Sanctuary of Loyola: A Scenic Journey from Bilbao through Inner Basque Country
4.8
58 Ratings
Bilbo
Embark on a scenic journey from Bilbao to the province of Gipuzkoa, exploring charming towns, visiting the birthplace of Ignatius of Loyola, and enjoying the coastal beauty of Zumaia and Getaria. Indulge in San Sebastian's renowned gastronomy and take in the breathtaking view of La Concha Bay from Mount Igeldo.
Duration: 9 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Santuario de Loyola - Guided visit to the famous Sactuary of Loyola, built around the tower house of the Loyola family.
  • Getaria Fishing Port - Walking tour around Getaria, a charming coastal village known for its fishing tradition and birth town of the famous fashion designer Balenciaga.
  • Zarautz - Drive through Zarautz, home to the longest beach in the Basque Country and famous surfing location.
  • San Sebastian - Donostia - Walking tour to discover the beautiful old town.

Free time for lunch. San sebastian has the highest concentration of bars in the world in its city centre, perfect location to enjoy some pintxos.

Panoramic tour up to Igeldo to see the unique views of the bay of La Concha.

What's Included
  • Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach or minivan
  • Explore with a knowledgeable professional guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
Additional Information

Starting from Bilbao, we’ll travel towards the Gipuzkoa province, taking in sights of towns like Eibar, Elgoibar, and Azkoitia. Our journey brings us to the Loyola sanctuary, notable as the birthplace of the region’s most renowned figure, Ignatius of Loyola. Continuing along the coastline, we’ll reach the Zumaia region, home to the quaint fishing village of Getaria with its historical center. Our trip keeps going through Zarauz till we reach San Sebastian, offering you free time for lunch and to indulge in some of the world’s finest cuisines. Post-lunch, we are off to Mount Igeldo, touted for its breathtaking view of La Concha Bay.

  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
  • May be operated by a bilingual guide
  • This tour will take place rain or shine
Location
Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65
Mazarredo Zumarkalea
Please go to the Bus Stop at Tourist Office located next to the Guggenheim Museum. Pick up time at 08.50am (departure time at 09.00am)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(58 Ratings)
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Danny_h
May 28, 2024
True hidden gem in Spain - This trip was easily one of my favorite experiences while staying in Spain. Our amazing tour guide (I think his name is Garai) took us across the beautiful Basque country and stopped along beautiful landmarks for us to relax and sightsee while he enthusiastically told us about the history and culture. We even got free local seafood tapas at Getaria to make up the minor delay before the trip started: what great service!
Review provided by Viator
Juliopaulryana
May 26, 2024
Great excursion! - Good tour, punctual, wonderful views and tips, and with a surprise at the end of the tour. Thanks Pascu and Aitor!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lynnpq5224ob
May 19, 2024
Bilbao to San Sebastián and Other Stops - Stefan was very thorough between and during the many stops. He knew all the best locations to take pictures and acted as photographer when asked. Well recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Harry
Mar 19, 2024
Good day out. - Great day out in the company of pleasant fellow travelers in a comfortable vehicle driven by very well informed guide. Unrushed but packed with history and beautiful countryside and towns.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Henry_c
Mar 12, 2024
Stefan, what a man. - Stefan met us as arranged and settled us 2 Irishmen and 4 other pleasant people into a clean comfortable minivan. He outlined the itinerary in English and Spanish and prepared us for the journey. Each stop as described in the programme was especially interesting for us and perfectly explained by Stefan. He displayed an excellent range of knowledge about the countryside and the historical landscape of each destination. We enjoyed lunch ( 3 premises) well lubricated by most palatable local wine. We thoroughly enjoyed the company of the other travellers and most especially Stevan’s hard work and jovial personality. Harry
Review provided by Viator
Rd
Nov 23, 2023
Enriching Experience. - I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Loyola, Getaria and San Sebastian. The countryside of the Basque Country is very beautiful with stunning landscapes and architecture. Given a chance, I would love to visit San Sebastian again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
William_p
Nov 23, 2023
Amazing sights and learning - What a memorable experience learning about the history of the region in Loyola and geraria. And we definitely want to return to San Sebastian where we enjoyed a fantastic meal, the best we've had in our 10 days in Spain. Stefan was very knowledgeable and patient as he did the tour in English and Spanish.
Review provided by Viator
Christian_b
Nov 1, 2023
Great day out - We‘ve been a small group of 3. our guide (sorry, forgot the name) war perfect. Very knowledgeable. He could explain a lot and it was never boring!
Review provided by Viator
Mikejarod
Sep 9, 2023
Nice day trip I enjoyed myself - In a small airconditioned van with 4 other people and a guide we did this daytrip. The guide was nice and knew a lot about the area. I liked San Sebastian the most. Can recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
John_s
Aug 24, 2023
Great tour. Very interesting and informative!! - The catedral and the Sanctuary of Loyola were amazing. We also enjoyed San Sebastián and are thinking of returning. Sttephan, the tour guide, was very professional and knowledgeable. Did a great job in both Spanish and English. We highly recommend this tour and Stephan.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 9 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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