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Flavors and Culture of the Basque Country

Traditions and spectacular landscapes in a foodie paradise

Layers of Flavor and History in the Basque Country

Situated along Spain’s northern coast, with France just over the Pyrenees, The Basque Country offers a striking contrast of mountains, rugged cliffs, and the deep blue of the Bay of Biscay. The landscape is wild, lush, and surprisingly dramatic, dotted with traditional farmhouses and small fishing villages.

The Basque people speak Euskera, an ancient language with roots so old that its origins are still a mystery. It’s thought to be the oldest living language in Europe, a living link to the distant past.

But what truly stands out here is the food. The Basque have been fishermen and farmers for centuries, and their culinary heritage reflects that deep connection to the land and sea. Today, it’s a food lover’s paradise. With more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world, cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián are the heart of a thriving gastronomic scene. From casual pintxos bars to world-class dining, the Basque Country offers something for every palate.

Ready to taste some of the best food in the world while surrounded by unforgettable scenery? Come and experience it for yourself.

What's included

  • 7+ days in a personally selected, centrally located apartment in the city of Bilbao.
  • Suggestions for booking your international flight from the U.S. to Bilbao, or we can purchase tickets on your behalf (See UnTours' air policies).
  • Private shuttle to and from the airport.
  • A card for all means of local transportation (metro, bus, train and tram) worth for the whole week.
  • An orientation session with your local UnGuide, to start your visit on the right foot and answer all of your questions about day trips and sightseeing.
  • Included activity: A food tour in San Sebastian - a foodie paradise - with an emphasis on local culture.
  • A farewell dinner in a traditional restaurant in Bilbao.
  • A stash of groceries upon your arrival, so you don’t need to shop right away.
  • Exclusive local information on our UnTours travel app for your mobile phone to have all of our recommendations at your fingertips before and throughout your trip - researched and written by UnTours staff on the ground in the Basque Country and full of the best restaurants, sightseeing options, and other suggestions.
  • Pre-trip planning advice from our staff, available by phone or email right up until you leave.
  • Ongoing support with our local representative. Help available when you need it.

Arrival to Bilbao

Ongi etorri! Your Basque Country UnTour begins with a smooth arrival at Bilbao or San Sebastian airport—both refreshingly manageable in size and easy to navigate. Upon landing, your rental car will be ready, so you can seamlessly set off on your first drive through the Basque countryside.

The journey to Bilbao offers a glimpse of the region’s striking landscapes: verdant hills, winding rivers, and the unique blend of old-world charm and modern touches that define this part of northern Spain. Settle in and get ready for a trip that combines history, culture, and some of the best cuisine in the world.

Included activity: Food tour in San Sebastian

In the Basque Country, tapas take on a unique form known as pintxos—bite-sized creations often skewered with toothpicks. You’ll spend a day in San Sebastian with your UnGuide, who will introduce you to the city’s highlights and lead you on a curated pintxos tour through the old quarter. With over a thousand bars in the city, your journey will feature only the best, showcasing expertly crafted dishes and local drinks.

Soak in the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of this foodie haven as you savor traditional bites and inventive twists. San Sebastian isn’t just a city; it’s a world-class culinary destination where every palate, no matter how refined, will be delighted. A day of pintxos hopping here is an experience that truly captures the spirit of the Basque lifestyle.

Optional activity: Guided visit to the Guggenheim museum

The Guggenheim Museum is one of Bilbao’s defining landmarks and a symbol of the city’s transformation. Designed by Frank Gehry, its striking architecture has made it a modern masterpiece and the most visited site in Bilbao year after year. With a local guide specializing in art, you’ll gain deeper insights into the museum’s innovative design and impressive collection, making your visit both enriching and unforgettable.

Don’t forget to meet Puppy, the museum’s floral guardian. Standing over 40 feet tall, this whimsical sculpture is covered with 40,000 vibrant flowers, adding a playful and colorful contrast to the Guggenheim’s sleek design. Puppy has become a beloved icon of Bilbao—a photo-worthy stop on any visit.

