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Day tours from Bilbao, Spain
The Basque Country is truly a world of its own. It boasts natural beauty, vibrant cities, and welcoming people. It’s a region where culture, tradition, and modernity come together in perfect harmony, inviting us to learn, explore, and simply enjoy.
Every visit offers something new to see and discover, so you’ll always have a reason to come back. As someone who adores this part of Spain, I find myself visiting the Basque Country whenever possible—whether solo, with friends, or with my partner.
Each type of trip has its own charm: the peaceful solitude of a beach day, delicious pinchos with friends, or exploring unique spots as a couple. No matter what, the Basque Country and the area around Bilbao promise an unforgettable experience.
To help you make the most of your time, I’ve put together a list of 16-day trips from Bilbao that you can easily add to your itinerary. Each one is just a short drive away, so you can travel a few kilometers and find yourself in a stunning new landscape.
1. Vizcaya Suspension Bridge
We’ll start our route of must-see spots near Bilbao right within the city, at one of Spain’s greatest feats of industrial architecture: the Vizcaya Suspension Bridge (also known as the Portugalete Bridge, among other names). This is the world’s first transporter bridge and one of only eight still in operation today.
Built between 1887 and 1893, the bridge serves as a toll ferry, still fully operational after more than a century. Spanning the Bilbao estuary, it connects the neighborhoods of Las Arenas and Portugalete in Vizcaya, Spain. Designed by engineer Alberto de Palacio y Elissague, the bridge was originally intended to provide Bilbao’s 19th-century bourgeoisie easy access to local seaside resorts and spas.
You can cross from Las Arenas to Portugalete on foot or by car, offering a unique and scenic way to move between the two banks of the estuary.
🛏️ If you still don’t have accommodation in the city, you can choose Hotel Hesperia. If you need more info, these posts about where to sleep in Bilbao and the best hotels in Bilbao will help you.
2. Butron Castle
We came across Butrón Castle entirely by mistake. It’s not very well marked, and back when I first discovered it, it wasn’t something you’d typically find in travel guides (perhaps that’s changed now).
This neo-Gothic fortress, with its medieval origins, is just a few kilometers from Bilbao in Urduliz. Its dramatic architecture feels like something out of a Disney fairytale—or, depending on your perspective, a scene from a Dracula movie.
Butrón Castle has been designated as a historical heritage site, though it’s currently closed to the public. The caretaker told us that it’s owned by a Russian investment fund, but they haven’t shared any plans for its future yet.
Even though we couldn’t go inside, the castle itself is absolutely spectacular. Wandering around and discovering its unique charm was a delightful experience.
3. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, one of the best day trips from Bilbao
This place was always a must-see place in the Basque Country but not more so after appearing in Game of Thrones as Dragonstone Island. But San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is much more than that. It is an impressive islet located in Bermeo connected to the mainland by a bridge with two arches.
Besides the island itself and the bridge, the most curious thing is the 10th-century hermitage in the center of the islet. To visit all this, you will have to climb 241 steps… are you ready? The effort will be worth it, and if not, you can always go a little further to different viewpoints enabled to glimpse the islet.
Admission is free, and it takes about 2 hours to go up the stairs and visit it. Depending on when you visit, you may need to book a reservation ticket. This is the case on days with restricted access (summer months, holidays, and some weekends). Reservations can be made here.
You can also go to the Matxixaco lighthouse, from which you will have a unique view.
Finally, you can go perfectly on your own if you have your own vehicle, but if not, this organized day trip to Gaztelugatxe will make it very easy for you.
💡 Another excellent day trip from Bilbao, especially if you’re interested in exploring the main attractions along the coast, is this tour along the Basque coast. It includes visits to Gaztelugatxe, Getxo, Butrón Castle, Mungia, Bermeo, Gernika, and more.
4. Bermeo
Bermeo is one of my favorite towns in the Basque Country, along with Sopelana. I first visited the town back in 2020, during my solo trip “hunting lighthouses.” The town immediately captivated me with its seafaring spirit.
Bermeo’s port, one of the busiest and most significant in the Bay of Biscay, gives the town its unique character. The rich history and the warmth of the locals, who shared so much about the town’s past, left a lasting impression on me.
While there, a visit to the port is a must, where you can explore the Ortube tuna boat, the last remaining wooden tuna vessel in town. Don’t miss the Plaza de Sabino Arana, the Fisherman’s Museum, and the sculptures scattered around the historic center. The Convent of San Francisco and the Puerta de San Juan are also key landmarks to see—all easily reachable within the town center.
