Vitoria, Añana Salt Valley and Bizkaia Bridge from Bilbao

Discover the Basque Country’s Highlights in One Day

This full-day tour from Bilbao offers a rich blend of history, scenery, and local culture for $112.65 per person. Starting early at 8:00 am, it spans approximately 9 hours and covers iconic sites like Vitoria-Gasteiz, Salinas de Añana, Orduña, and the Vizcaya Bridge.

The tour is designed for those with a limited schedule but a desire to see some of the most remarkable spots in the Basque Country. It includes hotel pickup (from designated meeting points), guided visits, lunch at a traditional restaurant, and entrance fees—making it a good-value option for curious travelers. The tour operates rain or shine, and most travelers can participate, with some children eligible for discounts.

However, note that pick-up and drop-off at individual hotels are not included**, so travelers should plan to meet at the specified location in Bilbao. Guides are usually bilingual, explaining in both English and Spanish, and reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Sonja and Stefan.

Key Points

• Full-day itinerary covering Vitoria-Gasteiz, Añana Salt Valley, and Vizcaya Bridge
• Includes lunch at a traditional Spanish restaurant and entrance fees
• Guide-led visits with explanations in English and Spanish
• Affordable price of $112.65 with hotel pickup from Bilbao meeting point
• Most bookings occur 49 days in advance, reflecting popularity
• Suitable for most travelers, with children discounts and accessibility options

Starting Point: Meeting in Bilbao at Mazarredo Zumarkalea

The tour begins at 8:00 am at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, Abando, just outside the city center. From here, a professional driver and guide lead the group through a carefully curated list of destinations. The mobile ticket system keeps things straightforward, and the tour wraps up back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your day.

Though hotel pickup is not included, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers staying in Bilbao. The tour maintains a maximum group size of 50, ensuring a comfortable experience and the opportunity for interaction with guides.

Exploring Vitoria-Gasteiz’s Historic Old Quarter

The first stop takes you to Vitoria-Gasteiz, known for having one of the finest old quarters in the Basque Country. The guided walking tour lasts about one hour, allowing ample time to admire the medieval streets, historic buildings, and quaint plazas.

Guides highlight key landmarks and share stories that bring the city’s history to life. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable explanations, especially how guides narrate in both English and Spanish. The well-preserved architecture and atmosphere of the old town make it a memorable start to the day.

Discovering Salinas de Añana Salt Valley

Next, a guided tour of Salinas de Añana reveals one of the oldest salt factories in the world. Spanning about one hour, this stop offers insight into traditional salt production methods that have been maintained for centuries.

Visitors are often struck by the spectacular landscape of salt terraces and the historical significance of the salt extraction process. The free admission makes this a valuable experience, and many praise the informative guides who explain the salt valleys’ importance in local life.

Visiting Orduña’s Medieval Charm

The tour then takes you to the town of Orduña, where a 30-minute walking tour explores its large medieval square, reputed to be the biggest in the Basque Country. The town’s architecture, history, and medieval atmosphere provide a glimpse into the region’s past.

Guides point out notable features of the square and share stories about Orduña’s role in regional history. The relatively short visit allows time for photos and soaking in the authentic medieval ambiance.

Lunch at a Traditional Basque Restaurant

A highlight of the tour is the two-hour lunch at a local restaurant, included in the price. Visitors enjoy regional dishes, often praising the quality of the food and the friendly service.

The restaurant is typically located in a former convent or historic building, adding to the cultural experience. The meal provides a chance to relax, refresh, and enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine amidst beautiful surroundings.

Crossing the Iconic Vizcaya Bridge

In the afternoon, the tour includes crossing Puente Colgante (Vizcaya Bridge), the first transporter bridge in the world. The 30-minute visit involves a ride on the metal structure by nacelle, offering spectacular views of the river and surrounding scenery.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a visual highlight and provides excellent photo opportunities. The guide explains its engineering significance and historical importance, adding a layer of appreciation for this innovative transportation marvel.

Additional Stops and Regional Landmarks

Throughout the day, the guide points out sights like the Valley of Ayala, renowned for its scenic beauty, and regional landmarks that showcase the diversity of Basque geography and culture. The guides’ expertise shines through in explaining the historical and cultural context of each site.

Some reviews mention that guides like Stefan and Sonja go the extra mile to explain details in both languages, making the experience accessible for non-Spanish speakers. The stunning views and local stories enrich the sense of connection to the region.

Practicalities and Tour Logistics

The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing in a single day, covering a broad area of the Basque Country. The pacing is generally well-received, with timed stops allowing enough exploration without feeling rushed.

Since pick-up at individual hotels isn’t included, travelers should plan to meet at the specified Bilbao meeting point. The group size usually remains manageable, ensuring guides can provide personal attention and answer questions.

The tour operates rain or shine, so travelers should dress accordingly. Most travelers, including families and older adults, find the pacing suitable, and children benefit from discounts when accompanied by two adults.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The reviews frequently praise the guides’ knowledge, with many mentioning guides like Sonja, Stefan, and Pascu. They are described as friendly, informative, and passionate about the region, often explaining in both English and Spanish.

Guides’ stories about cycling stages, local history, and regional culture add depth to the experience. Their enthusiasm and patience turn a sightseeing day into a more engaging journey.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $112.65, this tour offers great value considering the included lunch, guided visits, and entrance fees. The full-day format and the opportunity to see multiple regions make it worthwhile for travelers seeking a rundown of the Basque Country.

Most reviews highlight that the itinerary is diverse and well-organized, though some mention that a mixed-language group can lead to slight delays or less personalized explanations for English speakers. Still, the expert guides and beautiful sites make this a highly recommended option.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour suits history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see multiple highlights in one day. It’s ideal for travelers staying in Bilbao who want an organized, informative experience without the hassle of arranging individual visits.

It’s also a good choice for families with children (who benefit from discounts), as well as visitors interested in engineering marvels like the Vizcaya Bridge. Active participants should be comfortable walking during the stops, especially in Vitoria-Gasteiz and Orduña.

Final Thoughts on the Vitoria, Añana Salt Valley, and Bizkaia Bridge Tour

This tour provides a balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture, all within a well-paced, full-day schedule. The guides’ expertise and included lunch elevate the experience, especially for those keen to learn about Basque traditions and landmarks.

While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point is convenient, and the tour’s value for money makes it worthwhile. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors and those wanting to cover a lot of ground without sacrificing depth.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and local cuisine will find this experience rewarding. Keep in mind that mixed-language groups may experience some communication delays, but overall, the diverse itinerary and friendly guides create a memorable day in the Basque Country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $112.65 per person, including lunch, entrance fees, and guided visits.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Bilbao at the end.

Where does the tour meet?
It begins at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, Abando in Bilbao.

Are hotel pickups included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; travelers need to meet at the designated starting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children between 2 and 12 years old can receive a 50% discount when accompanied by two adults.

What landmarks are included?
Highlights include Vitoria-Gasteiz’s old quarter, Salinas de Añana, Orduña’s medieval square, and crossing the Vizcaya Bridge.

Are guides bilingual?
Most guides operate bilingual services in English and Spanish to accommodate diverse groups.

What should I wear or bring?
Dressing appropriately for weather conditions is advised; the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is included within the tour, but pick-up at individual hotels is not.

Who operates the tour?
The experience is provided by Servicios Turisticos Integrales.