Getxo

TL;DR: Just 20 minutes from Bilbao, Getxo is a stunning coastal town where you can walk the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge, relax on six gorgeous beaches, explore mansions from the industrial boom era, and eat some of Spain’s best pintxos. Perfect for a day trip or longer escape. Two to three hours minimum, but honestly, you’ll want to stay longer.

Welcome to Getxo: Where History Meets the Sea

Tucked along the Cantabrian coast in Spain’s Basque Country, Getxo is where industrial heritage, Belle Époque architecture, and natural beauty collide in the best possible way. This charming seaside town sits where the Nervión River estuary meets the Bay of Biscay—a location that’s shaped everything from its fishing roots to its current identity as a sophisticated coastal escape.

Whether you’re a beach bum, architecture enthusiast, history nerd, water sports fanatic, or someone who just wants to slow down and enjoy life by the ocean, Getxo has something for you. And the best part? It’s effortlessly accessible from Bilbao, making it the perfect addition to any Basque Country itinerary.

Getting to Getxo: Seriously Easy

Getting here is one of Getxo’s best features. From Bilbao city center, jump on Metro Line 1 and you’ll arrive in about 20-25 minutes. It costs just €1-3 depending on how far you travel. If you prefer driving, it’s roughly 14 kilometers (about 20 minutes) from downtown Bilbao. Local buses and taxis are also solid options. And if you’re arriving by air? La Paloma airport is just 10 minutes away.

Pro tip: Grab a Barik travel card at any metro station. It works across metro, buses, trams, and even the Vizcaya Bridge—everything is cheaper than buying individual tickets.

The Vizcaya Bridge: Engineering Brilliance That Steals Your Breath

Let’s get straight to the most famous attraction: the Puente Colgante (Hanging Bridge), also known as the Vizcaya Bridge. This isn’t just any bridge—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic structures in all of Spain.

Built in 1893 by engineer Alberto Palacio, this transporter bridge was a solution to a real problem: how do you connect two river banks without blocking maritime traffic? His answer? A revolutionary hanging bridge with a massive gondola that holds up to six cars and 200+ passengers, traveling from bank to bank in about five minutes.

Walking across it (or taking the gondola—your choice) is genuinely thrilling. The views of the Nervión estuary are spectacular, and standing beneath this iron colossus really puts the industrial revolution into perspective. Crossing costs just a few euros, and it’s worth every cent.

If you enter through Getxo’s Las Arenas neighborhood, you’ll also spot the striking Art Nouveau architecture that dominated the area. It’s the perfect Instagram moment and a genuine “wow” experience.

The Beaches: Six Different Vibes, All Equally Gorgeous

Here’s the thing about Getxo’s coastline—it’s not just one beach. It’s six distinct personalities, each offering something different.

Las Arenas is quiet and urban, just a stroll from the Vizcaya Bridge. It’s smaller and more intimate, perfect if you want waves to be background music rather than the main event.

Ereaga is the social butterfly. With dark golden sand stretching between the old port and the breakwater, it’s ideal for water sports, sunbathing, or watching the boats come and go. There are cafes and pintxo bars right on the sand—which tells you everything you need to know about the vibe.

Arrigunaga sits at the base of the dramatic La Galea cliffs and offers calmer waters, making it brilliant for families or anyone who prefers mellower waves. Pack a picnic and find a spot on the grassy area overlooking the sand.

Gorrondatxe is the wild child. With natural dunes and exceptional geological features, this is where you’ll find proper surfers and people who thrive on raw, untamed coastline. The waves here are no joke, and the landscape feels genuinely untouched.

Barinatxe (known locally as “La Salvaje,” the wild one) stretches between Getxo and Sopelana and attracts surfers, paragliders, and adventure seekers. It’s long, beautiful, and perfect if you want something more rugged.

Azkorri rounds out the lineup with excellent conditions for everything from surfing to casual swimming, surrounded by cliffside scenery that’s pretty stunning.

No matter which beach calls to you, the Cantabrian Sea is cold year-round (bring a wetsuit if you’re sensitive), but the experience is always worth it.

The Neighborhoods: Each One Tells a Story

Getxo isn’t one monolithic town—it’s a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and history.

Las Arenas is where everything feels Victorian and grand. This is where the Vizcaya Bridge begins, and it’s surrounded by the kind of architecture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The promenades here are spectacular for walks.

Algorta is the old fishing heart of Getxo. The historic old port (Puerto Viejo) is absolutely charming—whitewashed buildings with colorful doorways, flower boxes in summer, and a perfect collection of pintxo bars and cafes. This is where locals hang out, and it feels genuinely authentic. Grab a drink here, chat with someone, and you’ll understand the soul of the Basque Country.

Neguri is the wealthy enclave. Named from Basque words meaning “winter city,” this neighborhood was deliberately designed in the 19th century to attract prosperous industrialists and business owners. Mansions line the streets, and the Paseo del Marqués de Arriluce de Ibarra promenade offers some of the most photographed views of the bay. It’s aspirational and beautiful, even if you can’t afford the real estate.

Andra Mari is slightly quieter and features the Aixerrota windmill—a 1726 construction that now serves as an exhibition space for local artists. It’s free to visit and opens daily except Wednesdays from 1:15 pm to 9:30 pm.

Top Things to Do in Getxo

Walk (or gondola-ride) the Vizcaya Bridge. Seriously, this is the main event. Arrive early to beat crowds, and give yourself time to appreciate both the engineering and the views. If you’re feeling adventurous, walk it. If you want the experience without the walk, take the gondola.

Explore the Galerías Punta Begoña. Located next to Ereaga Beach, these gallery-like structures were built using reinforced concrete in the early 1900s and represent how Getxo’s wealthy bourgeoisie spent their leisure time. They’re singular and beautifully weird.

