Bizkaia is where the Basque Country’s rugged coastline, green valleys, and ultra-modern cities collide in the most exhilarating way. If you’re hunting for vacation rentals that are as dynamic as your itinerary, this is your playbook: a coastline forged by the Atlantic, towns that feel like a well-kept secret, and a food-and-cuntryscape that begs to be explored with friends in tow. From the buzz of Bilbao’s museum mile to the spray of waves along the Urdaibai coast, Bizkaia offers a perfect mix of city culture, nature retreats, and vibrant nightlife. Use searchandstay.com to find vacation rentals that put you in the heart of it all—whether you want a sleek apartment in Bilbao, a seaside villa near Sopelana, or a cozy country house in the Busturialdea-Urdaibai region.
Why Bizkaia is the ultimate base for vacation rentals
Bizkaia is a destination that rewards every type of traveler who loves holidays with friends. It’s compact enough to explore in a long weekend, but rich enough to keep you coming back for longer. The Basque coast delivers dramatic cliffs, safe coves, and surf-ready beaches. Inland, the Basque countryside offers lush hikes, rural taverns, and local gastronomy that is both deeply traditional and playfully contemporary. Vacation rentals here aren’t just places to crash; they’re launchpads for experiences—from morning markets and cycling along the coast to late-night pintxos crawls and sunset boat trips. When you search for accommodations in Bizkaia, you’ll find options that suit groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a flexible base with easy access to Bilbao, Getxo, Mundaka, Bermeo, and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Top destinations in Bizkaia for your stay
Bilbao: The pulse of the Basque Country. A stay in Bilbao puts you within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum, the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) with its atmospheric plazas, and the Ribera Market where you can sample Basque chorizos, peppers, and fresh seafood. Look for vacation rentals in the Abando or Indautxu districts for easy access to transit, restaurants, and nightlife. A well-located apartment near the river lets you wake up to the aroma of coffee shops and a daily plan that begins with a riverside promenade along the Nervión. From there, it’s a short ride to the museum island and the city’s famed modernist architecture.
Sopelana and Barrika: If your group loves a beach day, these western towns boast some of the best urban-accessible beaches on the Biscay coast. Surfers from all over Spain travel here for reliable waves and sandy shores. A vacation rental with a sea view makes pre-dawn surf checks and golden-hour swims part of your routine. Pack light, bring a wetsuit, and let the Atlantic be your backdrop for morning jogs and sunset kettlebell sessions on the sand.
Getxo and the coast road: The town of Getxo is a gateway to the Bilbao estuary’s scenic coastline and the impressive Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante). A stay in Getxo puts you near elegant promenades, yacht clubs, and seafood restaurants with terraces that catch the afternoon breeze. Easy ferry trips across the river connect you to the tree-lined bluff of Algorta, a perfect spot for a casual pintxos crawl or a sunset drink with friends.
Mundaka and Urdaibai: Mundaka is the surfer’s haven on the coast, known for its world-famous left-hand wave. The surrounding Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is a sanctuary for birdwatchers, hikers, and water sports enthusiasts. Rent a rural house or a modern apartment in the Busturialdea-Urdaibai region to access miles of coastal paths, estuary trails, and the small villages that dot the reserve. Your days can alternate between adrenaline-filled surf sessions and peaceful cycles through green bends of the Basque countryside.
Bermeo and the Gaztelugatxe area: The dramatic coastline around Bermeo is home to Gaztelugatxe, the iconic hermitage connected by a winding stone stairway. A stay in or near Bermeo makes day trips to the cliffside chapel feel like a cinematic escape, especially when you combine it with a seafood feast in the harbor.
Activities and experiences that elevate a Bizkaia holiday with friends
Whether you’re after adrenaline, culture, or simply delicious meals shared over long conversations, Bizkaia offers activities that are perfect for groups. Here are some ideas you can weave into a trip plan when looking for vacation rentals in this region.
- Surfing and coastal adventures: Mundaka, Sopelana, and Barrika host some of the Basque Country’s best waves. Beginner-friendly surf schools and wetsuit rentals are common near the beaches, making it easy to learn or improve with friends.
