What to See in Vitoria-Gasteiz: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of Álava and the Basque Country, combines its medieval roots with a strong focus on sustainability. The old town still has its original almond-shaped layout, created when King Sancho VI "The Wise" founded the city more than 800 years ago. The Gothic Cathedral of Santa María, currently being restored through the "Open for Works" program that won the Europa Nostra 2000 award and inspired Ken Follett's novels, stands at the top of the old quarter. The cobbled streets are named after medieval trades like Herrería (ironworkers), Zapatería (shoemakers), and Cuchillería (knifemakers). Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is the heart of the city, featuring the Battle of Vitoria monument and San Miguel Church, which holds the shrine of the city's patron Virgin. Vitoria-Gasteiz was named European Green Capital in 2012 and Global Green City in 2019, and offers 46 square meters of green space per person, including a 30 km Green Ring of parks. The city’s pintxos bars are famous, with places like El Toloño serving the best Gilda and Sagartoki winning Best Pintxos Bar of Spain twice. Whether you’re climbing the cathedral scaffolding to see restoration work, cycling through the Green Ring, sampling pintxos in the old town, or visiting Renaissance palaces, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a great place to experience Basque culture, environmental progress, and excellent food.
The Cathedral of Santa María crowns Vitoria-Gasteiz's medieval hill as the old quarter's architectural jewel. Built between 1200 and the 19th century in Gothic style with a Latin cross plan, construction began under King Alfonso VIII. The bell tower rose between the 16th and 18th centuries. The central doorway depicts the Virgin Mary's life with a 15th-century tympanum showing her with Christ.
The cathedral stands out because of its "Open for Works" (Abierto por Obras) restoration program. Since the late 1990s, it has been carefully restored and studied by archaeologists, earning the Premio Europa Nostra 2000 for its innovative approach. Instead of closing to visitors, the cathedral offers guided tours through the active construction site, giving people a unique look at restoration methods, archaeological finds, and hidden architectural details.
On the tour, you can climb spiral staircases to the first battlement, walk along the upper gallery, go up to outdoor viewing platforms, and visit a chapel where laser technology shows layers of old paintings. The restoration has created local jobs and helps visitors learn about the cathedral’s history, Gothic architecture, and conservation.
British author Ken Follett visited the cathedral while researching medieval construction, and the restoration inspired elements of his novels "The Pillars of the Earth" and "World Without End". A statue of Follett now stands near the cathedral.
Practical Info: Guided tours only (book at 945-255-135 or online); admission €11-12; tours in Spanish, English, Basque; duration 1.5 hours; wear comfortable shoes; tours 10am-2pm and 4pm-7pm; allow 2 hours total.
Vitoria-Gasteiz's Old Quarter has preserved its distinctive almond-shaped medieval layout for over 8 centuries since King Sancho VI founded the city in 1181. This original urban plan remains intact, creating a charming medieval atmosphere with narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings. The quarter has received three Europa Nostra awards in support of rehabilitation.
Streets bear names recalling artisan trades: Calle Correría (leatherworking), Herrería (ironworking), Zapatería (shoemaking), Cuchillería (knife-making), Pintorería (painting). These ancient lanes host the city's oldest and most singular buildings.
Behind the cathedral stands El Portalón, a beautiful 15th-century medieval brick inn, and the Torre de Hurtado de Anda. Plaza de la Burullería showcases 15th- and 16th-century buildings. The Torre de Doña Otxanda represents another medieval defensive structure.
The old town features magnificent Renaissance palaces: Palacio de Escoriaza-Esquivel and Palacio de Montehermoso (now Montehermoso Cultural Center). The Casa del Cordón displays a beautiful facade. The Bendaña Palace houses the BIBAT Playing Card Museum. Calle Herrería concentrates several historic palaces.
The medieval skyline is defined by the towers of San Miguel, San Vicente, and San Pedro churches, as well as Santa María Cathedral.
Practical Info: Compact and walkable; cobbled streets can be slippery when wet; steep hills in places; free to wander; allow 2-3 hours; mornings are less crowded; many buildings are viewable from the exterior.
