascinating Albaola Itsas Kultur Faktoria in Pasajes San Pedro (Pasaia in Basque). The whaling industry was once the keystone of the Basque economy and is key to understanding the region’s rich maritime culture. Inside this massive wooden hangar, you can watch artisans use 16th-century techniques and hand tools to construct a historically accurate, full-scale replica of the San Juan—a Basque whaling galleon that originally sank off the coast of Canada in 1565.

 Once you finish exploring the museum, take a short walk back to the waterfront and hop on the small, green passenger ferry (la motora). For just a couple of euros, it shuttles you across the narrow harbour mouth to Pasai Donibane (Pasajes de San Juan), a picturesque village of colourful historic houses framing a single cobblestone street.  There are some nice bars and restaurants for a pintxo or something more substantial.

 Local Insider Tip: Before crossing the water, make sure to grab a bite on the San Pedro side. Right down the path from Albaola, you will find Bar Muguruza, which locals affectionately call Falcon Crest. It is an authentic, old-school tavern that specialises in exceptionally fresh, pan-fried seasonal fish caught that very morning. Grab a glass of local cider, order a plate of whatever fish is written on the chalkboard, and soak in the true maritime atmosphere.

With the longest stretch of sand in the Basque Country, Zarautz is a vibrant coastal hotspot you don't want to miss. Here you can feel the balance of a world-class surf scene with a family-friendly beach vibe.

Just a couple of blocks back from the waves, the historic old town offers a maze of pedestrian streets and little squares packed with local taverns serving incredible, seafood-forward pintxos. But the heart of the town centres around its lively Malecón (waterfront promenade), which is lined with open-air cafes, modern sculpture installations, and surf schools.

If you walk all the way to the eastern end of the beach, the promenade transforms into a beautiful wooden walkway winding through the protected wetlands and dunes of the Inurritza Nature Reserve. If you are feeling energetic and want a different perspective of the coastline with spectacular views, head up the trail to Mount Talaimendi, which rises straight out of the eastern edge of the water.

 Foodie Insider Tip: While you're strolling the boardwalk, keep an eye out for Hotel Restaurante Karlos Arguiñano. Owned by Spain’s most beloved celebrity TV chef, it is a legendary local institution. You can stop by their beachfront terrace for a coffee or a glass of Txakoli wine without breaking the bank.

The Summer Parking Reality: A great spot for a day on the beach, but not easy to get parked in the summer months. If you visit between June and September, do not expect to find easy parking. The street spots fill up instantly, so we recommend you either arrive before 9:30 AM to grab a space in the paid lots by the train station, or skip the hassle entirely and take the scenic Euskotren train straight from San Sebastián or Bilbao.

Birthplace of Juan Sebastian Elcano, first man to circumnavigate the globe (completing Magellan’s mission), Getaria is today renowned as the place to eat fine fish and seafood in the Basque Country. Walking through the old town, the first thing you’ll notice is the intoxicating smell of wood smoke. Restaurants here are famous for roasting incredibly fresh, whole turbot (rodaballo) on massive outdoor charcoal grills (parrillas) built right onto the stone streets - but beware, it doesn’t come cheap!

If you are just looking for something light, try the local Txakoli (crisply acidic young white wine) with a pintxo or two and then walk down by the waterfront, where you can relax on the sheltered sands of Malkorbe Beach. Or take a scenic walk up El Ratón (The Mouse), the iconic, mouse-shaped peninsula of Mount San Antón that protects the harbour. For fashion lovers, Getaria holds a massive surprise: the sleek Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, which is dedicated to the groundbreaking haute-couture works of the town's most famous style icon.

Did you know?: While exploring, look out for the historic Church of San Salvador. Because the medieval walls left no room for streets, the builders tunneled directly underneath the church to reach the harbor. Walking through this dark, stone passageway (called the Katrapuna tunnel) makes you feel like you've stepped straight into a pirate movie.

At first glance, Zumaia may look like another coastal town in the Basque Country, but it hides one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Europe. It is the heart of the Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, famous for its jaw-dropping Flysch rock formations. It is a wild sight—these massive layers of vertical rock stretch down the coast like the pages of a giant stone book dropping straight into the ocean.

From Itzurun Beach, you can see the cliffs at their most dramatic. It’s hard to believe, but these rock layers actually hold a thin layer of sediment that helped scientists prove the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. 

As we wanted to dive deeper into the science behind the stones, we stopped by the Algorri Interpretation Centre near the beach. Then, just before leaving town, we hiked the spectacular clifftop trails up to the San Telmo Hermitage to fully appreciate the landscape from above.

Art Lovers' Bonus: On your way to Getaria, stop by the Zuloaga Museum (Museo Zuloaga), nestled right next to Santiago Beach. It sits in a historic 12th-century pilgrim oasis and houses an incredible collection of works by the legendary Basque painter Ignacio Zuloaga, alongside masterpieces by El Greco and Goya.