Optional Activity: Day Trip and Winery Visits in La Rioja

La Rioja is one of Spain’s most renowned wine regions, with a portion of it belonging geographically to the Basque Country. This optional excursion is a highly recommended addition to your Basque Country UnTour.

Travel in the comfort of a private vehicle to this exceptional region, where your UnGuide will introduce you to its highlights. Take in sweeping vineyard views from stunning lookout points, explore charming medieval villages, and enjoy guided visits to select wineries. Along the way, you’ll sample some of the region’s finest wines and savor a traditional meal at a local restaurant—a perfect pairing of La Rioja’s rich history and culinary heritage.

Gather for a memorable farewell dinner

Every journey has its end, and today marks the final chapter of your Basque UnTour. Your final day is yours to soak in the last moments of the region’s beauty and culture. Your UnGuide will share tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your time—whether it’s revisiting a favorite spot, exploring something new, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Basque Country.

An UnTour to this region wouldn’t be complete without a fitting culinary sendoff. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a thoughtfully chosen venue. Share stories and laughter as you enjoy one last celebration of Basque cuisine—a delicious conclusion to your unforgettable journey.

Departure day

It’s time to say goodbye to the Basque Country. If your schedule allows, consider a last leisurely coffee or a quick stroll to take in one last glimpse of the Basque landscape. After savoring your final morning, pack up your memories and head to the airport to return your rental car. Your UnGuide will have ensured all the details are in place for a smooth departure.

As you make your way home, take with you the flavors, sights, and spirit of the Basque Country—a place that’s sure to linger in your heart long after you’ve left.

Available Accommodations

Location

+ 9

Bilbao - The Basque Country

Founded in 1300, Bilbao started as a modest settlement of seven streets, which still form the heart of its atmospheric old quarter. Over centuries, the city has evolved from pastoral farmland into a thriving industrial hub by the 18th century. Its industrial identity held strong for over a century, but as industries waned in the late 20th century, the city took a bold turn.

Determined to reinvent itself, Bilbao embraced art, architecture, and urban renewal. The Guggenheim Museum, unveiled in 1997, marked a pivotal moment in the city’s transformation. This architectural masterpiece not only put Bilbao on the global map but also set the stage for its revival. Today, Bilbao is a beacon of modern urban planning, earning accolades like the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize in 2010—often called the “Nobel Prize for cities”—and being named the Best European City by the Academy of Urbanism in 2018.

This medium-sized city offers plenty to explore, from the rolling green mountains that cradle it to the inviting walkways along the estuary. Stroll through its historic streets, soak up the blend of old and new architecture, and savour some of the Basque Country’s most celebrated dishes at every turn.

Reviews

Here's what our guests have to say

Patrica Jane Mckenzie

★★★★★

I learned a lot about the Basque culture. Bilbao is a wonderful city and Jon was the best guide ever.

Janet Farrell

★★★★★

After a thorough orientation with Jon, there were so many possibilities for exploration, many using the Vamoos app. Our transportation card gave us access to all the places we wanted to explore. The apartment was well located near the Guggenheim museum and within walking distance of the metro, buses and tram. A trip to San Sebastián was a delight with the pintxo tour and the beautiful beach. The most memorable outing for me was the trip to Guernica and the Peace Museum learning about the terrible targeted bombing of the town in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War. The story was told in graphic detail and firsthand accounts which was very moving. The resolve of the survivors to work for peace is inspiring. Being able to easily plan what we wanted to experience and when is an important asset of UnTours, providing much more flexibility than planned group travel programs. UnTours has found a way to offer an array of offerings without being overwhelming and the assurance of assistance as needed. Jon is an integral part of making the Bilbao UnTour exceptional. "What did you like best?": Jon’s expertise in every area. The philosophy and positive impact of the UnTours Foundation.

Jeanne Archuleta

★★★★★

Wonderful trip! Great location of the apartment and our Unguide Jon was marvelous!

Brenda Black

It was a great trip! The Peace Museum in Guernika is a must see!

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Andrés Jimenez

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What a privilege it has been to work for a company with such loyal customers and such a consistency between its values and the work we do.