Hondarribia is a Medieval city in Basque country that boasts stunning coastal scenery, historic sites, and delectable cuisine – the perfect place for an authentic Basque experience! Our Travel Guide for Hondarribia, Spain is a comprehensive itinerary including options for lodging, dinning, and activities – so you can plan your own picture-perfect getaway to this magical town!

My Romantic Trip to Hondarribia Spain

For our ten-year anniversary, my husband and I decided to go on trip to the Basque region of Spain. I needed to be in San Sebastian for a conference later that week so we decided to stay in a place outside San Sebastian. All the locals said Hondarribia was the place to go for an authentic local experience of Basque country and boy where they right!

We visited Hondarribia on the last day before we had to go to the conference, it was clear skies and almost 80 degrees outside – perfect late May weather for touring this coastal town.

We started out in the Old Town and walked along the pedestrian only lane lined with shops and local pintxos places. This Basque city has lovely colorful shops and homes. We walked up to the castle at the St. Maria gate which had an elegant stone fountain. The castle area was like a large mound with a mini city in it. There were more shops, hotels, residences, and a large Medieval cathedral, the view from the top was unbelievable! You can look out from the cathedral and see all the red tile roofs and stone streets; beyond that you can see the blue bay out to the Atlantic and to the right it’s all green lush mountains speckled with rock faces. Gorgeous!

For lunch we went to a local restaurant called Taberna & Bistro la Perla which only had the option of the chef’s menu with or without wine pairings. We got two chef menus with wine and it was course after course of fresh seafood and txakoli red and white wine. The main was tuna for my husband and cod for me both perfectly flakey and lightly seasoned to perfection. For dessert I got the local favorite – rice pudding. It tasted like it had some kind of peach liqueur in it, definitely made me like rice pudding.

After lunch the city was in siesta time which is when all the shops and restaurants are closed from 2pm till 5pm.

My husband and I took a ferry from the little Hondarribia port across to the French city of Hendaye and walked along their crescent rock faced beach for a while and came back over to the (nicer) Spanish side.

For my top picks for tours and experiences that should not be missed in Basque Country, head to my Basque Viatour shop!

Restaurants don’t open for dinner until 8pm so we enjoyed some local pastry shops, then got a cab to take us up to Hermitage of Guadalupe where there was an amazing 180 degree view of the city and mountains and ocean and a medieval chapel.

We then drove along the scenic mountain ridge between Hondarribia and San Juan and walked the stone streets of San Juan, a scenic fishing village built into the side of a rock face!

During this trip we also visited Madrid and San Sebastian which were both also beautiful, but I have to say, my heart stayed in Hondarribia.

Not very many people spoke English so google translator was our friend, but you felt like you were getting a real experience and most of the people actually lived there.

I couldn’t recommend visiting this charming medieval town enough!

Where to Stay in Hondarribia

Luxury

• Parador de Hondarribia – Located in a 10th-century castle, this parador offers a unique experience with its stunning architecture, rich history, and panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. The hotel combines historical charm with modern luxury, providing beautifully decorated rooms, a lovely courtyard, and exceptional service.
• Hotel Villa Magalean & Spa – This boutique hotel offers personalized service, elegant rooms, and a serene atmosphere, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent stay. Featuring a top-notch spa with various treatments, it’s the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after exploring the town.
• Hotel Rio Bidasoa – With stylish, contemporary rooms and suites, this hotel provides a luxurious and comfortable environment for its guests. The hotel boasts lush gardens and a refreshing outdoor pool, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of Hondarribia.

Middle of the Road

• Hotel Obispo – Housed in a beautifully restored 14th-century building, the hotel offers a unique blend of historical architecture and modern comforts. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, it provides easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and the scenic port.
• Hotel Jauregui – This modern hotel offers well-appointed rooms with all necessary amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for travelers. Located near the marina and beach, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the coastal beauty of Hondarribia.
• Hotel Sercotel Jauregui – Offering a range of amenities, including a popular on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, this hotel provides great value for money. Its central location makes it easy to explore the town’s historical sites, shopping areas, and vibrant nightlife.

Budget Stays

• Hotel Aitana – This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with all the basic amenities needed for a pleasant stay. Situated near the bus station and a short walk from the Old Town, it provides easy access to Hondarribia’s main attractions and transportation.
• Bista Eder Hostel – This hostel offers a welcoming, homely environment with comfortable dormitory and private room options, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Located on a hillside, it offers stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, adding a unique charm to your stay.
• Pensión Txoko Goxoa – This pension provides well-maintained rooms at an affordable price, ensuring excellent value for budget travelers. Positioned in the heart of Hondarribia, it’s within walking distance to the beach, historic sites, and numerous dining options.

Where to Eat in Hondarribia

Breakfast

• Panaderia Ogi-Berri – Panadería Ogi-Berri is a beloved bakery in Hondarribia, known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and traditional Basque treats.
• Kai Zaharra – Kai Zaharra offers a delightful dining experience with its fresh seafood dishes and stunning views of the marina and bay.
• Gaxen – Gaxen is renowned for its innovative Basque cuisine, combining local ingredients with modern culinary techniques in a cozy, intimate setting.

