Bienvenidos!
Welcome to Northern Spain!
Right now I am in the Basque Country,
or as the locals call it, País Vasco.
Come with me I am going to show you
the top 5 things to do
in this awesome region of Spain.
#1 Bilbao
This is the largest city in the region
and is a great place to spend at least two days exploring.
Start off at the super abstract Guggenheim Museum,
then walk along the river to Casco Viejo
or the historic center,
and finish at the Ribera market
to see what ingredients the locals like to work with.
Mind as well stop at the market restaurant
for what is undeniably the freshest food in the city.
#2 San Sebastian
Just 12 miles from the French border,
this popular summer destination
is known for having one of the best in-city beaches
in all of Europe.
There are some really great viewpoints worth checking out,
as well a small historic town great for taking a stroll.
Stop and visit the Miramar Palace,
the Spanish royal family’s vacation residence,
since the end of the 19th century.
Did I mention, this place even has charm,
in less than ideal weather conditions.
#3 Food
Or gastronomy for the fancy folks.
This place has something for nearly every type of foodie.
Pintxos are epic here, and they come in all shapes and sizes.
Is a pintxo, a tapa?
For a first timer I would say “kind of”,
but to find out the difference,
be sure to chat up a local to get their opinion.
So close your eyes and experience the Basque country
with your mouth, too…You won’t be disappointed.
#4 Xtakoli & Wine
The Basque people love their grape juice!
Xtakoli is a slightly sparkling dry young white wine
with high acidity and low alcohol content.
It’s the local’s choice when eating pintxos
and has been steadily gaining popularity.
However,
there are many wineries specializing in other varietals.
If you are interested in learning more about wine making
in the region be sure to visit some of the wineries
and do a tour and a tasting
or if you are like me
do several tastings and bring some friends.
#5 Small Towns
There are many great towns
to visit both along the coast and inland.
This is where you will witness the real charm
of the Basque people.
My favorites include Gaztelugatxe, La Guardia,
Hondarribia, Pasai Donibane and Zumaia.
Just to name a few.
Well unfortunately this is the end of the video.
I hope you like my list
of the best things in the Basque Country.
If you think that I left anything out,
or I did not include your favorite.
Please put it down in the comment box below,
and I will be sure to visit it on my next trip
to this awesome region.
So, goodbye...hasta luego and agur.