Getaria Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive Getaria travel guide to discover the best places to visit, activities to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more!


Introduction to Getaria

Getaria is a charming coastal town located in the Basque Country, one of the most picturesque regions in Northern Spain. Its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and traditional fishing port make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Getaria is also famous for being the birthplace of Juan Sebastian Elcano, the first explorer to circumnavigate the world.

List of Places to Visit in Getaria

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga: This museum pays homage to one of the most influential designers in the fashion industry, Cristóbal Balenciaga, who was born in Getaria. The museum hosts an impressive collection of over 1,200 garments, accessories, and documents.
  • El Ratón: This charming lighthouse, located on a small island, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Getaria. Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay and the surrounding landscape.
  • Iglesia de San Salvador: This impressive church, built in the 15th century, is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Basque Country. The church houses numerous works of art, including a beautiful altarpiece and several religious paintings.

Natural Attractions of Getaria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount San Antón: This mountain, located just behind the town, offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike the trails that lead to the summit or take the funicular that connects the town to the top.
  • Playa de Gaztetape: This beautiful beach, with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, is one of the most popular spots in Getaria. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or practicing water sports such as surfing or paddleboarding.
  • Flysch Route: This hiking trail, which connects the towns of Zumaia and Deba, passes through some of the most spectacular coastal cliffs in the Basque Country. The trail offers breathtaking views of the sea, the mountains, and the geological formations known as flysch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Getaria

Getaria boasts a number of fantastic hiking and biking trails that span across the picturesque countryside and along the coast. Some recommendations for both hiking and biking routes are:

  • The Camino del Norte: This route takes you along the northern coastline of Spain, from France to Santiago de Compostela. Passing through Getaria, this stunning hiking path leads you over rolling hills, panoramic vistas, and past secret beaches and secluded coves.
  • Bike route from Zarautz to Algorri: This 20-kilometer bike route leads you along some of the most beautiful stretches of Basque coastline, from Zarautz to Algorri. Enjoy stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea, stop for a good rest and tapas in small authentic taverns on your way.

Best Things to Do in Getaria: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tour: Basque Country is renowned for its crisp white wines, particularly txakoli. Take a wine tour, which includes visiting local vineyards and cellars, wine tasting sessions, and a chance to learn about the grape harvest and wine making process.
  • Boat Tour: Jump on one of the many popular boat tours to get a different perspective and view of the stunning coast. You’ll see the beautiful beach at Getaria, rock formations, and sea life such as dolphins and whales if you’re lucky.
  • Dive in the sea: Join a diving adventure with a professional instructor. They will take you deep into the sea near the coast of Getaria to explore hidden gems and marvel at the marine life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Getaria

Day 1: Arrival in Getaria, explore the town center, have lunch in one of the cozy eateries in the old town, and get acquainted with the local culture.

Day 2: Hike Mount San Antón to enjoy the sunrise, take in the fantastic panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay, and visit the El Ratón lighthouse.

Day 3: Spend a day in the beautiful Playa de Gaztetape, either sunbathing or practicing water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

Day 4: Explore some of the traditional fishing villages on the Basque coastline, such as Hondarribia, Lekeitio, or Mundaka, and taste some of the local seafood delicacies.

Day 5: Take a wine tour to discover the delicious txakoli white wine, visit a vineyard, and taste several varieties of the region’s finest wines.

Day 6: Discover the Basque countryside on an e-bike tour, visiting some of the most beautiful towns and rural landscapes of the region.

Day 7: Departure day, but not before having a delicious breakfast, saying goodbye to the friendly locals, and promising to return soon to this charming town.

Food and Drink Scene of Getaria

Must-Try Dishes

Getaria is known for its delicious seafood delicacies. Some of the must-try dishes while on your trip include:

  • Grilled Sardines: These delicious fish are grilled over a wood fire and served alongside vegetables or fries.
  • Bullit de Peix: A traditional Basque dish consisting of fish, potatoes, and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth.
  • Txangurro (crab): This dish is a must-try in Getaria and a delicious way to sample the best of the local shellfish.

Local Beverages

  • Basque Cider: Made from local apples, this fizzy alcoholic beverage is popular all across the Basque Country.
  • Txakoli Wine: This crisp, fruity white wine is a specialty of the Basque region, and is the perfect accompaniment to seafood.
  • Patxarán: A sweet liquor made from sloe berries, anise, and other spices that is a traditional Basque drink.

Where to Stay in Getaria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Getaria offers a variety of accommodation options to meet different budgets, preferences, and travel styles, including:

  • Family-run guesthouses: These are great options if you are looking for an authentic experience and want to stay with friendly locals who are happy to share their insider tips about the town.
  • Hotels: From charming boutique to luxury, there is a range of hotels available in Getaria to suit all budgets and tastes.
  • Hostels: A popular choice for solo travelers or backpackers looking to save money and meet other travelers.

What to Buy in Getaria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the popular souvenirs and local products to bring back from Getaria include:

  • Local cheese: Basque Country is renowned for its sheep and goat milk cheese, and there are many varieties available in the local markets.
  • Basque beret: A classic Basque accessory that has been worn for centuries. Buy one as a souvenir or as a gift for a loved one.
  • Txakoli Wine: Make sure to bring a bottle of this delicious white wine back home to share with friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Getaria

Getaria is known for its strong cultural identity, which is deeply rooted in its fishing tradition, gastronomy, and language. The locals are very proud of their Basque heritage and appreciate it when visitors take an interest in learning about their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Getaria

The best time to visit Getaria is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the temperature is warm and comfortable, and the coast is perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Getaria

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local seafood delicacies.
  • Learn a few words of Basque language.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your trash on the beach or streets.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers in bars and restaurants.
  • Don’t compare Basque Culture to Spain,as it differs quite radically from the neighboring regions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Getaria

Getaria is a safe destination for tourists. However, as in any foreign country, visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings, avoiding dark or deserted streets at night, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Getaria

There are no specific health risks for visitors in Getaria. However, it is always recommended to take out travel insurance before embarking on any trip and consult your doctor before traveling if needed.

Getting to Getaria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Getaria

The nearest airport to Getaria is Bilbao Airport, which is located 55 km away. Other airport options are San Sebastian Airport and Vitoria Airport, both situated within a 100 km radius.

Bus Stations Near Getaria

The Getaria bus station is located at downtown, which makes it convenient for travelers arriving by bus and looking to explore the rest of the town by foot or bike. Numerous buses connect Getaria to other towns and cities of the Basque Country and the neighboring regions.

Other Options

Getaria is well connected by car, as it lies on the main coastal highway that runs from France to Portugal. There are several car rental agencies located at the airport or in the town center.

How to Get Around in Getaria

The best way to get around in Getaria is by foot, as the town center is small and easy to navigate. Biking is also a great option and the area has numerous bike rental shops. If you feel like traveling outside of the town center, there are local buses, taxis, and e-bikes available.

Where to Go Next from Getaria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Getaria is a great hub for exploring nearby destinations, including:

  • San Sebastian: One of the most visited cities in the Basque Country, San Sebastian is known for its beautiful beaches, great food culture, and charming old town.
  • Bilbao: The largest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao is famous for its modern art museum, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, as well as its lively nightlife scene.

Conclusion

Getaria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Basque Country. With its charming old town, stunning coastline, rich gastronomy, and cultural heritage, this beautiful town has everything a visitor could want. By following our comprehensive guide, you can be sure to make the most of your trip to Getaria and discover all that this unique destination has to offer.