Basque Country, Pamplona, San Sebastian & Bilbao
This five-day Escorted Tour offers a focused look at Northern Spain, a region known for its distinct culture and world-renowned food. Staying at a centrally located 4-star hotel in Pamplona, you will explore the historic heart of the Basque Country tour without the need to pack and unpack every day. This trip is designed for travellers who appreciate a blend of organised sightseeing and free time to explore local cafés and markets at their own pace.
Your journey begins with a direct flight to Bilbao followed by a transfer to Pamplona, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Navarre. Pamplona is much more than its famous festivals; it is a city of beautiful gardens and a well-preserved Old Town. On your second day, you will visit the medieval town of Olite to see its impressive Royal Palace before returning to Pamplona for a guided walk. This tour takes you along the famous route of the Running of the Bulls and into the quiet cloisters of the Cathedral of Santa María la Real.
The itinerary continues with a full-day excursion to Bilbao. This city has undergone a remarkable transformation from an industrial port to a global centre for art and architecture. You will walk through the ‘Seven Streets’ of the Old Quarter and see the striking exterior of the Guggenheim Museum. There is plenty of free time here for those who wish to go inside the museum or simply enjoy a coffee by the Nervión River. Bilbao is a very walkable city, offering a unique mix of cutting-edge design and traditional Basque hospitality.
On the fourth day, the tour heads to the coast to visit San Sebastian, widely considered one of the most beautiful seaside cities in Europe. The city is famous for the crescent-shaped La Concha Bay and its exceptional culinary scene. You will take a funicular ride up Mount Igueldo for a panoramic view of the coastline before having the afternoon to yourself. Whether you choose to stroll along the elegant promenade or try the local ‘pintxos’ (tapas) in the Old Quarter, San Sebastian is a highlight of any visit to this part of Spain.
With return flights, transfers, and 4-star accommodation included, this Basque Country tour provides excellent value for money for those looking to discover the essence of the north. Throughout the trip, you will be accompanied by an experienced tour leader and local guides who provide factual insights into the history and traditions of the Basque people. The pace is well-considered, allowing you to see the major highlights of the region while still having the freedom to enjoy your holiday as you choose.
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
Is the entrance to the Guggenheim Museum included?
Will there be a local guide available?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct flights from Dublin to Bilbao
- All airport taxes and a 10kg checked-in bag per person
- Return airport transfers
- 4 nights bed and breakfast in a 4-star hotel in Pamplona
- Welcome dinner at the hotel on the first night
- Guided tours of Pamplona, Bilbao, and San Sebastian
- Entrance tickets for Olite Castle, Pamplona Cathedral, and Pamplona Bullring
- Funicular ride at Mount Igueldo in San Sebastian
- Professional services of a tour leader and local guide throughout
Itinerary
1Arrival in Bilbao and Transfer to Pamplona+
Your journey begins with a direct flight from Dublin to Bilbao. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your 4-star hotel in Pamplona, your base for the next four nights. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant to sample the traditional hospitality of the Navarra region.
2Exploring the Royal Palace of Olite and Pamplona+
Today's excursion takes you to the medieval town of Olite to visit the Royal Palace, once the seat of the Kings of Navarre. After exploring its stone arcades and courtyards, you return to Pamplona for a guided tour. You will follow the route of the famous Running of the Bulls, visit the historic Cathedral, and finish in the lively Plaza del Castillo, the city's central heart.
3A Basque Country tour Highlight: The City of Bilbao+
Travel to Bilbao for a guided exploration of its historic Old Quarter, known as Casco Viejo. You will see the Santiago Cathedral and the bustling Ribera Market before walking along the river to view the exterior of the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. The afternoon is free for you to explore the museum's galleries at your own pace or enjoy a coffee in one of the city's modern cafés.
4Coastal Elegance in San Sebastian+
Head towards the coast to visit San Sebastian, an elegant seaside city famed for its culinary excellence. You will take a funicular ride up Mount Igueldo for incredible panoramic views over La Concha Bay. Following a brief orientation tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy, perhaps wandering through the old quarter to sample local snacks or walking along the famous beachfront promenade.
5Leisure Time in Pamplona and Return Home+
Enjoy a free morning in Pamplona for some last-minute shopping or a relaxed lunch in the old town. In the afternoon, you will be transferred back to Bilbao airport for your return flight to Dublin, concluding your tour of Northern Spain.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Oct 2026 | Twin | €1,249 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Oct 2026 | Single | €1,399 | Book Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: SW