Interesting fact: If the jagged landscape looks familiar, it’s because it starred as the foot of Dragonstone in Game of Thrones.

Local Delicacy: Zumaia is one of the only places in Spain that still preserves the ancient tradition of sun-drying octopuses outside on lines. Centuries ago, local families did this to survive winter hardships. Today, you can still try this delicacy in traditional local dishes like Olarro Sopa (octopus soup).

Birthplace of San Ignacio de Loyola, founder of the Jesuit movement, the Sanctuary of Loyola (Santuario de Loiola) is a massive spiritual complex and an important place of pilgrimage. Nestled in the green hills of the Urola Valley between Azpeitia and Azkoitia, it makes for a spectacular inland day trip.

The highlight here is the soaring, 60-meter-high Baroque Basilica. In a fascinating architectural twist, this massive marble structure was built completely enveloping the original 14th-century Loyola family tower house. You can actually step inside the old stone fortress to visit the room where Ignatius underwent his spiritual awakening while recovering from his battle wounds.

A tip for architecture lovers: If you are interested in religious architecture, Loyola is also the starting point of the Route of the Three Temples (Ruta de los Tres Templos). This scenic driving loop through inland Gipuzkoa links the Baroque beauty of Loyola with the Romanesque La Antigua Hermitage in Zumarraga and the spectacular, avant-garde Sanctuary of Arantzazu perched on a cliffside in Oñati.

As the administrative capital of the Basque Country and the historic heart of the Álava province, Vitoria-Gasteiz is an unfairly underrated destination, often overlooked by travellers rushing to Bilbao or San Sebastián. If you have time, we recommend venturing inland and you'll be rewarded with a beautifully preserved medieval quarter known as the Almendra Medieval ("Medieval Almond"), named after the distinctive almond-shaped layout. It's a vibrant city that perfectly pairs medieval history with a deeply rooted culinary culture, making it an essential addition to any Basque itinerary.

The crown jewel of the medieval old town is the Catedral de Santa María. This 13th-century Gothic masterpiece is famous for its pioneering "Open for Repairs" (Abierto por Obras) project, which allows visitors to explore the building while conservation work is still in progress. We've visited twice, and each time it felt like a rare privilege. Few historic landmarks let you explore beyond the public nave and into the building's hidden structure — from the deep foundations and archaeological remains to the triforium and the panoramic towers above the city.

It's not surprising that this unique, immersive experience deeply inspired historical fiction author Ken Follett, who cited the cathedral as a major source of inspiration for his bestselling novel World Without End. Just outside the cathedral entrance, you can take a photo with the life-sized bronze statue of Follett, erected by the city to honour his connection to Vitoria.

Combined with its elegant squares, pedestrian-friendly streets, Basque-style bars and rich medieval heritage, Vitoria-Gasteiz offers a more authentic and relaxed alternative to some of the Basque Country's better-known destinations.

Insider tip: Beyond its architectural and literary landmark, Vitoria-Gasteiz -a former European Green Capital- is also a wonderful city to explore on foot. Head to the grand Plaza de la Virgen Blanca and Plaza Nueva to experience the city's food scene. And don't miss the Calle Cuchillería a lively street lined with traditional bars, restaurants and taverns further up at the heart of the old town. This is one of the best places to experience the Basque tradition of poteo — spending an evening moving from bar to bar, enjoying a drink and sampling small bites while soaking up the atmosphere. It's particularly in the early evening when the street comes alive with residents and visitors alike.

Practical tip: Leave it in one of the city's free park-and-ride car parks on the outskirts and use the excellent tram network to get to the centre.

Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, Laguardia is a beautifully preserved medieval town backed by the dramatic Sierra de Cantabria mountains. It is one of our favourite places in the Basque Country, catching sweeping views over the sea of vineyards of this famous wine region from the ancient stone walls built by the Kings of Navarre.

While exploring the narrow streets, don't miss the Church of Santa María de los Reyes. It houses one of the finest preserved, brightly colored Gothic stone porticos in Spain.

Laguardia’s real quirk lies directly beneath your feet. The entire town sits on a honeycomb network of historic underground wine cellars, known locally as calados. Because the weight of modern traffic could cause the streets to cave into these historic tunnels, most vehicles are excluded from the historic centre, making it a peaceful place to explore on foot. On our first visit, we booked a tour at Casa Primicia, the oldest active winery building in Rioja Alavesa, but there are several other historic cellars hidden beneath the town that can also be visited.

Outside the walls, the valley transitions into a paradise for wine lovers. Make sure to drive past Bodegas Ysios, a stunning winery designed by Santiago Calatrava with a wave-like aluminium roof that perfectly mimics the jagged mountain peaks behind it. If you fancy a break from wine tasting, there are excellent walking trails through the vineyards, prehistoric dolmens scattered across the landscape, and the nearby Izki Natural Park, one of the largest oak forests in the Basque Country.