Hike along La Galea. The cliffs at Punta Galea are some of the most dramatic on the Biscayan coast. The coastal trail offers breathtaking views, and if you’re up for it, you can reach the Punta Galea lighthouse and fort (Castillo del Príncipe, built in the 18th century). It’s an easy to moderate walk with payoff views.

Get lost in Algorta’s old port. Wander the narrow streets, pop into vintage shops, grab a pintxo, chat with locals. This is where Getxo’s real charm lives.

Surf or learn to surf. Getxo is a genuine hub for surfers, particularly at Gorrondatxe and Barinatxe beaches. Several schools offer lessons for all levels.

Do a pintxo crawl. This is culinary tourism at its finest. Start at one bar, order a pintxo (a small, artfully topped piece of bread) and a drink. Move to the next bar. Repeat until you’ve had five or six and a genuine understanding of Basque cuisine. This is how locals eat and socialize.

Cycle the coastal paths. Bike rentals are available, and the routes along the coast and through inland parks are spectacular.

Visit the Aixerrota windmill. It’s a quirky, photogenic piece of heritage that represents Basque industrial history.

Take a boat tour. Maritime history is woven into Getxo’s DNA. Sailing excursions and guided boat tours offer a different perspective.

Catch a cultural event. The International Jazz Festival in July is world-class, and traditional Basque sports (Herri Kirolak) are featured throughout the year. There’s always something happening.

Eating Your Way Through Getxo: Pintxos, Basque Cuisine & Wine

Here’s where Getxo really shines: food. The Basque Country is considered one of Spain’s culinary capitals, and Getxo absolutely delivers.

A “pintxo” isn’t just a snack—it’s a cultural experience. These small, beautifully crafted bites sit on bars, and you order them by pointing and eating. A typical pintxo crawl involves hitting multiple bars, ordering several pintxos at each, and washing them down with txakoli (a local white wine), sidra (Basque cider), or a zurito (small beer).

Tamarises Izarra is renowned for refined Basque dishes and seaside views. Think fresh fish prepared with respect and technique.

La Ola Getxo serves creative dishes made entirely from local ingredients. It’s the kind of place that feels special without trying too hard.

Batzoki Getxo is casual and serves authentic Basque pintxos and traditional dishes. It feels like eating at a friend’s favorite spot.

Arrantzale, Txinuk, and Aremuna are beloved pintxo bars where locals actually hang out. These are the real deals—authentic, delicious, affordable.

Karola Etxea specializes in traditional Basque cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting.

Don’t skip the txakoli—this crisp, slightly fruity white wine is produced locally and pairs perfectly with seafood and pintxos. It’s something you can only really find here, making it the perfect souvenir to bring home.

Where to Stay: Options for Every Budget

Luxury & Boutique: Hotel Embarcadero is a luxury boutique property near the beach with elegant decor and sea views. It’s the kind of place that makes your trip feel special.

Mid-Range with Style: Petit Palace Tamarises sits right in front of Ereaga Beach and offers excellent value with comfortable rooms and a great location.

Hotel Artaza is a charming property in a historic building surrounded by parkland. It’s peaceful and characterful.

Vacation Rentals: Various apartments and holiday homes throughout Getxo offer flexibility and often better value, especially for longer stays or groups. Many come with kitchen facilities and local charm.

Budget-Friendly: Hostels and guesthouses in Algorta offer affordable options without sacrificing atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit: How Much Time Do You Need?

A few hours (2-3)? Stick to the Vizcaya Bridge, a beach stroll, and a pintxo crawl. You can see Getxo’s highlights and be back in Bilbao for dinner.

A full day (6-8 hours)? Add the La Galea hike, more thorough neighborhood exploration, and a longer beach time. Maybe rent a bike. Take your time.

A couple of days? Now you’re living. Explore all the neighborhoods, do multiple beaches, take a boat tour, visit the windmill, and really soak in the pace of life here. You might even venture to nearby towns like Sopelana or Barrika.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Best time to visit? Summer (June-September) is gorgeous but crowded. Spring and early fall offer better weather and fewer tourists. Winter is moody and beautiful—bring a raincoat.

Swimsuit essential? The Cantabrian Sea is chilly (50-64°F depending on season). A wetsuit isn’t optional for extended swimming—it’s smart.

What to bring? Good walking shoes, layers (coastal winds can surprise you), sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. The weather can change, so flexibility is your friend.

Language? You’ll hear Basque and Spanish here. English is increasingly common in touristy areas, but learning a few Basque greetings—Kaixo (hello), Eskerrik asko (thank you)—will earn you genuine appreciation.

Accessible? Getxo is generally walkable, though the coastal paths have some steep sections. Beaches have accessible facilities. Elevators exist in key locations.

Day trips from Getxo? Bilbao (20 minutes via metro) is obvious. The Guggenheim Museum is world-class. If you’re here longer, Sopelana beach, Barrika, San Sebastián (1 hour), and the Basque wine region around Rioja are all doable.

Why Getxo Deserves Your Time

Getxo doesn’t scream for attention like some destinations. It doesn’t have the nightlife of Barcelona or the mountain drama of the Pyrenees. What it does have is authenticity, charm, stunning natural beauty, world-class food, and the kind of coastal atmosphere that makes you want to slow down.

It’s a place where history—from maritime traditions to industrial-age architecture—is woven into everyday life. Where a simple walk becomes a meditation. Where a pintxo isn’t just food; it’s a social ritual.

This is the Basque Country at its most accessible, and Getxo is the perfect introduction. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a few days, you’ll leave with the kind of memories that make you want to book a return ticket before you’ve even left.

Get there. Walk the bridge. Eat some pintxos. Watch the waves. You won’t regret it.