I thought I had the Basque country part of our itinerary all figured out. We were scheduled to fly out of Bilbao Airport, so before that we could wander through the Casco Viejo, gawk at the Guggenheim, and eat our weights in pintxos with a day trip to San Sebastian. But then it hit me: there can’t be all there is to this region – what about everything beyond the two famous cities?
That’s when I started researching more. At first, it was just short trips here and there. A quick jaunt to the coast, a hike in the nearby hills. But before I knew it, I was hooked. I found charming villages, stubnning beaches, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Now, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Bilbao. Yes, San Sebastian is on top of the list, but there are also hidden gems that will make you appreciate this corner of Spain even more. Let me walk you through 20 places that will show you the Basque Country in a whole new light.
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Best Bilbao Day Tours (No Car or Planning Required)
If you’d rather skip the bus timetables and rental car logistics, a guided day tour from Bilbao covers most of the highlights on this list with pickup, transport, and a guide included. Here are the ones worth booking:
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe & the Basque Coast: a small-group tour that handles the Gaztelugatxe ticket and transport for you, often paired with Bermeo, Mundaka and Guernica or a Txakoli winery stop and the Biscay Bridge. Check out your group tour options that include Gaztelugatxe.
- La Rioja Wine Country: full-day tours to Haro and Laguardia with winery visits, tastings, and lunch included. This is the easiest way to see Rioja without renting a car or booking wineries individually. Here are a few good La Rioja Wine Tasting Tours from Bilbao.
- San Sebastián & the Basque Coast: full-day tours that combine San Sebastián with Getaria, Hondarribia, or even a Biarritz or Hendaye add-on across the French border. Here are a few good San Sebastián day trip group tours from Bilbao.
- Architectural Rioja: a variation on the wine tour focused on Marqués de Riscal and Ysios, the two wineries with the Gehry and Calatrava-designed buildings. This Rioja Architecture and Wine Tour is just perfect for that.
1. San Sebastián
San Sebastián, also called Donostia, is a gem on the Bay of Biscay. It’s best to get there by bus from Bilbao, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The journey is smooth and offers scenic views. Choose between Alsa and Flixbus.
Start your visit with La Concha Beach, known for its crescent shape and calm waters. After sunbathing, take a stroll along the promenade. For something unique, visit the Peine del Viento (Wind Comb) sculptures by Eduardo Chillida. They are located at the far end of La Concha Beach.
Mount Urgull offers stunning views of the city. You can hike up in less than 30 minutes. At the top, you’ll find the historic Mota Castle and a giant Jesus statue.
The Old Town, or Parte Vieja, is where you can visit historical buildings and old churches. You’ll also find some of the best Bilbao pintxos (Basque tapas). At La Cuchara de San Telmo, we discovered a little slice of culinary heaven. The hot pintxos here are the stars of the show, quickly whipped up to order from either the menu or the specials board. Trust me, resisting the temptation to try everything is a lost cause! After that, head to Bar La Viña for their famous burnt cheesecake.
Visit in September during the San Sebastián International Film Festival if you want an extra dose of culture.
For art lovers, the San Telmo Museum showcases Basque history and modern exhibits. It’s in a 16th-century convent, adding to its charm. Don’t miss the Aquarium, one of the oldest in Europe. Walk through its 360-degree tunnel for an immersive experience of marine life.
In the charming seaside quarter of Antiguo, take a walk in a colorful underwater tunnel that links Ondarreta Beach to the 19th-century Miramar Palace and its delightful English-style gardens. It’s like walking through a fish tank to get to a Victorian postcard! There’s a vintage funicular at the end that whisks you up to a hilltop amusement park and a breathtaking viewpoint on Monte Igueldo.
Wear comfortable shoes; the city’s hilly terrain can be tiring. Use the local bus system for longer trips across the city.
2. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a tiny island on the coast of Biscay, made famous by the hot TV show, Game of Thrones. It takes about 45 minutes by car from Bilbao. Parking can be tricky, especially in summer, so arrive early to secure a spot. You can also take a 1-hour and 12-minute A3518 bus ride that starts from Bilbao hourly and goes directly to Gaztelugatxe. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds. Reserving a free ticket online is strongly recommended and required during high season. Check the official booking site before you go, since access rules shift seasonally.
The island is known for its stunning rock formations and a small chapel at the top. You’ll need to climb a steep staircase with 241 steps to reach it, but the views and the sense of achievement are worth the effort. Don’t forget to ring the chapel bell three times, as part of tradition, and make a wish. If you want to avoid the steep hike, take the coastal path for equally beautiful views.
There’s a restaurant nearby that serves delicious seafood, perfect for recharging after your hike.
3. Urkiola Natural Park
Urkiola Natural Park is about an hour’s drive from Bilbao. Renting a car is the best way to get there.
You’ll find lush forests, rocky mountains, and plenty of hiking trails. The main attraction is the Sanctuary of Urkiola, a beautiful chapel nestled in the mountains.
Anboto Mountain has all types of hiking trails with panoramic views. For an easy hike, try the trail to the Santuario de Urkiola.
Don’t miss the Mirador de Las Tres Cruces. It’s a great spot for good photos. Look out for hidden caves along the trails. The Txakurzulo Cave is a unique spot for a bit of spelunking.
Check out the Toki Alai Visitor Center. It’s built into the mountainside and offers great views. You can learn about the park’s geology and ecology through interactive exhibits.
4. Lekeitio
If you enjoy quaint coastal towns, Lekeitio is a must-visit. Just a 60-minute drive from Bilbao, it’s a perfect day trip by rental car. You can also hop on the A3513 bus, which gets you there in about 90 minutes.
In Lekeitio, you’ll want to stroll through the charming old town. Narrow streets lined with colorful houses lead you to the beautiful Church of Santa María. Make sure to check out its intricate Gothic architecture.
Beach lovers will find their haven at Karraspio Beach. It’s great for a swim or just lazing around in the sun. If you’re up for a little adventure, you can even walk to the island of San Nicolás when the tide is low. Just don’t get caught by the rising water!
For lunch, try pintxos at a local bar. Grab a bite and enjoy it by the harbor, watching the boats come and go.
To wrap up your visit, take a walk up to the Santa Catalina Lighthouse. The views are stunning, giving you a panoramic look at the coastline. It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it for the photo opportunities. It also houses a captivating maritime museum about the area’s seafaring history.
5. Gernika, Durango and Elorrio
You can easily visit these three charming Basque towns in one day trip from Bilbao. Take the BizkaiBus to Gernika – it’s about a 45 minute ride. It’s a 35-minute drive from Bilbao if you rent a car.
Start at the Peace Museum to learn about the town’s tragic bombing in 1937. Check out the Mural del Guernica de Picasso nearby, which is a tile reproduction of the famous 1937 oil painting by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, now displayed in Madrid.
Don’t miss the Assembly House with its famous oak tree, a symbol of Basque freedom. The Assembly House is where Basque leaders meet. The architecture is stunning.
Gernika has a Monday market. Here, you can find local produce, cheeses, and crafts. It’s perfect for grabbing a snack. Try local pintxos at the market. They’re delicious and affordable.
Next, hop on a 30-minute drive or bus ride to Durango.
Stroll through the old town and check out the Santa Ana Arch, the town’s most iconic landmark. A must-see is the Andra Mari Church, which has beautiful Gothic architecture. Don’t miss the medieval Kurutzesantu Museum, which has fascinating artifacts.
Grab a pintxo at one of the lively bars on Calle Barrenkalea.
Finally, catch another short bus to Elorrio, just 15 minutes away. This tiny medieval town will wow you with its palaces and coat of arms. The Necropolis of Argiñeta is a must-see – it’s full of ancient stone tombs.
Strolling through streets lined with 17th and 18th-century stone palaces and ancestral houses is a delight. In the heart of the old town at Gernikako Arbola Square, you’ll find the Town Hall and the elegant Basilica of La Purísima Concepción. Nearby, next to Arezpakotxaga Palace, is the Don Telmo entrance, one of the six ancient wall gates.
