Basque Country Itinerary
10-Day Basque Country Itinerary by Train: Bordeaux to San Sebastián
Follow this food-filled 10-day journey from Bordeaux to the Basque coast, with stops for world-class wine, unforgettable pintxos, beautiful seaside towns, and some of the region’s most memorable train journeys.
Personally traveled and thoughtfully planned by The Toasting Travelers. (Last updated July 2026)
Trip at a Glance
Trip Length
10 days
Itinerary
Bordeaux → Biarritz → San Sebastián → Vitoria-Gasteiz → Bilbao
Transportation
Train, metro, taxi, walking
Best For
Food lovers, couples, families, history buffs, wine enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
May–September
April & October for fewer crowds and lower prices
Budget
Mid-range to luxury
$$–$$$
Walking
8k–10k
steps/day
Countries
France & Spain
Is This Itinerary Right for You?
This 10-day itinerary combines the wine culture of Bordeaux with the vibrant food scene of the Basque Country, creating an unforgettable train journey through France and northern Spain. Expect walkable cities, exceptional cuisine, dramatic coastal scenery, and some of Europe’s most memorable dining experiences.
THE ROUTE
Your 10-day Journey
Biarritz
1 night
Vitoria-Gasteiz
Bilbao
2 nights
3 nights
2 nights
1 night
More trip-planning help: Train Tips · Where to Stay · Estimated Budget · What to Pack · FAQs
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
DAY ONE
Arrive in Bordeaux
Begin your Basque Country journey in Bordeaux, France’s celebrated wine capital. Spend the day exploring grand architecture, riverside neighborhoods, historic squares, and the food and wine culture that makes this city such a memorable place to begin.
Begin in France’s wine capital
Where we’d stay again: The Intercontinental Le Grand. It’s stunning, centrally located and has a beautiful rooftop bar.
What we’d skip:
If you’re not a wine enthusiast, you should skip La Cité du Vin.
Porte de Bourgogne - there are way better monuments to see.
Morning
Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and soak in Bordeaux’s classic French architecture.
Lunch
Enjoy a long, leisurely lunch with locally sourced ingredients and, of course, a glass of wine.
Afternoon
Discover Bordeaux’s wine culture at La Cité du Vin, then wander the riverfront and Chartrons.
Evening
Wind down with a glass of wine, then see Place de la Bourse glow as Bordeaux lights up after sunset.
See Cathédrale Saint-André, Place de la Bourse, Miroir d’Eau, and Rue Sainte-Catherine in one easy route.
Guided Bordeaux Tour →A stylish Bordeaux bistro serving creative French dishes and an excellent selection of French wines.
Reserve at Mets Mots →An immersive look at Bordeaux’s wine culture, with interactive exhibits and panoramic views from the top.
Get Tickets →A warm Bordeaux dining room serving creative, seasonal French cooking with a modern touch.
Reserve at Zéphirine →
What we drank: Château Penin Clairet
What we tasted: Raspberry, strawberry, a little floral, a touch of spice.
Where we drank it: Julo. A local bar next to the St. Michel Cathedral.
The Toasting Travelers
Toast of the Day
Bordeaux Clairet
Toast of the Day
Bordeaux’s somewhere-between-a-rosé-and-red. Bright, juicy and best served slightly chilled. A nice break between heavier reds.
Château Penin Clairet
Raspberry, strawberry, a little floral, a touch of spice.
Julo. A local bar next to the St. Michel Cathedral.
Try jus de raisin.
Same region, same grapes, no hangover.
BORDEAUX ESSENTIALS
What to Eat, Drink & See In Bordeaux
Local specialities, iconic sights and classic Bordeaux flavors worth experiencing while you’re in the city.
Bordeaux’s somewhere-between-a rosé-and-red. Bright, juicy and best served slightly chilled. A nice break between heavier reds.
Entrecôte à la bordelaise from L'Entrecôte. No reservations, you get one thing, it’s delicious & reasonably priced.
Not Drinking?
Try jus de raisin.
Same region, same grapes, no hangover.