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca serves as Vitoria-Gasteiz's most emblematic space and main gathering point. This historic plaza hosts the bajada del Celedón (Celedón's descent), marking the start of the Virgen Blanca festival on August 4. The character Celedón descends on a rope from San Miguel Church's bell tower across the plaza—one of Spain's most spectacular festival openings.
The plaza's northern side features the majestic Church of San Miguel, whose facade features a niche housing the Virgen Blanca, the city's patron saint. From the church balcony next to the Celedón statue, visitors enjoy privileged views of the plaza.
The plaza's center features the imposing Monument to the Battle of Vitoria, commemorating the pivotal 1813 victory over Napoleon's forces. South of the plaza, a green, sculptural rendering of the city's name, created from bushes, adds contemporary flair.
The plaza is surrounded by white-balconied residential buildings, creating an enclosed, intimate atmosphere. The famous La Virgen Blanca restaurant occupies one side, offering excellent pintxos.
Practical Info: Central location (meeting point for tours); free access 24/7; café terraces around perimeter; Virgen Blanca Festival August 4-9 (extremely crowded for Celedón descent); allow 30-45 minutes.
Vitoria-Gasteiz was named European Green Capital in 2012 and Global Green City in 2019 for its impressive environmental efforts. The city has 46 square meters of green space per person, one of the highest in Europe, and 130,000 trees along its streets. Around 90% of residents live within 300 meters of basic services and 500 meters of green areas.
The highlight is the 30 km Green Ring (Anillo Verde), a network of parks that circles the city. The Green Ring helps manage the city’s outskirts, supports biodiversity, provides ample space for outdoor activities, serves as an educational resource, and encourages people to take part in preserving local heritage.
Walking and cycling paths connect the parks in the Green Ring, so everyone is just a few minutes from green space. This network of parks creates a lush, welcoming environment teeming with plants and wildlife.
Vitoria is committed to sustainability, with 45% of waste collected separately, water use kept below 100 liters per person each day, and a goal to cut CO2 emissions per person by 33% by 2020. The city has also installed solar panels and supports electric vehicles. Future development will focus on reusing existing land instead of building on new areas.
Practical Info: Green Ring accessible by bike or walking; multiple entry points; free access; maps at tourism office; allow half-day for section exploration; bike paths well-marked; bird-watching opportunities; family-friendly; best spring-autumn.
Vitoria-Gasteiz's pintxos scene rivals San Sebastián, offering world-class Basque miniature cuisine. The old town's cobbled streets are lined with bars serving creative specialties. Pintxos-hopping (ir de pintxos) is a beloved local tradition—visiting multiple bars, sampling one or two pintxos at each with txakoli (Basque wine), zurrito (beer), or vermouth.
El Toloño (Calle San Francisco, 3) is legendary as the birthplace of the Gilda—a cocktail stick with chili pepper, olive, and anchovy that's become iconic across Spain. "It's about embracing simplicity and honoring culinary traditions from our grandparents. We infuse sophistication and warmth, rooted in traditional cooking," explains owner Josu. El Toloño's mushroom risotto is an institution.
La Virgen Blanca (Plaza Virgen Blanca, 2) serves famous pintxos in the plaza of the same name. Sagartoki, twice awarded Best Pintxos Bar of Spain, creates miniature creations impeccably arranged in glass cases. Highlights include Silencio (toast with rocket, spring onion, strawberry, tomato, scallop, octopus, smoked hake) and La Vieira del Peregrino (scallop confited at low temperature with Albariño reduction, seaweed vinaigrette, mussel foam on dry ice). The restaurant operates non-stop with a continuous kitchen.
PerretxiCo (Calle San Antonio, 3) creates a puzzle where traditional ingredients fit perfectly with modern touches. Kotarro offers outstanding pintxos and authentic Basque cuisine. Calle Dato hosts unmissable bars like Saburdi, known for cod ajoarriero.