Before leaving, make sure to indulge in some delicious pintxos at the port. I did this while jotting down notes in my journal, enjoying the solitude of the moment. The sea breeze, the tasty pintxos, and the friendly locals made for a truly memorable experience.
5. Lekeitio
Further ahead, we will go to Lekeitio, a small coastal village in Vizcaya situated on the sides of Monte Otoio. It has lots to offer, and I am confident that you will enjoy the town. In the heart of Lekeitio, you can find the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, the Town Hall, the Monastery of Santo Domingo, the Church of San José, the Turpin Tower, and the Palace of Uriarte, all within its enchanting old town.
The romantic fishing port of Lekeitio is the right place to relax in the evening: a walk, the salty smell of the sea, and delicious pintxos in the restaurants.
6. Mundaka
Mundaka is a place that will amaze you, whether you’re into surfing or not. It’s a spot where nature takes center stage, full of raw energy and movement. Known for its legendary left-hand wave—one of the longest and most reliable in the world—it’s like watching a live performance on a cinematic stage, ready to leave you spellbound.
If surfing isn’t your thing or you prefer a quieter perspective away from the beach (especially during the winter months), make your way to the Mirador de la Atalaya. From this lookout point, you’ll be treated to stunning views in a setting that’s nothing short of magical. Sunrise and sunset here are unforgettable, leaving a vivid imprint in your memory.
7. La Salvaje Beach – Sopelana
Sopelana, my refuge—one of the places I love the most in this world. This charming little town, less than 20 kilometers from Bilbao, possesses one special and fascinating something that makes it beautiful anytime of the year.
Sopelana is a surfer’s paradise with all the class and charm you’d expect from the Basque Country. It’s the kind of place where, after a day in the water (or just hanging out by the beach), you can kick back in the town center with a good book at a cool spot like Goxo Break.
Still, the beaches are the true pride of Sopelana: from La Salvaje Beach and Barinatxe to Arrietara, Atxabiribil, and Meñakoz, this is an incredible offering of different seaside getaways to fit in a day’s sun or wave catching.
If you happen to visit, you’ll likely find me at La Salvaje, enjoying the sunshine, gazing at the waves (slowly getting the hang of surfing), or reading a good book. And if hunger strikes, the beach bar’s gildas are an absolute treat—simply delicious!
8. Flysch de Zumaia
Let’s keep enjoying the natural beauty of the Basque Country, because it’s everywhere—and absolutely stunning. Next, let’s head to Zumaia to take in the impressive flysch formations at the UNESCO Geopark.
This small natural area on the Cantabrian coast is a true marvel, with rock layers that have been preserved for 60 million years. Stretching over 13 kilometers, these dramatic cliffs meet the Cantabrian Sea, surrounded by the mountains of Zumaia-Deba and Mutriku.
The best way to experience them is by hiking along the cliffs or taking a boat trip. You can also visit the Hermitage of San Telmo or relax at Itzurun Beach to soak in the views.
9. Otzarreta beech forest
The Basque Country has its own kind of magic, and just outside Bilbao, you can step into a one-of-a-kind forest—the Otzarreta beech forest. It’s incredible, but even more so in autumn when the whole place is bathed in rich brown tones.
Nestled in the Gorbeia Natural Park (on the Biscayan side), the Otzarreta Beech Forest is topped by a summit cross at 1,482 meters above sea level, offering a stunning view of this enchanting spot.
10. Santurce, on the outskirts of Bilbao
There’s a song that goes, “From Santurce to Bilbao, I come all along the shore, with my pant sleeves rolled up, showing off my calves…” The younger crowd might not know it, but it’s a classic from the ‘80s, and it’s a fun way to talk about the short distance between Santurce and Bilbao—just 20 minutes by car (about 17 kilometers) along the estuary, right behind Portugalete.
Santurce is another great spot to check out if you’re in Bilbao. You can head up to Monte Serante or visit the Historical Interpretation Center of Santurtizi, the Mosaic of the Sardineras, the Church of San Jorge, or the Agurtza fishing boat in the port.
11. Guernica-Luno
Aligned with Mundaka and Bermeo but inland, in the Biosphere Reserve of Urdaibai, is the municipality of Guernica-Luno, a small town of just over 8 square kilometers that will always be marked by history (this is the place where the bombing of April 26, 1937 took place during the Spanish Civil War that Picasso later reflected in his great work “El Guernica”).
