Are you planning a trip to the Basque Country and looking for the perfect coastal escape? Just a short metro ride from Bilbao lies Getxo, a stunning seaside town that many international travelers completely miss. From the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Vizcaya Bridge to the charming, whitewashed streets of the Old Port of Algorta (Puerto Viejo), this coastal gem offers the perfect blend of history, breathtaking cliffside views, and world-class gastronomy.
Whether you want to marvel at aristocratic mansions, sunbathe on scenic beaches, or indulge in traditional Basque pintxos paired with a crisp glass of Txakoli wine, this 1-day Getxo itinerary will show you exactly how to maximize your time.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do, where to eat, and how to experience the very best of Getxo, Spain, in just 24 hours.
Morning: Architecture, History, and Crossing to Portugalete
Marvel at the Monumental Palaces
Start your morning with a walk along the Paseo de Grandes Villas in the Las Arenas and Neguri neighborhoods. Here, you will see stunning early 20th-century palaces overlooking the sea. For the ultimate luxury experience or a scenic morning coffee, stop by the breathtaking Palacio San Joseren or the newly restored, ultra-luxury Hotel Palacio de Arriluce, which sits majestically on the cliffs.
Walk Across the Iconic Vizcaya Bridge
You cannot visit Getxo without seeing the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iron masterpiece connects Getxo with the neighboring town of Portugalete.
- Local tip: Don’t just look at it! Take the pedestrian lift to the very top walkway for stunning panoramic views of the Nervión river, and then enjoy a walk callejando por Portugalete to explore its steep, charming medieval streets.
Lunch: Elegant Dining by the Sea
After exploring Portugalete, cross back over to Getxo for a memorable sit-down lunch. Depending on your style, here are the best options on the coast:
- Hotel Embarcadero (Elegance by the Harbor): Located right on the scenic promenade, its restaurant offers exceptional traditional Basque cuisine with a modern twist, paired with beautiful views of the bay.
- Casa Bassa (Modern Basque Gastronomy): If you are looking for top-tier grilled meats, fresh local fish, and an elegant, contemporary atmosphere, Casa Bassa Getxo is a phenomenal choice that locals highly recommend.
- Kupka (Best for Specialty Coffee & Brunch): If you need a break from traditional tapas or are looking for a modern specialty coffee spot, Kupka is a fantastic choice. Located in Palacio Arriluce, it is highly rated for its delicious brunch options, artisanal pastries, and cozy, contemporary atmosphere.
- Tamarises Izarra (Ocean-View Dining): Situated right on Ereaga Beach, this restaurant is famous for its breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea. It specializes in premium grilled fish, fresh seafood, and traditional Basque recipes executed with fine-dining precision. Eating here while watching the waves is unforgettable
Afternoon: The Magical Old Port (Puerto Viejo)
No trip to Getxo is complete without visiting Algorta’s Puerto Viejo. This is a postcard-perfect old fishing village with whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Ultimate Getxo Pintxo Crawl
Basque culture is all about Txikiteo (going from bar to bar for drinks and small bites). Head to the lively plazas in Algorta and try one of the legendary spots:
- Arrantzale Taberna (The Old Port Classic): Located right in the heart of the picturesque Puerto Viejo de Algorta, this traditional tavern is the ultimate spot to experience authentic Basque food culture. Sit on the outdoor steps like a local, order a variety of pintxos, and pair them with a crisp glass of Txakoli (the local white wine).
Evening: Sunset at the Cliffs
End your perfect day by walking up from Ereaga Beach towards the La Galea cliffs. The sunset from the Aixerrota Windmill offers one of the most dramatic and beautiful coastal views in the entire Basque Country.
Final Thoughts: Is Getxo Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Getxo, Spain, is an absolute must-visit destination if you want to experience the true essence of the Basque coast without the massive crowds. In just 24 hours, this charming town allows you to cross an architectural marvel like the Vizcaya Bridge, walk past stunning Edwardian palaces, and relax in a historic fishing village eating world-class pintxos.
It offers the perfect contrast to the urban energy of Bilbao and provides a deeper look into the rich Basque maritime culture and gastronomy. If you are planning a trip to Northern Spain, missing out on Getxo would be a mistake.
Are you planning a trip to the Basque Country? Check out this guide about spending A Day in Hodarribia and the Complete Travel Guide to San Sebastian!
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Getxo
The easiest and fastest way is by taking the Bilbao Metro (Line 1). You can get off at Areeta station to see the Hanging Bridge, or Algorta station if you want to go straight to the Old Port and the beaches. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes.
Absolutely. Getxo offers the perfect coastal contrast to Bilbao’s urban style. In just one day, you can experience a UNESCO World Heritage site (the Vizcaya Bridge), dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, grand palaces, and some of the best seafood and pintxos in the Basque Country.
Yes, you can take a pedestrian lift to the very top walkway, 45 meters above the river. Walking across gives you incredible panoramic views of Getxo and Portugalete. Alternatively, you can take the traditional open-air ferry boat at river level, which crosses in just 90 seconds.
The ultimate spot is the Puerto Viejo (Old Port) in Algorta. Traditional taverns like Taberna Arrentzale offer amazing local seafood bites, while spots right on Ereaga beach like Tamarises Izarra combine creative, award-winning pintxos with beautiful sea views.