2026 Getxo Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

This itinerary perfectly blends Bilbao's modern art and traditional old town with San Sebastián's (Basque: Donostia) top-tier Michelin dining and stunning bay night views. 🗓️ 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary Highlights 🔹 Day 1: Bilbao — Modern Art and the Cathedral of Soccer Morning: Meet the Insta-famous puppy. Head to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and take a photo with the giant floral installation art, the "Puppy," at the entrance. Afternoon: A pilgrimage for Basque soccer fans. Visit Bilbao's temple of sports, San Mamés Stadium (home of Athletic Club), and experience the highly impressive modern stadium and museum. Evening: Step back in time. Stroll into Bilbao's Old Town (Casco Viejo) and admire the intricate "Seven Streets" (Las Siete Calles) and historic architecture. 🔹 Day 2: Bilbao — Traditional Market, Folk Costumes, and the Iron Bridge. Morning: Buy a premium beret at a century-old shop. Visit the legendary century-old hat shop Sombreros Gorostiaga (founded in 1854) in the Old Town to pick out an authentic Basque traditional hat (Txapela) and folk costumes. Noon: Taste seafood at Europe's largest indoor market. Head to Mercado de la Ribera. Here you'll find a bustling Pintxos (the Basque version of Tapas) food court where you can feast on freshly shucked oysters, grilled prawns, and fresh seafood. Afternoon: Witness a World Heritage iron bridge. Take the metro to the suburbs to visit the Vizcaya Bridge. This is the world's oldest transporter bridge; you can walk across or take the suspended gondola across the river. 🔹 Day 3: San Sebastián — Michelin Pilgrimage, Old Town, and Churches. Morning: Travel between the two Basque cities. Take the ALSA bus from the Bilbao Intermodal bus terminal for an easy trip to San Sebastián (about a 1-hour and 20-minute ride, with frequent departures, making it faster and more convenient than the train). Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the historical Old Town. Visit San Sebastián's Old Town (Parte Vieja) and make a pilgrimage to the majestic Basílica de Santa María del Coro. Evening: A tour of top Michelin spots and bar food. This area has the second-highest density of Michelin stars globally! Two must-eat food icons: Legendary mushrooms: Go to chef Anthony Bourdain's favorite, Ganbara, and order the signature "Plancha-grilled Wild Mushrooms" with a raw egg yolk. Authentic Basque cheesecake: Head to the founding famous shop, La Viña, to taste the legendary burnt Basque cheesecake with its charred exterior and a center as light and fluffy as a cloud. 🔹 Day 4: San Sebastián — Stunning Bay and Vintage Ferris Wheel Night Views. Daytime: Stroll along the world's most beautiful beach. Walk along the stretching La Concha Beach (Paseo de La Concha), enjoy the Atlantic sea breeze, and soak in the noble resort atmosphere. Dusk to Night: Vintage amusement park and riverside night views. Take the century-old vintage funicular, operating since 1912, up to Mount Igueldo (Monte Igueldo). The vintage amusement park at the top features a classic Ferris wheel and roller coaster. From here, overlooking the entire city, the mouth of the Urumea River, and the dazzling city lights of the crescent-shaped bay is incredibly romantic. 🍽️ Top Michelin Restaurant Recommendations (Book months in advance) If you want to enjoy a full-course Michelin-starred dining experience in San Sebastián. Below are the top recommendations: Restaurant Name Star Rating Culinary Features Arzak 3 Michelin Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Helmed by the godfather of New Basque Cuisine, blending modern lab tech with traditional Basque seafood for stunning flavors. Akelarre 3 Michelin Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Perched on a hill with a 180-degree unobstructed Atlantic Ocean view, its dessert and seafood tasting menus are pure art. Zelai Txiki Michelin Recommended / Green Star 🌱 Specializes in exquisite charcoal wood-fired cuisine; their high-quality traditional Basque cake (Pastel Vasco) is also a standout. 💡 Practical Travel Tips - Bilingual place names note: Basque region road signs often use the Basque language. Bilbao will be written as Bilbo, and San Sebastián as Donostia. How to eat Pintxos: When eating Tapas (locals call them Pintxos), the most authentic way is to "eat two plates here, have a drink there," bar-hopping continuously like strolling through a night market. Never get full at just one place!

