Travel and restaurant tips: San Sebastian and Bilbao

San Sebastian and Bilbao are two beautiful cities in the Basque Country region of Spain. Here are some travel tips for both cities:

San Sebastian:

1. Visit La Concha Beach: One of the most famous beaches in Spain, La Concha is truly a gem in San Sebastian. Relax on the sand or take a swim in the crystal clear water.

2. Explore the old town: The old town of San Sebastian, also known as Parte Vieja, is a lively area with narrow streets, shops, and restaurants. Explore the various squares and churches in the area.

3. Try pintxos: Pintxos are small dishes served in bars and restaurants in San Sebastian. It is an important part of the local cuisine and a great way to taste local dishes and get a feel for the culture.

4. Take a walk on Urgull Mountain: Urgull Mountain is located in the middle of the city and offers a great view of San Sebastian and the sea. It is also a great opportunity to get some exercise and fresh air.

Bilbao:

Bilbao - Spain

1. Visit the Guggenheim Museum: This is without a doubt one of the biggest attractions in Bilbao. The museum is known for its modern architecture and its exhibitions of modern art. It really is an experience to visit the museum.

2. Explore the old town: The old town of Bilbao, also known as Casco Viejo, is a beautiful and lively part of the city with narrow streets, shops, and restaurants. Explore the various squares and churches in the area.

3. Try pintxos: Pintxos are small dishes served in bars and restaurants in Bilbao. It is an important part of the local cuisine and a great way to taste local dishes and get a feel for the culture.

4. Visit the San Mames Stadium: If you are a football fan, you should not miss the San Mames Stadium. It is the home ground of Athletic Club Bilbao and has a capacity of over 50,000 spectators.

5. Take a walk along the Nervion River: The Nervion River runs through Bilbao and provides a great opportunity to explore the city from a different angle. It is also possible to take a boat trip on the river.

6. Visit Euskal Museoa: Euskal Museoa is a museum dedicated to Basque culture and history. It is a great place to learn more about the region and its traditions.

7. Take a day trip to San Sebastian: San Sebastian is just a short drive or train ride away from Bilbao and is known for its beautiful beach and great food. It's a great day trip from Bilbao.

These travel tips will give you a good start in exploring both San Sebastian and Bilbao. Have a great trip!

San Sebastian and Bilbao are known for their good cuisine and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Here are some restaurant tips for both cities:

San Sebastian:

1. Arzak: This is one of the most famous restaurants in San Sebastian, with three Michelin stars. Arzak is known for its innovative cuisine and focus on Basque cuisine.

2. Bar Nestor: This is a popular restaurant in the old town of San Sebastian, known for its delicious steak and tortilla. There is no menu, so you only get what is on offer that day.

3. La Cuchara de San Telmo: This small tapas bar is located in the old town and offers a variety of pintxos and small dishes. Try their famous foie gras or ox neck.

4. Gandarias: Gandarias is another popular tapas bar in San Sebastian, with a large selection of pintxos. Try their Basque omelet or grilled halibut.

Bilbao:

1. Azurmendi: Azurmendi is one of the most famous restaurants in Bilbao, with three Michelin stars. This restaurant focuses on organic and sustainable food.

2. Mina: Mina is another restaurant in Bilbao that has been awarded three Michelin stars. The restaurant has a modern approach to Basque cuisine and serves great dishes.

3. Etxanobe: Etxanobe is an elegant restaurant in Bilbao that offers a modern interpretation of Basque cuisine. Try their crayfish or their trout from the river Nervion.

4. La Vina del Ensanche: This is a great tapas bar in Bilbao with a wide selection of pintxos and other small dishes. Try their grilled octopus or their Basque chorizo.

5. Elkano: Elkano is a little outside Bilbao, but is well worth the trip. The restaurant is known for its fresh fish, especially its grilled turbot.