From Bilbao: Excursion to San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria

If you’re looking to experience some of Spain’s most charming coastal towns without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this guided tour from Bilbao ticks many boxes. Covering three standout destinations—San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria—it promises a day full of picturesque scenery, cultural insights, and delicious bites. Whether you’re into history, natural beauty, or gastronomy, there’s a bit of everything here.

What we love about this trip is the combination of expert-guided walking tours, the scenic coastal drives, and the chance to sample local flavors—all in a manageable 10-hour window. The journey feels well-paced, with enough time in each town to soak up the atmosphere. That said, the day’s length and multiple stops might be a stretch for very young children or those with limited mobility.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, culture, and food but prefer the comfort of a guided experience. If you’re keen to explore the Basque Country’s coastal highlights without stress, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation by private air-conditioned bus ensures a smooth journey.
• Expert local guides bring history and culture to life during the walking tours.
• Flexible free time in Getaria allows for personalized exploration and tasting.
• The itinerary balances scenic drives and cultural stops, offering a comprehensive taste of the coast.
• Duration of approximately 10 hours makes for a full but manageable day trip.
• Some reviews mention that timing in certain stops could be adjusted for a more balanced experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience Breakdown

Starting from Bilbao in Comfort

The tour kicks off from a centrally located spot in Bilbao, specifically in front of the floral sculpture of Puppy at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 66. From there, a private air-conditioned bus whisks you away along a scenic route toward the Basque coast. The 70-minute drive is a good chance to relax and enjoy glimpses of the countryside and coastal vistas that will be part of your day.

Hondarribia: Medieval Charm by the Sea

Hondarribia is first on the list, a historic town right near the French border. The journey itself is picturesque, with the bus route offering sweeping views of coastlines and rolling hills. Upon arrival, you’ll join an expert local guide to explore its medieval old town. Cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a lively harbor set the scene for a step back in time.

The guided walk here covers key sights like Hondarribia Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Reviewers highlight the town’s charming atmosphere and its well-preserved historic architecture. One traveler noted, “Sit back and relax as we travel along the coastal route, surrounded by beautiful landscapes,” emphasizing how the journey itself contributes to the experience.

You’ll have about 75 minutes of free time to wander, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy a coffee by the water. Just be aware that some visitors find the stop a bit short, wishing for a little more time to soak in the atmosphere.

San Sebastián: Iconic Scenery and Pintxos

Next stop is San Sebastián, a city famous for its breathtaking bay, Gothic architecture, and world-renown pintxos. The tour includes a guided walking tour led by an expert local guide, which covers the highlights of the city’s Old Town and the striking La Concha Bay.

The panoramic tour brings you to the Miramar Palace for picture-perfect views of the bay, a favorite spot among reviewers. Crossing the María Cristina Bridge is an Instagram-worthy moment, framing the city’s elegant architecture. Afterwards, you’ll have some free time to explore at your own pace—perfect for tasting local pintxos from tiny bars or shopping in boutique stores.

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with one noting, “Our guide Wallace was very prepared and passionate… entertaining us with history and art insights,” which adds depth to the visit. The time in San Sebastián is around 105 minutes, giving enough space to enjoy both the guided tour and some personal exploration.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Getaria: A Picturesque Fishing Village and Cultural Treasure

The drive from San Sebastián to Getaria takes about 40 minutes, and this coastal village offers a more relaxed, authentic flavor of Basque life. Getaria is known not just for its beauty but also for being the home of Cristóbal Balenciaga, whose museum is a highlight for fashion lovers.

During the guided visit, you’ll stroll through its streets, enjoying panoramic views of the coast and the nearby towns of Zumaya and Zarautz. The town’s fishermen’s harbor and traditional architecture make it a charming spot for photos and strolling.

