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Where to stay in Basque Country: Best areas and hotels

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Planning a trip to the Basque Country is always a great idea; one of those experiences you’ll remember for a long time. This region of Spain brings together everything you need for an unforgettable getaway: history, culture, nature, mountains, beaches, amazing food, and plenty to do.

No matter how you like to travel or who you’re going with, heading to the Basque Country is always a win. It’s a small region, but it’s full of character and charm that you’ll love discovering.

If you're thinking about exploring this part of northern Spain, this post on where to stay in Basque Country can help you plan your trip and find the right place to stay.

Whether you're more into mountains, the sea, city life, or nature, there are plenty of options to match your style and needs. For each area we cover, we’ve included hotel suggestions and tips to make planning even easier.

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Where to stay in Basque Country

Let’s take a look at the best places to stay in the Basque Country.

We’ll start with the main cities and then move on to some smaller coastal towns that are perfect for a few relaxing days by the sea.

The goal is to help you find the perfect home base; somewhere you can unwind and easily explore all the top sights the Basque Country has to offer.

1. Bilbao, a top pick for your stay in the Basque Country

guggenheim
Guggenheim

If there’s one city in the Basque Country that perfectly blends charm, beauty, and character, it’s Bilbao; no offense to the others! Personally, I love it. That mix of deep-rooted Basque tradition with sleek modern touches feels effortlessly elegant.

Bilbao is a fantastic destination and always a great idea for a getaway. Within the city, there are several neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own vibe and advantages when it comes to where to stay in Bilbao.

If you’re into energy, action, and being close to the main sights, then the City Center or Abando area is your spot. Here you’ll find key landmarks like Gran Vía de Don Diego López de Haro, the Guggenheim Museum, and Doña Casilda Park; plus tons of great restaurants.

Want to dive even deeper into the heart of Bilbao? Head to the Old Town (Casco Viejo). Think cobblestone streets, cozy pintxo bars, and the most authentic local atmosphere. Wandering around here, you’ll come across the Cathedral of Santiago, Plaza Nueva, and the beautiful Arriaga Theater.

Looking for something quieter but still close to the action? Consider Uribarri, just northeast of the city center. It’s a more peaceful area with easy access to downtown. Accommodations here tend to be more affordable and convenient; especially if you’re driving.

Other areas worth considering include Deusto, where you’ll find cheaper lodging options, and Begoña, a calm, laid-back neighborhood that’s perfect if you want a more relaxed stay.

Here are some great places to consider for your stay in the Basque Country:

  • $: Pensión AliciaZzz. Charming boutique hotels like this one are a real treat thanks to their cozy, unique atmosphere. It offers both single and double rooms, plus a small buffet breakfast to start your day right.
  • $: Pensión H30 Bilbao. A great value option: simple, stylish, and affordable. You can choose from double, triple, or quadruple rooms. It’s a simple hotel, but it’s nicely decorated and feels welcoming.
  • $$: Hotel Mercure Jardines de Albia. A lovely hotel located in the Ensanche district. It has double and family rooms, as well as private parking, a spa, gym, and a bar. Breakfast is also available.
  • $$$: Letoh Letoh. This hotel offers double rooms in various categories so you can pick what suits you best. The warm, welcoming decor and the on-site café—perfect for a great cup of coffee—are definite highlights.

2. San Sebastián, a charming place to stay

gros
Gros

From one great Basque city to another. San Sebastián, home to the famous La Concha Beach, is one of the most iconic spots in the Basque Country. It’s the kind of place that draws you in and makes you fall in love. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also one of the best places in the world to enjoy pintxos.

There’s a lot to see and do in San Sebastián. You can enjoy La Concha Beach, visit the Basilica of Santa María del Coro, or hike up Monte Urgull. And that’s just the beginning.

There are several great neighborhoods to stay in San Sebastián, and the best choice will depend on your budget, travel plans, and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

If you love history and tradition, the Old Town (Parte Vieja) is a great pick. You’ll be surrounded by pintxo bars and landmarks like the Basilica of Santa María and Plaza de la Constitución. It’s also super walkable; everything is close by.

If you want to be near the action but in a slightly quieter spot, the City Center is a good option. You’ll still be close to everything, but with a little more peace, especially during the busy summer months. You’ll also be near sights like the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd and San Sebastián City Hall.