Practical Info: Old town concentrates pintxos bars; Plaza de la Virgen Blanca and Calle Cuchillería are the primary zones; expect €2.50-4.50 per pintxo, drinks €2-3; peak hours 8-10pm; traditional route visits 3-5 bars; Thursday-Saturday busiest; Sunday many closed; allow 2-3 hours.
Los Arquillos represents Vitoria's architectural solution connecting the medieval old town atop the hill with the 19th-century expansion below. This neoclassical covered arcade and stairway, built 1787-1802, creates a monumental transition between levels. The structure features elegant arches and provides a sheltered passage with scenic views.
Plaza de España showcases 19th-century architecture and civic planning. The expansion incorporated wide boulevards, regular street grids, and elegant buildings, contrasting with the old quarter's medieval irregularity. This careful urban development laid the groundwork for Vitoria's modern reputation as a planned, livable city.
Practical Info: Los Arquillos free access; connects Old Town with the lower city; allows 15-20 minutes; good photo opportunities; accessible route between elevations.
Vitoria cuisine embraces Basque traditions, emphasizing quality ingredients. Beyond pintxos, traditional dishes include txuleta (grilled beef chop), marmitako (tuna and potato stew), bacalao al pil-pil (cod in olive oil emulsion), kokotxas (hake cheeks in green sauce), and pochas con chorizo (white beans with chorizo).
Local txakoli (slightly sparkling Basque white wine) from nearby Álava vineyards pairs perfectly with pintxos. The region also produces excellent Rioja Alavesa red wines. Patxaran (sloe berry liqueur) serves as a traditional digestif.
Expect pintxos €2.50-4.50, mains €15-25, menú del día €15-20, txakoli/wine €2.50-3.50 glass. Prime zones include Calle Cuchillería, Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, and the old town streets. Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm.
Free Walking Tour of Vitoria City: Led by an art historian, archivist, and local expert. Covers Cathedral María Inmaculada, Plaza Virgen Blanca, Santa María Cathedral, Plaza del Machete, San Miguel Church, Montehermoso Cultural Center, Fournier Playing Card Museum, Casa del Cordón, Palacio Escoriaza-Esquivel, El Portalón, Hurtado de Anda Tower, Burullería Market, Palace of Villa-Suso. Meeting: New Cathedral main door. No monuments entered, but keys provided for later visits. Minimum 2 people.
Free Tour in Vitoria-Gasteiz: Duration: 1h 45min | Spanish | Provided by Arturo Martinez (3rd Best Spanish-Language Tour Guide 2021-2022). Discover the city's origins, its historic center's expansion, and its evolution to European Green Capital 2012 and World Green Capital 2019. Covers Plaza Virgen Blanca, Plaza España, Palace of Villa-Suso, Plaza del Machete, El Nevero, Montehermoso Palace, Burullería Square, Doña Otxanda Tower, and Herrería Street palaces. Includes anecdotes and gastronomic recommendations. Meeting: Monument to the Battle of Vitoria, Plaza Virgen Blanca. Guide arrives 15 minutes early with a black GUIARTU logo t-shirt. Minimum 4 people. Award-winning.
Free Tour Vitoria: New Perspective: Alternative perspective on city history and culture. Spanish language.
Explore more free tours in Vitoria.
Getting There: Vitoria-Gasteiz lies 65 km south of Bilbao, 100 km west of San Sebastián. Renfe trains to Bilbao (45min), Madrid (4h). Los buses sirven a San Sebastián, Bilbao y Pamplona. Nearest airport: Vitoria (9 km, limited flights); better via Bilbao Airport (65 km).
Getting Around: Compact center walkable; excellent tram system; extensive city buses; bike-sharing program; most sights within a 20-minute walk.
Accommodation: Stay in old town or center; options from budget hostels (€20-30/night) to mid-range hotels (€65-95/night); book ahead for Virgen Blanca Festival (August 4-9).
Language: Spanish and Basque official; good English at tourist sites; bilingual signage.
Safety: Very safe city; normal precautions; cobblestones are slippery when wet.
Visit Duration: 2 days covers main sights (cathedral, old town, pintxos); 3 days allows Green Ring exploration; combine with Rioja Alavesa wine region (30-45 min) or San Sebastián (1h 15min).
