Private Day trip to the Basque Coast from Bilbao
Bilbao8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Hotel pickup
About this experience
** Use code MULTITOUR10DISC FOR 10% discount at check out if you book more than 1 activity
Use code KID5PERCENTDISC FOR 5% discount at check out if there are kids.
Use code KIDMULTITOUR15 for 15% discount at check out if you book more than one activity and there are kids***
**Per person price goes down as the number of people in the group increases***
Discover the real essence of the Basque Coast in just one day, a unique destination filled with nature, culture, and deep-rooted traditions.
Our private driver guide will pick you up right from your hotel or the airport in Bilbao, and from there, we will embark on a road trip where we'll admire how green mountains and cliffs merge with the sea, creating a unique and enchanting landscape. During our day trip along the Basque Coast, we will make several stops to indulge a bit more in the scenery. Some will be at viewpoints like Bakio, or at elevated points to see the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe perched on that islet, giving it a magical atmosphere. We will continue, and we will have the opportunity to explore the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Urdaibai is a biosphere reserve recognized for its biological diversity and its crucial role in the conservation of wetlands, forests, and marine habitats. At the end of this reserve lies the picturesque town of Mundaka, where, along with our driver-guide, you'll take a leisurely stroll.
Before reaching San Sebastian, we will stop at another historic place for the Basque people, the town of Gernika, renowned for its cultural significance. While exploring, you'll encounter the iconic Oak of Gernika, a symbol of Basque freedom and democracy, adding a profound layer to the town's rich history, notably remembered for the tragic events during the Spanish Civil War, immortalized in Picasso's painting, 'Guernica.
Our last stop before returning to Bilbao will be the city of San Sebastian. We'll embark on a combined tour, part by car to reach Mount Iguledo and enjoy panoramic views of the city, and part by guided walking tour to discover the Old Town of San Sebastian and the famous La Concha Beach.
Our driver-guide is a native of the area, so he will provide you with the best recommendations and directions at each location, ensuring you don't miss anything and fully understand and appreciate the surroundings.
Next available dates
What’s included
- Private car, van or minibus depending on group size.
- Expert driver-guide (for groups 8 or larger, you will have a minibus with a driver and a local guide for 2 hours in destination)
- 45 min private walking tour in Gernika and 1-h private walking tour In San Sebastian.
- Several stops at viewpoints for photos throughout the journey.
- City map with the route
- Briefing our driver - guide with your travel preferences and requests
- Convenient pick-up at your hotel. Indicate it at check out.
Not included
- Tips and gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Entry / admission fee
- You can add an extra 1 hours to this day trip to also stop in the beautiful town of Zumaia to see the flysch.
Itinerary
- 1
Summary of our itinerary
Please see a summary of the areas/ villages we covered during this tour. Please understand that this is very flexible and the guide may adapt the itinerary based on your needs or preferences. You will start with a pick up at your hotel in Bilbao. The first stop will be in the town of Bakio, at a viewpoint. From there, we will continue until we stop to see from afar the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. We will continue along the coast and enter the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, making a stop in the picturesque village of Mundaka. From there, and continuing along the coast, we will enter Gernika, where we will stop for a short stroll and lunch. After this, we will continue to San Sebastian, where, in addition to enjoying panoramic views of the city, we will stop near the beach and the old town for a short walking tour. The total duration of the day trip will be a maximum of 8 hours.
- 2
Bakio
Bakio is a charming coastal town located in the Biscay province of the Basque Country. Positioned along the Bay of Biscay, Bakio is renowned for its scenic beaches and impressive cliffs.
- 3
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a stunning islet on the Bay of Biscay coast in the Basque Country. Connected to the mainland by a narrow stone bridge, the islet is crowned with a hermitage dedicated to St. John. The site offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the vast ocean. Known for its picturesque setting and rich history, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a popular destination for visitors seeking both cultural and natural experiences.
- 4
The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
Encompassing diverse ecosystems, including estuaries, wetlands, and forests, it is recognized for its ecological importance. The reserve is known for its biodiversity and plays a crucial role in the conservation of various species of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore its natural beauty, engage in sustainable activities, and appreciate the balance between human development and environmental preservation within this protected area.
- 5
Mundaka
Mundaka is a picturesque coastal village situated in the Biscay province. Renowned for its charming scenery and vibrant atmosphere, Mundaka is particularly famous among surfers for its world-class waves. The village is set along the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its traditional architecture, inviting beaches, and proximity to the biosphere, Mundaka is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape by the sea.
- 6
Gernika
Gernika, also known as Guernica in Spanish, is a historic town in the province of Biscay. It gained international significance due to the bombing during the Spanish Civil War, which was immortalized in Pablo Picasso's painting "Guernica." Today, Gernika is a symbol of peace and resilience. The town features a tree-lined main square, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks like the Assembly House of Gernika, an important symbol of Basque autonomy. Visitors can explore its rich history, vibrant markets, and the iconic Oak of Gernika, a symbol of Basque freedom.
- 7
Monte Igueldo in San Sebastian
Monte Igueldo, located in San Sebastian is a scenic hill renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. The summit offers a breathtaking vantage point to admire the cityscape and the picturesque coastline. Perched atop the hill is a charming lighthouse, adding to the area's allure. Popular among locals and tourists alike, Monte Igueldo is a perfect destination for those seeking a serene escape and unparalleled vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
- 8
La Concha Urban Beach - San Sebastian Old Town
La Concha Urban Beach in San Sebastian is a pristine stretch of sand embraced by a picturesque bay. With its crescent shape and stunning views, it stands as one of Europe's most beautiful urban beaches. Just a stroll away lies the charming San Sebastian Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with historic architecture, vibrant pintxos bars, and cultural landmarks. The juxtaposition of the serene beach and the lively Old Town creates a unique and delightful blend of relaxation and cultural exploration for visitors.
- 9
Zumaia (OPTIONAL)
The Flysch of Zumaia refers to a geological formation characterized by layers of sedimentary rock that have been folded and tilted over millions of years. Zumaia, located on the Basque Coast in Spain, boasts some of the most impressive and well-exposed flysch formations in the world. These rock layers, visible along the coastline, reveal the Earth's history and are a geological treasure trove for scientists.
Good to know
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Languages
- British English
- Start times
- 09:00 · 10:00
Know before you go
- Comfortable shoes
- Water, hat, sunscreen in the summer
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 168 hours before the experience starts.
- Cancel within 72h of the start time: 100% charge.
- Cancel within 168h of the start time: 50% charge.
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From AED 1,726 per person