And if you’re into surfing or traveling with your board, the Gros neighborhood is the place to be. It’s full of laid-back hostels and hotels, perfect after a day of catching waves at Zurriola Beach.

Here are some options for different budgets:

  • $: Surfing Etxea. This budget-friendly hostel offers both shared and private rooms. It also has a bar and a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the friendly vibe. It’s a great choice if you’re traveling solo or with friends.
  • $$: Pensión Basic Confort. A step up in comfort without going over budget. This 2-star hotel is in a great location and offers double rooms with private bathrooms; perfect for a cozy stay in this iconic area.
  • $$: Pensión Régil. An affordable option right in the City Center. This 2-star hotel has single and double rooms, all with private bathrooms. They serve breakfast, and the beach is just a short walk away.
  • $$$: Hotel Sansebay. A stylish and beautiful hotel with lots of personality. It offers double and family rooms, suites, and even apartments; some with sea views. There’s parking, a bar, and breakfast is available.

3. Vitoria, a great base for exploring the interior of Basque Country

vitoria
Vitoria

If you’re planning to focus on the inland part of the Basque Country, the region’s capital, Vitoria, definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s also a great place to stay in the Basque Country. The city blends history and sustainability, and you’ll notice its high quality of life the moment you arrive.

As you might expect, the Old Town is where you’ll find the most history and Basque character. Its cobblestone streets and unique architecture make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time; especially when you reach landmarks like the Escoriaza-Esquivel Palace or the Cathedral of Santa María.

If you want to get away from the busy Old Town but still stay close to the city center, the Ensanche district, which borders the Old Town, is the perfect spot. It offers a more modern, lively vibe while still keeping that local, everyday feel.

And if city life isn’t really your thing and you’d prefer something greener, check out Salburua. It’s home to a beautiful wetland park that’s part of Vitoria’s Green Belt. You’ll find hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and amazing biodiversity; perfect for nature lovers!

Here are a few hotel recommendations:

  • $: Hotel Centro Vitoria. This hotel sits right on the border between the Old Town and Ensanche, making it a great choice. The rooms are spacious and comfortable.
  • $$: Hotel Dato. A more classic-style hotel, but still a solid option in Ensanche. It’s affordable, well-located, and has great reviews. Plus, there’s parking available.
  • $$: Aparthotel Salburua. These lovely apartments are perfect if you’re staying a bit longer. They have private parking and are both nice and comfortable.
  • $$: Hotel Palacio de Elorriaga. Located a little further out, this charming 3-star hotel is ideal if you want peace and quiet. It offers parking, a restaurant, a terrace, and a delicious breakfast.

4. Lekeitio, perfect for relaxing and taking a break

where to stay in basque country
Lekeitio

Now let’s head to a smaller town in the Basque Country: Lekeitio. It’s well-loved by sea lovers for its fishing village charm. The beaches are beautiful, and the Old Town is a special place for a memorable stroll.

In the historic center, you can visit amazing spots like the Basilica of the Assumption of Santa María, enjoy the fishing port with all its charm, or walk out to San Nicolás Island (if the tide is low, you can even go on foot).

Most people stay in the Old Town, where much of the town’s daily life happens, but the port area is another great option. Both areas have plenty of restaurants serving the best fish and Basque cuisine.

Staying in the Old Town means you’re close to places like the Basilica of the Assumption, the Turpin Tower, and the Uriarte Palace. If you stay near the port, you’ll get a taste of the fishing life and a cool, laid-back vibe where tradition and tourism blend without feeling overcrowded.

In Lekeitio, these places caught our eye:

  • $$: Hotel Metrokua. This 2-star hotel is fantastic. It’s right on the beach, just across from the harbor, so you get a great view of the port life. The rooms are very comfortable, and there’s private parking and a bar where you can enjoy a drink while looking out at the sea.
  • $$$: Hotel Zubieta. Just looking at the photos makes me want to spend a few days here. It’s beautiful, with a pool for summer, a great terrace for reading, and free parking. Plus, there’s a restaurant and a tasty breakfast; all in a charming 18th-century building!

5. Getaria, a charming place to stay in the Basque Country

guetaria
Getaria

Next up on our list of places to stay in Basque Country is Getaria, often called one of the most beautiful towns along the Basque coast. Here, you’ll enjoy the perfect mix of Basque charm, beautiful coastal views, the fresh breeze from the Cantabrian Sea, a touch of culture and history, and of course, incredible food.