Festivals: Virgen Blanca Festival (August 4-9, Celedón descent August 4); Jazz Festival (July); Medieval Market (September).
Vitoria-Gasteiz has an oceanic climate with continental influence. Spring (March-May) sees temperatures rise from 7-15°C (45-59°F) to 11-21°C (52-70°F), pleasant for sightseeing. Summer (June-August) brings warm 14-26°C (57-79°F), occasionally reaching 30°C+ (86°F+). Autumn (September-November) offers mild 13-24°C (55-75°F) in September, cooling to 6-13°C (43-55°F) in November. Winter (December-February) is cold, with temperatures 2-10°C (36-50°F) and frost common.
Best visiting periods: May-June for 16-23°C (61-73°F) and blooming parks; September for warm weather and fewer crowds; August for Virgen Blanca Festival (hot and crowded); avoid December-January, the coldest period.
The hilltop site has been occupied since ancient times, with evidence of a Basque village called Gasteiz. King Sancho VI "The Wise" of Navarre founded the Villa de Victoria in 1181, creating the almond-shaped medieval layout that survives to this day.
Castile conquered Vitoria in 1200. Under Castilian rule, the city prospered as a commercial center. The 13th-14th centuries saw the construction and expansion of cathedrals beyond their original walls. The Renaissance saw the construction of palaces by wealthy families.
The 1813 Battle of Vitoria saw the Duke of Wellington defeat Napoleon's forces, and the battle is commemorated by Plaza de la Virgen Blanca's monument. The 19th century brought planned urban expansion, with neoclassical architecture such as Los Arquillos.
The 20th century established Vitoria-Gasteiz as the capital of the Basque Country (1980). Recent decades have focused on environmental sustainability, earning European Green Capital 2012 and Global Green City 2019. The cathedral restoration's "Open for Works" program won the Europa Nostra 2000 award. Today, Vitoria balances medieval heritage with environmental leadership.
What is Vitoria-Gasteiz famous for?
European Green Capital 2012, medieval almond-shaped old town, Cathedral Santa María "Open for Works" restoration, world-class Basque pintxos, 46 m² green space per inhabitant, Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth" inspiration, and sustainable urban planning.
What does "Open for Works" mean?
Cathedral Santa María's innovative restoration allows visitors to tour the active construction site via guided visits. Rather than closing, the cathedral offers unprecedented access to restoration techniques, archaeological discoveries, and architectural secrets. Won Premio Europa Nostra 2000.
Why is Vitoria called the Green Capital?
Vitoria won the European Green Capital 2012 and Global Green City 2019 awards for its environmental achievements: 46 m² of green space per inhabitant, 130,000 street trees, a 30 km Green Ring of parks, sustainable mobility, and ambitious CO2 reduction targets.
What are the best things to do in Vitoria?
Tour Cathedral Santa María "Open for Works", explore the medieval old town, pintxos-hopping in Calle Cuchillería, visit Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, cycle Green Ring parks, see Renaissance palaces, taste Basque cuisine, visit the playing card museum.
Is Vitoria-Gasteiz worth visiting?
Absolutely. Vitoria offers unique medieval architecture, innovative cathedral restoration, world-class pintxos rivaling San Sebastián, extensive green spaces, authentic Basque culture without mass tourism, and environmental leadership.
When is the Virgen Blanca Festival?
August 4-9 annually. The festival begins August 4 with the famous Celedón descent—a character descends on a rope from San Miguel Church's bell tower across Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. One of Spain's most spectacular festival openings.
How do you visit the cathedral?
Cathedral Santa María requires guided tour reservations (call 945-255-135 or book online). Tours run 10am-2pm and 4pm-7pm in Spanish, English, and Basque. Admission €11-12. Duration: 1.5 hours. Wear comfortable shoes.
How many days do you need in Vitoria?
2 days cover main attractions (cathedral, old town, pintxos). 3 days allow Green Ring exploration and a day trip to the Rioja Alavesa wine region (30-45 minutes). Combine with Bilbao (45 minutes) or San Sebastián (1h 15min).
