Vizcaya Bridge, San Juan De Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo & Gernika

Exploring Bilbao and Its Surroundings: An Honest Look at the Vizcaya Bridge, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo & Gernika Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bilbao and want to get a taste of the Basque Country’s beauty, history, and charm, this half-day guided tour could be just what you need. It’s perfect for first-timers who want to see a handful of iconic sights without spending the whole day on the road. From stunning bridges to picturesque fishing villages, this excursion packs in a lot while keeping the pace manageable.

What we particularly like about this tour is the blend of impressive engineering, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks—plus, you get the benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can make the history come alive. The stops at Vizcaya Bridge and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe are unforgettable, offering some of the best views and photo ops around. On the downside, it can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen on exploring each spot more deeply or taking your time at each location.

This tour suits those who enjoy a structured itinerary with a mix of nature, history, and small-town charm. If you’re looking for a compact overview of the Basque Country with ease of transportation and some tasty local bites included, it’s a solid pick. Just be aware that it’s not designed for slow walkers or those wanting extensive free time at each site.

Key Points

• Ideal for first-time visitors to Bilbao who want a quick but comprehensive look at the region.
• Includes a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vizcaya Bridge, offering a unique engineering marvel.
• Visits a famous Game of Thrones filming location, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, for fans and nature lovers.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics easier.
• A tasting of local pintxos adds a tasty touch to the experience.
• Limited walking involved, so it’s good for those who prefer bus comfort over extensive hikes.

Diving Into the Itinerary: What to Expect

Vizcaya Bridge: A Marvel of Industry and Views

The tour kicks off with a visit to Puente Colgante Vizcaya, a true icon of 19th-century engineering. This UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a beautiful bridge; it’s a pioneering transshipment bridge from 1893 that still dazzles visitors today. Connecting Portugalete and Getxo, it features a suspended platform that ships can pass underneath, and the structure’s intricate metalwork is a sight to behold.

For us, the real draw was the panoramic views from afar—seeing the bridge’s grandeur against the backdrop of the Basque coast. Since admission tickets aren’t included, you might want to plan a quick look from the outside or research if you’d like to explore more closely. One review praised it as a “gem of industrial engineering,” and we totally agree—this is a stop that’s worth setting your camera to burst mode.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: Nature and Pop Culture Collide

Next, the tour moves to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a stunning rocky islet crowned by a hermitage dedicated to John the Baptist. The views here are breathtaking, with the Bay of Biscay stretching in all directions. Its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and the winding staircase leading up to the hermitage make for incredible photos.

This spot gained extra fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones, where it represented Dragonstone. If you’re a fan of the series, this adds an extra layer of excitement to the visit. Keep in mind, the tour only includes a 15-minute stop, and there’s no time allocated to walk all the way up to the hermit. So, if you’re eager to hike to the top, you might need to revisit on your own later.

Bermeo: A Quaint Coastal Town

The charming fishing village of Bermeo is next on the list. Known for its maritime history, colorful buildings, and lively port, it’s the kind of place that feels like stepping back in time. The narrow streets, the scent of fresh seafood, and the bustling harbor make it a picture-perfect stop.

Here, you’ll get to taste a local gourmet pintxo—a small snack typical of Basque cuisine. Reviewers have highlighted how this stop is a highlight, describing it as a “pintxo tasting” that adds flavor to the day. The 40-minute visit gives enough time for a quick stroll and a bite, but be prepared that there’s no extensive free time.

Gernika: Heart of Basque Identity

Finally, the tour takes you to Gernika, a town loaded with historical significance. You’ll see the Casa de Juntas, where Basque assemblies were traditionally held, and view the Tree of Gernika, a symbol of Basque freedom and rights. The building itself is beautiful, and the museum provides context about its role in Basque history.

However, due to capacity limitations, sometimes entrance to the Casa de Juntas isn’t guaranteed, and visitors might only see the Gernika tree from outside. Still, even from afar, it’s a powerful symbol, and the visit offers a meaningful look at Basque resilience and culture.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan or bus, making the roughly 5-hour experience comfortable. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, so you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or finding meeting points. Group sizes typically stay on the smaller side, usually up to 50 travelers, which helps in keeping the experience intimate and manageable.

The timing is tight, which some travelers appreciate for seeing many sights in a short window. But if you’re someone who likes to linger or take long photos, the schedule might feel rushed. One reviewer mentioned that “the schedule is very tight and smooth,” so be ready for a busy but well-organized trip.

The Cost: Is It Good Value?

At around $69.39 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the number of sites covered. The inclusion of hotel pickup, a guide, transportation, and a pintxo tasting makes it an attractive package for travelers wanting a hassle-free day out. Keep in mind that some attractions require separate admission, which isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The Pros and Cons, Based on Feedback

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with descriptions like “Gorka has a wealth of knowledge” and “Josu was friendly, knowledgeable, clear.” Their enthusiasm and insight seem to make the experience more memorable.

On the flip side, a few travelers found the pace too hurried or were disappointed with the limited free time. One review specifically noted that “the tour was very tight,” and others felt some stops could be more leisurely.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes—especially if you want to explore San Juan de Gaztelugatxe or walk around Gernika.
• Bring a camera and some snacks, as the tour doesn’t include meal stops, but you’ll appreciate the photo opportunities.
• Hold onto your ticket and confirmation, as check-in can sometimes be busy.
• If you’re interested in exploring San Juan de Gaztelugatxe further, consider a solo visit later, since the tour only offers a brief stop.
• Be prepared for weather—the tour goes rain or shine, so bring an umbrella or sun protection as needed.
• Inform the guide of any food restrictions at the start, especially since a local pintxo is included.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re after a well-organized, informative experience that hits key sights in a manageable timeframe, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting to see a UNESCO bridge, a Game of Thrones location, and charming Basque villages all in one go. The inclusion of local food and hotel pickup adds to its appeal, making it a practical choice.

However, if you prefer to spend more time at each site or love spontaneous exploring, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s also not ideal if you have mobility issues, as the tour involves some walking and limited free time to linger.

This 5-hour guided trip offers a good balance of sightseeing, culture, and comfort for travelers looking for a snapshot of the Basque Country with minimal hassle.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Bilbao.

How long is the tour? It lasts about 5 hours, including travel time and stops. Expect a busy schedule with limited free time.

Are tickets to the attractions included? No, the admission to Vizcaya Bridge and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe are not included, so plan to pay separately if desired.

Can I visit the hermit at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe? The tour only stops for 15 minutes, which isn’t enough for a full hike. If you’re eager to climb, plan a separate visit.

Is the tour suitable for children? The description doesn’t specify, but given the walking involved and limited free time, it’s better suited for older children or teens who can keep pace.

What’s included in the price? Guide, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a local pintxo tasting.

What about the group size? Smaller groups are typical, up to 50 travelers, which keeps the experience more personal.

Is it accessible for mobility-impaired travelers? No, the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility problems.

How is the guide? Reviews consistently praise guides like Gorka and Josu for their friendliness and knowledge.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some snacks or water for the road.

This tour is a well-rounded way to glimpse some of the Basque Country’s most iconic sights without the need to plan each detail yourself. It’s great for travelers who want a hassle-free, informative day with beautiful views and cultural insights—just remember it’s a fast-paced overview, not an in-depth exploration.