Discover Euskadi, a destination that has it all
Nature, culture, and gastronomy at its finest
Euskadi is a land of contrasts where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. A small country with a strong identity, it boasts over 5,000 years of history, reflected in its unique culture and its own language, Basque, the oldest language in all of Europe.
From its spectacular green landscapes to its renowned gastronomy, not to mention a vibrant culture and fascinating history, this corner of northern Spain offers unique experiences for every traveler.
Gastronomy
Basque gastronomy is a true pleasure for the senses, combining tradition and innovation with ingredients from both the sea and the land. Iconic dishes like bacalao al pil pil (salted cod with garlic and olive oil) or porrusalda (leek and potato soup) coexist with the innovative new Basque cuisine, internationally recognized with numerous Michelin stars for its balance between aesthetics and flavor.
Beyond the restaurants, the culinary culture is lived in every corner: from pintxos, authentic miniature treasures, to traditional cider houses and gastronomic societies where recipes and experiences are shared. Visiting local markets is the best way to discover the origin of these products and connect with the culinary essence of Euskadi.
Wine tourism
In the south of Euskadi, Rioja Alavesa unfolds a landscape of vineyards that transforms with each season, amidst ancient olive trees, prehistoric remains, and charming medieval villages. Its microclimate and privileged geography have made this land one of the most recognized wine regions in the world, with a tradition dating back to Roman times.
The wineries of Rioja Alavesa are a reflection of its essence, where history and innovation intertwine. From medieval cellars to imposing cutting-edge buildings, each space tells a unique story about wine. Beyond the prestigious Denomination of Origin Qualified Rioja, Euskadi offers three more denominations to discover txakoli, a fresh and vibrant wine, perfect for pairing with fish, Idiazabal cheese, and fresh produce from the garden.
Cities
The three capitals of Euskadi —Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz— offer unique experiences and are close enough to visit in a few days. Bilbao, a symbol of modernity, has transformed from an industrial city into a cultural benchmark, with landmarks such as the Guggenheim Museum and its Old Town, where tradition and innovation coexist.
San Sebastián, with its iconic La Concha beach and Belle Époque legacy, is a gastronomic paradise with 18 Michelin stars and a strong tradition of cider-making, particularly the txotx. Vitoria-Gasteiz, on the other hand, preserves its medieval Old Town, with the Santa María Cathedral as its centerpiece, and stands out for its Green Ring, a natural oasis that earned it the title of European Green Capital in 2012.
Sea & coast
The coast of the Basque Country, with more than 250 kilometres of breathtaking landscapes, offers endless experiences. From charming fishing villages and beaches perfect for surfing, to imposing cliffs and natural areas of enormous geological and biodiversity value. Strolling through its fishing villages, you can enjoy its charming harbours and savour fresh seafood accompanied by a good txakoli.
The Basque Country is also home to emblematic monuments such as the Bizkaia Suspension Bridge, a World Heritage Site, and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, famous for its appearance in Game of Thrones. For nature lovers, the Basque Coast Geopark and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve are unmissable destinations, with unique landscapes, impressive cliffs and a rich biodiversity that make every visit an unforgettable experience.
Mountains & valleys
The Basque Country, with its humid climate and green landscapes, offers a perfect disconnection in its natural parks, just a stone’s throw from the big cities. Hiking trails, mountain biking centres, wetlands, caves and prehistoric remains invite you to explore nature, while small rural villages and Basque culture envelop you in a unique experience.
With nine natural parks, each with its own landscape and biodiversity, Euskadi is a paradise for nature lovers. Highlights include the Oma Forest, fusing art and nature, and the Añana Salt Valley, a salt mine with more than 7,000 years of history and an incomparable architectural and cultural heritage.
Pilgrimage: the Way of St. James and the Ignatian Way
The Way of St. James, a historic pilgrimage route, unfolds in the Basque Country through several variants. The Coastal Way, one of the oldest routes, runs along the coastline of Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia, blending coastal and rural landscapes. On the other hand, the Inland Route crosses Gipuzkoa and Alava, offering a rich diversity of landscapes.
The Ignatian Way recreates the journey of Saint Ignatius of Loyola from Azpeitia to Manresa, opening up a unique pilgrimage route which, in addition to being an experience of personal growth, allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and local gastronomy along the approximately 150 kilometres that cross the Basque Country.