Bilbao is a stunning city located along the northern coast of Spain, surrounded by lush greenery, scenic views, and a beautiful coastline. If you’re looking to explore Bilbao by foot, especially along its coastal routes, there’s plenty to enjoy. Below is a walking guide for a coastal exploration that combines natural beauty, architecture, and local charm. 1. Starting Point: Bilbao’s Old Town (Casco Viejo) Start your journey in Casco Viejo (the Old Town) and explore its narrow streets and iconic sites like the Plaza Nueva, the La Ribera Market, and the Santiago Cathedral. While this isn't directly on the coast, it’s a great place to begin your walk. 2. Walk Along the River Nervión As you exit the Old Town, head towards the River Nervión, which runs through the heart of Bilbao and leads out to the bay. Along the riverbanks, you'll find lovely walking paths and plenty of spots to enjoy views of the city’s unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. Ruta de los Puentes (Bridge Walk): Cross over various bridges that connect different parts of the city. The most notable is the Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava, which is a futuristic footbridge that connects the Ensanche area with the Abando district. 3. Walk to the Guggenheim Museum From the river, you can head west towards the Guggenheim Museum, one of Bilbao's most famous landmarks. The museum is located near the water, and its sweeping curves and titanium exterior are a sight to behold. The Guggenheim Park around the museum offers a great spot for a stroll, and you can enjoy views of the River Nervión. Tip: Take a moment to admire Puppy, the giant floral dog sculpture near the museum’s entrance. 4. Follow the Coastal Path towards Getxo Continue your walk from the Guggenheim towards the Getxo district. The path will take you along the Nervión River, past industrial areas and towards the open sea. Estuary of Bilbao: As you approach Getxo, you’ll pass the Estuary of Bilbao, which connects the river to the Bay of Biscay. The coastline here becomes more scenic, with cliffs and beaches ahead. 5. Getxo and the Beaches Getxo is a charming coastal town and a great place to relax, with its lovely beaches and beachfront promenades. From the Neguri neighborhood, you can continue along the coastal path to enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. Playa de Ereaga: This beach is a popular spot for locals, with plenty of cafes and bars along the promenade. You’ll get a good view of the Puerto Deportivo de Getxo, a harbor filled with yachts. Puente Colgante (Vizcaya Bridge): As you walk along the coast, you'll also encounter the Puente Colgante, the world’s oldest transport bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It connects Getxo to the town of Portugalete across the river and offers great views of the coastline. 6. Return via the Coastal Path or Take the Metro You can either retrace your steps or take the metro from Getxo back to Bilbao. The Bilbao Metro is quick and efficient, with se