Travelers have spoken highly of this stop’s scenic views and cultural richness. One reviewer said, “In Getaria, you can visit the Balenciaga Museum and enjoy magnificent panoramic views,” underscoring the town’s blend of natural beauty and artistic history. The free time here is approximately 40 minutes, ideal for a quick snack or a moment to soak in the vistas.

Scenic Return to Bilbao

After Getaria, the bus ride back to Bilbao lasts around 75 minutes. The route offers panoramic views of Zumaya, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many reviewers appreciated the scenic drive, with comments like “Relax and enjoy the scenic route back,” emphasizing how the journey itself remains an integral part of the experience.

Back at the starting point, the tour concludes smoothly, leaving you with a full day of coastal charm, cultural insights, and memorable vistas.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package offers transportation by private bus, guided walking tours in Hondarribia and San Sebastián with knowledgeable local guides, and a stop in Getaria to explore at your own pace. Reviews praise the guides’ expertise, with mentions of “friendliness,” “knowledge,” and “entertaining anecdotes,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Not included are lunch, food and drinks, and admission to the Balenciaga Museum—allowing flexibility for you to choose your own dining options or visit the museum if you wish. The tour price is reasonable considering the inclusion of expert guides, transportation, and the variety of destinations covered.

Timing and Pacing

The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with enough free time to explore independently. Reviewers note that the timing in some stops (particularly Hondarribia and Getaria) could be adjusted, with some wishing for longer in certain towns or more evenly split time between stops. It’s worth considering your personal pace—if you’re a fast walker or a foodie eager to taste more, you might find the schedule a tad tight.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a private air-conditioned bus keeps things comfortable, especially during the coastal drive. The group size typically appears to be small and manageable, fostering a more personal experience. Several reviewers mention how the driver and guides contribute significantly to the enjoyment, providing local tips and making everyone feel well looked after.

Duration and Price

At approximately 10 hours, this tour packs a lot into a day but remains feasible for most travelers. The cost reflects the value of guided walks, transportation, and the convenience of a curated itinerary. For those wanting a rundown of the Basque coast without the hassle of navigating public transport or planning multiple visits, this tour offers good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate guided cultural and scenic excursions and want to maximize their day without the stress of planning. It’s ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and cuisine, especially if you love wandering through charming streets, savoring local flavors, and enjoying spectacular coastal views.

Those with mobility limitations should consider the walking involved and the timing in each stop, but for most able-bodied travelers, it’s a rewarding, well-organized day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned bus transportation throughout the day.

How long is the bus ride between stops?
The initial journey from Bilbao is about 70 minutes. Other drives between towns, like from San Sebastián to Getaria, last about 40 minutes, with return trips taking approximately 75 minutes.

Are guides available in both English and Spanish?
Yes, the tour features live guides in both languages, ensuring clear, engaging commentary.

Can I visit the Balenciaga Museum?
Admission to the museum is not included, but you may visit it during your free time in Getaria if you choose.

How much free time will I have?
In Hondarribia, about 75 minutes; in Getaria, around 40 minutes; and in San Sebastián, approximately 105 minutes, balancing guided and personal exploration.

Is food included?
No, lunch and food/drink are not included, giving you the flexibility to enjoy local eateries at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It’s not explicitly designed for wheelchair users or mobility scooters, and the walking involved might be challenging for some. Most travelers with moderate mobility should find it manageable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, some cash for snacks or souvenirs, and perhaps a light jacket for the coastal breeze.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip from Bilbao offers a well-rounded look at some of the Basque Country’s most stunning coastal towns. The combination of scenic drives, expert-guided walks, and free time in Getaria give you a taste of seaside charm, history, and gastronomy—all in a single day. Travelers praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and warm.

While some may wish for longer in certain stops or more even pacing, the tour remains a fantastic option for those eager to see the highlights without the hassle of separate arrangements. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenery, and culinary delights, making it a memorable addition to any Basque itinerary.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to this part of Spain, this excursion provides a comprehensive and comfortable way to soak up the coast’s beauty and vibrancy.

You can check if your dates are available here: