Vitoria-Gasteiz - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Vitoria-Gasteiz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vitoria-Gasteiz, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Vitoria-Gasteiz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Vitoria-Gasteiz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Vitoria-Gasteiz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital city of the Basque Country in northern Spain. It is located 66 km south of Bilbao and 118 km north of Logroño. The city is known for its historic center, with medieval streets, monuments and architecture. It has a population of approximately 250,000 people and is considered one of the greenest cities in Europe with large parks and green areas. Vitoria-Gasteiz also boasts a rich cultural scene with museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year. The city is well connected by public transport including buses, trams and a modern train station.

What to visit in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain: 1. Old Town: The heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz, this area is filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming squares. It is a great place to wander and soak up the local atmosphere. 2. Cathedral of Santa María: This stunning 13th-century cathedral is located in the Old Town and is one of the most important Gothic buildings in the Basque Country. It has a beautiful interior and houses a museum with religious art and artifacts. 3. Artium Museum: This contemporary art museum displays works by Basque and international artists. It is housed in a modern building and offers temporary exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection. 4. Plaza de la Virgen Blanca: This is one of the main gathering places in the city, surrounded by bars and restaurants. It is also the site of the famous annual festival, La Blanca, which takes place in August. 5. Basque Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Basque people, including traditional clothing, music, and art. It is housed in a restored 16th-century building. 6. Montes de Vitoria Natural Park: This vast nature reserve is located just outside the city and offers hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to observe wildlife. 7. Salburua Wetlands: This protected area is home to various bird species and offers walking paths and observation platforms. 8. Palace of Ajuria-Enea: This 19th-century palace is the official residence of the Lehendakari, the president of the Basque Government. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is occasionally open for guided tours. 9. Portal de Betoño: This impressive 13th-century gate is one of the few surviving parts of the city's medieval walls. It is located on the outskirts of the Old Town and is a great spot for taking photos. 10. Bibat Museum: This museum is housed in a former hospital and showcases the history of Vitoria-Gasteiz, from prehistoric times to the present day. It includes archaeological artifacts, artwork, and interactive exhibits.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

When to go on holiday to Vitoria-Gasteiz

The best time to go on holiday to Vitoria-Gasteiz is during the months of May to September. The weather is generally warm and sunny during this time, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-23 degrees Celsius). This is also the time when many outdoor events and festivals take place, such as the Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival and the Azkena Rock Festival. However, if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you could also consider visiting in the spring or autumn months, when the temperatures are cooler but still pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Vitoria-Gasteiz

Vitoria-Gasteiz can be reached by plane, train, or bus.
By plane: The nearest airport is Vitoria Airport (VIT), which is about 10 km south of the city. From the airport, there are buses that run to the city center.
By train: There are direct trains from Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and San Sebastian to Vitoria-Gasteiz. The train station is located in the city center.
By bus: There are bus services available from various cities in Spain to Vitoria-Gasteiz. The buses usually arrive at the main bus station in the city center.
Once you arrive in Vitoria-Gasteiz, you can use the local bus service, taxi, or walk to get around the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vitoria-Gasteiz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Sure, here are some typical foods from Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain: 1. Patatas a la Riojana - This is a dish made of potatoes, chorizo, red pepper and paprika, typical to the nearby Rioja region and commonly found in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
2. Bacalao al Pil Pil - A dish made of salted cod, garlic, olive oil and chili peppers. It's a popular Basque dish and a must-try when visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz.
3. Txakoli - A refreshing Basque sparkling wine, typically enjoyed with pintxos (small bites of food) in the old town of Vitoria-Gasteiz.
4. Chuletón - A large, thick, grilled T-bone steak from the Basque region, usually served with roasted peppers and potatoes.
5. Pintxos - These are small snacks or finger foods, often with a skewer or toothpick through them, similar to tapas. They typically include a variety of ingredients, such as cured ham (jamón ibérico), mushrooms, anchovies, cheese, and olives.
6. Idiazabal Cheese - A mild, nutty-tasting cheese made from unpasteurized sheep's milk, often served as a snack or as part of a cheese plate.
7. Gildas - This is a pintxo made of a skewer loaded with guindilla peppers, olives, and a piece of pickled anchovy. It's typically served at bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
I hope this helps you plan your trip and enjoy the local cuisine!
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Vitoria-Gasteiz an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other Spanish cities, Vitoria-Gasteiz is generally considered a bit more expensive for tourists due to its smaller size and location in the Basque Country. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, food, and activities that you choose. If you plan ahead and do some research, you can definitely find affordable options for your trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz. Keep in mind that visiting during off-season and avoiding peak tourist times can also help you save some money.