Spain's Vizcaya Bridge (Puente de Vizcaya) is an iconic landmark in the Basque Country and the world's very first "transporter bridge" built to carry both pedestrians and vehicles. Seamlessly blending 19th-century ironworking traditions with what was then cutting-edge lightweight technology, it snagged a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2006. Here’s everything you need to know about its history, the best photo spots, handy travel tips, and how to get there: 📜 Historical Background The Genesis: The bridge opened to traffic in 1893. It was designed by Basque architect Alberto de Palacio, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel (yep, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower). Brilliant Design: To connect the towns on both sides of the Nervión River without blocking massive ships heading to the port, Palacio dreamed up this ingenious "suspended gondola" design. Industrial Heritage: As one of the few transporter bridges globally still in active service, it's celebrated as a premier steel masterpiece of the Industrial Revolution. 📸 Best Photo Spots & Experiences The bridge spans the river, linking Portugalete on the left bank and Getxo on the right. Here are two awesome ways to experience it: The Ultimate Bird’s-Eye View: Panoramic Elevator & Top Walkway (Pasarela) The Experience: Hop in a panoramic elevator and shoot up to the open-air pedestrian walkway, 45 meters above ground. The Shot: Strut across the 160-meter-long iron bridge with a see-through iron mesh right beneath your feet. It's the perfect spot to snap sweeping aerial views of the Nervión River estuary meeting the sea, framed by classic red-roofed Spanish old towns on both banks. A Century-Old Vintage Ride: The Suspended Gondola (Barquilla) The Experience: Hanging a few meters above the water by sturdy steel cables, the gondola departs every 8 minutes and whips you to the other side in just about a minute and a half. The Shot: Set up by the pier or the boarding queue on the opposite side to catch dynamic footage of this massive gondola "floating" through the air over the river. ⚠️ Travel Tips & Heads-Up Mind the Price Gap: Just crossing the river on the ground-level gondola is super cheap—only about €0.60 one way. Heading up to the top walkway is more of a tourist vibe, setting adults back around €10 to €11. Not for the Faint of Heart: The top walkway is seriously high up, and the sea breeze is no joke. You can see the churning river directly through the floor grating. If heights make you woozy, stick to the gondola ride on the lower level. Grab a Barik Card: Spending a few days in downtown Bilbao? Do yourself a favor and grab a Barik electronic transport card at a subway station. It hooks you up with sweet discounts on both the metro and the Vizcaya Bridge gondola. Dress for the Wind & Sun: It gets super breezy at the estuary. If you're heading up top for photos, bring a light windbreaker—even in summer—and hold onto your hat! 🚇 How to Get There (From Downtown Bilbao) The Vizcaya Bridge is about 12 kilometers from central Bilbao, making it a breeze to reach via public transit. Here are two main railway routes (pro tip: take one there and the other back to soak in the distinct vibes of both old towns): Destination & Transport Details To the Right Bank (Getxo) via Metro Line 1 (L1) Hop on Metro Line L1 from downtown Bilbao (like Abando station) and get off at Areeta. From there, it's an easy 5 to 10-minute walk before the epic iron bridge comes into view. To the Left Bank (Portugalete) via Metro Line 2 (L2) or Commuter Train Cercanías C1 · Take Metro Line 2 to Portugalete station. · Or, catch the C1 train from Abando station to Portugalete. Once you exit, wander down the hill for about 5 minutes to hit the riverfront. 💡 Pro Travel Hack: We highly recommend taking Metro Line 2 to Portugalete. Enjoy a scenic downhill stroll past old-school architecture with killer panoramic views of the bridge. Then, grab a ticket for the gondola to cross over to Getxo. Wander around the upscale neighborhoods and the waterfront promenade on the right bank, and wrap up your trip by catching the L1 from Areeta station back to downtown Bilbao.

Perched above the Bay of Biscay in Getxo, Palacio Arriluce is one of northern Spain's most elegant historic mansions. Built in the early 20th century, the palace draws heavily from British architecture, blending the charm of an English country house with the grandeur of Neo-Gothic and Queen Anne Revival styles. Its asymmetrical silhouette immediately catches the eye. Stepped gables, crenellated towers, steep slate roofs, and ornate chimneys evoke the romance of medieval revival architecture, while broad terraces open towards sweeping sea views. Inside and out, every detail reflects an era when aristocratic residences embraced both elegance and comfort. The British influence extends beyond the building itself. Manicured gardens, traditional lawn games such as croquet, and refined hospitality create an atmosphere reminiscent of a grand English estate, yet all of it is framed by the dramatic coastline of the Basque Country. The result is a unique blend of Spanish setting and British architectural character. 📍 Location: Palacio Arriluce, Getxo, Basque Country, Spain 🏰 Highlight: A beautifully restored palace showcasing British-inspired Queen Anne Revival and Neo-Gothic architecture 🌿 Feature: Asymmetrical towers, crenellated rooftops, expansive terraces, landscaped gardens, and panoramic coastal views 🍃 Atmosphere: Elegant, timeless, and quietly luxurious 📸 Best for: Architecture lovers, heritage hotels, photography, and relaxing seaside escapes ✨ Signature feeling: Wandering through a stately mansion where British architectural elegance meets the spectacular coastline of northern Spain. Some hotels offer luxury. Palacio Arriluce offers the rare experience of staying inside a beautifully preserved architectural masterpiece. 🏰🌊✨

