Vitoria-Gasteiz,
Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital city of the Basque Country in northern Spain, known for its well-preserved medieval old town. The city is famous for its green spaces, with over 160 parks making it one of the greenest cities in Spain. Vitoria-Gasteiz is also a cultural hub, hosting music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional Basque events throughout the year.
With its mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture, Vitoria-Gasteiz offers visitors a unique and charming experience.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Lo siento" - I'm sorry
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Old Town and Parks
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Santa Maria Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic-style church. Afterward, take a stroll to the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, a charming square with cafes and historic architecture. Make sure to try some pintxos at Bar La Perla for a delightful breakfast.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon exploring the lush greenery of Florida Park, an idyllic spot for a leisurely walk. Then head to the Artium Museum to admire contemporary art and enjoy a meal at the museum's delightful restaurant, El Portalón.
evening:For a great night-out, head to the Calle del Principe, a vibrant street lined with bars and live music venues.
Cultural Marvels and Gastronomic Delights
morning:This morning, delve into the Basque culture with a visit to the Basque Museum. Afterward, head to Mercado Victoria, a bustling food market, to sample local delicacies like pintxos and fresh seafood.
afternoon:Explore the architectural masterpiece of the Basque Parliament and take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance. For lunch, indulge in traditional Basque cuisine at the cozy La Kortxera restaurant.
evening:Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Espana for a delightful evening filled with bustling cafes and charming terraces.
Nature Escape and Historic Wonders
morning:Embark on a scenic hike at the Gorbea Natural Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and beautiful nature trails. After the hike, head to Bar Tomas for a hearty breakfast to refuel for the day.
afternoon:Visit the iconic Salt Valley of Anana and discover the fascinating salt pans and natural formations. Take a guided tour to learn about the geological significance of the area. For a late lunch, savor the flavors of traditional Basque cuisine at Borda Berri.
evening:Enjoy a splendid night-out at the Alava Araba, a lively district known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse entertainment options.
Artistic Journey and Riverside Charm
morning:Immerse yourself in the art world with a visit to the Montehermoso Cultural Center, where you can admire contemporary artworks and exhibitions. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque La Senda green route and enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafe La Olla.
afternoon:Explore the rich history of Vitoria-Gasteiz with a visit to the beautiful Catedral Nueva, an architectural marvel with stunning interiors. Then, head to the Tximiso Art Gallery to discover unique local artwork. Indulge in a delightful lunch at Bar Sagartoki, known for its exquisite Basque cuisine.
evening:For a memorable night-out, head to the lively pubs and bars along Calle Dato, where you can savor delicious drinks and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.
Vitoria-Gasteiz Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Pintxos
Vitoria-Gasteiz is renowned for its exquisite pintxos, especially in the Old Town area. These bite-sized culinary delights are usually served on skewers or toothpicks, with a myriad of options ranging from seafood to cured meats and vegetable-based creations.
Must-Try!
Marmitako
A traditional Basque fisherman's stew, marmitako is a must-try dish in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This hearty stew features tuna, potatoes, peppers, and onions, seasoned with flavorsome paprika and a hint of garlic.
Bacalao al Pil-Pil
For seafood enthusiasts, Bacalao al Pil-Pil is a local delicacy not to be missed. This dish consists of cod gently cooked in olive oil with garlic, creating a creamy emulsion known as 'pil-pil' that is both creamy and flavorful.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercado de Abastos
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, and an array of traditional Basque goods. Visitors can sample tantalizing street food offerings like piping hot churros, crispy croquettes, and freshly grilled pintxos.
Things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!