Where to find accomodation in Vitoria-Gasteiz

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain are the city center (Casco Viejo), Ensanche, and Lakua-Arriaga. The city center (Casco Viejo) is the historic district of Vitoria-Gasteiz and has many attractions such as the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria. Ensanche is a more modern part of the city with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars. Lakua-Arriaga is a newer neighborhood built to the southeast of the city center and is popular for its parks and recreational facilities, including the beautiful Salburua wetlands.
You can check hotel prices at Vitoria-Gasteiz here:
Booking.com

Is Vitoria-Gasteiz a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vitoria-Gasteiz is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It has a low crime rate and the local authorities work hard to preserve public safety. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and avoiding dark or isolated areas at night.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vitoria-Gasteiz the most?

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a charming city in the Basque country of Spain with a rich cultural and historical heritage. It is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, families, and young people looking for both cultural and outdoor activities.
Couples will enjoy its romantic atmosphere, with beautiful parks and gardens, historic landmarks to explore, and excellent local cuisine to savor together. The city's Old Town is an ideal place to stroll around and enjoy its medieval architecture.
Families will find plenty of fun things to do, including visiting museums such as the Artium or the Basque Museum, going for a bike ride in the Green Belt, or enjoying a picnic in one of the many parks throughout the city.
Young travelers will also find lots of activities to keep them entertained, such as shopping and nightlife areas, with a great choice of bars and clubs, and outdoor sports such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.
Overall, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a fantastic destination for all types of travelers, offering a unique blend of cultural and outdoor activities, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious local cuisine.

How to get around Vitoria-Gasteiz

There are several transportation options available to move around Vitoria-Gasteiz: 1. City Buses - Vitoria-Gasteiz has an extensive network of buses that covers the entire city and surrounding areas. The buses are frequent, reliable and affordable.
2. Tram - There is a modern tram service that connects some of the main neighborhoods of Vitoria-Gasteiz. The service is efficient and convenient.
3. Taxi - Taxis are readily available in Vitoria-Gasteiz. They are reasonably priced and offer a comfortable and quick way to get around.
4. Bike - Vitoria-Gasteiz has an extensive bike lane network, which makes it easy to move around the city by bike. There are several bike rental shops in the city, and many public bikes are available for rent.
Overall, Vitoria-Gasteiz has excellent transportation options that make it easy to move around the city, irrespective of your budget or travel needs.

What to see around Vitoria-Gasteiz

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Vitoria-Gasteiz: 1) Rioja Alavesa wine region: This region is famous for its vineyards and wine production. It's located just 45 minutes drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz and you can visit some of the most famous wineries in Spain.
2) San Sebastian: This coastal town is famous for its beautiful beaches, architecture, and culture. It's known for its Michelin starred restaurants and pintxos (small snacks) that are popular in the Basque Country. It's 1-hour drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz.
3) Bilbao: Bilbao is one of the largest cities in the Basque Country and is known for the famous Guggenheim Museum, which is a must-visit for art lovers. It's 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz.
4) Laguardia: this is a beautiful medieval village known for its architecture and landscape. The village is surrounded by vineyards and it's located 30 minutes drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz.
5) Salinas de Anana: this is a natural reserve with a beautiful landscape and diverse fauna and flora. It's a perfect place for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and bird-watching. It's located just 20 minutes drive from Vitoria-Gasteiz.
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