Quick Takeaway
- Must-see sights: Cathedral of Santa María ("Open for Works" tour), medieval almond old town, Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, Los Arquillos, Green Ring parks, El Portalón, Palacio de Escoriaza-Esquivel
- Typical daily budget: €45–65 (excluding accommodation)
- Best time to visit: May–June or September; August 4-9 for Virgen Blanca Festival
- Famous for: European Green Capital 2012, medieval almond layout, Cathedral Santa María restoration, Basque pintxos, 46 m² green space per capita, Ken Follett inspiration
- Top tours: Free Walking Tour of Vitoria City, Free Tour in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Free Tour Vitoria: New Perspective
Cathedral of Santa María: "Open for Works"
The Cathedral of Santa María crowns Vitoria-Gasteiz's medieval hill as the old quarter's architectural jewel. Built between 1200 and the 19th century in Gothic style with a Latin cross plan, construction began under King Alfonso VIII. The bell tower rose between the 16th and 18th centuries. The central doorway depicts the Virgin Mary's life with a 15th-century tympanum showing her with Christ.
The cathedral stands out because of its "Open for Works" (Abierto por Obras) restoration program. Since the late 1990s, it has been carefully restored and studied by archaeologists, earning the Premio Europa Nostra 2000 for its innovative approach. Instead of closing to visitors, the cathedral offers guided tours through the active construction site, giving people a unique look at restoration methods, archaeological finds, and hidden architectural details.
On the tour, you can climb spiral staircases to the first battlement, walk along the upper gallery, go up to outdoor viewing platforms, and visit a chapel where laser technology shows layers of old paintings. The restoration has created local jobs and helps visitors learn about the cathedral’s history, Gothic architecture, and conservation.
British author Ken Follett visited the cathedral while researching medieval construction, and the restoration inspired elements of his novels "The Pillars of the Earth" and "World Without End". A statue of Follett now stands near the cathedral.
Practical Info: Guided tours only (book at 945-255-135 or online); admission €11-12; tours in Spanish, English, Basque; duration 1.5 hours; wear comfortable shoes; tours 10am-2pm and 4pm-7pm; allow 2 hours total.
Medieval Almond-Shaped Old Town
Vitoria-Gasteiz's Old Quarter has preserved its distinctive almond-shaped medieval layout for over 8 centuries since King Sancho VI founded the city in 1181. This original urban plan remains intact, creating a charming medieval atmosphere with narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings. The quarter has received three Europa Nostra awards in support of rehabilitation.
Streets bear names recalling artisan trades: Calle Correría (leatherworking), Herrería (ironworking), Zapatería (shoemaking), Cuchillería (knife-making), Pintorería (painting). These ancient lanes host the city's oldest and most singular buildings.
Behind the cathedral stands El Portalón, a beautiful 15th-century medieval brick inn, and the Torre de Hurtado de Anda. Plaza de la Burullería showcases 15th- and 16th-century buildings. The Torre de Doña Otxanda represents another medieval defensive structure.
The old town features magnificent Renaissance palaces: Palacio de Escoriaza-Esquivel and Palacio de Montehermoso (now Montehermoso Cultural Center). The Casa del Cordón displays a beautiful facade. The Bendaña Palace houses the BIBAT Playing Card Museum. Calle Herrería concentrates several historic palaces.
The medieval skyline is defined by the towers of San Miguel, San Vicente, and San Pedro churches, as well as Santa María Cathedral.
Practical Info: Compact and walkable; cobbled streets can be slippery when wet; steep hills in places; free to wander; allow 2-3 hours; mornings are less crowded; many buildings are viewable from the exterior.
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca serves as Vitoria-Gasteiz's most emblematic space and main gathering point. This historic plaza hosts the bajada del Celedón (Celedón's descent), marking the start of the Virgen Blanca festival on August 4. The character Celedón descends on a rope from San Miguel Church's bell tower across the plaza—one of Spain's most spectacular festival openings.
