Things To Do
in Durango
Durango is a picturesque town located in the Basque Country region of Spain. It is known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with mountains and lush green valleys nearby.
Durango is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby Urkiola Natural Park.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Basilica de Santa María. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café nearby.
Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and visit the Durango Market for local delicacies. Explore the historic buildings that tell the story of the town.
Dine at a traditional Basque restaurant to experience local flavors. End your day with a walk around the town square admiring the evening lights.
Head to the nearby Urkiola Natural Park for a morning hike. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and fresh air.
Pack a picnic and relax by a scenic spot in the park. Explore the various trails and enjoy some wildlife watching.
Return to Durango for dinner at a cozy eatery. Unwind by taking a leisurely walk along the river.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historic architecture and local traditions.
- Stunning natural landscapes surrounding the town, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Friendly community and a slower pace of life compared to larger cities.
- Delicious local cuisine and wines.
- Good accessibility to nearby attractions and other cities in the Basque Country.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Less developed public transportation compared to larger urban areas.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options than bigger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- Heavier rainfall in certain seasons may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Durango
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning mountain trails and beautiful landscapes of the Pyrenees region near Durango, Spain.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Vasco-Navarro Greenway, a former railway line that has been converted into a picturesque cycling route.
Try kayaking, canoeing, or fishing at the Urkulu Reservoir, surrounded by peaceful natural surroundings.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the rugged and scenic area of Arrietara, located close to Durango.
Tours
Uncover the best of Durango with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Durango
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A unique natural area known for its impressive limestone formations and stunning vistas.
A popular viewpoint in Granada offering breathtaking views of the Alhambra and the city of Granada.
A mountain range that provides stunning views and excellent photo opportunities, especially during winter.
Food in Durango
Durango Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty tuna stew with potatoes, peppers, and onions, flavored with paprika and a touch of white wine. Sample this delicious dish at Asador Etxebarri.
Must-Try!
Salt cod cooked in olive oil and garlic, creating a rich and creamy sauce. La Bodega de Don Pelayo offers an exceptional version of this classic Basque dish.
Corn tortilla filled with smoky Basque sausage. Look for this indulgent street snack at the weekly market in Durango or at the Fiesta de San Fausto in October.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durango better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local specialties like Idiazabal cheese and chorizo. Don't miss the pintxo bars for an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Durango, Spain, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a kiss on each cheek, even in formal settings.
In Durango, it's important to respect meal times, with lunch typically being the largest meal of the day and dinner often eaten later in the evening.
Participating in and showing respect for local festivals and traditions, such as the annual Basque festival, is an important part of cultural norms in Durango.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durango with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Durango
Ensure a smooth experience
In Durango, Spain, tipping is not as common as it is in some other countries. It is not customary to leave a 15-20% tip at restaurants, but it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gratuity.
Payment in Durango, Spain is commonly done using cash or credit/debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Durango.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Durango, Spain, as the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Expect pleasant temperatures and colorful landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Summer is a great time for outdoor adventures in Durango, Spain, with warm temperatures perfect for exploring the region's natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy outdoor festivals, cultural events, and water activities in the nearby rivers and lakes.
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Durango, Spain, as the foliage changes color and the temperatures become cooler. It's an ideal season for hiking, mountain biking, and sampling the local cuisine, such as the renowned Basque cuisine.
Winter in Durango, Spain, brings colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, making it a picturesque destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and cozying up in local cafes and restaurants to savor the warm and hearty Basque dishes.
Durango at Night
Hiking in Durango
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail offers a moderate challenge with a total distance of about 10 kilometers.
This path offers a scenic hike through the Valley of the Bandits, known for its unique geological formations and rich vegetation. The trail is approximately 8 kilometers long and suitable for all skill levels.
A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Pico del Diablo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the region. The round trip is about 12 kilometers, ideal for experienced hikers.
Part of the long-distance hiking trail running across the Pyrenees, this section offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. It’s a great option for multi-day trekking.
A historical hiking spot that combines nature and culture as hikers explore ancient ruins nestled in scenic surroundings. The trail is approximately 6 kilometers and offers moderate difficulty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Durango through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Durango by plane.
Located approximately 174 kilometers from Durango, this airport serves as a major international gateway for the Basque Country and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.
This airport is about 117 kilometers from Durango and primarily serves flights to domestic destinations, with some international connections.
Situated around 80 kilometers from Durango, it mainly handles cargo flights but has some scheduled passenger flights, focusing on regional destinations.
Located roughly 120 kilometers from Durango, this smaller airport offers limited services and is mostly used for regional flights.
Located about 550 kilometers away, this airport in France serves numerous international destinations and can be a broader option for travelers in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic consisting of native Spaniards, including those from the Basque region.
A significant group given Durango's location in the Basque Country, known for its distinct culture and language.
A growing segment of the population, with many coming from countries like Argentina, Colombia, and Ecuador.
Includes residents from other European countries, particularly from France and the UK.
A smaller community of individuals from Morocco and other North African nations.
The Soul of Durango
Discover the essence of Durango through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Durango is known for its beautiful landscapes and challenging terrain, making cycling a popular sport among locals and visitors.
Basketball is widely played in Durango, with schools and local clubs promoting the sport.
Football is incredibly popular in Durango, with several local teams and a strong community support for the sport.
Athletics, including running, jumping, and throwing events, is a common sport in Durango, with various competitions held throughout the year.
Handball has a significant following in Durango, with many clubs and teams participating in local and regional leagues.
As part of Basque culture, Pelota is a traditional sport enjoyed by many, with various forms being played in Durango.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durango.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Basque cuisine traditionally features a lot of meats and seafood, many restaurants in Durango offer creative vegetarian pintxos and plant-based reinterpretations of classic dishes. Check out Bide Bide and Akeita for fantastic vegetarian and vegan options.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can savor gluten-free pintxos and Basque specialties at Taberna Zumeltzegi and Restaurante San Agustín, which both cater to gluten-free dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Durango with these cultural adventures.
