From Bilbao: Vizcaya Bridge, Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo & Gernika

Discover Bilbao’s Coastal Treasures in Just 5 Hours

This guided day trip from Bilbao offers an engaging glimpse into the Basque Country’s stunning coastline and historic towns for $68 per person. Starting at Meliá Bilbao, the tour takes about 5 hours, with a packed itinerary that highlights Vizcaya Bridge, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the fishing village of Bermeo, and the historic town of Gernika. The tour features bilingual guides providing insights in both Spanish and English, and includes a gourmet pintxo tasting in Bermeo.

Travelers should be prepared for a full day that balances scenic views, cultural stops, and light walking. While the tour does not include a trek to Gaztelugatxe, it offers spectacular lookout points and photo opportunities that capture the beauty of the Basque coast. This experience suits those who appreciate a well-organized day of sightseeing with a focus on culture, history, and coastal scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes transportation, bilingual guide, and pintxo tasting for $68
• Five-hour tour covering Vizcaya Bridge, Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, and Gernika
• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Vizcaya Bridge from outside
• Enjoy scenic views of Gaztelugatxe from designated lookout points
• Taste authentic Basque pintxos in Bermeo fishing village
• Learn about Basque history at Gernika’s Casa de Juntas and Gernika Tree

Starting Point and Departure Details

The tour departs from Meliá Bilbao at 09:20 AM. Travelers should meet outside the hotel, on the street next to the entrance, not inside the hotel lobby. An alternative meeting point is Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:30 AM, with clear instructions to meet outside on the street near the hotel entrance.

Participants are advised to arrive on time, as missing the bus results in a no-show. The tour duration includes travel time, with the group returning to Meliá Bilbao at the end of the day.

Exploring the Bilbao Estuary and Industrial Past

The journey begins with a tour of the Bilbao Estuary, where the guides explain the city’s industrial transformation. As the bus moves along, travelers get a sense of Bilbao’s evolution from a historic port to a vibrant city, setting the stage for the sights ahead. The Vizcaya Bridge then comes into view, an engineering marvel and the oldest hanging transporter bridge in the world. Visitors see the outside of this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its historic importance.

Gaztelugatxe: Scenic Views without the Trek

The highlight for many on this tour is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic island featuring a steep, winding path to the hermitage, popular with hikers. However, this tour offers a viewpoint to admire the rocky island and its scenic surroundings without the strenuous trekking. The guide shares stories about its role as a Game of Thrones filming location and points out the spectacular coast from the lookout.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bermeo: Coastal Charm and Pintxo Tasting

In Bermeo, a charming fishing village, the group spends around 30 minutes tasting a traditional Basque pintxo, a small snack typical of the region. This stop provides a delicious break and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. The town itself offers picturesque harbor views and colorful houses, perfect for quick photos and a sense of authentic Basque coastal life.

The Historic Significance of Gernika

The tour’s final cultural stop is Gernika, where visitors explore the Casa de Juntas, the historic assembly house, and see the Gernika Tree, a powerful symbol of Basque identity and democracy. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, allowing enough time to appreciate the heritage and resilience represented by these landmarks.

Natural Beauty in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve

On the way back, the route passes through the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a protected area known for biodiversity. From a viewpoint, travelers enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the reserve’s lush landscape, adding a natural element to the journey.

Practical Information and Accessibility

The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those who have difficulty walking, especially since there’s no trekking involved to Gaztelugatxe. The transportation is by coach or minivan, driven steadily and safely, as praised in reviews. The group size is managed for comfort, and guides are bilingual, offering clear explanations in Spanish and English.

Travelers should bring passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and prepare for weather changes. The tour runs rain or shine, ensuring flexibility in all weather conditions.

Cost, Inclusions, and What’s Not Included

For $68 per person, the tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and a pintxo tasting. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off or entrance fees, as the Vizcaya Bridge is only viewed from outside. Guests should note that trekking to Gaztelugatxe is not part of this experience.

Additional restrictions include no pets (except assistance dogs), no smoking, and no food or drinks in the vehicle. Participants are advised to carry comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Guide Experience and Customer Feedback

The guides are described as knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about the Basque Country and its sights. Reviewers highlight guides like Josh for their attractive vibe and careful explanations. One reviewer appreciated the steady driving and safety, while others praise the prompt pickup and well-organized transport.

Most reviews rate the experience as 5 stars, citing beautiful scenery and informative guides as key highlights.

Final Thoughts on the Bilbao Coastal Day Trip

This tour delivers a compact overview of the Basque coast’s most iconic sights in five hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers with limited time. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and local tastings offers a well-rounded experience without overwhelming the schedule.

While it does not include a trek to Gaztelugatxe, the viewpoints and stops provide plenty of photo opportunities and insights into Basque traditions. The bilingual guides and smooth transportation make this tour a convenient and engaging option for those wanting to explore beyond Bilbao’s city limits.

Designed for culture lovers, scenery seekers, and foodies, this tour balances history, nature, and cuisine for a memorable day along the Basque coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts around 5 hours, including travel time and visits to each stop.

Does the tour include a trek to Gaztelugatxe?
No, the tour offers viewpoints of Gaztelugatxe, but not the full hike to the hermitage.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a bilingual guide, and a pintxo tasting in Bermeo.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those who cannot walk easily, especially because of the lack of trekking to Gaztelugatxe.

Where does the tour start and how do I meet?
The departure point is outside Meliá Bilbao at 09:20 AM or Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:30 AM, on the street next to the hotel entrance.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for children?
Child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable with limited walking.

What should I bring?
Travelers need to bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Will I see the Vizcaya Bridge from inside?
No, the tour views the Vizcaya Bridge from outside only, as the entrance is not included.

Is there food or drinks available during the tour?
The tour does not include meals beyond the pintxo tasting, and no food or drinks are permitted in the vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby