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Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Bilbao, Hondarribia, Donostia-San Sebastian, Santander, Gaztelugatxe, Santillana del Mar

Saturday, September 23: Bilbao

Start your trip in Bilbao by visiting the Guggenheim Museum in the morning. Marvel at the stunning contemporary architecture and explore the impressive art collections inside. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the charming Old Town (Casco Viejo) and visit the Santiago Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Basque dinner in one of the local restaurants.

  • Guggenheim Museum: Estimated Cost - €15, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Old Town (Casco Viejo) and Santiago Cathedral: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Local Basque Restaurant: Estimated Cost - €20-€30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 24: Hondarribia and Donostia-San Sebastian

In the morning, head to the picturesque town of Hondarribia. Explore the medieval streets, visit the Castle of Charles V, and enjoy the beautiful views from Mount Jaizkibel. In the afternoon, travel to Donostia-San Sebastian and relax on the famous La Concha Beach. In the evening, take a walk along the promenade and indulge in some delicious pintxos (Basque tapas) in the Parte Vieja (Old Town).

  • Hondarribia: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-4 hours
  • Mount Jaizkibel: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • La Concha Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - Flexible
  • Parte Vieja (Old Town) for Pintxos: Estimated Cost - €15-€30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, September 25: Santander

Start your day by exploring the Palacio de la Magdalena, a beautiful palace overlooking the bay. Take a walk through the stunning gardens and enjoy the panoramic views. In the afternoon, visit the Maritime Museum and take a boat ride along the coast. In the evening, stroll along the Paseo de Pereda and admire the historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Palacio de la Magdalena: Estimated Cost - €3-€5, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Maritime Museum: Estimated Cost - €3-€5, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride along the Coast: Estimated Cost - €10-€20, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Paseo de Pereda: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - Flexible
Tuesday, September 26: Gaztelugatxe

Embark on an exciting day trip to Gaztelugatxe, an island with a stunning hermitage perched on top. After a scenic drive, hike up the stairs and cross the bridge to reach the hermitage. Take in the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the nearby town of Bermeo and explore its charming streets and fishing port.

  • Gaztelugatxe: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Town of Bermeo: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Santillana del Mar

Travel to Santillana del Mar, a medieval town frozen in time. Explore the cobbled streets, visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, and wander through the charming shops and cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Altamira Museum, which houses prehistoric cave paintings. Immerse yourself in the history and art of the region. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Cantabrian dinner in one of the local restaurants.

  • Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana: Estimated Cost - €3-€5, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Altamira Museum: Estimated Cost - €3-€5, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Local Cantabrian Restaurant: Estimated Cost - €20-€30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 28: Exploring Bilbao

Return to Bilbao for a second day of exploration. Start your morning at the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, where you can admire a vast collection of European art. In the afternoon, take a funicular ride up to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a picnic or relax at the park. In the evening, savor the flavors of traditional Basque cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Bilbao Fine Arts Museum: Estimated Cost - €10-€15, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mount Artxanda Funicular: Estimated Cost - €1-€2, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Local Basque Restaurant: Estimated Cost - €20-€30 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 29: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Cabarceno Natural Park, just outside Santander. This wildlife park is home to over a hundred animal species and offers guided tours and animal shows. Families will enjoy a day immersed in nature and seeing animals up close. Alternatively, you can explore the charming fishing villages along the Cantabrian coast, such as Castro Urdiales or Laredo, where you can relax on beautiful beaches and indulge in fresh seafood.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem is the Flysch Route in Zumaia, an impressive geological formation along the coastline. It's a great place for a family hike and to witness the unique rock formations. Locals also love the Caves of Monte Castillo in Puente Viesgo, which feature ancient cave paintings. It's an educational and fascinating experience for both kids and adults alike.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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