Santé
✧
Santé ✧
La Bar à Vin is a celebrated wine bar that offers a great selection of local wines. No reservations and it fills up quickly so plan accordingly.
Bordeaux’s signature pastry, the canelé, is one of our favorite treats. Cassonade was our favorite shop, give it a try, you won’t regret it.
Lillet Blanc is a local aperitif that is light, citrusy and a little floral. It’s the perfect before dinner drink…when in Bordeaux, as they say.
More Ways to Experience Bordeaux
Staying another day or want to swap something in? These experiences are worth adding to your Bordeaux itinerary.
Saint-Émilion & Pomerol Wine Day Trip
Spend a full day exploring two of Bordeaux’s most famous wine regions, with château visits, tastings, and time in the medieval village of Saint-Émilion.
Book the Wine Day Trip →Bordeaux Bike Tour
See more of the city on two wheels, from historic streets and lively neighborhoods to Bordeaux’s scenic riverfront.
Book the Bike Tour →Bassins des Lumières
Step inside Bordeaux’s former submarine base for a dramatic immersive art experience projected across the cavernous space.
Get Bassins des Lumières Tickets →Darwin Ecosystème
Cross to Bordeaux’s right bank for street art, creative spaces, local food, shops, and one of the city’s most distinctive hangouts.
Explore Darwin →DAY TWO
Arrive in Biarritz
Leave Bordeaux behind for the Atlantic Coast, where Biarritz trades wine cellars for surfboards. Spend the day at the beach, wander the cliffside path to Rocher de la Vierge and settle into the laid-back charm that makes this city the easiest place to do absolutely nothing.
Head to the Coast
Where we’d stay again: Hôtel Du Palais. A breathtaking property right on the beach with a heated pool and a spa you can’t miss.
What we’d skip:
Musée de la Mar - an underwheIming aquarium.
La Grand Plage if you’re there mid-summer. It gets too crowded. Try Plage du Miramar instead.
Morning
After arriving to the train station, head to your hotel to settle in and put on your bathing suit.
Lunch
Grab lunch by the beautiful cathedral at Chez BB. The food & wine are delicious.
Afternoon
Head to La Grand Plage and soak up the sun. This stunning beach is a popular spot in Biarritz.
Evening
After dinner, watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean at Rocher de la Vierge.
Taxis are available outside the station or you can pre-book affordable, private transportation on SmartMoov.
Use Smart Moov →We loved the mussels at this bistro but they had other delicious items on the menu too.
View the Menu →If you're feeling adventerous, why not take some surf lessons? What better place than Biarritz to learn to surf.
Book a Coach →A Michelin starred restaurant that does seafood better than any other restaurant I've been to. One of the best meals!
Reserve a Table →
What we drank: Zombie d’Ici
What we tasted: Vanilla, tart passionfruit, a little peppermint and a slight hint of spice.
Where we drank it: Bar Napoléon III at the Hôtel du Palais, once Napolén’s actual study.
Toast of the Day
A signature cocktail built around local Basque ingredients like Izarra Verte, Espelette and Basque gâteau infusion, mixed with amber rum.
Zombie d’Ici
Vanilla, tart passionfruit, a little peppermint and a slight hint of spice.
Bar Napoléon III at the Hôtel du Palais, once Napoléon’s actual study.
Try Euskola.
Basque Country’s own cola, made just outside of Bayonne.
BIARRITZ ESSENTIALS
What to Eat, Drink & See In Biarritz
Local specialities, iconic sights and classic Biarritz flavors worth experiencing while you’re in the city.
Axoa at La Table Basque (LTB). Axoa is a delicious veal stew that is authentic to Basque Country. LTB was our favorite spot for this stew.
Irouléguy wine is made in the French Basque region with grapes grown on steep mountain sides. The red varietal pairs spectacularly with Axoa.
The Toasting Travelers
Toast of the Day
Zombie d’Ici
Try Euskola.
Basque Country’s own cola made outside of Bayonne.
If you don’t try Gâteau Basque, a cake with cherry filling, you might regret it for the rest of your life. Ok, that’s dramatic but it was SO good.
