Vitoria-Gasteiz

The Basque Country's official capital, known for its beautifully preserved medieval old town shaped like an almond and its green urban design. It offers a quieter, more authentic Basque experience than the coastal cities with excellent cathedrals and squares.

Things to do

• Catedral de Santa María — Explore this Gothic cathedral's ongoing restoration via the unique 'Open for Restoration' guided tour that lets visitors see archaeological work in progress.
• Plaza de la Virgen Blanca — Relax in this lively main square lined with cafes, marking the boundary between the medieval old town and the 19th-century expansion.
• Walk the Almendra Medieval — Wander the almond-shaped old town's narrow, concentric streets that trace the city's medieval origins on a hilltop.
• Palacio de Villa Suso — Visit this restored Renaissance palace overlooking the square, now used as a cultural center with rotating exhibitions.
• Artium Museum — See a strong collection of contemporary Basque and Spanish art in this modern museum near the city center.
• Anillo Verde (Green Belt) — Cycle or stroll the ring of parks and wetlands encircling the city, a pioneering example of Basque urban ecological design.
• Catedral de María Inmaculada — Tour the city's 'new' Neo-Gothic cathedral, notable for its towering spires and stained glass.
• Los Arquillos — Photograph this elegant arched passageway connecting the upper old town to the lower expansion, a clever piece of 18th-century urban engineering.

Food to try

• Pintxos on Calle Cuchillería — Hop between bars on this atmospheric medieval street, known locally as Kutxilleria, for creative Basque pintxos and local wine.
• Alubias de Vitoria — Try this hearty stew of local white beans, often cooked with chorizo and pork, a signature Alavese comfort dish.
• Perretxikos — Seek out these prized wild spring mushrooms, a seasonal delicacy served simply sautéed with garlic and egg.
• Txakoli wine — Pair your meal with this slightly sparkling, crisp white wine typical of the Basque Country.
• Bacalao al pil pil — Sample this classic Basque salt-cod dish emulsified in olive oil and garlic, found in many traditional restaurants around town.

Local customs & good to know

• Bilingual signage — Street names and signs appear in both Basque (Euskera) and Spanish, reflecting the region's dual linguistic identity.
• Fiestas de la Virgen Blanca — If visiting in early August, expect the city's biggest festival, marked by the symbolic descent of Celedón and days of street parties.
• Quieter pace than coastal cities — Vitoria-Gasteiz offers a calmer, more local rhythm of life compared to San Sebastián or Bilbao, with fewer tourist crowds.
• Respect siesta hours — Many small shops close for a few hours in early afternoon, so plan errands and museum visits accordingly.