Nestled along the rugged Basque coastline, the charming fishing village of Getaria is an ideal escape from the bustling city of Bilbao. With its picturesque harbour, rich maritime history, and world-class cuisine, Getaria offers visitors an authentic taste of the Basque Country in just one day. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a wine lover, this coastal gem has something for everyone.
Getting to Getaria from Bilbao
Getting to Getaria from Bilbao is a breeze. The best transportation option is renting a car, which gives you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. The scenic coastal road (AP-8 and N-634) makes for an enjoyable one-hour drive. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bilbao’s Termibus station to Zarautz and then hop on a local bus or enjoy a pleasant coastal walk to Getaria (about 5 km). The journey itself is a delight, with stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.
Exploring the Old Town & Maritime Heritage
Start your day by wandering through Getaria’s charming old town, where cobbled streets lead to historic buildings and vibrant plazas. One of the first stops should be the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to the legendary fashion designer born in Getaria. The museum showcases his iconic designs and gives insight into his influence on haute couture.
Next, take a stroll down to the Church of San Salvador, a striking Gothic structure that dates back to the 14th century. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit spot.
A Culinary Delight – Basque Grilled Seafood
No trip to Getaria is complete without indulging in the region’s famous seafood. The town is renowned for its parrilla-grilled fish, cooked over an open flame and seasoned to perfection. Head to one of the waterfront restaurants like Elkano, Kaia-Kaipe, and Balearri Getaria- Jatetxea where you can savor freshly grilled turbot, anchovies, or sea bream paired with a glass of crisp Txakoli, the local white wine.
Our Recommendation: for an unforgettable seafood experience, consider dining at Balearri Getaria-Jatetxea. This hidden gem is known for its exceptional grilled fish and seafood dishes, prepared with traditional Basque techniques. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance, combined with its stunning seaside location, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. Whether you’re enjoying fresh turbot, octopus, or a perfectly grilled steak, pairing it with a glass of Txakoli will elevate your dining experience. Check out Balearri Getaria-Jatetxea here.
Txakoli Wine Tasting & Coastal Walk
After lunch, take a short drive or hike to a Txakoli vineyard in the rolling hills surrounding Getaria. This light, slightly effervescent wine is a Basque specialty, and a visit to a family-run winery like Gaintza or Txomin Etxaniz offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about its production and enjoy a tasting with breathtaking views of the vineyards and the sea.
If you’re looking for more options, consider visiting other Txakoli wine producers listed under Getariako Txakolina Designation of origin where you can book tastings and tours to experience the region’s best wines. https://www.getariakotxakolina.eus/wineries/?lang=en
Our Recommendation: Gaintza Having personally tried their wines, we highly recommend visiting Gaintza, a family-run winery with a long-standing tradition of producing excellent Txakoli. You can book a tasting and learn more about their wines at www.gaintza.com.