Rochers de Biarritz from Chocolaterie Henriet. Candied orange peel and almonds wrapped in chocolate, you can’t go wrong.
A signature cocktail built around local Basque ingredients like Izarra Verde, Espelette and Basque gâteau infusion mixed with amber rum.
Tchin Tchin
✧
Tchin Tchin ✧
Not Drinking?
DAY THREE
Explore Biarritz
Spend your day getting to know Biarritz. From a walking tour that mixes food tastings with learning the city’s history and architecture to a picnic by the beach and plenty of time to wander on your own.
Savor local favors and learn the history
Morning
Learn the history behind the landmarks, then end at Les Halles for a taste of the market.
Lunch
Grab some items for a picnic lunch while you're at Les Halles. You will have so many options.
Afternoon
Walk the coast toward the Phare de Biarritz and take in the stunning coastal views.
Evening
Head to the Port des Pêcheurs for an evening walk before settling in for dinner.
Enjoy this quick tour of Biarritz's highlights and then sample the local flavors at Les.
Halles. Book the Tour →Look for Itxassou cherry preserves and Ossau-Iraty cheese, a Biarritz classic. Pair it with some meat, fruit + bread.
Explore Les Halles →If it's a clear day, climb to the top for one of the best views of Biarritz. The late afternoon lighting is beautiful.
Get Tickets →A delicious Meditteranean spot loved by locals and tourists alike. Don't skip the pistachio tiramisu.
See the Menu →
Toast of the Day
A locally brewed beer made with water from the Great Pyrenees. Light, refreshing and best enjoyed with the waves rolling in.
Belharra Blonde
Light, crisp and just a little bit malty.
Le Surfing. An iconic, laid-back spot right on the beach.
Try BASA.
A local sparkling, hop-infused soda that comes in several flavors.
What we drank: Belharra
What we tasted: Light, crisp and a just a little bit of malt.
Where we drank it: Le Surfing. An iconic, laid-back spot right on the beach.
More Ways to Experience Biarritz
Staying another day or want to swap something in? These experiences are worth adding to your Biarritz itinerary.
Basque Villages
Head inland for a guided day through some of the prettiest villages in the French Basque Country, with whitewashed houses, mountain scenery, local history, and a completely different side of the region from Biarritz.
Explore Basque Country →Biarritz Bike Tour
Cover more ground on two wheels, riding from Biarritz’s grand seaside streets to quieter neighborhoods, ocean viewpoints, and parts of the coast you probably wouldn’t reach on foot.
Book the Biarritz Bike Tour →Basque Coast Boat
See the Basque coastline from the water, with dramatic cliffs, tucked-away coves and views you simply don’t get from shore. The trip leaves from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, just down the road from Biarritz.
Cruise the Basque Coast →Experience Basque Pelota
See one of the Basque Country’s most traditional sports up close. Depending on the schedule, catch a match or demonstration and learn why pelota is such a big part of local culture.
Check the Schedule →
A locally brewed beer using water from the Great Pyrenees. It’s light and refreshing and best served while watching the waves roll in.
The Toasting Travelers
Toast of the Day
Belharra Blonde
Try BASA.
A local sparkling, hop-infused soda that comes in several flavors.
Tchin Tchin
✧
Tchin Tchin ✧
Not Drinking?
DAY FOUR
Arrive in San Sebastián
Leave France and head to Spanish Basque Country. The beaches are beautiful, but the food is the real star here. San Sebastián has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-star restaurants per square meter. For today, hop on a pintxos tour, taste the local specialities and get a feel for the famous food scene in Old Town.
Settle into Spain’s most delicious city
Where we’d stay again: Hotel Maria Cristina. A luxury property with stunning architecture and old school glam. You can easily walk to Old Town or La Concha.
What we’d skip:
The aquarium. Unless you have young kids or the weather isn’t cooperating, it’s not necessary.
Morning
After arriving to the train station, head to your hotel to settle in and put on your bathing suit.
