10 days in which local differences set the tone of the trip

Zarautz is a town on the Basque coast that can be enjoyed all year round. Its extensive beach – the longest in the Basque Country – and its combination of sea, nature and leisure activities make it the perfect destination for a family holiday. Stroll along the seafront amongst the outdoor sculptures, feel the energy of the waves that have turned this corner of the Basque coast into an international surfing hotspot, and take in the views of the coastal path that connects it to towns such as Getaria, Orio and Zumaia.

To try its cuisine is to savour its essence. Explore its bars and terraces to discover the pintxo tradition over a glass of txakoli, the white wine produced in vineyards overlooking the sea, which forms part of the identity of this coast.

You can also relax by taking a walk in a setting where the sea and nature meet at every turn. Walk along the footbridge that crosses the spectacular protected dune system, wander through vineyards and along coastal paths, or explore the Green-Blue Ring to discover one of the most original and surprising sides of Zarautz.

In Donostia/San Sebastián, the sea is part of every experience. Explore La Concha Bay, stroll along its city beaches and delve into its neighbourhoods, which are full of local life. Round off your visit at the San Telmo Museum or the Aquarium, or explore the city on themed walking tours that reveal its maritime character, cultural identity and innovative bent.

Savour Donostia/San Sebastián through its renowned cuisine. Surrender to the pintxo tradition in the city’s bars and taverns and enjoy a cuisine that has made the city an international benchmark. Amongst them all, the gilda – probably the city’s most iconic pintxo and a true symbol of San Sebastián’s culinary culture – stands out.

Santa Clara Island, in the heart of the bay, and Mount Igueldo offer spectacular panoramic views of the landscape and showcase its close connection with the sea. Donostia is a city that should be strolled around unhurriedly, sharing observations and picking up impressions at every turn.

Our route continues through Hondarribia and Irun, two destinations linked by the sea, the border and the flow of travellers and pilgrims down through history. Explore the historic centre and the ramparts of Hondarribia, take a stroll through the La Marina neighbourhood and soak up the seaside atmosphere of this town that opens straight onto the sea.

Follow the course of the Bidasoa and discover a region where nature and history go hand in hand. Explore the Txingudi estuary and bay, a haven for a wide variety of birds, and delve into Irun’s Roman past at the Oiasso Museum. And don’t forget to discover its chocolate making tradition, one of the most distinctive in the Basque Country.

Round off the experience by exploring footpaths, parks and viewpoints such as San Marcial, from where you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Txingudi Bay. Each with their own particular blend of sea, mountains, culture and nature, Hondarribia and Irun are the perfect way to round off your exploration of the area’s differences.

Vitoria-Gasteiz unfolds before the visitor in a city where you can feel the history as you walk through it. Stroll through the streets of the Medieval Almond, admire its Renaissance palaces, follow the route of the ancient city wall and visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary, where the “Open for Works” initiative offers a unique insight into one of Europe’s most distinctive and award-winning heritage restoration projects.

Let yourself go in the peaceful atmosphere of its squares and streets, enjoy a traditional “poteo” (hopping from bar to bar for drinks and pintxos) in the historic Ensanche district, and discover unique cultural venues such as the BIBAT, which combines two museums in one. Here, heritage, culture and cuisine are interwoven in every corner of the city.

For a change of pace and to commune with nature, explore the footpaths and wetlands surrounding the capital of Álava. Explore the Green Ring on foot or by bike, watch birds in the wild and discover why Vitoria-Gasteiz has become an international benchmark for sustainability, where nature is part of everyday life.

Our first day in Bilbao begins at the summit of Artxanda, an ideal vantage point from which to get a feel for the city, its relationship with the hills and the importance of the estuary. After taking the funicular down, the tour continues through Campo Volantín, Zubi Zuri, the Isozaki Towers and the Ibaigane Palace, until we reach the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. In the afternoon, Abandoibarra, the University of Deusto, the Euskalduna Palace and Azkuna Zentroa reveal a transformed, modern city, brimming with life.

The second day is devoted to a more historical Bilbao and its monuments. We start the day at the Basilica of Begoña and then continue down the Calzadas de Mallona towards the Old Town. The refurbished Basque Museum, Plaza Nueva, the Seven Streets, the Arriaga Theatre, Santiago Cathedral, San Antón and the Mercado de Ribera offer visitors the chance to discover the city’s traditional, commercial and gastronomic character. In the afternoon, the tour continues towards the Ensanche district, taking in Gran Vía, Plaza Elíptica, the Fine Arts Museum and Doña Casilda Park.

On the third day, we follow the course of the estuary to get an understanding of Bilbao’s connection with its port and industrial past. The tour may also include taking the metro or train to get close to the Bizkaia Bridge, a World Heritage Site, which symbolises the link between the two banks and the importance of the estuary to Bilbao’s economic and social development.