Northern Spain is home to some breath-taking scenery and incredible sights. The Basque Country really does have it all from amazing food and culture to thrill-seeking activities. What’s more, it has all of this, but without being super-crowded too.
So how can you make the most of a short weekend break in this spectacular region? Fly into Bilbao, select the best value car hire in Bilbao with Drivalia, and hit the road for this spectacular three-day road trip.
Day One: Bilbao
Start by driving to the centre of Bilbao to explore the main city attractions. Your first day should be visiting the highlights of the city, of which Bilbao has plenty. You can’t miss the fantastic Guggenheim Museum. However, if you’re pressed for time and can’t go in, then the area around the museum is super impressive too with a beautiful mix of old and new architecture.
A twenty-minute walk away from the Guggenheim is the mediaeval centre of Bilbao which is the perfect place to sit down, relax and grab some pinchos and drinks. Marvel at the architecture, shop for souvenirs and relax before taking a wander through the beautiful Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park.
As well as the Guggenheim, Bilbao is now known as a food tourism hotspot and has plenty of restaurants that feature in the Michelin guide. Azurmendi has three Michelin stars to its name which is the highest award possible and is just a short drive from the centre of Bilbao out to the surrounding countryside.
Day Two: Coastal Drive
From Bilbao, drive up to the north coast to marvel at the rugged Atlantic coast. A must-visit destination on the route is Gaztelugatxe which is a stunning island connected to the mainland by a manmade winding bridge. There is a small 10th Century chapel on the island and not much else. However, for breath-taking beauty and stunning scenery everywhere you look, Gaztelugatxe is not to be missed.
Look familiar? Game Of Thrones fans will recognise the island and the winding path as Dragonstone Castle.
If you want to visit an actual castle as well, then travel to the impressive Castle of Butron, while you may not be able to go inside, it is well worth of stop just to look at the architecture on the outside. Carry along the coast on the way to San Sebastian to arrive there for the evening. Like Bilbao, San Sebastian has some fantastic restaurants to revive your spirits after a tiring day of exploring.
Day Three: San Sebastian
After breakfasting in the town and having a wander around the city, get back in the car to Oñati which offers truly mesmerising views as well as an incredible Franciscan monastery, the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, which offers guided tours. After the tour, head to the amazing caves which provides an insight into an incredible past and is even home to some extinct prehistoric animals too.
Afterwards, take a leisurely drive back to Bilbao for a final night sampling the delicious local cuisine and wine.
Offering the best value, no deposit car hire in Bilbao, Drivalia can make your road trip hassle-free. We focus on all-inclusive stress-free car hire with no extra fees or hidden costs lurking. Simply book your car and leave the rest to us! Find out more about our hassle-free car rental service in Bilbao here.