The plaza's northern side features the majestic Church of San Miguel, whose facade features a niche housing the Virgen Blanca, the city's patron saint. From the church balcony next to the Celedón statue, visitors enjoy privileged views of the plaza.
The plaza's center features the imposing Monument to the Battle of Vitoria, commemorating the pivotal 1813 victory over Napoleon's forces. South of the plaza, a green, sculptural rendering of the city's name, created from bushes, adds contemporary flair.
The plaza is surrounded by white-balconied residential buildings, creating an enclosed, intimate atmosphere. The famous La Virgen Blanca restaurant occupies one side, offering excellent pintxos.
Practical Info: Central location (meeting point for tours); free access 24/7; café terraces around perimeter; Virgen Blanca Festival August 4-9 (extremely crowded for Celedón descent); allow 30-45 minutes.
Green Capital: Parks & Sustainability
Vitoria-Gasteiz was named European Green Capital in 2012 and Global Green City in 2019 for its impressive environmental efforts. The city has 46 square meters of green space per person, one of the highest in Europe, and 130,000 trees along its streets. Around 90% of residents live within 300 meters of basic services and 500 meters of green areas.
The highlight is the 30 km Green Ring (Anillo Verde), a network of parks that circles the city. The Green Ring helps manage the city’s outskirts, supports biodiversity, provides ample space for outdoor activities, serves as an educational resource, and encourages people to take part in preserving local heritage.
Walking and cycling paths connect the parks in the Green Ring, so everyone is just a few minutes from green space. This network of parks creates a lush, welcoming environment teeming with plants and wildlife.
Vitoria is committed to sustainability, with 45% of waste collected separately, water use kept below 100 liters per person each day, and a goal to cut CO2 emissions per person by 33% by 2020. The city has also installed solar panels and supports electric vehicles. Future development will focus on reusing existing land instead of building on new areas.
Practical Info: Green Ring accessible by bike or walking; multiple entry points; free access; maps at tourism office; allow half-day for section exploration; bike paths well-marked; bird-watching opportunities; family-friendly; best spring-autumn.
Pintxos: Basque Culinary Excellence
Vitoria-Gasteiz's pintxos scene rivals San Sebastián, offering world-class Basque miniature cuisine. The old town's cobbled streets are lined with bars serving creative specialties. Pintxos-hopping (ir de pintxos) is a beloved local tradition—visiting multiple bars, sampling one or two pintxos at each with txakoli (Basque wine), zurrito (beer), or vermouth.
El Toloño (Calle San Francisco, 3) is legendary as the birthplace of the Gilda—a cocktail stick with chili pepper, olive, and anchovy that's become iconic across Spain. "It's about embracing simplicity and honoring culinary traditions from our grandparents. We infuse sophistication and warmth, rooted in traditional cooking," explains owner Josu. El Toloño's mushroom risotto is an institution.
La Virgen Blanca (Plaza Virgen Blanca, 2) serves famous pintxos in the plaza of the same name. Sagartoki, twice awarded Best Pintxos Bar of Spain, creates miniature creations impeccably arranged in glass cases. Highlights include Silencio (toast with rocket, spring onion, strawberry, tomato, scallop, octopus, smoked hake) and La Vieira del Peregrino (scallop confited at low temperature with Albariño reduction, seaweed vinaigrette, mussel foam on dry ice). The restaurant operates non-stop with a continuous kitchen.
PerretxiCo (Calle San Antonio, 3) creates a puzzle where traditional ingredients fit perfectly with modern touches. Kotarro offers outstanding pintxos and authentic Basque cuisine. Calle Dato hosts unmissable bars like Saburdi, known for cod ajoarriero.
Practical Info: Old town concentrates pintxos bars; Plaza de la Virgen Blanca and Calle Cuchillería are the primary zones; expect €2.50-4.50 per pintxo, drinks €2-3; peak hours 8-10pm; traditional route visits 3-5 bars; Thursday-Saturday busiest; Sunday many closed; allow 2-3 hours.
