How to spend 1 week in Basque Country? Basque Country is a stunning region of Spain located on the northern coast. It offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation. From hiking through majestic mountain ranges to sampling some of the best local cuisines in the world, here are our top recommendations for making the most out of one week in Basque Country.
Day 1: Get to Know the City of Bilbao
Begin your journey through Basque Country with a visit to the capital, Bilbao. Spend the day walking around and getting familiar with this picturesque city. Visit some iconic attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum and the Santiago Cathedral. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at one of the many tapas bars or taste some pintxos, small snacks served with a toothpick.
Day 2: Explore La Rioja Wine Region
To spend 1 week in Basque Country. Take a day trip out to the La Rioja wine region, one of Spain’s oldest and most renowned. The area is filled with rolling hills, vineyards, and stunning medieval architecture. Take a wine-tasting tour to sample some of the region’s best vintages and learn more about their history.
Day 3: Visit the Beach at San Sebastian
Head to San Sebastian for a day to spend time on its beautiful beaches. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and simply lounging in the sand. Don’t forget to grab some lunch at one of the many local eateries situated around the beachfront.
Day 4: Pamplona-Navarra Region
Take a day trip out to Navarra region, located just east of Bilbao. Here you’ll find a variety of old-world villages, beautiful rolling hills, and some of Spain’s most iconic castles. While in Navarra, take a tour of Bodegas Ysios, one of the region’s top producers of red wine.
Day 5: Picos de Europa Mountain Range
To spend 1 week in Basque Country. Head to the Picos de Europa mountain range for a day of adventure. Here you can participate in activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and even rock climbing. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you- the views from here are breathtaking!
Day 6: Relax in Hondarribia
Take some time to relax and unwind in the picturesque village of Hondarribia. This fishing village is nestled on the border between Spain and France, making it a unique place to explore. Spend the day strolling along its cobblestone streets, exploring local shops, or simply sitting back and enjoying the views.
Day 7: Visit Gernika
On your last day in Basque Country, make a trip to the historic town of Gernika. Pay your respects at the Tree of Gernika and learn more about this site’s importance to the Basque people. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants before returning home.
Basque Country is an unforgettable destination for any traveler with its stunning scenery, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Use this guide to help you make the most of one week in this beautiful region of Spain- you won’t regret it!
How Can You Say Hello In Basque?
The traditional way of saying hello in Basque is “Kaixo.” Although there are other ways of saying hello, this is the most commonly used phrase. Try it out on your trip to Basque Country- you’ll surely receive a warm welcome!
Have an amazing time exploring all that Basque Country has to offer!
Is San Sebastian a Walkable City?
Yes, San Sebastian is a walkable city. Its compact size and flat terrain make it easy to explore on foot. There are plenty of pedestrian paths throughout the city, and many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Additionally, the beaches of La Concha and Ondarreta can be easily accessed by walking along the boardwalk.
San Sebastian is also incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes for cyclists throughout the town. This makes it easy to get around and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
What Differences Is In Between Donostia and San Sebastian?
Donostia is the Basque name for San Sebastian. The two names refer to the same city, but locals use Donostia more commonly, and it has become an accepted alternative name for San Sebastian. Both names are derived from the root word “don,” meaning “saint” in Spanish.
That said, there are a few slight differences between the two names. For instance, Donostia is usually used for official purposes and branding, while San Sebastian tends to be used more colloquially. Additionally, many locals prefer Donostia over San Sebastian as it reminds them of their Basque heritage.
Despite these minor differences, both names refer to the same beautiful city in the Basque Country.
What Are Some Festivals Celebrated in San Sebastian?
San Sebastian is home to various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from film to music and culture. One of the most popular festivals is Aste Nagusia (or Big Week) which takes place in mid-August every year. This week, locals and visitors will enjoy lively parades, music concerts, traditional Basque sports tournaments, and more.
How Was G Pronounced In Basque?
G is pronounced differently in Basque than in English. Instead of being pronounced as a hard “g” sound, it is pronounced as a soft “h,” similar to the Spanish “j.” So instead of saying “go,” the pronunciation would be more like “ho.” This rule applies to all words containing the letter G, including names and places.
For example, “Gernika” would be pronounced as “Hernika,” and “Garazi” would be pronounced as “Harazi.” Practice saying these words to get used to the Basque way of speaking!
Although it may seem tricky initially, you’ll soon realize that speaking in Basque can be quite enjoyable.
How To Cheers In Basque?
The traditional way to cheer in Basque is “Topa,” which translates to “cheers” or “good luck.” It is customary for people to raise a glass and say “Topa” before drinking. You can also use the phrase when making a toast, wishing someone good luck, or expressing gratitude.
So next time you’re in Basque Country, raise your glass and say, “Topa!” It’ll be sure to make a great impression on the locals.
Are There Any Special Foods To Try In Basque Country?
Yes, there are a variety of traditional dishes and delicacies that you should try while in Basque Country. Some classic dishes include Gilda, a tapa made of olives, guindilla peppers, and anchovies; Bacalao al Pil-Pil, salted cod cooked in olive oil; Pintxos, a variety of small snacks served on toothpicks; and Txacoli, a dry white wine.
Final Words
Exploring the Basque Country is a fantastic way to get a taste of this unique region of Spain. From the vibrant festivals in San Sebastian to the historic sites of Gernika and Bilbao, there’s something for everyone here. Take some time to learn the language and explore the culture- you won’t regret it!