Lunch

• Taberna & Bistro La Perla – Taberna & Bistro La Perla is known for its relaxed atmosphere and its unbelievable catch of the day chef’s menu. The inside of the place is super funky with reviews written all over the walls.
• Enbata – Enbata serves a variety of fresh seafood and Basque dishes in a cozy and welcoming environment, making it a favorite among locals.
• Itxaropena – Itxaropena is a charming restaurant offering a diverse menu of regional specialties and an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.

Dinner

• Vinoteka Ardoka – Vinoteka Ardoka combines an extensive wine selection with delectable pintxos and tapas, creating a perfect spot for wine enthusiasts.
• Branka Taberna – Branka Taberna is popular for its hearty Basque meals and friendly service, providing a genuine local dining experience.
• Restaurant Lekuona – Restaurant Lekuona offers a refined dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative Basque cuisine.

What to Eat in Basque country:

The Basque region of Spain has its own identity, including Europe’s oldest surviving indigenous language, Euskera, – and Basque food, while similar to Spain’s (with some overlap) – is entirely unique!

Basque Spain has it’s own rich culture and culinary traditions – and there are a few dishes you simply MUST try when visiting Basque country!

• Pintxos: Small, artfully crafted snacks, often served on bread, showcasing a wide variety of local ingredients and flavors.
• Txuleta: A large, succulent ribeye steak, charred over an open flame, known for its tenderness and deep, smoky flavor.
• Bacalao al Pil Pil: Salted cod cooked slowly in olive oil, garlic, and chili, resulting in a silky, flavorful sauce.
• Kokotxas: Delicate fish cheeks, typically from hake or cod, served in a creamy green sauce or pil pil style.
• Chipirones en su Tinta: Baby squid simmered in their ink, creating a rich, savory dish with a deep, dark sauce.
• Marmitako: A hearty tuna and potato stew with peppers and tomatoes, reflecting the region’s maritime tradition.
• Txangurro a la Donostiarra: Spider crab mixed with onions and tomatoes, served with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, often in the shell.
• Pastel Vasco (Gateau Basque): A traditional Basque cake with a buttery crust, filled with pastry cream or cherry jam.
• Talo con Chistorra: Corn flatbread paired with spicy chistorra sausage, offering a smoky, savory taste.
• Anchoas del Cantábrico: High-quality Cantabrian anchovies, known for their rich, salty flavor, often served simply with bread and olive oil.
• Idiazabal Cheese: A smoked sheep’s milk cheese with a nutty flavor, often enjoyed with quince paste.
• Gilda: A classic pintxo combining green olives, anchovies, and pickled peppers, offering a burst of savory and tangy flavors.
• Porrusalda: A comforting leek and potato soup, sometimes enriched with cod or other fish for added depth.
• Zurrukutuna: A hearty soup made with cod, garlic, and paprika, thickened with bread for a rustic texture.
• Txistorra a la Sidra: Spicy Basque sausage cooked in cider, blending smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors.

What to do in Hondarribia

• Historic Old Town Walking Tour – This guided tour takes you through the charming cobblestone streets of Hondarribia’s Old Town, exploring historical sites such as the Plaza de Armas, the Castle of Charles V, and the beautiful Basque architecture. Learn about the town’s rich history, legends, and traditions from knowledgeable local guides, enhancing your appreciation of its cultural heritage.
• Hondarribia Pintxos Tour – Discover the best pintxos bars in Hondarribia, tasting a variety of delicious Basque tapas paired with local wines and ciders. Gain insights into the Basque culinary traditions and the art of pintxos-making from expert guides, making it a must-do for food enthusiasts.
• Boat Tour to Pasajes San Juan – Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the stunning Basque coastline, taking in the picturesque views of the cliffs, beaches, and sea. Visit the charming fishing village of Pasajes San Juan, known for its preserved medieval architecture and connections to famous explorer Victor Hugo.
• Wine and Cider Tasting Tour – Explore the nearby vineyards and cider houses, sampling a range of local wines and ciders while learning about the production process from the makers. Experience the traditional Basque hospitality and enjoy pairing the beverages with regional delicacies in a beautiful countryside setting.
• Hiking Tour in Jaizkibel Mountain – Hike through the scenic trails of Jaizkibel Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay, lush forests, and unique rock formations. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing an active way to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Hondarribia.

What to see in Hondarribia

• St. Maria Gate – The St. Maria Gate is a historic entrance to Hondarribia’s Old Town, featuring impressive stone architecture and serving as a gateway to the town’s rich cultural heritage.
• Casco Historico – Casco Histórico, or the Old Town, is a beautifully preserved area of Hondarribia characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Basque houses, and significant historical landmarks.
• Gipuzkoa Enparantza – Gipuzkoa Enparantza is a lively town square in Hondarribia, surrounded by charming cafes and shops, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Hermitage of Guadalupe – Amazing view and a beautiful catholic chapel that is a place of pilgrimage and religious festivals.

More Travel Tips and Spain Inspired Recipes

The cuisine in Hondarribia and all-over Basque country was some of the best I have ever had. It is very seafood heavy and lots of simple of fresh combinations. Spain in known for their small plates – pintxos, you can have a taste of Spain at home by making my recipes inspired by this trip, try pan con tomate and pintxos de txampis.

Check out these travel guides and recipes below:

Travel Guide Bilbao

Travel Guide San Sebastian

Visit Basque Country

Gildas Pintxos

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