
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Bilbao, Spain
1. San Sebastian
A charming coastal city known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.
- Beach Bliss: Offers some of the best beaches in Spain, perfect for sunbathing or surfing
- Gastronomic Delight: Home to more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other city.
- Picturesque Scenery: Boasts beautiful mountain and ocean views, making for stunning photos.
2. Getaria
A picturesque fishing village with a rich history and a breathtaking bay.
- Famous Whaling Museum: Home to the whale skeleton of a giant squid, one of the largest in the world.
- Traditional Basque Cuisine: Known for its pulpo a la gallega (octopus dish) and other seafood specialties.
- Quaint Harbor: A peaceful harbor with colorful fishing boats, ideal for leisurely strolls.
3. Hondarribia
An idyllic town offering stunning sea views and a charming historic center.
- Historic Old Town: Features beautifully preserved medieval streets and traditional Basque architecture.
- Seafood Paradise: Famous for its fresh seafood, especially grilled fish and succulent seafood paellas.
- Wine Tasting: Close proximity to several wineries offering tastings of local Txakolina wine.
4. Zarautz
A bustling seaside town popular for its long sandy beaches and surfing opportunities.
- Surf's Up: Considered one of the best surf spots in Europe, with consistent waves.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Known for its lively bars and nightclubs, especially during summer.
- Festival Fun: Hosts the annual Zarautz Korrontzi Rock Festival, attracting international acts.
5. Hondarrabulu Natural Park
A stunning natural park offering hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Features a network of well-marked trails for all skill levels.
- Wildlife Watching: Home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, wild boar, and bird species.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers picturesque landscapes perfect for capturing stunning photos.
6. Zumaia
A scenic coastal town with distinctive flysch rock formations and beautiful beaches.
- Flysch Formations: Features the unique and striking geological formations known as 'Flysch'.
- Beautiful Beaches: Offers several picturesque beaches, perfect for sunbathing or swimming.
- Nature Reserve: Home to the Zumaia-Olabarría Marine-Terrestrial Nature Reserve.
7. Mundaka
A charming coastal town famous for its surf culture and stunning beaches.
- World-Class Surfing Spot: Known for its world-class left-hand point break, attracting surfers from around the globe.
- Quaint Villages: Surrounded by several picturesque Basque villages, perfect for exploring.
- Festive Atmosphere: Hosts the annual Mundaka Surf Contest, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
8. Bermeo
A picturesque fishing town with a rich maritime history and a stunning bay.
- Historic Port: Features a well-preserved old harbor, showcasing traditional Basque architecture.
- Museum of the Sea: Offers insight into Bermeo's maritime history and local fishing traditions.
- Fresh Seafood Market: Boasts a bustling market selling fresh seafood, straight from the boats.
9. Lekeitio
A charming coastal town with a stunning beach, vibrant nightlife, and a lively festive atmosphere.
- Stunning Beach: Features a long sandy beach perfect for sunbathing or swimming.
- Lively Festivals: Hosts several festivals throughout the year, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
- Seafood Delights: Offers a variety of seafood dishes, especially grilled fish and fresh seafood paellas.
10. Lequeitio
A picturesque coastal town with a beautiful bay, stunning cliffs, and hiking opportunities.
- Stunning Cliffs: Features dramatic cliffs offering breathtaking views of the ocean.
- Hiking Trails: Offers several hiking trails, perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty.
- Traditional Villages: Surrounded by several traditional Basque villages, ideal for authentic experiences.
11. Orio
A peaceful coastal town with a beautiful beach and hiking opportunities.
- Serene Beach: Features a long sandy beach, perfect for relaxing or swimming.
- Hiking Trails: Offers several hiking trails, ideal for exploring the area's natural beauty.
- Secluded Hamlets: Surrounded by secluded hamlets offering a taste of traditional Basque life.
12. Arrastia
A scenic rural village offering hiking opportunities and picturesque landscapes.
- Stunning Landscapes: Features beautiful landscapes perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Hiking Trails: Offers several hiking trails, ideal for exploring the area's natural beauty.
- Authentic Basque Life: Provides a glimpse into traditional Basque life and customs.
13. Gernika-Lumo
A historic town with a rich cultural heritage and the famous Oak of Guernica.
- Historic Town: Features well-preserved Basque architecture and several historical monuments.
- Oak of Guernica: Houses the famous oak tree at the center of Pablo Picasso's painting, Guernica.
- Basque Cultural Center: Offers insight into Basque culture, history, and traditions.
14. Bilbao to Santander Ferry
A scenic ferry trip offering stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea and coastal towns.
- Stunning Coastal Views: Offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Cantabrian coastline.
- Relaxing Journey: A relaxing way to travel, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.
- Cultural Destination: Arrives in Santander, a charming coastal city with cultural attractions like the Palace of Felguería.
15. Itsasmiri Coast
A beautiful and secluded coastline perfect for peaceful getaways.
- Secluded Beaches: Offers several hidden beaches, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
- Natural Beauty: Features stunning landscapes with cliffs, coves, and sandy beaches.
- Traditional Fishing Villages: Surrounded by several traditional fishing villages offering authentic experiences.