11 Unique Things to Do in Vitoria-Gasteiz for First-Time Visitors

Looking for things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz? This underrated Basque city is packed with history, incredible food, and stunning green spaces—but many travelers skip it.

I get it. With Bilbao and San Sebastián nearby, it’s easy to overlook Vitoria-Gasteiz. But if you don’t visit, you’re missing out on one of northern Spain’s most authentic, charming cities!

I learned this firsthand when I took a day trip from Bilbao to Vitoria with virtually no expectations. I didn’t know much about the city, but I was interested to explore more of the Basque region, and I’m so glad I did!

Firstly, I got to explore a city that combines modernity with history. Its walkable medieval center has great pintxos bars and a slower, local vibe that is refreshing and authentic.

Ready to make the most of your visit? Here’s what not to miss in Vitoria-Gasteiz!

11 Things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz for First-Timers

1. Wander Through the Medieval Old Town (Casco Viejo)

Vitoria-Gasteiz has one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Spain. Walking through the Casco Viejo (Historic Quarter) feels like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, colorful houses with enclosed balconies, and historic landmarks. Below are some of the must-see and visit spots to check out there.

• Plaza de la Virgen Blanca – This famous square is the heart of the city and a perfect place to enjoy a little people-watching and admire the surrounding architecture.
• Casa del Cordón – A stunning 15th-century tower house where kings once stayed.
• Calle Cuchillería – One of the most popular streets, filled with pintxos bars, shops, and hidden courtyards.
• Mural Route – Explore the city’s street art scene with its massive, colorful murals decorating old buildings.

➡️ To see the best of Vitoria, book a walking tour to explore everything from the must-see sites to its hidden corners while learning more about its history from a local!

2. Discover Vitoria’s Other Top Landmarks

Beyond the Old Town, Vitoria-Gasteiz is packed with beautiful architecture and historical sites that tell you more about the city’s history and past. Here are a few other landmarks not to miss out on!

• Santa Maria Cathedral – This is a 13th century Gothic cathedral, and one of Vitoria’s most iconic landmarks, known for it’s detailed architecture, underground crypts, and panoramic city views from the bell tower.

➡️ Book your tickets in advance to visit the Santa Maria Cathedral on a solo or guided tour, hop on the tower for amazing views of Vitoria-Gasteiz, or visit the cathedral.

• Plaza de España – Every city in Spain has one, and the one in Vitoria-Gasteiz is one designed in a Neoclassical architectural style. It’s home to Vitoria’s City Hall, dozens of cafes, which of course, makes it one of the best people watching spots in the city!
• Los Arquillos – A unique series of 18th century stone arches that connect the old and new parts of the city. They offer amazing viewpoints over the historic cityscape of Vitoria!

3. Experience the Local Pintxos Scene

It’s all about the pintxos in Vitoria-Gasteiz, so it’s one to experience once you’re here!

• Try a Gilda Pintxo: This is a classic Basque pintxo which is typically made of olives, anchovies, and green chili pepper on a skewer. It’s a must try!
• Try Pintxos at a Pintxos Bar: One of the most popular Pintxos bars in Vitoria is called Sagartoki, which is famous for its pintxos, especially a liquid egg pintxo. Because of where we were during lunch time, we opted for a different Pintxos bar called PerretxiCo, where I tried a few other delicious pintxo sandwiches and skewers. I highly recommend this place too!
• Explore along Calle Cuchillería: This street is packed with the most pintxo bars, where you can order everything from grilled prawns to txistorra (Basque sausage).

🍷 What should you order to drink? I love Kalimotxo, a cocktail made with equal parts Spanish red wine, Coca-Cola over ice, and a slice of lemon that’s very popular throughout the Basque region. Another good option is Txakoli, a light, slightly sparkling Basque white wine for something even more daring.

How to order pintxos at the bar?

If you’re looking to eat Pintxos only (not a main dish), go to the bar and ask for/point to the specific pintxos on display that you’d like to try.

I went to PerretxiCo, and I enjoyed the pintxos there very much. They had a good variety of Pintxos, and lots of locals kept coming in, so I take that it’s a popular place amongst them.

➡️ Join a Pintxos tour in Vitoria, and explore the best Pintxos bars, with a local’s insight!

4. Relax in the Green Spaces of Vitoria-Gasteiz

One of the city’s biggest draws is its commitment to sustainability, which you can see with the many parks, gardens, and nature reserves in the city.

These are some of the most popular parks to check out in Vitoria-Gasteiz:

• La Florida Park: This park dates back to the 19th century, and has beautiful different types of plants and exotic trees. Plus, there’s a cute gazeebo in the middle.
• Salburua Wetlands: A little outside the city center, there is a protected nature reserve that is home to animals, from deer to herons and some rare bird species.
• The Green Belt: This is a series of trails looping around Vitoria-Gasteiz, connecting many of the city’s parks. There’s a reason Vitoria-Gasteiz was the first city in Spain to be named Europe’s greenest capital!

5. Visit the Art and Culture Museums

Vitoria-Gasteiz has a strong cultural scene, with museums covering everything from contemporary art to Basque history worth checking out!

