From Bilbao: Mountains and Sea Full-Day Tour

Exploring the Basque Country’s stunning natural landscapes is a must for any traveler. The "From Bilbao: Mountains and Sea Full-Day Tour" promises to whisk visitors away on a captivating journey through the region’s picturesque villages, breathtaking coastlines, and majestic mountains. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this full-day adventure offers a chance to take in the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a well-rounded sightseeing experience, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

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Key Points

This comprehensive full-day tour from Bilbao visits historical landmarks, salt mines, a medieval square, and offers a 75-minute lunch at a typical restaurant.
The tour is priced at $103.76 per person, with a duration of 10 hours, and is available in both Spanish and English.
Highlights include a guided tour of Vitoria-Gasteiz’s historical monuments, exploration of the Añana Salt Valley, and a visit to the Vizcaya Bridge.
The tour includes transportation, entrance tickets, a guided tour of the Añana Salt Valley, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Customers have praised the knowledgeable and engaging guides, the value for money, and the overall tour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "From Bilbao: Mountains and Sea Full-Day Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of the natural and cultural wonders surrounding Bilbao.

Explore the natural and cultural wonders surrounding Bilbao on this comprehensive full-day tour.

Priced at $103.76 per person, the 10-hour tour is available in Spanish and English. Customers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without payment.

The tour starts and ends at Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, and includes guided visits to historical landmarks in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the salt mines of Añana, and the medieval square in Orduña.

Lunch at a typical restaurant in Balmaseda and a stop at the iconic Vizcaya Bridge are also part of the experience.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off at the starting location of Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65.

First, you’ll take a guided tour of historical monuments in Vitoria-Gasteiz, including the cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen Blanca.

Next, explore the Salt Valley of Añana, one of the oldest salt mines, on a guided tour.

Then, visit the medieval square in Orduña for 30 minutes.

After that, enjoy a 75-minute lunch at a typical restaurant in Balmaseda.

Finally, you’ll see the world’s first metal transporter bridge, the Vizcaya Bridge, before returning to the starting point.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes an English and Spanish-speaking guide to accompany you throughout the day.

The guide will provide transportation to the various sites on the itinerary. You’ll also receive entrance tickets and a guided tour of the Añana Salt Valley, one of the oldest salt mines.

The tour includes transportation to sites, entrance tickets, and a guided tour of the historic Añana Salt Valley.

Lunch with drinks at a typical restaurant in Balmaseda is included. Hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless experience.

With all these inclusions, this tour offers excellent value, allowing you to make the most of your time in the mountains and along the Basque coast.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have, on the whole, responded positively to this tour, awarding it an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33 reviews.

Customers praised the knowledgeable guides, who provided informative and engaging commentary throughout the day. The transportation was also well-received, with a 4.3/5 rating.

Reviewers felt the tour offered excellent value for money, giving it a 4.5/5 rating in this category.

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Important Information

Travelers should meet at the tourist office bus stop next to the Guggenheim Museum to begin the tour.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately for the weather. Itineraries are subject to change, but the tour provider will make every effort to ensure the experience matches the advertised highlights.

Here are 3 important things to keep in mind:

Guests must arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a smooth departure.
The tour includes transportation, so there’s no need to worry about driving or parking.
The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish.

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Exploring Vitoria-Gasteiz

Why start the tour in Vitoria-Gasteiz? The historic city serves as the perfect introduction to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

During the guided tour, visitors explore the cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, the charming central square. This hour-long exploration sets the stage, providing context and insight into the unique blend of Basque and Spanish influences that define the area.

From here, the tour progresses to the Salt Valley of Añana, offering a captivating glimpse into the ancient salt-mining traditions that have shaped the landscape.

Discovering the Salt Valley of Añana

What makes the Salt Valley of Añana so captivating? This 1,500-year-old salt mine offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history and heritage.

Visitors can explore the site’s intricate network of wooden paths and savor the distinct aroma of the mineral-rich salt.

The guided tour highlights three key features:

Centuries-old techniques, architectural marvels, and scenic vistas captivate visitors at the 1,500-year-old Salt Valley of Añana.

Centuries-old techniques: Witness the artisanal process of extracting salt, which has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Architectural marvels: Admire the stunning salt pyramids and the iconic "salt cathedral," built entirely from the natural resource.
Scenic vistas: Take in the breathtaking landscapes that surround the salt flats, nestled between the rolling hills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour includes transportation, as the description states that transportation is one of the tour inclusions. Specifically, the tour provides transportation to and from the various sightseeing locations throughout the day-long excursion.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch Option?

Yes, vegetarian and gluten-free lunch options are available. Customers should notify the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking the tour to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled restroom breaks throughout the day. Participants can expect several opportunities to use the facilities during the various stops, such as the guided tours and lunch. The schedule allows time for these necessary breaks.

Can I Take Photos During the Visits and Tours?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the visits and tours. However, it’s important to be respectful and follow any specific instructions from the guide about photography restrictions at certain sites.

Is There Any Free Time for Exploring on My Own?

Yes, the tour includes free time for exploring on your own. The itinerary allows for approximately 30 minutes of free time in the medieval square of Orduña, giving you a chance to wander and discover the town at your own pace.

The Sum Up

The "From Bilbao: Mountains and Sea Full-Day Tour" promises an unforgettable journey through the Basque Country’s stunning landscapes. Offering a seamless experience with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a delightful lunch, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas or cultural exploration, this full-day tour is a must-consider for anyone visiting the area.