Sightseeing in Basque Country - what to see. Complete travel guide

Pais Vasco is one of the most unusual and attractive tourist regions in Spain. Everything here is unique, including nature and climate, a variety of historical heritage and cultural traditions. History and traditions of the Basque are incredibly interesting and symbolic; their material embodiments are forcing travelers to stop in admiration. The largest settlement and administrative center of the region is the city of Bilbao; it is difficult to imagine that once there was a miniature fishing village there.

The modern city is placed variety of entertainment options, as well as an abundance of attractive cultural centers. Museo Guggenheim de Arte Contemporaneo is among them; its walls house a rich collection of art of the past centuries. The most interesting architectural and religious sites are located in the historic district of Casco Viejo .

San Sebastian is ready to offer its guests a rich excursion program. Hundreds of years ago, representatives of the Spanish aristocracy have preferred it. Luxury villas and mansions remind about past, but their beauty shades in comparison with the fabulous Cathedral of Santa Maria. The main value of San Sebastian is its gorgeous beaches; fans of excursions will find it interesting to explore the immediate surroundings of the popular resort town. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The beautiful church of San Salvador has preserved in the old district of Getaria; the age of former is more than 600 years. There are priceless frescoes and icons in the church; very interesting celebrations are annually spent there. The important religious landmark located in Azpeitia; we are talking about the amazing Sanctuary of Loyola. It was built in the 18th century and named after the saint Ignatius Loyola, who, according to historical records, was born in Azpeitia.

The picturesque medieval town of Tolosa, which became the permanent venue for the colorful carnival, is a great point of interest. This wonderful city is the best base for exploring traditions and culture of the Basques. Amazing themed events regularly take place in the historic center of the city. In the medieval city is also an important religious object, Aranzazu monastery. Founded in the 15th century, it has being continuously expanded and changed its appearance. For more than five hundred years, the monastery has remained constant pilgrimage place and locals came there to worship priceless relics.

Ordizia also features the well-preserved historic center, where you can admire 16th-century buildings. The region retained a great number of luxurious villas. Segura can boast famous architectural landmarks too. Art lovers will be interested to visit the town of Bera de Bidasoa housing Eduardo Chillida Museum dedicated to the famous sculptor.

It’s worth noting a variety of natural attractions of the island, including the mysterious cave of Cueva de Santimamine. Mundaka watershed is of particular interest; the adjacent area was declared a nature reserve of world importance. These unique reserves were chosen as habitat by hundreds of rare species of birds attracting not only curious travelers, but also professional ornithologists.

Basque Country is famous not only for its historical monuments but also for its unique historical traditions. The region of the country was isolated for several hundred years, and this fact has helped it to keep and cherish the centuries-old heritage and traditions. Tourists, who visit Bilbao in August, have a chance to witness a very interesting annual competition. This is the best sheepdog contest. The program of the unusual event is always filled with entertainment and various performances, so the contest is always very popular.

The town of Tolosa is an absolutely gorgeous place that has not lost its medieval charm, so there is no wonder why several historical carnivals take place in the town every year. During these events, everyone is welcome to try on beautiful medieval outfits and walk on historical streets or try national dishes that were popular centuries ago.

Fans of event tourism will find it interesting to visit Gipuzkoa Province. Interesting national celebrations and unusual contests take place virtually every month there. The province is home to many talented musicians and dancers. Dancing classes by local residents are always very popular with tourists who visit this part of the country.