Basque Country Car Hire

Guide of Basque Country

Geography

The Basque Country is a geographically diverse region with an extraordinarily varied terrain that encompasses coastal landscapes, mountains, rivers, forests and deserts. It sits in southwest Europe, squeezed between the rivers Aturri in the north and the Ebro in the south. The Pyrenees, Aralar, Aizkorri and Gorbeia mountain chains split the region in two.

Climate in Basque Country

There are two climates in the Basque: an Oceanic climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and a Mediterranean climate from the south. That makes for different weather patterns, but for the most part, the region is one of the coldest in Spain. Unlike the sun-bleached beaches of the south coast, temperatures in this region barely break the mid-20s, even at the height of summer.

Winters are cold and rainy, with the rainiest days falling between October to December. June, July and August are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures hovering between 23-27°C.

Culture

Much like its terrain and climate, the Basque Country has a distinctive culture, including its own language, customs, festivals and music. It crosses borders too, with three provinces located in northern Spain and three located in southwest Spain. The Basque language has seven different dialects and the Basques are one of the oldest ethnic groups in France. Folklore plays an important role in local culture, and many ancient myths and legends are still celebrated today in dance, music and festivals.

Things To Do in Basque Country

Eat your way around San Sebastian

This lively seaside metropolis is one of Spain’s best-known destinations for good reason. It’s a haven for foodies, with a packed calendar of events devoted to its culinary history. It’s one of the best places to sample pintxos too. Beyond eating, there’s plenty to see and do in the city, including the Museo de San Telmo, La Catedral del Buen Pastor and the Palacio de Miramar.

Gawp at great art at the Guggenheim Bilbao

Inaugurated in 1997, Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum is housed in a metal ship-like building designed by Frank Gehry. It houses an impressive collection of works from distinguished artists including Anish Kapoor, Eduardo Chillida and Anselm Kiefer. Once you’ve had your fill of artistic masterpieces, you can wander around the streets of Casco Viejo, browse the stalls at La Ribera market or take a boat ride down the Ria de Bilbao.

Soak in the history of Vitoria-Gasteiz

The Basque capital is often overlooked in favour of Bilbao and San Sebastian, and that’s a shame because it’s a real head-turner. Its cobblestone streets are crammed full of pintxo bars, elegant squares and impressive monuments. The historic centre is widely considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval centres in the region.

Visit the most famous bull run in Spain

The Pamplona Encierro (bull run) takes place every year between 6-14 July during the Fiestas de San Fermin, a thrilling festival involving chupinazo (fireworks), singing and street parties. Travelling out of season? There’s still plenty to see, from sprawling parks to enticing churches.

Take a hike

The Basque country is a top hiking destination. Hundreds of routes wind around the region’s most stunning landscapes, from its soaring mountains to its rugged coastline. The Northern Camino is the most famous trail in the Basque Country, connecting Irun (on the French border) to Arzua. Those looking for a slightly less taxing trek could try the Idiazabal Cheese Trail or The Route of the Three Temples.

Beach hop

The coast here is rugged and brimming with character. Stretching 176 km along the Bay of Biscay, it encompasses golden sandy stretches, wild coves and urban beaches. La Concha, in San Sebastian, is a popular spot for those staying in the city, while the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit for anyone staying near Bilbao.

Eating Out in Basque Country

The Basque Country is a paradise for foodies. Locals take it seriously too; it’s thought that residents spend twice as much of their disposable income on eating out as people in the United States. It’s estimated that there are over 1,500 (txokos) secret gourmet societies sprinkled across the region too. It’s hardly surprising when there’s so much on offer.

The region is best known for its pintxos (small snacks), which you’ll find at most bars and cafes on any street. It’s also well known for its fine dining scene. The Basque Country is home to 40 Michelin-star eateries, the second-most Michelin star-restaurants per capita in the world. There are currently four three Michelin-star restaurants in the region, mostly concentrated in and around San Sebastian.

Transport

Airport

There are four international airports in the Basque Country: Bilbao, Santander, Asturias and Biarritz (in France). Most international airlines offer services from major European cities to each of these airports. There are also three domestic airports in the Basque Country: Vitoria, Logrono and Pamplona.

Getting around Basque Country

The Basque Country is a well-connected region, with a good train network, buses and highway system. In fact, Bilbao’s public transport system recently topped the list of Spanish cities with the best public transport, thanks to its punctual and uncrowded networks. The new Basque card offers intercity bus services and railway services between major cities too.

However, if you’re looking to travel to more rural destinations, we recommend hiring a car. Driving will give you more flexibility and you won’t need to rely on expensive transfers to explore off-beat attractions. Roads are in excellent condition and well-signposted too.