Los Arquillos & City Expansion
Los Arquillos represents Vitoria's architectural solution connecting the medieval old town atop the hill with the 19th-century expansion below. This neoclassical covered arcade and stairway, built 1787-1802, creates a monumental transition between levels. The structure features elegant arches and provides a sheltered passage with scenic views.
Plaza de España showcases 19th-century architecture and civic planning. The expansion incorporated wide boulevards, regular street grids, and elegant buildings, contrasting with the old quarter's medieval irregularity. This careful urban development laid the groundwork for Vitoria's modern reputation as a planned, livable city.
Practical Info: Los Arquillos free access; connects Old Town with the lower city; allows 15-20 minutes; good photo opportunities; accessible route between elevations.
Food & Drink
Vitoria cuisine embraces Basque traditions, emphasizing quality ingredients. Beyond pintxos, traditional dishes include txuleta (grilled beef chop), marmitako (tuna and potato stew), bacalao al pil-pil (cod in olive oil emulsion), kokotxas (hake cheeks in green sauce), and pochas con chorizo (white beans with chorizo).
Local txakoli (slightly sparkling Basque white wine) from nearby Álava vineyards pairs perfectly with pintxos. The region also produces excellent Rioja Alavesa red wines. Patxaran (sloe berry liqueur) serves as a traditional digestif.
Expect pintxos €2.50-4.50, mains €15-25, menú del día €15-20, txakoli/wine €2.50-3.50 glass. Prime zones include Calle Cuchillería, Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, and the old town streets. Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm.
Walking Tours
Free Walking Tour of Vitoria City: Led by an art historian, archivist, and local expert. Covers Cathedral María Inmaculada, Plaza Virgen Blanca, Santa María Cathedral, Plaza del Machete, San Miguel Church, Montehermoso Cultural Center, Fournier Playing Card Museum, Casa del Cordón, Palacio Escoriaza-Esquivel, El Portalón, Hurtado de Anda Tower, Burullería Market, Palace of Villa-Suso. Meeting: New Cathedral main door. No monuments entered, but keys provided for later visits. Minimum 2 people.
Free Tour in Vitoria-Gasteiz: Duration: 1h 45min | Spanish | Provided by Arturo Martinez (3rd Best Spanish-Language Tour Guide 2021-2022). Discover the city's origins, its historic center's expansion, and its evolution to European Green Capital 2012 and World Green Capital 2019. Covers Plaza Virgen Blanca, Plaza España, Palace of Villa-Suso, Plaza del Machete, El Nevero, Montehermoso Palace, Burullería Square, Doña Otxanda Tower, and Herrería Street palaces. Includes anecdotes and gastronomic recommendations. Meeting: Monument to the Battle of Vitoria, Plaza Virgen Blanca. Guide arrives 15 minutes early with a black GUIARTU logo t-shirt. Minimum 4 people. Award-winning.
Free Tour Vitoria: New Perspective: Alternative perspective on city history and culture. Spanish language.
Explore more free tours in Vitoria.
Practical Tips
Getting There: Vitoria-Gasteiz lies 65 km south of Bilbao, 100 km west of San Sebastián. Renfe trains to Bilbao (45min), Madrid (4h). Los buses sirven a San Sebastián, Bilbao y Pamplona. Nearest airport: Vitoria (9 km, limited flights); better via Bilbao Airport (65 km).
Getting Around: Compact center walkable; excellent tram system; extensive city buses; bike-sharing program; most sights within a 20-minute walk.
Accommodation: Stay in old town or center; options from budget hostels (€20-30/night) to mid-range hotels (€65-95/night); book ahead for Virgen Blanca Festival (August 4-9).
Language: Spanish and Basque official; good English at tourist sites; bilingual signage.
Safety: Very safe city; normal precautions; cobblestones are slippery when wet.
Visit Duration: 2 days covers main sights (cathedral, old town, pintxos); 3 days allows Green Ring exploration; combine with Rioja Alavesa wine region (30-45 min) or San Sebastián (1h 15min).
Festivals: Virgen Blanca Festival (August 4-9, Celedón descent August 4); Jazz Festival (July); Medieval Market (September).
