Visit Vitoria-Gasteiz: Spain’s Hidden Gem You Need to Visit

I love discovering places that are not instantly on tourists’ radars, especially in touristy destinations like Spain. That’s exactly what happened with Vitoria-Gasteiz, a charming city with a well-preserved medieval quarter, epic pintxos bars, outstanding museums and abundant green spaces that earned it the title of the Global Green City in 2019. I arrived with no expectations and left blown away by my experience.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital of the Basque Country, a region in northern Spain. While often overshadowed by the more famous cities, Vitoria-Gasteiz holds its own, especially when it comes to offerings and attractions for travellers looking for a more authentic and immersive experience. If that’s you, bookmark this post for your next trip.

Is Vitoria-Gasteiz worth visiting?

If you’re coming to Spain to indulge in culinary offerings, learn a bit of history and experience a new culture, Vitoria-Gateiz is the place for you. Compared to the most visited cities in Spain, it can be considered an off-the-beaten-path destination. But with so much to offer visitors, I don’t see that lasting for long.

So, what can you expect here? Vitoria-Gasteiz has loads of charm with great architecture, winding medieval streets and large squares ideal for socializing. It’s the perfect city break destination for culture lovers and urban explorers. From unique museums and Gothic churches to green spaces and pintxos, there is plenty to keep you won’t be bored.

A brief history of Vitoria-Gasteiz

If you love historic places, you’ll love Vitoria-Gasteiz. The city’s medieval origins date back to the late 12th century when it was founded by Sancho VI the Wise, the king of Navarre. He named this settlement Nueva Vitoria. Since there was already a village called Gasteiz next to it, the new settlement soon became known as Vitoria-Gasteiz. Almost two decades later, Castille´s King Alfonso VIII conquered the city, and it became part of his kingdom.

Vitoria-Gasteiz became a strategic point for connecting Castile to northern Europe, making it an essential trade and commercial hub. It was also one of the stops for the pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago trail. If you’re into Spanish history, you know that the kingdoms of Navarre and Castile were a big deal in the Middle Ages. They often fought each other over territories in the Iberian Peninsula. Vitoria-Gasteiz, like many other places, played a role in their disputes. For me, that just adds to its appeal.

Things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz

Whether you’re coming for a short city break or plan on making Vitoria-Gasteiz your base for exploring the Basque Country, you’ll discover a city full of attractions. Here are a few things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz that I recommend doing for your first visit.

Explore the Old Town

Vitoria-Gasteiz Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Spain, shaped like an almond. Stroll along the medieval streets and check out the remnants of the old city walls and Gothic churches as you get a glimpse of the past. Many streets here are named after traditional trades that once thrived here, like Cuchillería (Cutlers) and Zapatería (Shoemakers).

In this part of town, you can also admire medieval buildings and Renaissance palaces. Some notable ones include:

• Villa Suso Palace: Built in the 16th century, Villa Suso is a Renaissance-style palace with Gothic elements. It was built by Martín de Salinas, the envoy to Emperor Charles V. Don’t miss the detailed façade and check out the elegant interiors. Today, the building is a cultural and event space for exhibitions and conferences.

• Palace of Montehermoso: This palace dates back to the 16th century and combines Renaissance elegance with later Baroque modifications. Historically, it housed nobles and was a residence for Queen Isabella II during her visits. Now, it functions as the Montehermoso Cultural Centre, featuring art exhibitions, workshops and cultural events.

• Casa del Cordón: This 15th-century building features a carved rope motif (cordón) around its main entrance, giving it its name. It once hosted the famous Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. Today, it’s used for exhibitions and cultural events, offering a glimpse into the city’s noble past.

• Bendaña Palace: This stunning Renaissance palace from the 16th century is known for its mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. It now houses the Fournier Museum of Playing Cards, showcasing a fascinating collection of decks from around the world. You can learn about the local craftsmanship of card-making and check out the unique exhibits.

Fun fact: The Fournier card company remains one of the world’s most respected producers of high-quality playing cards, making cards for many Las Vegas casinos!

• Escoriaza-Esquivel Palace: Another 16th-century Renaissance palace that stands out for its intricate stone carvings and charming inner courtyard. It was once home to a prominent local family and reflects the grandeur of Vitoria-Gasteiz’s noble class. While it is not fully open to the public, it is a highlight of guided tours in the Old Town.