If you’re staying in Zarautz, you can actually walk to Getaria along a scenic 4.5 km coastal path; it’s a lovely stroll! Once in town, wander through the Old Town and check out Aldamar Street, full of terraces and interesting spots, as well as Elkano Square and the Church of San Salvador. And whether you’re into fashion or not, don’t miss the Balenciaga Museum; it’s packed with history and well worth a visit.

After exploring the town center, be sure to head down to the port, where you can soak in the atmosphere of the active fishing life that defines so much of the Basque coast.

Here are a couple of great hotel options in Getaria:

  • $$: Hotel Itxas Gain Getaria. This charming little hotel is a gem, with a lovely restaurant terrace overlooking the beach. The rooms are great, comfortable and cozy. The hotel also has parking available.
  • $$: Saiaz Getaria Hotel. Another wonderful option with sea views. This hotel has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are spacious

6. Hondarribia, a charming little town

hondarribia
Hondarribia

And from one beautiful town to another… Hondarribia is a favorite in the Basque Country. It’s full of deep-rooted Basque character, elegance, and a welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place you could visit again and again.

The old walled town feels like a storybook. As you pass through the gate, you’ll find yourself in a historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and medieval architecture. Be sure to check out the Santa María Gate, the Castle of Charles V, and the Church of Santa María of the Assumption and del Manzano.

Beyond the center, head to La Marina, the old fishing district. It has a great atmosphere, with bars and restaurants set in charming old fishermen’s houses. And of course, this is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh, local seafood.

Staying in Hondarribia also puts you close to San Sebastián and the French Basque Country. In fact, just by crossing the river, you’ll find yourself in Hendaye, on the French side.

These hotels in Hondarribia look like great options:

  • $: Hotel Palacete. This little hotel is a real gem when it comes to value for money. It’s located right in the center, in a beautiful plaza. The rooms are cozy, and the breakfast is excellent.
  • $$: Hotel Onyarbi. Another great choice in Hondarribia. You’ll love relaxing in its spacious rooms; whether you’re booking a single, double, or even a room for four. Breakfast is available.
  • $$$: Palacio Pampinot. Staying here feels like stepping back in time. The rooms are large and comfortable, but the real highlight is the hotel itself, full of charm and historic character.

7. Zarautz, a great area to stay in the Basque Country

best areas to stay basque country
Zarautz Beach

To finish off our guide on where to stay in the Basque Country, here’s a top choice for surf lovers.

Zarautz is a well-known town that, even though it has become popular with surf tourism, still holds on to its strong Basque fishing roots. Its beach is over 2.5 kilometers long, making it the longest in the Basque Country, and it’s known for having some of the best waves in the area.

But Zarautz isn’t just about the sea, fishing, and surfing. There are also some great places to explore, like the Luzea Tower, the Church of Santa María la Real, and the Narros Palace. Don’t miss the Santa Bárbara viewpoint either; it offers stunning views of the coast.

Here are some hotel recommendations for Zarautz:

  • $$: Hotel Olatu. It’s a small hotel located in a 19th-century building right in the historic center of Zarautz, just 150 meters from the beach. It’s simple but cozy, with single, double, and quadruple rooms available.
  • $$: Hotel Alameda. A lovely 2-star hotel with bright, spacious rooms. It’s located about 200 meters from the beach in a quiet residential area; perfect if you want to relax or spend more time by the water. They offer private parking and a great breakfast.
  • $$$: Kabialde Apartamentuak. If you’re planning to stay in Zarautz for a few days and prefer an apartment, this is a great choice. The apartments are just a 5-minute walk from the beach and come with a terrace.

Map of best areas to stay in Basque Country

On the map below, we’ve marked the recommended towns and cities, along with the hotels we mentioned. This way, you can quickly get a feel for the different areas.

We hope this post about the best places to stay in the Basque Country has been helpful for planning your trip. Enjoy your adventure!

Picture of María Alcaraz
María Alcaraz
¡Hola! Soy María, redactora en Come Ama Viaja. Me apasiona viajar, leer, pintar, el té y las cafeterías bonitas. Me encanta cruzarme el mundo para convivir con otras culturas pero recientemente he descubierto que España es un tesoro único.

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