Stop by the baroque palace of Marqués de Tola, the Santa Ana Monastery, and the Church of San Agustín if you still have time.
Buy a Barik Card to save money on bus fares. It’ll cover all your rides between these towns, plus the metro and Euskotren if you’re combining this with other stops.
6. Santander
Santander is about an hour and a half drive from Bilbao, making it an easy day trip by rental car. For public transport users, ALSA buses take about the same time.
Visit the Magdalena Palace, a charming historic building with stunning sea views. Take a stroll through its gardens and spot the mini zoo. The peninsula of La Magdalena is less visited by tourists, but offers beautiful views and walking paths. Ideal for a quiet escape.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade. It’s a peaceful place to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery. You must check out the Sardinero Beach, especially in summer. It’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming. There are plenty of cafes nearby for a bite to eat.
The Prehistory and Archaeology Museum of Cantabria is a fascinating visit, with an extensive collection of artifacts that vividly illustrate the region’s ancient history. Its interactive exhibits and detailed displays provide a deep dive into the prehistoric and archaeological heritage of Cantabria, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
The Maritime Museum is full of fascinating displays about marine life and local history. Kids will love the aquarium section.
Head to the city center to see the Mercado del Este. This indoor market is great for tasting local foods and buying unique souvenirs.
7. Santillana del mar, Altamira Neocave and Museum, and El Castillo Cave
Santillana del Mar is a charming village that can be reached by car in about an hour and 30 minutes from Bilbao. The cobblestone streets and medieval architecture make for great photo ops. Enjoy wandering through the alleys and discovering small artisan shops.
Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana and a hidden gem – the Museum of Torture. Don’t let the name scare you; it’s fascinating and provides a unique look at medieval punishment methods. It’s just a short walk from the main square.
The Altamira Neocave and Museum is a must-visit. This site replicates prehistoric cave paintings that date back to the Paleolithic era. You’ll marvel at the intricate artwork.
For the real deal, head to El Castillo Cave, about 30 minutes by car from Santillana. It’s home to some of the oldest cave art in Europe. The guided tours are informative and give you deep insights into early human life. Carry a jacket; it gets chilly inside.
El Castillo requires advance bookings that you can make online or beforehand at the nearby Art Center. You can get visit Altamira Neocave and museum without an advance booking, but the queue for tickets can get long in peak season, so it’s better to book online.
8. Portugalete and Getxo
Just a short hop from Bilbao, Portugalete and Getxo make for an easy day trip. You’ll reach these charming coastal towns in about 30 minutes if you take the metro or a short bus ride. Both towns are easy to navigate on foot. They’re close enough to each other that you can comfortably spend your day exploring both.
In Portugalete, you can’t miss the Vizcaya Bridge. Some people add this to their list of places to see in Bilbao and leave out the entire neighborhood, but that doesn’t really make sense to me. This massive iron structure spans the Nervión River, connecting Portugalete to Getxo. It’s not just any bridge – it’s the world’s oldest transporter bridge still in use!
Take a ride on the gondola suspended from the bridge. The views of the estuary are breathtaking. If you’re interested in the details of its construction, walk across the top walkway with the audio guide.
Visit the Santa Maria Church in Portugalete. It’s not as well-known but its architecture is amazing and you’ll find a bit of peace away from the crowds.
Getxo boasts beautiful beaches perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Ereaga Beach is the most popular, with golden sand and calm waters. For a taste of local culture, stroll through Getxo’s Old Port. You’ll find colorful fishing boats and seafood restaurants serving the catch of the day.
Don’t forget to explore Algorta, a neighborhood in Getxo. Its narrow streets and traditional Basque houses are postcard-perfect. And then there’s the Neguri neighborhood. The area is brimming with beautiful mansions and gardens. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Time your visit with low tide to see the flysch rock formations at Arrigunaga Beach in Getxo. These layered cliffs are a geological wonder.
9. Plentzia and Gorliz
You’ll love the twin coastal towns of Plentzia and Gorliz. They are just a 45-minute drive or an hour-long metro ride from Bilbao. The metro is convenient and scenic but renting a car gives you more flexibility. Also, parking is usually easy to find.
Plentzia’s curved beach is a stunner. Grab your towel and soak up some sun. The old town has cute, narrow streets to wander.
Gorliz is right next door and its beach is even bigger but offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe. Both towns have small, cozy restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Bring your hiking shoes. The coastal path between the towns is gorgeous, and it takes under an hour each way.
Keep walking along the shore to the lighthouse for great views. On a clear day, you can see for miles. A hidden gem here is the scenic Astondo Promontory.
Don’t miss the old hospital in Gorliz. It’s now a cool cultural center with art exhibits. Check their schedule for events.
Before you leave, take a stroll on Plentzia’s river promenade. It’s lovely at sunset.
Visit on a weekday if you can. The beaches get packed on summer weekends.
10. Bermeo, Mundaka and Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
Explore these coastal gems just a short drive from Bilbao. Rent a car for the 45-minute trip to really soak in the scenery or take the bus, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes.
Bermeo charms with its colorful fishing port. Stroll the old town and pop into the Fishermen’s Museum to learn about local maritime history. Don’t miss the panoramic views from San Juan de Gaztelugatxe islet nearby.
Mundaka, 10 minutes away, is a surfer’s paradise. Even if you don’t ride waves, the beach is perfect for sunbathing. Grab lunch at one of the seaside restaurants and watch surfers tackle the famous left-hand break.
The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve surrounds both towns. This protected wetland area is a bird-watcher’s dream. Rent kayaks to explore the estuary or hike scenic trails through oak trees for breathtaking views. Visit the Ekoetxea Urdaibai center for interactive exhibits on the area’s ecology.
11. Hondarribia
Hondarribia is a charming coastal town just an hour’s drive from Bilbao. If you prefer public transport, take a bus which takes around 1.5 hours.
Wander through the old town’s narrow streets. Don’t miss Calle San Pedro for its colorful houses and lively atmosphere. The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the old town and is home to the Castle of Charles V, now a Parador hotel. You can explore parts of this 16th-century fortress. If you’re into history, check out the Church of Santa María de la Asunción y del Manzano.
For lunch, head to the Marina neighborhood. The pintxos bars here are top-notch. Try Bar Gran Sol for some of the best seafood bites you’ve ever had.
Head to the beach for a relaxing afternoon. Hondarribia’s calm waters are ideal for swimming. The promenade is great for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the sea breeze.
For a hidden gem, hike up to the Guadalupe Hermitage. You’ll get panoramic views over the town and the Bay of Txingudi.
If you’re in the area in September, check out the Alarde Festival for a taste of local tradition and culture. The town comes alive with parades, music, and costumes.
12. Laguardia
You can reach Laguardia in about an hour and a half by rental car from Bilbao. Alava buses start from Bilbao’s main station, but they’re infrequent, so plan carefully. We chose to visit Laguardia as a day trip from Bilbao by car. This small town is famous for its medieval charm and its wine.
Laguardia, Haro, and Labastida together make up what most people mean by a “Rioja day trip from Bilbao.” If you’d rather not drive between wineries yourself, a guided wine tour covers Laguardia and Haro in one day with tastings arranged in advance – see the tours section above.
Walk through the old town and admire the fortified walls and narrow streets. Check out the Church of Santa María de los Reyes, renowned for its stunning Gothic portal.
For wine lovers, a visit to nearby Bodega Ysios is a must. The building’s architecture alone is worth the trip, designed by Santiago Calatrava.
Don’t miss strolling through the underground cellars. Many are remnants of ancient tunnels used to store wine. You can book a tour and tasting session to get the full experience.
If you’re visiting on a Monday, catch the local market. It’s a great place to sample regional produce and pick up some local cheese and sausages.