• Maturana-Verástegui Palace: An 18th-century Baroque-style palace was home to a prominent local family. Though it’s not open to the public, the palace’s striking façade makes it a noteworthy stop on a walking tour of the Old Town.

• Álava-Esquivel Palace: This elegant Neoclassical palace, built in the 19th century, symbolizes the later aristocratic era in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Its stately columns and balanced proportions make it architecturally significant. While privately owned and not open for visits, it remains an important landmark in the city.

• Doña Ochanda Tower: This 15th-century defensive tower is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Over time, it transitioned from a fortress to a noble residence. Now, it’s home to the Álava Museum of Natural Sciences. Here, you can explore the local geology, flora and fauna.

• House of the Marquis of Alameda: This 17th-century palace boasts a distinctive Baroque style and reflects the wealth and influence of the Marquis of Alameda. While it is not open to the public, its striking exterior and historical importance make it a fascinating stop for history buffs.

Tour the Gothic Santa María Cathedral

The tour of the Santa María Cathedral was hands down one of the highlights of my visit. Constructed in the 13th century, the cathedral is an exquisite example of Gothic style. The soaring pointed arches, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults and towering columns are breathtaking. You don’t have to love Gothic architecture to appreciate the interior of this church.

The cathedral is currently undergoing structural restoration, which offers a unique glimpse into its past. You have to book a tour to visit, and I totally recommend doing so. The tour takes you below the cathedral, where you can see the original foundations, archaeological excavations and modern efforts to stabilize the cathedral.

If that isn’t cool enough, you can also climb to the top of the cathedral tower. You get to see the Old Town and area below you from here. My favourite part was walking along the covered passage at the top of the cathedral overlooking the entire interior. It’s not every day you get to experience that. Check out the official site for detailed info and how to book your tour.

Check out local museums

I love any city that offers a wide range of museums, and Victoria-Gasteiz doesn’t disappoint. In addition to those already mentioned, here are some great museums to explore on your trip.

• Artium Museum: This is a must-see museum for contemporary art lovers. Here, you’ll find avant-garde and conceptual artworks by renowned Basque, Spanish and international artists.

• Álava Fine Arts Museum: Housed in a beautiful early 20th-century mansion, the museum offers a stunning collection of Basque and Spanish art from the 14th to the 20th centuries. Highlights include paintings by Zuloaga and Ribera and exquisite sculptures.

• Museum of Sacred Arta: Located in the Augustinian Monastery, the museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, sculptures and paintings from churches across the province of Álava. Here, you can admire intricate chalices, tapestries and Gothic altarpieces while learning about the spiritual and artistic traditions of the region.

• Archaeological Museum of Álava: This museum features artifacts from ancient settlements, Roman times, and the medieval period. Interactive exhibits and detailed reconstructions make it an engaging destination for history enthusiasts.

• Natural History Museum of Álava: Dedicated to the natural sciences, this museum is perfect for families and nature lovers. Here, you can learn about the flora, fauna, and geology of the Basque region, with highlights like fossil displays and dioramas of local ecosystems.

Take a break at one of the plazas or squares

One of my favourite things to do in historical towns is having a drink on a patio. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a break from exploring and immersing yourself in the local vibe. I recommend making time for relaxation on your things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz itinerary. Here are some plazas and squares in Vitoria-Gasteiz where you can grab a drink while people-watching.

• Plaza de la Virgen Blanca: The heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz, Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, dates back to the 17th century and has long been the city’s central gathering place. Surrounded by elegant buildings with traditional balconies, the square features a striking monument commemorating the 1813 Battle of Vitoria, a pivotal moment in the Napoleonic Wars. It’s the site of major events, including the opening of the La Blanca Festival, when Celedón, a symbolic figure, “descends” to the square from the San Miguel Church bell tower.

• Plaza del Machete: Located near the old city walls, Plaza del Machete was where local officials swore loyalty to the city with a ceremonial machete. A statue depicting the machete remains as a nod to this tradition. The square’s intimate atmosphere and views of surrounding historical structures make it a charming place to visit while exploring the Old Town.

• Plaza de España (or Plaza Nueva): Designed in the 18th century, this Neoclassical square was a modern addition to the city’s layout and an administrative hub. Here, you’ll find the City Hall and various restaurants and shops. Plaza de España connects the historic Casco Viejo with newer parts of the city. It is a perfect spot for a drink or meal under its covered walkways.

• Plaza del Conde de Peñaflorida: This picturesque square is named after the Enlightenment figure Count of Peñaflorida, a notable Basque intellectual. Its location within the Old Town makes it a peaceful stop for visitors exploring the nearby palaces and museums. The square often features public art installations or small-scale cultural events.

• Plaza de los Fueros: A modern addition to the city, Plaza de los Fueros was designed in 1979 by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida and architect Luis Peña Ganchegui. The square celebrates Basque identity with a unique combination of abstract sculptures, geometric shapes, and a small amphitheatre for public gatherings.

• Plaza de Santa Bárbara: Located near Plaza de España, Plaza de Santa Bárbara is a lively square with a mix of modern conveniences and traditional charm. It hosts an outdoor market and events throughout the year, making it a great place to experience local culture. It’s also surrounded by shops, cafés, and seating areas for a quick break during your city tour.

Enjoy the parks and green spaces of Vitoria-Gasteiz

One of the most unexpected things about Vitoria-Gasteiz attractions was its network of parks and green spaces. The city has been recognized as a European Green Capital and lives up to its moniker. The city is surrounded by a green belt that offers bike paths and walkways for residents to enjoy. I saw quite a few people enjoying the green space while I was there.

But you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy nature. The Florida Park in the city centre offers a lush escape with landscaped gardens, winding paths and ornamental fountains. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a magical setting with a life-sized nativity scene. You can also enjoy the Armentia Forest near the Basilica of San Prudencio, which is ideal for hiking and cycling. The Parque del Prado is another green space perfect for outdoor sports, picnics, or leisurely walks.

Eat your way through Vitoria-Gasteiz

No trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz is complete without indulging in pintxos, the Basque version of tapas. I first fell in love with them in San Sebastian and was happy to indulge in them in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The Old Town has streets lined with pintxo bars where you can try local favourites, such as txangurro (spider crab) or gilda (an olive, anchovy, and pepper skewer).

Vitoria-Gasteiz is steeped in Basque culinary traditions, with many dishes reflecting the region’s agricultural and coastal influences. Some staples to look out for include:

• Bacalao al pil-pil: Salt cod cooked in a garlic and olive oil sauce.
• Txuletón: A massive Basque-style ribeye steak cooked to perfection.
• Porrusalda: A hearty leek and potato stew, perfect for cooler days.

If you love deserts, try the Basque cheesecake, pastel vasco (a creamy custard-filled pastry), trufas de chocolate (chocolate truffles), or the goxua, a layered dessert of sponge cake, cream and caramel. You’ll also find a great selection of wines from the nearby Rioja Alavesa wine region.  Out of all the things to do in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the culinary offerings will leave you dreaming of coming back before you even leave.

Practical tips for visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz

Getting to Vitoria-Gasteiz is pretty easy, which is even more of a reason why you should visit. Here are some helpful tips to help you plan your visit:

Best time to visit

• Spring (April to June): Enjoy mild weather and blooming parks, perfect for outdoor exploration.
• Late Summer (August): Visit during the La Blanca Festival for a lively cultural experience.
• Autumn (September to October): Cooler weather and the grape harvest season in nearby Rioja Alavesa make this an ideal time for wine enthusiasts.

Getting here:

• By air: The closest airport is Bilbao Airport, about an hour’s drive away, with frequent flights from major cities.
• By train: Vitoria-Gasteiz has excellent rail connections, including high-speed trains from Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao.
• By car: The city is well connected via the A-1 motorway, making it an easy drive from San Sebastián, Bilbao, or Logroño.

NOTE: I visited the Basque Country as part of a press trip hosted by Vist Escaudi in collaboration with Tbex. As always, all opinions are my own.

Final thoughts on visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz

On my trip to the Basque Country, I discovered a different type of Spain that I really enjoyed. Unlike other cities suffering from overtourism, Vitoria-Gasteiz is like a breath of fresh air. It’s smaller and less tourist-heavy, which allows you to enjoy it at a leisurely pace, free from the usual hustle.

The friendly locals, charming boutiques and relaxed atmosphere make it a welcoming destination. The blend of culture, nature and culinary offerings makes it an exciting place to explore and indulge all your senses. So, if you plan on visiting Sapin and are looking for a unique experience, visit Vitoria-Gasteiz. I think you’ll love it.