Things To Do
in Oñate
Oñate is a picturesque town located in the Basque Country region of Spain. It is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including the impressive Sanctuary of Arantzazu. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Oñate is also famous for its traditional Basque cuisine, with many restaurants serving delicious local dishes.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3.50
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $45
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the stunning Sanctuary of Loyola. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café while soaking in the views of this iconic site.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the local architecture. Visit the University of Oñate, an important cultural landmark.
Have dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant to try local dishes. End your evening with a quiet walk through the town square.
Begin with a visit to the beautiful Izarraitz Mountain. Hike the scenic trails and relish the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the mountain’s viewpoint. Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Return to town and unwind at a local bar with tapas and a glass of wine. Appreciate the sunset as you relax with friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including historical architecture and festivals.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with access to outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
- Strong sense of community and local traditions.
- Culinary delights, particularly in local cuisine and wines.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly for younger generations.
- Potential isolation due to its smaller size and rural setting.
- Access to modern amenities may be less than in larger cities.
- Weather can be less favorable in winter months, affecting outdoor activities.
Best Activities in Oñate
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna on the numerous hiking trails in this nearby natural park.
A short hike or drive to this stunning sanctuary offers not only a spiritual experience but also incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a cycling trip along sections of the famous Camino de Santiago, which passes near Oñate, offering scenic views and cultural sites.
Experience the beauty of the Urkulu Reservoir by kayaking or simply enjoying a picnic by the water's edge.
Stroll through Oñate's charming old town, featuring beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and local shops and cafes.
For adventure enthusiasts, numerous outdoor climbing spots are available near Oñate, catering to different skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oñate with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oñate
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful sanctuary set in the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and unique architectural details.
A designated viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the town of Oñate and its picturesque countryside, perfect for photography.
The historic university building is not only architecturally impressive but also offers a lovely backdrop for photos with its gardens and surrounding area.
A beautiful church located in the heart of Oñate, known for its intricate facade and interior, making it an ideal spot for capturing the essence of the town.
This picturesque stone bridge provides great angles for photography, connecting various scenic pathways around Oñate.
A local park that offers lush greenery and open spaces, perfect for capturing nature shots or relaxing while enjoying views of the town.
Food in Oñate
Oñate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Basque fisherman's stew made with tuna or bonito, potatoes, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. It can be savored at Restaurante Arkupe.
Must-Try!
Salted cod cooked in olive oil with garlic, often served at Mesón Txurruka, providing an authentic taste of Oñate.
These are a must-try in Oñate, particularly at Bar Gran Sol or The Jáuregui. Pintxos are bite-sized portions of local delights like anchovies, chorizo, or tortilla, often served on bread.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oñate better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant food market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and seafood. Additionally, it provides an excellent opportunity to sample authentic street food such as freshly prepared empanadas and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting locals in Oñate, a warm greeting is appreciated. A friendly 'Hola' followed by a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common. It's important to engage in polite conversation as it shows respect for the local culture.
Residents of Oñate value a well-put-together appearance. Dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or formal events, is a sign of respect. Opt for neat and clean clothing to blend in with local customs.
During meals, it's customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Also, it is polite to keep your hands on the table but not your elbows. Engaging in light conversation during meals is common, so be prepared to participate respectfully.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oñate with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oñate
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oñate, tipping practices are generally informal. It is customary to round up the bill in restaurants or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation for good service. However, large tips are not expected, and the practice may vary based on personal preference and the type of service received.
Payments in Oñate can be made through various methods, including cash and credit/debit cards. While cash is still a commonly accepted form of payment, many establishments, especially in urban areas, also accommodate electronic payments. It is advisable to check with individual businesses regarding their payment options.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oñate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Oñate as the weather starts to warm up, and the blooming flowers create a picturesque landscape. Expect mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and clear skies, ideal for exploring the town's historic sites and surrounding nature.
Summer (June to August) brings warmer weather with temperatures often exceeding 25°C (77°F). It is a vibrant season with various festivals, outdoor activities, and longer daylight hours. However, be prepared for occasional heatwaves and a bustling tourist scene.
Autumn (September to November) offers a stunning display of fall colors as the leaves change. The weather is pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the local cuisine, especially with seasonal harvests.
Winter (December to February) in Oñate can be cold, with temperatures often hovering around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Expect occasional snowfall, which can enhance the town's charm. This is a quieter time to visit, perfect for enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and winter festivities.
Oñate at Night
Hiking in Oñate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park with diverse flora and fauna, offering numerous hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
This area features multiple hiking routes with variable difficulty levels, allowing hikers to explore its scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
A popular hiking destination characterized by its distinctive shape, it offers trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints and a rewarding experience for adventurous hikers.
A spacious natural park with a wide range of trails, including routes to the highest peak in the Basque Country, perfect for both experienced hikers and families.
This famous pilgrimage route passes through various landscapes and offers an opportunity for long-distance hiking with plenty of historical and cultural sites along the way.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oñate through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oñate by plane.
Located approximately 105 km to the northwest, Bilbao Airport is the main international airport serving the Basque Country, with a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located around 74 km to the northwest, this regional airport primarily supports domestic flights and some international connections, suitable for travelers heading to the Basque region.
Situated approximately 61 km to the south, Vitoria-Gasteiz Airport mainly handles cargo but also offers limited passenger services, including some international flights.
This is the same as Bilbao Airport listed above, as it's often referred by its city name or the airport's full name.
Located about 250 km to the northwest, it serves international flights primarily during the summer months, often used by travelers heading to the Atlantic coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Oñate, primarily speaking Spanish and belonging to various regions across Spain.
A significant demographic group in the region, with cultural ties to the Basque Country and language (Euskara).
Includes various smaller groups from countries such as Ecuador, Morocco, and Romania, contributing to the cultural diversity.
The Soul of Oñate
Discover the essence of Oñate through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Oñate, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball has a significant presence in Oñate, with local clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Handball is a popular team sport in Oñate, with local tournaments and leagues.
As a traditional sport in the Basque Country, Basque Pelota is commonly played in Oñate, reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
Athletics is practiced widely in Oñate, with events and competitions held in local facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oñate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Oñate's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian pintxos, salads, and vegetable-based stews. Notable places include Restaurante Harria and Bar Borda-Berri.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free pintxos and dishes at Mesón Otano, which caters to dietary restrictions while delivering an authentic dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oñate with these cultural adventures.
