Vizcaya Bridge, San Juan De Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo & Gernika

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $69.39 per person for approximately 5 hours of sightseeing.
• Major Stops: Includes the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge, the scenic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the fishing village of Bermeo, and the historic Gernika.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a knowledgeable guide who provides local insights in both Spanish and English.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with included hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights for First-Time Visitors: Perfect for those new to Bilbao, offering a well-rounded overview of the Basque region.

Exploring the Vizcaya Bridge: An Engineering Marvel and UNESCO Site

The tour begins with a visit to the Bizkaia Bridge, a true engineering masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Opened in 1893, this metal suspension bridge connects Portugalete and Getxo in Bizkaia province. Its suspended platform allows ships to pass underneath, showcasing 19th-century industrial ingenuity.

Expect to spend around 20 minutes at this historic structure, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the sight of this iconic transshipment bridge—one of the world’s first of its kind—is a highlight, blending history with impressive architecture.

Gazing at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: A Clifftop Hermitage and Filming Location

Next, the tour takes you to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a spectacular natural site renowned for its dramatic coastline and historic hermitage. This rocky islet sits just off the Basque coast and offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay.

This spot gained global fame as a “Game of Thrones” filming location, representing “Dragonstone”. The site is known for its cultural significance and natural beauty. While there’s no dedicated time to walk around the hermit during this visit, the 15-minute stop provides a visual feast of craggy cliffs and azure waters.

Exploring Bermeo: A Charming Fishing Village

The tour then moves to Bermeo, a picturesque coastal town famous for its maritime history. As a traditional fishing village, Bermeo features colorful buildings along its harbor, which is still lively with boats.

Travelers can expect a 40-minute stop to wander the streets, enjoy the scenic surroundings, and sample a gourmet pintxo—a local delicacy included in the tour. The town’s historic charm and seaside atmosphere make it an ideal spot for photo opportunities and cultural insight.

Gernika and the Tree of Gernika: Symbols of Basque Identity

The next stop is Gernika, home to the Casa de Juntas, a historic building that has long served as the assembly hall for the Basque people. This site embodies Basque autonomy and political history.

Visitors can explore the museum and view the Tree of Gernika, a symbol of Basque freedom and traditional rights. However, political or public events may affect internal access; in such cases, visitors will see the Tree from outside. The 30-minute visit offers a glimpse into Basque resilience and heritage.

Comfort and Convenience in Transit

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan or bus, ensuring a comfortable journey across the Basque coastline. The group size typically remains small, providing a more personal experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Bilbao.

The start time is at 9:20 am, with a total duration of about 5 hours, including travel time. The guided commentary is provided in both Spanish and English, often by a multi-lingual guide. The seating is unassigned, and the order of stops may vary due to operational reasons.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

While the tour covers several highlights in a tight schedule, it does not include a walk to the hermit at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, so visitors should be prepared for limited physical activity. The tour runs rain or shine, so appropriate clothing is recommended.

The admission tickets for the Vizcaya Bridge and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to explore these sites more thoroughly. Food restrictions should be communicated at the start, especially since a local gourmet pintxo is included in the Bermeo stop.

Comparing the Tour with Other Experiences

This tour is highly rated for its knowledgeable guides, with reviews praising Gorka and Josu for their warmth and expertise. Travelers appreciate the scenic views and interesting commentary. However, some mention the tight schedule can feel rushed, especially at the stops with limited free time.

Compared to other similar excursions, this small group experience offers a balance of sightseeing, cultural insights, and scenic stops. The lively discussion and local flavor make it stand out, especially for those new to Bilbao or the Basque region.

Final Thoughts: An Engaging Snapshot of Bilbao and the Basque Country

This half-day tour presents a well-rounded selection of Bilbao’s most iconic sites and the stunning Basque coast. The price point of $69.39 provides good value, especially with hotel pickup and a local guide included.

While the schedule is packed, the stops are carefully chosen to combine history, scenery, and local flavor. The gourmet pintxo tasting at Bermeo adds a tasty local touch, and the views from San Juan de Gaztelugatxe deliver photo-worthy moments. The Gernika visit offers a meaningful glance into Basque identity.

This tour suits those who enjoy structured excursions with informative guides and want to maximize their time seeing key sights without having to plan logistics themselves. It’s especially good for first-time visitors and small groups seeking an efficient, engaging overview of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours, including travel time and stops.

Are tickets for Vizcaya Bridge and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe included?
No, the admission tickets are not included, so plan to purchase separately if desired.

What is the group size?
The tour usually operates in small groups, with a maximum of 50 travelers.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine.

Which languages are the guides available in?
Guides typically speak Spanish and English, often as multi-lingual guides.

Can I visit the hermit at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe?
No, the tour includes a 15-minute stop for views, but not a walk to the hermit.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transport, guide service, and a local pintxo tasting.

Are there any physical limitations?
The tour is not accessible for people with mobility problems or those who walk slowly.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 91 days in advance to secure a spot.