13. Haro and Labastida
Haro is known as the wine capital of La Rioja. It takes about an hour and 10 minutes to get there from Bilbao by rental car or Alava bus.
Haro and Labastida pair naturally with Laguardia (above) for a full day in La Rioja, as most of the guided wine tours from Bilbao cover both towns in a single trip.
Start at the Plaza de la Paz. This lively square is perfect for people-watching. Don’t miss the stunning Gothic church of Santo Tomás nearby.
Next, head to the Barrio de la Estación. This neighborhood is packed with historic wineries. Take a tour at La Rioja Alta S.A. or Muga to learn about winemaking and taste some top-notch Rioja reds. Check out the Rioja Wine Museum. It’s a great spot to learn about wine-making history.
Labastida is just a 10-minute drive from Haro. This hilltop village offers amazing views of vineyards and mountains. Stroll the narrow streets and check out the imposing 16th-century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.
A hidden gem is the Remelluri Winery, just outside Labastida. It’s less crowded than the ones in Haro but offers equally good wine.
For lunch, try a local restaurant like La Vieja Bodega. You’ll love the traditional Riojan dishes paired with local wines.
Many wineries require reservations in advance. Make sure to book your tours a few days before your trip.
14. Vitoria-Gasteiz
Discover Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country. It’s just an hour’s drive from Bilbao, making it perfect for a day trip. Hop on a bus if you don’t want to rent a car – the direct ones run every 2 hours and get you there in an hour.
Check out the medieval old town, known as Casco Viejo. Wander its narrow streets and explore the beautiful Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. Visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria. It’s stunning and offers guided tours. Don’t miss the Artium Museum for modern art lovers. It houses a fantastic collection of contemporary Basque and Spanish art.
The city has amazing green spaces too. Stroll through Florida Park or the Green Belt, a ring of parks surrounding the city.
Head to Zabala Bar for pintxos. It’s a local favorite and the food is top-notch. For something more casual, head to the Mercado de Abastos. This covered market is a food lover’s paradise. Try some local cheeses or grab a pintxo.
Buy a Vitoria Card at the tourist office. It gives you free entry to museums and discounts at shops and restaurants. It’ll save you money if you plan to see a lot in one day.
15. Santoña and Laredo
Explore the charming coastal towns of Santoña and Laredo together. Both towns have a relaxed vibe. These hidden treasures are just an hour’s drive from Bilbao, making them perfect for a day trip by rental car. If you take a bus, check the timetables. Each town will take an hour if starting from Bilbao but they are different direct buses. The towns are also connected directly to each other by a bus that will take 30 minutes.
Santoña is best known for its delicious anchovies. You can visit the local factories to see how they’re made. The beach is great too—a long stretch of sand perfect for a lazy afternoon. Don’t miss the Fort of San Martín, a historic defense structure with great views of the bay. Also, in Santoña, check out the marshlands; they’re a great spot for bird-watching.
Laredo boasts one of the longest beaches in Spain, La Salvé. It’s about five kilometers of sandy bliss. For a bit of history, walk up to the Puebla Vieja, the old town, where you’ll find ancient walls and charming narrow streets.
For lunch, try some fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant in either town. The grilled fish is always a good choice.
Visit during the Virgen del Puerto festival if you’re visiting the region in September. Santoña comes alive with parades, music, and dancing in the streets.
16. Balmaseda
Balmaseda is a charming medieval town just 30 minutes from Bilbao by car or 45 minutes by bus. Park your car outside the old town and explore on foot. The narrow streets can be tricky to navigate by car.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you cross the 14th-century Puente Viejo bridge into the old quarter. Don’t miss the imposing Iglesia de San Severino church. Its Gothic architecture and stunning altarpiece will take your breath away.
For history buffs, the Balmaseda History Museum offers insightful exhibits on the town’s past, including its role in the Carlist Wars. Don’t miss the La Encartada Fabrika-Museoa along the Cadagua River. This old textile factory offers guided tours on the history of the textile industry.