Because of this historical fact, your visit to Guernica will be a step into the past. Visit the air raid shelters, such as Astra or Pasealekua; the Casa de Juntas and the Guernica Tree (two symbols of the town’s freedom, as they survived the bombing); the Park of the Peoples of Europe; the Peace Museum; and, of course, stroll through the town center and let yourself be overwhelmed by the living history of this place.
12. Oma Forest
We stayed in Urdaibai to keep exploring the stunning spots near Bilbao in the Basque Country. One of the highlights is the Oma Forest, a masterpiece of nature transformed by Basque artist Agustín Ibarrola as part of the “Art and Nature” movement that started in the ’60s.
In this breathtaking natural setting, Ibarrola turned trees, rocks, and rivers into his canvas, creating vibrant paintings and representations that blend seamlessly with the landscape. It’s a unique fusion of art and nature, with both elements in perfect harmony.
13. San Sebastian
Before we wrap up our list of the best day trips from Bilbao, Spain, let’s take a trip to another amazing city—San Sebastián. It’s just an hour’s drive away (you can also take the bus or train), and trust me, it’s totally worth it. I made this trip from Bilbao myself, and it was a blast. On the way back, we even stopped at Butrón Castle to cap off the day.
San Sebastián is packed with places that will leave you speechless. You can visit the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, relax at La Concha Beach, hike up Mount Urgull, and stroll through Plaza de la Constitución.
If you’re spending the day, don’t miss the best pintxos tour in the Basque Country! For even more spots to check out in the city, I’ve got a detailed post on what to see in San Sebastián.
And if you’d rather have everything planned for you, you’ll love this guided tour of Gipuzkoa’s capital. Plus, you’ll also get to visit Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, two of the prettiest towns in the French Basque Country.
14. Balmaseda
Let’s travel through history again to the first town of the Señorío de Vizcaya, Balmaseda, founded in 1199. Thanks to its long history, this town has a wide historical and cultural heritage that you can discover during your visit.
Among the highlights are the Church of San Severino (XV century) and San Juan (Gothic temple next to the Kadagua), the convent of Santa Clara, the palaces of Urrutia and Horcasitas, and the Old Bridge, or the Muza, with its tower. In addition, beyond the old town, the surrounding forests and rivers are incredible, perfect for enjoying outdoor plans.
15. Vitoria
Last but definitely not least, let’s head to another fantastic city in the Basque Country—Vitoria. As the provincial capital of Álava and the official seat of the Basque Parliament and Government, it’s a politically significant city. It was even named European Green Capital in 2012!
Vitoria is a key cultural, political, and commercial hub for the entire Basque Country, so if you get the chance, it’s definitely worth a visit to dive deeper into Basque culture. The city itself is super interesting, and to really get to know it, I’d recommend booking a walking tour like this one.
If you prefer to explore on your own, make sure to check out the Cathedral of Santa María, Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, Plaza del Machete, Plaza de la Burullería, the New Cathedral, and the Green Ring (which is why it was chosen as Green Capital). And one of my personal favorites—the mural route!
You can also book an organized tour to Vitoria from Bilbao and, on the way, visit other cool spots like the Añana Salt Mines, Orduña, and the Ayala Valley.
Of course, no visit to Vitoria is complete without sampling the local pintxos. It’s a must, and so delicious!
16. Castro-Urdiales, one of the best day trips from Bilbao
Leaving the Basque Country behind and entering Cantabria, we find Castro-Urdiales, located just over 30 km from Bilbao. Castro-Urdiales combines the charm of a fishing village with the historical and cultural richness of an ancient city, as its origins date back to Roman times.
This destination is ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway with spectacular views of the sea. During your visit, don’t miss places like the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, the Castle-Lighthouse of Santa Ana, and, of course, its port. I’m sure you will enjoy getting lost in the streets of this town.
If you are interested, you can take this guided tour of Castro Urdiales and discover its treasures with a guide. This Castro-Urdiales attractions list will help you if you’re visiting alone.
This complete itinerary of the 16 places to see near Bilbao allows you to enjoy your visit to the north to the fullest. It is a unique area; I will never tire of saying it, and I am sure you will bring back a unique souvenir of your trip.
Map of the best day trips from Bilbao
To help you plan your trip in detail and avoid wandering aimlessly, we’ve created this map pinpointing all the locations mentioned in the post.
Are you planning your first trip to Spain, or are you going to visit other areas? This complete guide to Spain is perfect to create your route and get everything you need. If you are going to Bilbao and the surroundings, I would love to read your experience.
