Free walking tours in Vitoria-Gasteiz and what to see

Must-sees

Vitoria's medieval quarter is almond-shaped and explored on a slope, along streets named after old guilds such as Cuchillería or Herrería. At the top is the cathedral of Santa María, which you can visit while its restoration continues. On the way down you come across Renaissance palaces such as Escoriaza-Esquivel and Bendaña, and the Casa del Cordón. Escalators help with the gradient.

At the foot of the old town is the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, with the monument to the Battle of Vitoria, and beside it the arcaded Plaza de España. The Arquillos link the upper town with the Ensanche. For museums there is Artium, for contemporary art, and the Bibat, which combines archaeology and playing cards. Vitoria is also very green: the Anillo Verde rings the city with parks and paths.

Free tours and guided visits

The free walking tours cover the medieval almond, the central squares and the Arquillos in about two hours. They explain the city's founding in 1181, the role of the guilds and the 1813 battle against French troops. You pay what you think it was worth at the end. Some routes add legends or focus on the murals that decorate the old town.

The most recommended paid guided visit is to the cathedral of Santa María, which shows the restoration work, the polychrome portico and the climb up the tower. Outside the city there are trips to the Rioja Alavesa, with Laguardia and its wineries, and to the Valle Salado de Añana, salt pans in use for centuries.

How long to spend

One day is enough for the medieval quarter, the cathedral and the central squares. With two days you can add a museum, stroll through Florida park or along a stretch of the Anillo Verde and spend time on pintxos. If you stay a third day, head out to Laguardia and the Rioja Alavesa or to the Valle Salado.

Where to stay

The best area to stay is the centre, between the Virgen Blanca, Calle Dato and Florida park. Everything is close, it is flat and there are lots of pintxo bars. Sleeping inside the medieval quarter is also a good idea if you like old streets, although you will feel the slopes with a suitcase. The Ensanche is quiet and well connected by tram.