Hungry? Try some pintxos at Bar Peñascal. Their ham croquettes are to die for. Wash them down with a glass of txakoli, the local white wine.
If you visit in May, you’re in for a treat. The town hosts a medieval market with costumed performers and traditional crafts. It’s like traveling through time!
17. Zumaia, Getaria and Zarautz
Discover this coastal trio just an hour’s drive east of Bilbao. Rent a car for the most flexibility to explore these charming Basque towns.
Zumaia’s rugged cliffs and unique rock formations will blow you away. Walk along the beach to see the flysch – layers of rock that are millions of years old and look like pages in a giant stone book. Game of Thrones fans will recognize this spot from the show. Visit Itzurun Beach for its golden sands and the church of San Pedro for some history.
If you can find one, take a guided boat tour to see the Flysch up close. The views from the water are spectacular.
Just a 15-minute drive from Zumaia, Getaria is famous for its seafood and charming streets. The Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum is a must-visit for fashion lovers. Don’t miss the San Salvador Church, perched on a hill with panoramic views.
Zarautz is 10 minutes from Getaria by car and is known for its 2.5 km long beach and for surfing.
The beachside promenade is great for a leisurely walk, and the town has plenty of pintxo bars for a quick bite. Head to the lookout point on Mount Talaimendi for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Taking a day to explore Zumaia, Getaria, and Zarautz by rental car is a fantastic way to experience the Basque coast. Enjoy the variety of landscapes, foods, and cultures each village offers.
18. Castro Urdiales
Castro Urdiales, a charming coastal town, is about 40 minutes from Bilbao by car. You can also take a bus, which will take around the same time. It has a laid-back vibe that makes for a perfect day trip from Bilbao.
Once you arrive, head straight for the Gothic Santa María de la Asunción church. Its stunning architecture will take your breath away. Next, stroll along the town’s pretty harbor and watch the colorful fishing boats bob in the water.
Don’t miss the medieval castle of Santa Ana. Climb to the top for amazing views of the Bay of Biscay. Looking for a hidden gem? The Ermita de Santa Ana, a small chapel on a rocky outcrop near the castle, is often overlooked by tourists but offers peaceful, scenic views of the sea and port. Inside, a mini museum features a 6-minute video on its history and a glass window in the floor showcasing historical remains.
When you’re ready for a break, grab a seat at one of the seafront cafes or visit the Mercado de Abastos. Try some fresh seafood – the anchovies are especially good here but so are other local products. It’s a great spot to grab a snack.
If the weather’s nice, pack your swimsuit. The town has two lovely beaches where you can take a dip or soak up some sun. Ostende Beach is right in town, while Brazomar Beach is a bit quieter.
Before you leave, walk out to the lighthouse on the peninsula. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.
19. Orduña, Nervión River Falls and Salt Valley of Añana
You’ll want to rent a car for this trip. It’s about an hour’s drive from Bilbao to Orduña, a charming medieval town nestled in the mountains.
Stroll through Orduña’s picturesque old town. Don’t miss the Gothic-Renaissance church of Santa María and the 18th-century Plaza de los Fueros.
Next, drive about 30 minutes to Nervión River Falls, Spain’s highest waterfall. These stunning falls are best seen in the spring or after a rainfall when there’s plenty of water. Park at the Mirador de la Esquina de Rubén viewpoint and walk a short trail to a balcony for a breathtaking view of the falls. You can take a longer hike to the Mirador del Salto del Nervión for another fantastic view. Just make sure you’re wearing good shoes; the section at the end, in particular, is a short but steep downhill one.
Then, head to the Salt Valley of Añana. It’s just a 45-minute drive from Nervión River Falls. This fascinating area has been producing salt for over 6,000 years. Explore the salt flats and learn about traditional salt-making on a guided tour. You can even try some hands-on activities and dip your toes in the salty spa pools – it’s a unique experience!
20. Sopelana and Barrika
Sopelana and Barrika are just a short trip from Bilbao. You can get to Sopelana by rental car in about 25 minutes or catch a metro ride from the city center that takes about 40 minutes.