- Hiking and nature zones: The Urdaibai Reserve offers birdwatching, forest trails, and expansive coastline. A guided hike can reveal hidden coves and viewpoints that are perfect for group photos and scenic picnics.
- Vizcaya Bridge and river cruises: The Colgante Bridge in the Bilbao estuary is a UNESCO-listed marvel. Take a riverside stroll, then ride a short boat to capture dramatic photos as the bridge slides into view.
- Pintxos tours and gastronomic nights: The Basque Country excels at small plates. A guided pintxos crawl in Bilbao’s Casco Viejo or the coastal towns gives you a taste of ternera, txakoli, and fresh cod while you hop from bar to bar.
- Markets and cooking classes: La Ribera Market is a sensory feast—seafood, peppers, cheeses, and baked goods. Look for a cooking class that uses local ingredients to craft Basque dishes you can recreate back home.
- Water sports and boat trips: Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking along the estuary, and coastal boat trips let you see the coastline from new angles. A sunset cruise ending with a seafood dinner is a memorable group moment.
- Culture and architecture: Bilbao’s Guggenheim is more than a museum; it’s a sculptural landmark. After a day of art, stroll along the river to enjoy the city’s modernist and neoclassical architecture and end with a glass of txakoli in a riverfront terrace.
- Relaxed coastal getaways: If your holiday rentals are near the coast, plan lazy mornings on the beach, long lunches at sea-view terraces, and afternoons exploring small ports like Lekeitio or Armintza for a quieter Basque coastal vibe.
Local experiences you won’t want to miss
Bizkaia’s local experiences blend outdoor adventures with culinary and cultural immersion. These are the moments that make a vacation feel truly Basque:
- Txakoli wine tastings: Sip the lightly sparkling white wine that pairs beautifully with seafood and pintxos. Wineries and wine bars around the coast offer tastings that pair with small bites while you watch the sun set over the sea.
- Sagardotegi cider houses: For a rustic Basque dining experience, visit a cider house to enjoy a traditional meal that features fresh cod, fried potatoes, and toast with baked goat cheese—often with a lively, communal atmosphere that’s perfect for groups.
- Basque language and culture: Picking up a few Basque phrases enhances every interaction—from greeting the market vendors to ordering coffee and tapas. Local guides often include Basque language snippets in their tours, enriching your cultural immersion.
- Festivals and seasonal markets: Depending on your travel window, you may catch summer festivals, street markets, or regional harvest fairs that celebrate Basque crafts, music, and food. These events provide authentic, vibrant experiences that are ideal for a group trip.
- Architectural strolls and art walks: Bilbao’s contemporary architecture, along with the old-town charm, creates a lively backdrop for a casual walking tour. Combine modern art stops with architectural gems for a balanced itinerary.
Where to stay: finding the right vacation rental in Bizkaia
Choosing the right vacation rental in Bizkaia can shape the whole trip. Here are some practical considerations to help you decide where to book, and what kind of property to look for:
- Proximity to activities: If your group leans toward surf days, choose a home near Sopelana or Mundaka. If culture and food are the highlight, a Bilbao city-center apartment will put museums, restaurants, and markets within easy reach.
- Room and comfort for groups: Look for multi-bedroom apartments or small houses with flexible layouts. A rental with a terrace or balcony helps create shared spaces for morning coffee or evening wind-downs.
- Outdoor and parking: For a car-based itinerary, ensure your rental offers parking or easy access to public transit. A coastal location with sea views is a bonus for memorable evenings after day trips.
- Local vibe and decor: Basque-inspired interiors or modern, minimal designs can set the tone for your trip. Whether you prefer rustic charm or contemporary elegance, there are vacation rentals in Bizkaia to suit every taste and budget.
When you searchfor vacation rentals in Bizkaia, it’s worth using a platform that aggregates a variety of options and local listings. Searchandstay.com is a practical place to start your hunt for accommodations in the area. The site allows you to filter by location, number of guests, dates, and amenities—making it easier to tailor a stay to your group’s needs. Whether you want a chic city apartment in Bilbao, a sun-drenched coastal villa near Getxo, or a green countryside retreat in Busturialdea-Urdaibai, you’ll find options that fit a holiday with friends, a weekend escape, or a longer Basque road trip.
