Things To Do
in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Main municipal market offering fresh produce, meats, fish, and small stalls; a great spot for breakfast or to pick up picnic ingredients.

Street-level bar culture rather than street food trucks — hop between bars in the Casco Viejo for pintxos, local cheeses, and small plates.

A handshake is common on first meeting; friends may exchange light kisses on the cheek. Use a polite greeting (Hola or Kaixo) when entering shops or bars.

Meals are social and often start late by international standards; wait for a toast before drinking and try a few pintxos when offered to be polite.

Basque identity is strong; showing respect for Basque language and customs is appreciated. If you use a few Basque words, locals will often respond warmly.

Keep noise moderate in residential areas, be respectful in churches and historic sites, and follow local recycling and sustainability rules (Vitoria is eco-conscious).

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at bars for pintxos.

Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; carry some cash (euros) for small purchases, markets, and rural vendors. Contactless payment and mobile wallets are increasingly accepted.

Mild temperatures and blooming parks make spring ideal for walking and birdwatching; expect spring showers so pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes.

Warm and pleasantly sunny with occasional hot days; festivals and outdoor terraces are lively — bring light layers and sunscreen, but evenings can still be cool.

Crisp air and colorful foliage in the Green Belt and nearby parks; rain increases later in the season so waterproofs are useful, and mushroom season begins.

Cool, damp winters with temperatures rarely extreme; snow is possible in surrounding mountains rather than in the city, and layers plus waterproof footwear are recommended.

The majority of residents identify as Basque or with strong Basque cultural ties; bilingualism (Spanish and Basque) is common.

People from other parts of Spain live and work here, contributing to Spanish-language prevalence and diverse regional influences.

Smaller communities from Latin America, North Africa, and Eastern Europe contribute to the city’s cultural mix and offer varied culinary options.

University students and young workers add energy to the cultural and nightlife scenes, particularly around university areas and central districts.

Vegetarian options exist but menus are traditionally meat/fish-heavy — many restaurants will adapt dishes or offer seasonal vegetable plates; pintxo bars often have omelette (tortilla) or grilled vegetable options.

Vegan choices are less common but becoming more available in cafes and modern restaurants; ask staff (in Spanish/Basque) to adapt dishes and request vegetable-based plates.

Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing; many restaurants can accommodate, but cross-contamination in pintxo bars is a risk — always inform staff and confirm ingredients.

Specifically halal or kosher establishments are limited; larger supermarkets and some restaurants may offer halal-certified products — plan ahead if strict adherence is required.