From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian Minibus Tour

The Basque Country offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural enchantment. This guided tour takes travelers on a journey through the region’s highlights, inviting them to immerse in the striking landscapes of Gaztelugatxe and uncover the vibrant heart of San Sebastian. Whether seeking awe-inspiring vistas or indulging in the local culinary delights, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on this adventure.

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Key Points

10-hour minibus tour from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian, with a hike to a historic hermitage and a guided walking tour of San Sebastian.
Tour includes roundtrip transportation, a scenic hike to Gaztelugatxe, and a guided walking tour of San Sebastian’s highlights.
Gaztelugatxe hike features 241 steps with breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea, and the tour provides rain gear for the hike.
San Sebastian guided walking tour covers La Concha bay, City Hall, Buen Pastor Cathedral, and the lively Old Town known for its pintxos culture.
2 hours of free time in San Sebastian to explore independently, including sampling traditional Basque cuisine and enjoying the coastal city’s atmosphere.

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Tour Overview

The Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian Minibus Tour is a 10-hour activity that takes visitors on a journey to explore two renowned destinations in the Basque Country.

A 10-hour activity exploring two renowned Basque Country destinations, the Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian Minibus Tour.

Priced from €95.00 per person, the bilingual tour (Spanish and English) accommodates a group size of 5 to 59 participants.

Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes transportation, a walking tour in San Sebastian, Gaztelugatxe tickets, and other amenities.

Customers have highly rated the tour’s structure and guides, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

Looking for more options in Bilbao? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a morning pickup at 08:30 from the Church of San Nicolas in Bilbao.

Guests then travel to Gaztelugatxe, where they’ll hike 241 steps to the scenic hermitage, taking in the spectacular views.

After the hike, the group heads to San Sebastian, arriving around 13:00.

There, they’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, including La Concha bay, City Hall, Buen Pastor Cathedral, and the Old Town known for its pintxos.

Afterward, guests have 2 hours of free time before departing San Sebastian at 17:00 and returning to Bilbao by 18:30.

Gaztelugatxe Hike

Guests embark on a scenic hike to the iconic Gaztelugatxe, a small island connected to the mainland by a stone bridge.

The hike consists of 241 steps, winding through the picturesque landscape. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding cliffs.

The hermitage at the top of the island dates back to the 10th century, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

With the provided rain gear, guests can explore this unique natural wonder while learning about its cultural significance from the knowledgeable guide.

San Sebastian Guided Walking Tour

After exploring the scenic Gaztelugatxe, guests move on to the charming city of San Sebastian.

Upon arrival, they’ll embark on a guided walking tour, exploring the city’s highlights. Strolling along La Concha bay, guests will admire the iconic City Hall and Buen Pastor Cathedral.

Guests embark on a guided walking tour, strolling along La Concha bay and admiring the iconic City Hall and Buen Pastor Cathedral.

The tour then ventures into the lively Old Town, known for its vibrant pintxos culture. Guests will have the opportunity to discover the unique architecture, historic landmarks, and culinary delights that make San Sebastian a beloved destination.

Following the guided tour, they’ll enjoy free time to further enjoy the city’s allure.

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Free Time in San Sebastian

What’ll visitors do during the free time in San Sebastian?

After the guided walking tour, guests will have 2 hours to explore the charming Old Town on their own.

They can wander through the narrow streets lined with pintxos bars, browse local shops, or simply relax at one of the cafes along La Concha promenade.

The Old Town is famous for its vibrant food scene, so visitors might choose to sample some traditional Basque cuisine or pintxos, the local take on tapas.

With stunning views of the bay, it’s the perfect opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere of this coastal city.

There's plenty more to explore in Bilbao

Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point for this tour is the Water Fountain underneath the main gate at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

The meeting point for this tour is the Water Fountain underneath the main gate at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

The group will then head to the adjacent bus stop to begin the journey.

The tour includes:

Transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services.
Provision of rain gear if needed.
A minimum group size of 5 participants, with a maximum of 59.

If the minimum group size isn’t met, the tour will be canceled, and customers will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Tour Highlights and Inclusions

This tour offers a chance to explore two of the Basque Country’s most captivating destinations – Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian.

At Gaztelugatxe, guests will embark on a scenic hike up 241 steps to a stunning hermitage with breathtaking views.

In San Sebastian, the tour includes a guided walking exploration of the city’s highlights, such as La Concha bay, the City Hall, and the Buen Pastor Cathedral.

Guests will also enjoy free time to discover the city’s renowned Old Town and indulge in its famous pintxos.

The tour includes transportation, walking tours, entrance fees, and all necessary equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Gaztelugatxe Hike?

For the Gaztelugatxe hike, one should wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers. Bringing rain gear is also recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable on the exposed coastal trail.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a lunch break in San Sebastian, but providing your own snacks and beverages is permitted throughout the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Free Time in San Sebastian?

Yes, there is an option to extend the free time in San Sebastian. Travelers can speak with the tour guide to request more time to explore the city independently, although this may impact the overall tour schedule.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility due to the 241 steps required during the hike to Gaztelugatxe. However, the walking tour in San Sebastian is more accessible, and free time allows participants to explore at their own pace.

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in the Area?

Yes, the tour can be combined with other activities in the area. Travelers can easily add visits to Guggenheim Museum, city tours, or pintxos (Basque-style tapas) tastings before or after the tour to maximize their time in the Basque region.

The Sum Up

This breathtaking tour showcases the natural and cultural gems of the Basque Country. Guests will embark on a scenic hike to the historic Gaztelugatxe hermitage, followed by a guided exploration of San Sebastian’s iconic landmarks. With ample free time to indulge in the city’s renowned pintxos culture, this experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the beauty and gastronomy of this captivating region.