Practical travel tips for your Bizkaia holiday
Plan ahead to maximize your time in Bizkaia, especially if your stay centers around peak summer weeks. Here are practical tips to help your trip go smoothly:
- Travel accessibility: Bilbao Airport is well connected to major European cities and provides convenient rail and road links into the city and surrounding towns. If you’re touring multiple towns, a rental car offers flexibility, though the region’s public transit is reliable for many routes.
- Seasonality and crowds: July and August draw large crowds, especially near popular beaches and festival periods. If you want a more relaxed pace, consider shoulder seasons in late spring or early autumn when the weather remains pleasant and crowds thin out.
- Dining: Basque cuisine shines in small eateries across towns. Try a pintxos crawl in Bilbao’s old quarter to sample a variety of flavors in one evening. For a more immersive experience, reserve a table at a family-run tasoba or sidrería to experience local hospitality and seasonal dishes.
- Safety and comfort: Like many tourist hotspots, typical travel precautions apply. Keep valuables secure in busy areas, and choose accommodations with good reviews and reliable hosts. Renting in a neighborhood with easy access to transit can reduce reliance on drives and parking hassles.
- Packing: Layered clothing suits the climate, with cooler evenings by the coast. Pack sturdy footwear for countryside paths, a light rain jacket for unpredictable Atlantic weather, and a swimsuit for beach days.
Seasonal itineraries to inspire your Bizkaia trip
Here are example itineraries to help you plan a group trip with a balance of adventure, culture, and downtime:
- Gold and glass of Bilbao weekend: Day 1—Guggenheim Bilbao and Casco Viejo, tapas crawl at night; Day 2—La Ribera Market breakfast, riverfront walk, and a short train ride to Getxo for sunset on the coast; Day 3—portside brunch and a glass of txakoli before departure.
- Surf and nature week: Day 1—Mundaka surfing lesson; Day 2—Urdaibai birdwatching or beach day near Laga; Day 3—Bike ride along coastal paths, picnic on a cliff overlooking the sea; Day 4—Gaztelugatxe day trip and Bermeo’s seafood harbor.
- Culture and cuisine immersion: Day 1—Bilbao art and architecture tour; Day 2—Pintxos crawl in the old quarter; Day 3—cider house visit and Basque cooking class; Day 4—local markets, crafts, and a leisurely farewell dinner by the river.
Final tips for a seamless Bizkaia adventure
Bizkaia rewards travelers who mix active days with relaxed evenings. A well-chosen vacation rental acts as your home base for exploration, social moments, and rest between adventures. Remember these final tips as you plan your trip:
- Choose accommodations that offer flexibility for groups—look for spaces with multiple bedrooms, a common living area, and outdoor spaces for socializing after a day of activities.
- Book experiences in advance when possible, especially top-rated surf lessons, guided hikes, or private pintxos tours. This helps guarantee spots for your travel dates and reduces on-site planning stress.
- Combine city culture with natural beauty: allocate a couple of days in Bilbao for museums and architecture, and dedicate another block to the coast or the Urdaibai reserve for hikes and wildlife watching.
- Use searchandstay.com to compare options, read guest reviews, and filter results by your group’s priorities—proximity to beaches, access to transit, pet-friendly options, or family-friendly setups.
Bizkaia is a destination built for dynamic holidays with friends and for solo explorers who crave a vibrant mix of culture, sport, and great food. The region’s vacation rentals offer more than a place to sleep; they’re stepping stones to viewpoints, markets, and moments that turn a trip into a memory-filled adventure. Whether you’re chasing waves, chasing sunsets, or chasing the next great pintxo, Bizkaia welcomes you with open arms, dramatic scenery, and a daily invitation to savor the Basque experience. When you’re ready to book, head to searchandstay.com to find the perfect accommodations in the area and start crafting your Basque getaway today.