Palacio Arriluce Hotel in Getxo-Bilbao is a radiant retreat where aristocratic heritage mingles with the warmth of Basque hospitality. With its grand architecture, refined interiors, and an atmosphere that celebrates authenticity, it feels like a living canvas—majestic, luminous, and deeply attuned to the rhythm of coastal elegance. Whether you're savoring the calm of its signature comforts or journaling in the hush of its regal embrace, Palacio Arriluce Hotel offers more than a stay—it offers inspiration. It’s where memory and reflection intertwine, and each moment unfolds as a celebration of taste, ritual, and enduring charm.

#January Destinations 2026 The Biscay Bridge (Bizkaiko Zubia, also known as Puente de Vizcaya or Puente Colgante) is located in the province of Biscay in the Basque Country of Spain, connecting Portugalalete and Getxo (Las Arenas), spanning the Nervión River estuary. Designed and built in 1893 by Alberto Palacio, a student of Gustave Eiffel, it is the world's oldest transport bridge, standing 45 meters high and spanning 160 meters. It uses aerial gondolas to transport pedestrians, vehicles, and goods, with a journey every 8 minutes, and is still in operation today. In 2006, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a masterpiece of 19th-century industrial revolution steel architecture and innovative technology, and is hailed as a model of "suspension bridges."

On the outskirts of Bilbao, where the Guggenheim Museum is located, is the Vizcaya Bridge, a World Heritage Site and the world's first transporter bridge. Gondolas depart approximately every 10 minutes, allowing cars, pedestrians, motorbikes, and bicycles to enjoy the few-minute journey. Before you know it, you'll be on the other side, admiring the cityscape and people enjoying SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) on ​​the river. It's amazing that they're still in use as a means of transportation for the general public. There are many stylish, stately buildings around Bilbao. It's exciting to think that maybe I'm seeing the same things as people from over 100 years ago. You can actually walk on the bridge, but I'm afraid of heights, so I decided against it. Gondola tickets can be purchased from ticket machines. It's convenient to have coins with you when purchasing them. If you don't have the right coins or want to cross the bridge girders, you can apparently purchase tickets at the shop selling souvenir T-shirts and other items under the bridge. #0 Yen Travel 2025 Autumn #Spain Tourism #Bilbao #Vizcaya Bridge

When it comes to the Basque Country, Bilbao is always a top choice. This city, once known for its steel industry, is now revitalized by art and design.✨ 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations Whether it's the art-filled The Artist – Grand Hotel of Art, the landmark Hotel Miró, or the elegant and classic Hotel Carlton, you can find a balance between comfort and creativity. 🍽️ Restaurant Recommendations A culinary journey begins with a fine dinner: Experience modern cuisine by a Michelin-starred chef at Atelier Etxanobe Restaurant; immerse yourself in the slow food philosophy of the Basque River at Mina Restaurant; or extend art to the ultimate taste experience at Nerua Guggenheim Restaurant; and don't forget to savor authentic seafood at Zarate Restaurant. 👜 Featured Shopping Stroll through the Old Town (Casco Viejo), pick out a designer piece at Mercedes de Miguel, or discover the unique warmth of handcrafted jewelry at Suart Jewelry by Ane Navarro. 🎭 Suggested Itinerary During the day, visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, admiring the contemporary sculptures and shimmering metal along the riverbank; Then head to the Bizkaia Bridge, experiencing the historical atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed "sky bridge." If you love art, consider visiting the J.M. Lumbreras Gallery; Music lovers can also enjoy a feast for the eyes and ears with the ABAO Bilbao Symphony Orchestra. Finally, drive to Gorka Izagirre Winery and end your journey perfectly with a glass of refreshing Txakoli 🍷. In Bilbao, you can experience the power of industry and art simultaneously, and savor the warmth of the Basque world in a cup of coffee on the street.

