Thinking about spending a day outside Bilbao but unsure where to start? This popular tour takes you through some of the most iconic spots in the Basque Country—Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, and Gernika—for a mix of stunning scenery, local charm, and history. It’s a well-rated experience, but as with all tours, it’s not perfect for everyone.
What we love about this trip is how it combines breathtaking views with deep cultural insights. The hike up to Gaztelugatxe isn’t just a photo op; it’s a rewarding challenge with spectacular vistas. Plus, exploring Bermeo’s fishing village and Gernika’s poignant history offers a well-rounded taste of Basque life.
A possible consideration? The tour involves a moderate hike and a full day on the move, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activity. If you’re expecting a super relaxed, slow-paced day, you might find it a bit intense.
This trip is ideal for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see some of the Basque Country’s most famous sites without renting a car. It’s a balanced mix—just keep your walking shoes handy.
Key Points
- Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic hikes, historical visits, and charming villages.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are often praised for their passion, storytelling, and multilingual skills.
- Value for Money: At $79, it offers a lot—tickets, entry fees, and transportation are included.
- Active Element: Hiking to Gaztelugatxe is a highlight but requires some physical effort.
- Small Group Feel: Likely a small, intimate tour that enhances the experience.
- Weather Considerations: Tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
What to Expect on This Trip
This tour from Bilbao is designed to give you a taste of the Basque Country’s natural beauty and rich history, all in one manageable day. It’s a full 8-hour experience, making it a good option if you want an active, informative day that covers several key spots without feeling rushed.
Morning Launch and Departure
Your day begins outside the Meliá Bilbao hotel—there are two pickup options, which gives some flexibility. The tour starts around 9:20 am, so plan to arrive slightly early. The driver and guide will quickly review the plan, so you’re ready to roll.
The Journey to Gaztelugatxe
The first major stop is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which you’ll reach after about 75 minutes of comfortable bus travel. This rocky islet, with its winding stone bridge and tiny chapel at the top, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Basque region. It’s famous not only for its rugged beauty but also for its appearance in Game of Thrones.
What makes Gaztelugatxe special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the experience of walking up the grand steps to the top, surrounded by spectacular views on all sides. This hike takes approximately 2 hours round-trip, including some breaks, so be prepared for a decent walk. Reviewers have called it “challenging,” but also “worth every step” and praised the “breathtaking views.”
Bermeo: Charming Fishing Village
Next, after a quick 30-minute bus ride, you’ll visit Bermeo. This tiny fishing port is full of character—narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively harbor. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere and maybe snap some photos of the boats and coastline.
Many travelers enjoy this stop because it feels authentic and less touristy. During your free time, you can stroll around, maybe visit a local café, or just enjoy the maritime vibe. The guide will recommend some local spots to try Basque pintxos and seafood, which are highly praised in reviews.
More Great Tours NearbyGernika: A Town with Deep Roots
The final stop is Gernika, a town historically linked to Basque identity and symbolized by Picasso’s famous painting. Here, you’ll visit the Casa de Juntas, the seat of Basque political assembly, although access inside might be limited at times due to political or public happenings. You’ll get an outside view of the iconic Gernika Tree, a symbol of freedom and democracy.
This stop lasts about 45 minutes, enough to hear about its significance and see the outdoor monument. Tourists have appreciated the way guides explain the town’s emotional history, making it more than just a quick photo stop.
Returning to Bilbao
Your day wraps up with a 30-minute bus ride back to Bilbao, arriving at the original meeting point by around 6 pm. The tour is quite well-paced, with enough breaks to relax but also plenty of time on the move.
The Experience of the Guides and Group
From reviews, guides seem to be a major highlight of this tour. They’re praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to tell stories that make history come alive. Many mention guides speaking both English and Spanish fluently, which is a real plus if you’re expecting clear communication.
You’ll be in a small group, which makes it easier to ask questions and get personal attention. Once, a reviewer called their guide “incredible,” noting the guide’s ability to explain complex history in an engaging way. Others appreciated the guide’s helpful restaurant recommendations and tips on avoiding tourist traps.
Transportation and Comfort
Transport is in a minivan or bus, depending on group size. The journey is comfortable, but keep in mind the total duration includes travel time—about 75 minutes to the first stop, and similar times between sites. The seats aren’t assigned, so arrive early if you prefer a window seat.
What to Bring & Wear
Since the hike can be somewhat strenuous and weather unpredictable, wear sturdy shoes and bring a bottle of water. Comfortable clothes are also recommended, especially if you plan to do the hike. The weather can vary, so dress in layers and be prepared for rain.
Food and Drinks
Lunch isn’t included, but the guide will suggest spots for you to try local Basque cuisine. You’ll want to budget extra for food, especially if you want to take your time in Bermeo or Gernika.
Cost and Value
At $79 per person, the tour offers good value considering all included tickets, transportation, and the knowledge-packed guides. Some reviewers mention that for the price, they got a very full day of sightseeing and learning, which is hard to beat.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience suits those who enjoy active outings, like hiking and walking, and are interested in culture and history. It’s especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning transport or tickets.
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Gaztelugatxe alone makes it worth the trip. History buffs will appreciate the Gernika visit, while food lovers can indulge in local Pintxos during free time.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed, sit-back day, this might be less suitable, given the physical elements involved.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation, whether by minivan or bus, depending on the group size.
Are tickets to Gaztelugatxe included?
Absolutely—your guide handles all necessary tickets and entry fees for the sites.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activity. It’s not explicitly designed for young children or those with mobility issues.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a passport, and a bottle of water. No food or drinks are provided.
Will I get enough time at each stop?
Yes, reviews suggest there’s a good balance of guided visits and free time, especially in Bermeo and Gernika.
Is it a small group or large bus?
It depends on the group size, but generally, it’s a small to medium group, making for a more personal experience.
From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo and Gernika Day Trip
“We enjoyed our trip, our lovely guide Maider was very informative and told us about the places we were visiting and about the Basque culture, it wa…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an immersive day in the Basque Country with a mix of nature, history, and authentic local flavor, this tour really delivers. The guides seem passionate, the sights are stunning, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell. It’s especially ideal for those who want a structured yet active day without the hassle of logistics.
On the flip side, be prepared for some walking and a busy schedule—if you prefer a laid-back, slow-paced trip, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a well-rounded, memorable adventure, this day trip from Bilbao is a solid choice.
It’s a great way to get outside the city, see the iconic Gaztelugatxe, and deepen your understanding of Basque culture—all in one well-organized experience.
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