Discovering Vitoria-Gasteiz in 2 days

The capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a hidden gem that offers a unique combination of history, culture and nature. In just two days, you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, enjoy its vibrant food scene and explore its beautiful landscapes. In this guide we offer you a detailed itinerary to see the best of Vitoria-Gasteiz in two days, with practical information and additional suggestions so that you can enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Day 1: Discovering the Old Town and the Essence of Vitoria-Gasteiz

The first day in the city will be dedicated to touring its old town, learning about its history and enjoying the local food culture.

Plaza de la Virgen Blanca and Plaza de España

Start at Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, the most emblematic square in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you can admire the famous monument to the Battle of Vitoria and the floral sculpture that represents the name of the city.

From here, head to Plaza de España, also known as Plaza Nueva, a porticoed space designed in the 18th century that houses numerous bars and restaurants, as well as the Town Hall.

Tip: If you visit the city in December, this square is transformed with its special Christmas decorations.

Medieval Quarter and the Route of the Towers

Continue your adventure in the heart of the Old Quarter of Vitoria, also known as the Medieval Almond for its peculiar shape. This area, with its narrow, cobbled streets, will transport you back to the Middle Ages.

The Old Quarter retains its original layout and is full of Renaissance palaces, churches and museums. An interesting way to explore it is by following the Route of the Towers, which will take you to some of the highest points of the old town, from where you will have impressive panoramic views.

Some notable buildings are:

• Escoriaza-Esquivel Palace: A Renaissance palace with a spectacular façade.
• Montehermoso Palace: Cultural space that hosts exhibitions and events.
• Doña Ochanda Tower: One of the remains of the medieval wall, currently converted into a museum.

Cathedral of Santa Maria and Medieval Wall

The Cathedral of Santa Maria, also known as the “Old Cathedral”, is one of the jewels of the city. A visit is a must, as it offers tours of its structures under restoration, allowing you to discover their evolution over the centuries.

It is a Gothic jewel that has been an inspiration for writers such as Ken Follett. The cathedral, which is constantly being restored, offers guided tours that will allow you to explore its impressive naves, crypts and the triforium, from where you will have a panoramic view of the city.

Interesting fact: Ken Follett was inspired by this cathedral for his novel A World Without End.

Artium Museum and other museums of interest

After lunch in one of the cozy bars in the Old Town, where you can taste traditional pintxos, visit the Artium Museum, one of the most important contemporary art museums in Spain. Here you will find a vast collection of works by national and international artists that will give you a fresh and modern view of art.

If you have time, you can visit other museums:

• Museo de los Faroles: houses a unique collection of processional lanterns used during local festivities.
• The Bibat Museum: combines two spaces, the Archaeology Museum, where finds from the region from Prehistory to the Middle Ages are exhibited, and the Fournier Museum of Playing Cards, with one of the best collections of playing cards in the world.

Gastronomy: pintxos route

Vitoria-Gasteiz is famous for its pintxos, small delicacies that are served in bars with a drink. The best area to try them is the Old Town, where bars such as El Toloño, El Sagartoki or Bar Erkiaga offer exquisite options.

In the Ensanche area, the modern part of the city, you can enjoy dinner in a more contemporary setting. Don’t forget to try local dishes such as cod or steak.

Recommended dishes: Gilda (anchovy, olive and chilli), potato omelette with caramelised onion and stuffed peppers.