Start your day in Sopelana, known for its beautiful beaches and great surfing spots. Sopelmar and Atxabiribil are the main beaches here. If you’re into surfing, don’t miss renting a board and hitting the waves. If not, there’s sunbathing and beach games!
Consider taking a walk along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the ocean for about 5.5 kilometers. There’s a hidden gem called “Playa de Menakoz,” a small beach that’s perfect for a quieter escape.
Continue walking to Barrika for a bit of a contrast. It’s a charming village with dramatic cliffs and less-crowded beaches. On the way, check out the famous Barrika beach with its unique rock formations. It is dotted with hidden coves and rocky outcrops. It’s great for photography.
Must-sees in Barrika town include the 16th-century Church of San Telmo and the old port area. Grab lunch at one of the seaside restaurants and try the octopus — it’s a delicacy you won’t forget.
If you’re driving and have parked in Sopelana, you can get back from Barrika with a 10 minute bus ride.
Transportation Options
Getting around Bilbao and to nearby attractions is easy with public transport and rental cars. Each option has its perks, so you can choose what best suits your day trip plans.
Public Transport
Bilbao’s Metro is a top pick for quick trips. It covers the city well, with stops near key attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and Sopelano Beach. Buses are your go-to for destinations just outside the city, like Getxo for the beach.
Buy a Barik Card to save money on public transport fares. It’ll cover all your rides between Biscay towns.
By Train (Euskotren & Renfe Cercanías)
A car isn’t the only way to reach the coast and countryside around Bilbao. Several of the best day trips on this list are a direct train ride away, no driving required. The Euskotren E4 line runs from Bilbao’s Zazpikaleak/Casco Viejo station out to Gernika, Mundaka, and Bermeo, cutting straight through the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. It’s a scenic ride in its own right. Metro Line 1 doubles as a train line out to Plentzia, with stops for Sopelana and Barrika along the way. And Renfe Cercanías covers the Santurtzi/Portugalete side of the estuary on the C1 line.
A single Barik Card works across all of it. Metro, Euskotren, Bizkaibus, and the Bilbao tram all take the same card, so you’re not juggling separate tickets between towns.
Renting a Car
Renting a car provides flexibility, especially for harder-to-reach sites. Choosing a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover off-the-beaten-path spots like the beautiful Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Parking in Bilbao city can be tricky. Look for underground parking lots downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Bilbao?
San Sebastián tops most lists, but San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the coastal towns of Getxo and Mundaka, and La Rioja wine country are just as popular. All are within 30 to 90 minutes of Bilbao by car, bus, or train.
Can you take day trips from Bilbao by train?
Yes. Euskotren connects Bilbao directly to Gernika, Mundaka, and Bermeo, and Metro Line 1 doubles as a train route out to Plentzia, Sopelana, and Barrika. Renfe Cercanías covers the Portugalete/Getxo side of the estuary. San Sebastián is the one major exception – there’s no direct train, so the bus is the better public transport option there.
Is San Sebastián a good day trip from Bilbao?
Yes, it’s the most popular one. The bus takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, which leaves a full day to see La Concha Beach, the Old Town, and Monte Igueldo.
Can you visit La Rioja from Bilbao in a day?
Yes. Laguardia and Haro are both roughly 70–90 minutes from Bilbao by car, and a number of guided wine tours cover both towns in a single day with tastings included, which is easier than booking wineries individually.
Do I need a car for day trips from Bilbao?
No. Many of the best options like Getxo, Portugalete, Plentzia, Gernika, Mundaka, Bermeo, and San Sebastián, are reachable by metro, Euskotren, or bus. A car mainly helps for spots like Urkiola Natural Park, the Nervión River Falls, and the Salt Valley of Añana, which have limited public transport.
Are there guided day tours from Bilbao?
Yes, small-group tours cover San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, La Rioja wine country, and San Sebastián, usually with hotel pickup, transport, and a guide included, which is worth it if you’d rather not deal with bus schedules or rental car logistics.