Weather in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Vitoria-Gasteiz has an oceanic climate with continental influence. Spring (March-May) sees temperatures rise from 7-15°C (45-59°F) to 11-21°C (52-70°F), pleasant for sightseeing. Summer (June-August) brings warm 14-26°C (57-79°F), occasionally reaching 30°C+ (86°F+). Autumn (September-November) offers mild 13-24°C (55-75°F) in September, cooling to 6-13°C (43-55°F) in November. Winter (December-February) is cold, with temperatures 2-10°C (36-50°F) and frost common.
Best visiting periods: May-June for 16-23°C (61-73°F) and blooming parks; September for warm weather and fewer crowds; August for Virgen Blanca Festival (hot and crowded); avoid December-January, the coldest period.
Short History of Vitoria-Gasteiz
The hilltop site has been occupied since ancient times, with evidence of a Basque village called Gasteiz. King Sancho VI "The Wise" of Navarre founded the Villa de Victoria in 1181, creating the almond-shaped medieval layout that survives to this day.
Castile conquered Vitoria in 1200. Under Castilian rule, the city prospered as a commercial center. The 13th-14th centuries saw the construction and expansion of cathedrals beyond their original walls. The Renaissance saw the construction of palaces by wealthy families.
The 1813 Battle of Vitoria saw the Duke of Wellington defeat Napoleon's forces, and the battle is commemorated by Plaza de la Virgen Blanca's monument. The 19th century brought planned urban expansion, with neoclassical architecture such as Los Arquillos.
The 20th century established Vitoria-Gasteiz as the capital of the Basque Country (1980). Recent decades have focused on environmental sustainability, earning European Green Capital 2012 and Global Green City 2019. The cathedral restoration's "Open for Works" program won the Europa Nostra 2000 award. Today, Vitoria balances medieval heritage with environmental leadership.
FAQ about Vitoria-Gasteiz
What is Vitoria-Gasteiz famous for?
European Green Capital 2012, medieval almond-shaped old town, Cathedral Santa María "Open for Works" restoration, world-class Basque pintxos, 46 m² green space per inhabitant, Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth" inspiration, and sustainable urban planning.
What does "Open for Works" mean?
Cathedral Santa María's innovative restoration allows visitors to tour the active construction site via guided visits. Rather than closing, the cathedral offers unprecedented access to restoration techniques, archaeological discoveries, and architectural secrets. Won Premio Europa Nostra 2000.
Why is Vitoria called the Green Capital?
Vitoria won the European Green Capital 2012 and Global Green City 2019 awards for its environmental achievements: 46 m² of green space per inhabitant, 130,000 street trees, a 30 km Green Ring of parks, sustainable mobility, and ambitious CO2 reduction targets.
What are the best things to do in Vitoria?
Tour Cathedral Santa María "Open for Works", explore the medieval old town, pintxos-hopping in Calle Cuchillería, visit Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, cycle Green Ring parks, see Renaissance palaces, taste Basque cuisine, visit the playing card museum.
Is Vitoria-Gasteiz worth visiting?
Absolutely. Vitoria offers unique medieval architecture, innovative cathedral restoration, world-class pintxos rivaling San Sebastián, extensive green spaces, authentic Basque culture without mass tourism, and environmental leadership.
When is the Virgen Blanca Festival?
August 4-9 annually. The festival begins August 4 with the famous Celedón descent—a character descends on a rope from San Miguel Church's bell tower across Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. One of Spain's most spectacular festival openings.
How do you visit the cathedral?
Cathedral Santa María requires guided tour reservations (call 945-255-135 or book online). Tours run 10am-2pm and 4pm-7pm in Spanish, English, and Basque. Admission €11-12. Duration: 1.5 hours. Wear comfortable shoes.
How many days do you need in Vitoria?
2 days cover main attractions (cathedral, old town, pintxos). 3 days allow Green Ring exploration and a day trip to the Rioja Alavesa wine region (30-45 minutes). Combine with Bilbao (45 minutes) or San Sebastián (1h 15min).
