The Basque Country is an ideal destination for day trips, offering countless places to enjoy its rich history, culture, gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes. From the lively streets of Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz to charming coastal villages and lush inland valleys, the region provides a wide range of experiences that truly capture the essence of Euskadi.
One of the highlights, especially for football fans, is the San Mamés Stadium Tour and a visit to its museum.
Bilbao and San Mamés Stadium
Starting your adventure in Bilbao is a fantastic choice, as the city makes an ideal base for exploring the region. A day in the capital of Biscay might include a stroll through the Old Town, with its narrow, history-filled streets and pintxo bars, followed by a visit to the exterior of the iconic Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry. For football enthusiasts, the San Mamés Stadium Tour is an absolute must.
San Mamés Stadium Tour, the “Cathedral” of football, offers a deep dive into the rich history of Athletic Club. The experience begins at the Museum, located between Gates 19 and 20 of the stadium. Here, visitors can explore interactive exhibitions that tell the story of over a century of a team that is truly “unique in the world”, featuring numerous La Liga and Copa del Rey trophies, along with memorabilia from legendary players.
After the museum, the tour continues into the stadium itself, a modern venue with UEFA’s highest rating. You’ll walk through the players’ tunnel, sit in the directors’ box, step onto the pitch, and admire the stands where thousands of fans cheer on The Lions every weekend.
The visit, which lasts around an hour and a half, is perfect for families and Athletic supporters alike.
If your trip happens to fall on a matchday, you can take the experience to the next level by booking The Lion Experience. You’ll greet the players as they arrive by coach, step onto the pitch before the warm-up, and sit just metres from the dugout to feel every moment from the heart of the action.
Discover more unforgettable moments like this through the San Mamés VIP experiences, strictly for true football fans and thrill-seekers.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: a legendary setting
Less than an hour from Bilbao, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the most popular day trips in the Basque Country. This dramatic islet, crowned by a 10th-century hermitage and connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and 241 steps, is a place of breathtaking beauty.
Made famous by its appearance in Game of Thrones as Dragonstone, it offers spectacular views over the Bay of Biscay and a touch of spirituality when you ring the hermitage’s bell. Combine the visit with a stroll around the nearby fishing town of Bermeo, where you can enjoy a lunch of fresh fish and traditional pintxos.
San Sebastián: elegance and gastronomy
Another must-do day trip is to San Sebastián, just an hour and a half from Bilbao. Known for its La Concha Beach and vibrant food scene, this city perfectly blends elegance with tradition.
An electric bike tour along its network of cycle lanes is a great way to explore the Boulevard, Monte Igueldo, and lesser-known areas such as the sports district and the university quarter.
For food lovers, a pintxo tour through the Old Town is a real treat, allowing you to sample Basque-style tapas paired with txakoli, the local white wine.
Rioja Alavesa: flavours of the land
For those in search of a wine experience, a day trip to Rioja Alavesa, just over an hour from Bilbao, is ideal. This renowned wine region is famous for its striking architecturall wineries, including Marqués de Riscal and Ysios, designed by Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava. A guided tour typically includes wine tastings and walks through the vineyards, along with a stop in the charming medieval village of Laguardia for a tapas-style lunch.
Culture and history in Gernika
Just 40 minutes from Bilbao, Gernika is a destination steeped in symbolism. Known for the 1937 bombing immortalised by Picasso, the town invites visitors to explore the Peace Museum and the Tree of Gernika, powerful reminders of the region’s history and identity. This day trip blends historical insight with the chance to wander through the local market and enjoy traditional Basque cuisine.
In summary, The Basque Country is a mosaic of experiences, from the sporting passion of San Mamés to the natural wonder of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the refined charm of San Sebastián, the rich flavours of Rioja Alavesa, and the historical depth of Gernika.
Each day trip offers a unique window into Basque culture, shaped by pride, tradition, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, art, fine food or history, the Basque Country has something for everyone.
Let yourself be surprised by a truly unique region!