Lunch
Grab lunch by the beautiful cathedral at Chez BB. The food & wine are delicious.
Afternoon
Head to La Grand Plage and soak up the sun. This stunning beach is a popular spot in Biarritz.
Evening
After dinner, watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean at Rocher de la Vierge.
Taxis are available outside the station or you can pre-book affordable, private transportation on SmartMoov.
Use Smart Moov →We loved the mussels at this bistro but they had other delicious items on the menu too.
View the Menu →If you're feeling adventerous, why not take some surf lessons? What better place than Biarritz to learn to surf.
Book a Coach →A Michelin starred restaurant that does seafood better than any other restaurant I've been to. One of the best meals!
Reserve a Table →
What we drank: Zombie d’Ici
What we tasted: Vanilla, tart passionfruit, a little peppermint and a slight hint of spice.
Where we drank it: Bar Napoléon III at the Hôtel du Palais, once Napolén’s actual study.
Toast of the Day
A signature cocktail built around local Basque ingredients like Izarra Verte, Espelette and Basque gâteau infusion, mixed with amber rum.
Zombie d’Ici
Vanilla, tart passionfruit, a little peppermint and a slight hint of spice.
Bar Napoléon III at the Hôtel du Palais, once Napoléon’s actual study.
Try Euskola.
Basque Country’s own cola, made just outside of Bayonne.
BIARRITZ ESSENTIALS
What to Eat, Drink & See In Biarritz
Local specialities, iconic sights and classic Biarritz flavors worth experiencing while you’re in the city.
Axoa at La Table Basque (LTB). Axoa is a delicious veal stew that is authentic to Basque Country. LTB was our favorite spot for this stew.
Irouléguy wine is made in the French Basque region with grapes grown on steep mountain sides. The red varietal pairs spectacularly with Axoa.
The Toasting Travelers
Toast of the Day
Zombie d’Ici
Try Euskola.
Basque Country’s own cola made outside of Bayonne.
If you don’t try Gâteau Basque, a cake with cherry filling, you might regret it for the rest of your life. Ok, that’s dramatic but it was SO good.
Rochers de Biarritz from Chocolaterie Henriet. Candied orange peel and almonds wrapped in chocolate, you can’t go wrong.
A signature cocktail built around local Basque ingredients like Izarra Verde, Espelette and Basque gâteau infusion mixed with amber rum.
Tchin Tchin
✧
Tchin Tchin ✧
Not Drinking?
Day four: Arrive in San Sebastián
Take the train from Biarritz to San Sebastián. You'll have to switch trains at the border of Spain, but it's easy and quick!
Check into your hotel, Hotel Maria Cristina. This stunning hotel is located in old town and provides a great location for exploring this wonderful city. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay her.
You're going to immediately want to hop on the Pintxos (pronounced like peen-cho) trail. You can either do this amazing guided pintxos and wine tour or this guided pintxos tour that also visits the Mercado de la Brexta. You can also simply wander through the streets on your own and sample all the wonderful Basque-style tapas. While you're wandering, make sure you view the Basilica de Santa María del Coro and the Cathedral del Buen Pastor (pictured left)— they’re simply beautiful.
Day five: Explore San Sebastián
After grabbing breakfast at your hotel, you're going to head out for a guided cider tour. You'll be viewing how cider is made, eating a traditional Basque lunch and tasting the delicious cider that is made in this region. And having the most fun while you do it!
If you’re looking for a mid-day activity, try hiking up Monte Urgull (our 3-year-old completing the hike pictured right) to see the Sagrado Corazón (Sacred Heart) statue.
For dinner, you're heading to Bar Nestor. If you eat at one place in San Sebastián, make it Bar Nestor. Bar Nestor is famous for serving the “holy trinity.” Tomatoes soaked in local olive oil, peppers and the most delicious steak. You should get there at least an hour before they open but be prepared for a long line if you don’t, it's a tiny place. Don't worry, you can sip on wine while you wait. Try and get a piece of their famous Tortilla de Patata, it’s well known in the region and absolutely delicious. If you’re looking for variety, Bar Nestor is NOT your place. They serve these four items only.
