From Bilbao to Biarritz: A Bespoke Five Day Road Trip Across Basque Country

People flock to Bilbao to marvel at the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum. But this vibrant and historically industrial city has a lot more to offer, particularly for those who love food and wine!

The city is fairly compact and is easily walkable/bikeable. The two main areas you will want to focus on are Abando (where the Guggenheim and several hotels are located), and the Casco Viejo (old town).

For a magical Gastby-esque escape, check in to Palacio Arriluce, just outside the city. Alternatively, check into a Guggenheim-facing hotel (Hotel Miro).

After checking in, walk around central Bilbao and admire the distinctive architecture of the city. Walk by the 19th-century palace Txibarri Jauregia. Check out the refurbished wine warehouse Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural centerdesigned by Philippe Starck. It houses a pool and a rooftop bar in a very interesting design setting. Head over to the futuristic Zubizuri pedestrian bridge and then walk along the riverside Campo de Volantin Pasealekua towards the Casco Viejo.

After taking in the charming streets of the old town, it’s time to engage in a bit of txikiteo (hopping from bar to bar enjoying wine and Pintxos). Pintxos bars abound in this part of Bilbao, and part of the fun is to pop into any spot that piques your interest. Head to the bar, pick your pintxos and wash it all down with a beer, wine or glass txakoli (slightly sparkling local wine) – and repeat!

In the morning, visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum before hitting the road. Although the fastest route will get you to San Sebastian in about one hour, I recommend taking the long way. You will go along the coast and discover the many gems along the Cantabrian Sea. Once you see it, you won’t be surprised that several Game of Thrones filming locations are scattered along this breathtaking coast. Drive through and explore San Juan to Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Lekeitio, Ondarroa and Zumaia. Stop for a bite in one of these charming seaside towns, or snag a reservation at Michelin-starred Elkano. Make a pit stop at a local txakoli producer, like Bodega Katxiña Txakolina, for a tasting.

Check into your hotel in San Sebastian. I recommend Villa Favorita, or Villa Soro, both housed in refurbished private mansions. Go explore — bring your appetite, as this city has the most Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in all of Europe. You can’t go wrong, but note that reservations are strongly recommended.

In addition to being a foodie sanctuary, San Sebastian is also a surfing destination — try your hand at it on Zurriola Beach.

Alternatively, hit the famous La Concha beach or enjoy it from its long promenade by foot or on bike. Check out the Eduardo Chillida sculptures and head up to Monte Igueldo. Then, head into the old town. Check out La Bretxa Market and the San Telmo Museum before scoping out the famous San Sebastian pintxos bar scene on an unforgettable crawl through the city’s best spots.

Again, the fastest route will get you from San Sebastian to Biarritz in less than an hour — but where’s the fun in that? Take your time exploring quaint seaside towns and dramatic coastlines along the way. Make Pasajes de San Juan and Hondarribia your last Spanish stops before crossing over into France and exploring Hendaye, St-Jean-de-Luz and Guethary.

Check into Regina Experimental in Biarritz, a funky new property in a town that was once the playground of royals and glitzy European socialites. For some old-school glamor, check in to Hotel du Palais was originally the summer home of Napoleon III and Princess Eugenie.

Catch the sunset over cocktails at Le Carlos before heading to dinner at the basque bistro Chisterra & Coquillages.

Start your day exploring Les Halles district and the city’s famous market. Pop by some stands for a medley of breakfast snacks. Check out the sights nearby, like the glitzy Chapelle Imperiale, before heading to the Grande Plage for a seaside walk.

Starting at the iconic Villa Belza, make your way north along the coast towards Rocher du Basta, discovering the charming viewpoints along the way. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for a seafood-centric late lunch in the Vieux Port area at Chez Albert (reservations recommended) or Casa Juan Pedro (no reservations required).

In the afternoon, indulge in some thalassotherapy – seawater spa therapy — at one of the several specialized spas in and around town.