Things to Do in Basque Country

On the banks of the Bidasoa river, sheltered by Mount Rhune’s austere peak, Hondarribia is one of the most picturesque towns on the Basque coast. Close to the French border, just east of San Sebastián, this lovely walled fishing village is enjoying a gastronomical moment, with an explosion of noteworthy restaurants.

Connected to the Basque coast by a narrow stone bridge and winding staircase, the small islet of Gaztelugatxe resembles a castle rising out of the sea. The rocky outcrop is home to a small hermitage with a modest monastery and chapel at its peak. Ringing the hermitage bell three times is believed to bring good luck and chase away evil.

Off the coast ofxa0San Sebastián’s La Concha Beach, Santa Clara Island is a lovely spot to take a break from the crowded beaches of the city. About 435 yards (400 meters) in length, the quiet island has paths that lead to the uninhabited lighthouse near the peak, offering wonderful views of Old Town.

Of the two headlands that bookend San Sebastian’s La Concha Bay, Monte Urgull to the east was an especially important defensive site, starting in the 12th century. Today, Monte Urgull draws visitors for its views of the city and bay, La Concha and Ondarreta beaches, Santa Clara Island, and Monte Igueldo, the western headland.

Inspired by the Paris Opera House and named after the "Mozart of Spain"—Juan Crisóstomo Arriaga—the 19th-century Arriaga Theater (Teatro Arriaga) is a lavish neo-baroque building. Here, catch a play, opera, or dance recital in the 1,200-seat theater, which is dominated by plush red velvet seating, elaborate crown molding, and gold detailing.

Sheltered by Monte Urgull and looking out to La Concha Bay, the Aquarium San Sebastián has over 30 tanks, each one a unique habitat suited to myriad and amazing sea creatures. Work your way through to the hypnotic 360-degree clear tunnel where some 40 species of fish, bull sharks, turtles, stingrays, giant eels, and jellyfish swim through.

One of Spain’s most prestigious theaters, Victoria Eugenia Theater is also one of the most beautiful buildings in San Sebastián. This gorgeous Belle Époque sandstone venue overlooking the Urumea River boasts a dazzling interior with golden balconies, ceiling frescoes, luminous chandeliers, and sumptuous red velvet chairs. Expect a varied program of cinema, dance, theatre, and musical performances.

Part cosmopolitan seaside resort, part laid-back surf town, Biarritz has been one of Europe’s top summertime destinations for centuries. With pristine sandy beaches, luxurious villas, a trendy French-Basque food scene, and some of the best surf in Europe, Biarritz is a true gem on the Atlantic Coast.

Along the rocky coastline of Basque Country, long waves sweep onto the shores of this fishing village that make it an internationally famous surf spot. Sand banks created by the nearby river result in some of the longest barrel waves that are known to surfers worldwide. The small town was once a site of the World Championship of Surfing, but with its medieval houses and fisherman’s dwellings facing the sea it’s worth a visit even if you aren’t planning on getting in the water.

Mundaka is located within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, with a charming old town, fresh seafood, and a scenic harbor to explore. Take lunch in one of the many cafes, perhaps with an ocean view, and note that local sea bass is a favorite. Even if you’re not there just for the famous surf conditions, you can always watch the surfers as they take on the unique sets of waves.

At the base of Mount Urgull, San Sebastián’s must-see San Telmo Museum dives into the heritage of the Basque people, from Neolithic times to the present. Housed in a 16th-century Renaissance monastery, collection highlights include archaeological artifacts, 11 murals by José María Sert, oil paintings by El Greco and Joaquín Sorolla, and rare photographs.

Straddling the Nervión River and connecting two of the city’s most popular attractions—the Guggenheim and Artxanda Funicular—the futuristic, steel cable–suspended Zubizuri Bridge is an architecturally notable landmark. Visit after dark to see the Santiago Calatrava–designed footbridge light up.

A bustling Bilbao transport hub, Moyua Square (Plaza Moyúa) combines manicured flowerbeds with ample seating to turn a simple roundabout into a much-loved meeting point. Admire the surrounding buildings, such as the 20th-century Palacio Chávarri and Hotel Carlton, or use the square as a jumping-off point for further exploration of the city and beyond.

Culture and leisure combine at the multipurpose Azkuna Zentroa, Bilbao’s former wine warehouse-turned-cultural center. Behind its 20th-century facade you’ll now find a glut of artistic, literary, and educational offerings including an arthouse cinema, on-site restaurant, library, fitness center, and more. Meanwhile, the 43 pillars, each one with a different design, are notable highlights of the Philippe Starck–designed interior.

Located in the Urola River Valley in Spain’s northern Basque Country, the Sanctuary of Loyola is a basilica and shrine dedicated to the life of beloved Spanish Basque Catholic priest, St. Ignatius of Loyola. The sanctuary’s impressive architecture and idyllic surroundings draw religious pilgrims and secular visitors from around the world.