For dessert, try to get your hands on the most delicious Basque style cheesecake. La Viña has been serving food for over 65 years in the heart of San Sebastián’s Old Town. Their cheesecake is life changing - I promise it’s worth the wait. Just hope that they aren’t sold out.
Day six: San Sebastián
After breakfast, head to your authentic Spanish cooking class. Learn how to make Paella, Spanish omelette and more.
We’d say a trip to San Sebastián isn’t complete without a day spent soaking up the sun at one of the beaches. San Sebastián has some of the most beautiful beaches in Basque Country. Pick your favorite and enjoy the day. My husband rented a surfboard from Pukas and had so much fun. I just relaxed and enjoyed the people watching.
Pro tip: Stock up on your favorites from the mercado and have a picnic for lunch but save your appetite because, for dinner, you're visiting one of the top restaurants in the region, three-star Michelin restaurant Arzak. (Or have your pick from any of the numerous Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastián.)
Day seven: Arrive in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Take the 1 hr 40 min train to Vitoria-Gasteiz. Check into the Nirea Hotel. Then spend the day wandering through the medieval buildings and visiting the numerous art museums.
Make sure you stop and marvel at the Cathedral de Santa María and the Cathedral Maria Inmaculada (pictured right) . For dinner, you're headed to Zaldiaran, a one Michelin star restaurant.
Fun fact: Vitoria-Gasteiz is full of beautiful street art/murals - be sure to check them out while you’re strolling.
Day eight: Explore Rioja
Spend the day exploring the beautiful wine region of Rioja.
On this wine tour, you’ll be picked up in Vitoria and taken to two wineries for tastings - and also some light pintxos. You’ll also get to visit the beautiful village of Laguardia. If you prefer to have a full lunch, you can select this tour option.
For dinner, head to the outstanding Restaurante Ikea (no not that Ikea). This restaurant is known for combining traditional Basque style food with more modern cooking.
There are so many amazing wineries in this region and the architecture is so cool. Like Bodegas Marqués de Riscal and Bodegas Ysios (pictured left).
Day nine: Arrive in Bilbao
Take the train to Bilbao which takes roughly 2.5 hours and requires 1 train change.
Bilbao’s futuristic architecture and lovely riverfront promenade make it a perfect place to end your trip to Basque County.
When you arrive, check into your hotel the Gran Hotel Domine and grab a drink at the beautiful rooftop terrace. Since you're right next door, your first stop should be this guided tour of the Guggenheim Museum to view wonderful works of art. Stop for lunch or a drink at the bistró inside the museum.
For dinner, try the amazing Sugarra restaurant. Sugarra means “flame” in Basque and most of the dishes are flame-grilled. Everything is delicious and they use the freshest ingredients.
Day ten: Say your goodbyes
Grab breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the Bilbao airport to head home…or your next destination.
The Basque region is one of my favorite regions in the world. The food is amazing, the people are friendly and it is such a fun place to vacation!
If you’re leaving Basque Country but don’t want to head home yet, check out my itineraries for France and Italy. Having trouble packing for Europe? See my must have items and packing lists here.
Plan Your Trip to Basque Country
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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10 days is enough to get a feel for Basque Country. But, if you can swing it, two weeks would be better, especially if you want to see more of the Rioja region.
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Yes! Worried about traveling with kids? Don’t be. We traveled with our 3-year-old and had a blast. You might have to sacrifice some Michelin starred restaurants, but, hey - champagne problems, amiright? As the saying goes, parenting is stressful no matter what, so we might as well be stressed out in Spain.
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As with any travel, you can be very budget conscientious by choosing your hotels carefully, traveling in the off-season and limiting your eating out. However, this area is known for its Michelin star restaurants which are inherently pricey. I would say to experience this exact itinerary is mid-range to luxury depending on the time of year you’re traveling.
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Traveling by train is wonderful but lugging big suitcases everywhere is not (just ask my husband). Consider packing light (I know, easier said than done). Check out my packing list and my travel must haves for help.