#hellohalloween Getxo, in Biscay, Spain, is a beautiful coastal town that combines elegance, relaxation, and the easy rhythm of Basque life. The sea is always close, with scenic promenades, sandy beaches, and graceful old villas overlooking the water. Walking along the marina feels peaceful, especially with the sound of waves and seagulls in the background. The Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds a touch of industrial history and offers stunning views from the top. Locals enjoy leisurely walks, surfing, or sitting at cafes with a glass of txakoli wine. The atmosphere is welcoming and calm, yet full of life. Getxo is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and simply enjoy the beauty of the Basque coast in its purest form.

Spain's Atlantic Coast Pilgrimage ~ Basque Country Between Ereaga Beach and Abra Bay, formed by the Nervión estuary, lies the Arriluce and Ybarra seaside promenade. This promenade features some of the most beautiful stately homes and palaces built by Basque nobility in the early 20th century. Surrounded by large gardens, it's one of the most picturesque walkways of the Basque nobility. The Lezama-Léguizamón Palace is undoubtedly the most famous and stately of these. Originally built in 1903 by order of businessman and politician Luis Lezama-Léguizamón, it underwent a complete reconstruction in 1919 by Basque architect Manuel Maria Smith. Constructed of sandstone ashlar, it features a loggia with semicircular arches, punctuated by a central tower topped with a minaret, connecting the buildings on either side. #SeptemberDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #VizcayaAttractions

Pilgrimage Along the Spanish Atlantic Coast - Basque Region This impressive and beautiful town is located on the Biscay coast, just a 20-minute metro ride from Bilbao. Known for its affluent area with private palaces overlooking the sea, the town offers remarkable food, including the famous Pintxos and various local delicacies. The region boasts several hotels and beaches with clear waters and waves perfect for surfing enthusiasts. The sand on the beaches is fine and free of stones. Locals speak Spanish and are very welcoming. We will definitely return. I recommend exploring the entire coastal path from the suspension bridge to the old port of Algorta. Walk along the promenade, where the old port features the best restaurants, especially those serving wild fish and seafood.

Pilgrimage along Spain's Atlantic Coast~Basque Country The Vizcaya Bridge (Puente de Vizcaya) spans the Nervión River, located between Getxo and Portugalete, and is super close to Bilbao! This historic transporter bridge, which has been in operation since its inauguration in 1893, sees around six million crossings annually and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! 😍 Designed by Alberto de Palacio, this engineering marvel stands 45 meters high and stretches 160 meters long. The coolest part? It uses a suspended gondola to transport people across the river, while boats can freely pass underneath—truly ahead of its time! 🛳️⚙️ This design later became a model for many transporter bridges in Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Absolutely iconic! The Vizcaya Bridge is not just an industrial heritage site; it’s also described as "a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics, an extraordinary manifestation of technical creativity." Many similar bridges no longer exist today, so visiting here to take photos and experience the traces of history is a must! 📸 📅 A great spot for September and a must-add to your 2025 travel list! 🏙️ Address: Puente de Vizcaya Zubia, 48930 Getxo, Bizkaia, Spain 🕙 Opening hours: Open year-round, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Monday and Wednesday to Sunday), closed on Tuesdays.

The Vizcaya Bridge, registered as a World Heritage Site as the world's oldest transporter bridge, is known for being designed by Alberto Palacio, a disciple of Eiffel. The sight of the gondola suspended by wires transporting people and cars is quite fascinating. It doesn't sway unstably, making it feel like a small attraction ride. The walkway on the iron bridge was thrilling.

#SummerTripEvent ARRAUN JATETXEA Aretxondo Kalea, 20, 48991 Getxo, Bizkaia, Spain A gem of a restaurant I stumbled upon while walking in the Puerto Viejo area. Delicious octopus, scallops, and wine made me happy.

If you’re going to Bilbao, do a quick visit to Getxo, this town is so beautiful and magical