• Atrium Museum – A modern art museum that features Basque and Spanish contemporary artists, showcasing everything from avant-garde sculptures to immersive installations.
• Bibat Museum – A 2-in-1 museum that combines medieval artifacts with the world-famous Fournier Playing Card collection, which traces the history of playing cards in Spain.
• Fournier Playing Card Museum – This is a quirky, niche museum that highlights the art behind Spain’s most famous playing card brand, Naipes Fournier.

6. Take a Day Trip to Rioja Alavesa Wine Country

Wine lovers can take a short 30-minute day trip to Rioja Alavesa, one of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions.

• Visit Laguardia – This is a charming medieval town known for it’s underground wine cellars, and breathtaking vineyard views.
• Tour Bodegas Ysios – Check out one of the most popular wineries in Laguardia, Bodega Ysios, a winery from the future primarily because of it’s unique architecture style. The winery was designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatravel, and it offers not only amazing Tempranillo wines, but awesome aesthetics.
• Taste Rioja Alavesa Wines – The region is know for it’s bold, fancier red wines, especially Tempranillo and Garnacha varieties, which are a must-try!

➡️ I recommend booking your wine tour to La Rioja from Vitoria in advance to secure your spot. It’s Spain’s most popular wine region and not too far from Vitoria.

7. Take a Day Trip to Bilbao

Just one hour from Vitoria-Gasteiz is Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country known for its modern architecture, world-class museums, and amazing food scene.

There are a few ways to get to Bilbao, but the easiest and least expensive is by bus.

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Bilbao from when I spent time there.

• Casco Viejo: The historic heart of Bilbao is home to colorful streets, shops, and cafes serving local Basque dessert goods, and busy bars full of locals both in and out of the bar having a drink.
• Guggenheim Museum: The most popular museum in the Basque region, the Guggenheim is a modern art museum with a few pieces outside worth checking out, from the “Puppy” to the “Maman.”

>> Read More: What To Do In Bilbao For First Timers

➡️ Book your bus ticket from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Bilbao

8. Experience Unique Local Traditions in Vitoria

Vitoria-Gasteiz has deep Basque roots, which makes it one of the best underrated Basque cities to visit. This also means that there are few cultural traditions you shouldn’t miss if you’re in town, and where you’ll probably get one of the most authentic Basque experiences.

• See Celedón at the Fiestas de la Blanca – Every August, a puppet named Celedón “flies” into the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, marking the start of the city’s biggest festival. You can expect everything from music to dancing and lots of food!
• Try Basque cider (Sagardoa) – Different from traditional cider, this drink is naturally fermented and poured from a height to aerate the flavors. I’ve seen the way locals pop this open and serve themselves and the rest at their table, and even that is just a spectacle to see!
• Go to a Basque pelota match – This historic, deeply rich, and fast-paced Basque sports game combines parts of tennis and squash and is played on frontón courts. It’s exciting and a great way to experience local culture!

9. Shop around at Mercado de Abastos

Looking to explore the rest of the food scene in Vitoria? Check out the Mercado de Abastos! This indoor market is perfect for exploring a bit of a local scene, local flavors, and authentic Basque products. Here are a few products to check out.

• Sample Idiazabal cheese – A smoky, aged Basque sheep’s milk cheese.
• Pick up some Basque cider – Now that you know about Basque cider, you must try some at the market, or pick some up to bring back home.

10. Step Inside the Palacio de Montehermoso

Explore the inside of a 16th century Renaissance palace that’s been converted into a cultural center and art space.

• Admire the historic architecture: The building features an impressive stone courtyard and intricate archways, amongst its grand architecture!
• See contemporary art exhibits: The palace often hosts temporary art exhibitions, which blend history and modern style.

11. Experience Traditional Basque Culture at the Armory Museum of Álava

Did you know the Basque Country is one of Europe’s oldest cultures? For a deep dive into the rich history and traditions of the Basque Country, plus some interesting collection of medieval armor, traditional weaponry, and historical artifacts used throughout the region’s past, this museum is a must-visit!

• Medieval Armor & Weapons: See swords, shields, and full suits of armor from the Middle Ages, including those used in key battles like the Battle of Vitoria (1813).
• Basque Military History: Learn about the military strategies and weapons used in the Basque Country over the centuries, from medieval warfare to more modern conflicts.
• Samurai Armor Collection: A surprising highlight of the museum, featuring authentic samurai armor, gifted to Vitoria-Gasteiz from Japan!

Where to stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz

If you’re planning a trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz and looking for a place to stay, I recommend checking out these top-rated hotels:

🏨 Hotel NC Canciller Ayala – A modern hotel with amazing city views, and close to all the top attractions.

🏨 Silken Ciudad de Vitoria – Great location, stylish design, and cozy rooms.

🏨 AC Hotel General Álava – Affordable, comfortable, and within walking distance from Old Town!

The Wrap-Up: 11 Unique Things to Do in Vitoria-Gasteiz for First-Time Visitors

Vitoria-Gasteiz is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. It offers a mix of history, nature, food, and local traditions.

Whether exploring its medieval Old Town, trying some Pintxos, or discovering Basque culture without too many crowds, this city delivers an unforgettable experience for first time visitors.

Which of these 11 things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments!

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