Local tip: Keep an eye on the clock tower in the main square. At specific hours, a set of mechanical figures in traditional costumes pop out to perform a little Basque dance. It's a small detail that many visitors miss, but one of those little touches that makes Laguardia so memorable.

While Laguardia attracts most of the attention, some of our favourite moments in Rioja Alavesa have come from simply wandering through the smaller wine villages. If you want to escape the main tourist crowds, these quiet stone hamlets offer an authentic glimpse into local life:

• Labastida: Don't skip this one! It is a grand, noble town filled with striking 17th-century stone palaces and ancestral coats of arms. Walk up to the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Toloño for incredible views over the valley.

• Samaniego & Lanciego: These villages are a paradise for wine purists. They are packed with family-run, boutique bodegas where you can taste exceptional wines directly from the people who grow the grapes. Lanciego also features a beautifully preserved 18th-century olive oil mill.

• Navaridas & Ábalos: Perfectly sleepy and historic, these spots are ideal for wandering past beautiful sandstone houses and Renaissance churches.

Elciego deserves a special mention. This traditional wine village is home to one of the most surreal sights in the region: the Marqués de Riscal winery and hotel. It might sound like a cliché, but honestly, seeing Frank Gehry’s futuristic, twisting pink and purple titanium ribbons rising right out of those ancient, dusty rows of grapevines is just mind-blowing!

Once you get your photos of the hotel and visit the winery, don’t rush back to your car. There are other fantastic wineries in town—we loved Bodegas Valdelana right at the entrance—as well as several bars and restaurants for a drink or a bite. Walk into the actual village centre, and you’ll witness the interesting contrast between Gehry’s futuristic building and the old 16th-century Church of San Andrés right in the main square.

Tucked away in the far western tip of Álava, right on the border of Burgos, Valderejo Nature Park (Parque Natural de Valderejo) is one of the most striking natural landscapes in the inland Basque Country. It is easily reached from Bilbao or Vitoria-Gasteiz, making it a perfect day trip if you want to swap the extensive vineyards of the Rioja Alavesa and the coastal landscapes on the Biscay Bay for quiet, pine-scented valleys.

The highlight of the park is the Purón River Gorge (Foz del Purón). It features an incredible hiking trail carved directly into sheer limestone cliffs, where you can walk alongside crashing emerald water. Keep your eyes on the sky while you hike—Valderejo is home to the largest colony of Griffon vultures in the Basque Country, and watching them soar overhead is a wild experience.

Not far from here, it’s also worth visiting Salinas de Añana, one of the oldest and best-preserved salt production sites in Europe. Its stepped salt pans create a very different scenery and offer an interesting contrast to the surrounding wild terrain.

A Paradise for Mountain Bikers: If you prefer two wheels, the area hosts the brilliant Valderejo-Añana MTB Center. The official reception and trail hub is located just outside the park boundaries at Camping Angosto in Villanañe. They offer bike washes, repair tools, and maps for over 120 kilometres of marked singletrack trails that wind through the surrounding valleys.

What to Eat: After a long hike or ride, head to a local tavern to fuel up. No visit here would be complete without trying the Basque suckling lamb, traditionally slow-roasted until it melts off the bone. The province of Álava is also famous for its locally grown potatoes, so make sure to look for dishes featuring the premium local Valdegovía variety.

Although Briones—the village where the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture is located—sits just across the regional border in La Rioja (rather than Rioja Alavesa), it is an essential stop for anyone exploring the wider Rioja wine country. Its proximity to Laguardia and Elciego makes it a completely natural extension of any trip around the Basque Country.

If you’ve already visited a few wineries in the region, you might not expect a wine museum to stand out—but Vivanco is on an entirely different scale. Opened in 2005 by the King of Spain, it is recognised by UNESCO as one of the most comprehensive wine museums in the world.

The permanent exhibition goes far beyond antique winemaking tools and sensory tasting rooms, taking you on a universal journey through the history of wine from its ancient origins in Egypt and Greece. What blew us away was their spectacular private collection of wine-related art. You can walk through galleries displaying original masterpieces by legendary artists like Picasso, Sorolla, Joan Miró, and Andy Warhol, right alongside centuries-old Roman ceramics. Outside, you can even stroll through the Jardín de Baco (Bacchus Garden), which houses more than 220 different grape varieties from all over the planet.

A Rainy Day Tip: We actually visited on a rainy day, but the museum staff make it incredibly easy for you. They had umbrellas ready for all of us to use while exploring the outdoor gardens!

Insider Tip: If time allows, it’s well worth staying longer to enjoy the excellent on-site restaurant and to explore Briones itself, easily one of the prettiest medieval villages in the La Rioja region.