15 Day Trips From Bilbao
1. San Sebastian
- San Sebastian is known for its amazing food, particularly pintxos, and beautiful coastal views.
- Just an hour’s drive from Bilbao.
2. Rioja Wine Region
- A must-visit for wine enthusiasts, offering a day of wine tasting.
- Accessible within a couple of hours’ drive from Bilbao.
3. Santillana del Mar
- Charming medieval village in Cantabria with a car park just outside the town.
- Home to the Collegiate Church, a top Romanesque religious monument.
4. Comillas
- A hidden gem for architecture enthusiasts, featuring Gaudi’s El Capricho and Sobrellano Palace.
- Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes by car from Bilbao.
5. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- Offers stunning natural views and featured in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
- About 40 minutes drive from Bilbao.
6. Enchanted Forest of Oma
- A mix of art and nature, located in the Udaibai Biosphere Reserve.
- Accessible within 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
7. Onati and Sanctuary of Arantzazu
- Features a futuristic Franciscan monastery and the first modern religious building in Europe.
- Close to the Arrikrutz Caves and Aizkorri-Araat Natural Park.
8. Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Spain’s Green and Gastronomy Capital with a rich medieval quarter and Gothic cathedral.
- Home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria and notable for its street art murals.
9. Getaria
- Famous for its sparkling white wine, txakoli, and birthplace of Cristobal Balenciaga.
- Accessible in about an hour by car.
10. Pamplona
- Known for the Running of the Bulls and San Fermin Festival, and a historical city center.
- Features Gothic architecture and is a stop on the Camino de Santiago.
11. Castro Urdiales
- A coastal town in Cantabria with a Gothic church and medieval bridge.
- About 30 minutes drive from Bilbao.
12. Lekeitio
- A fishing village with a beautiful harbor, Gothic church, and crescent moon-shaped beach.
- Features San Nicholas Island accessible during low tide.
13. Gernica
- Historically significant town, home to the Biscay Assembly House and Guernica Tree.
- Near the Enchanted Forest of Oma, about 30 minutes by car from Bilbao.
14. Santander
- A city with a mix of history, culture, fresh seafood, and beaches like Playa de la Magdalena.
- Home to the modern Centro Botin designed by Renzo Piano.
15. Haro
- A wine town in the heart of La Rioja region, ideal for a weekend wine trip.
- Features historic wineries and nearby castles for exploration.