Things To Do
in Durango
Durango is a small Basque town set in the green valley of the Basque Country, where history and scenery meet in a charming, walkable core. Its old town is a grid of narrow lanes lined with timber-framed houses, stone churches, and lively pintxos bars. The surrounding hills and forests offer easy access to outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to tranquil riverside strolls.
Visitors gravitate toward Basque hospitality, regional cuisine, and a serene base for day trips to the coast and mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the heart of Durango by wandering through its charming Old Town, where cobblestone streets and medieval architecture tell the tale of its rich history. Visit the stunning Santa María de Uribarri Church, notable for its Gothic and Baroque elements. Don't forget to stop at a local café for a traditional Basque breakfast featuring pintxos and coffee.
After lunch, delve deeper into the local culture by visiting the Durango Museum, which highlights the region's artistic and historical heritage. Take a leisurely stroll along the Nervión River, where you can enjoy the picturesque views of lush greenery and quaint bridges. As you walk, keep an eye out for the vibrant street art that adorns many buildings throughout the town.
As evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant to savor traditional Basque dishes like lamb stew or grilled fish, accompanied by a fine selection of local wines. After dinner, experience the lively atmosphere of local bars, where you can mingle with friendly locals and possibly catch live music. Finish your night with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, taking in the enchanting sights and sounds of Durango under the stars.
Start your day early and head to Urkiola Natural Park, just a short drive from Durango, to immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty. Begin with a guided hike through the park’s lush forests and dazzling cliffs, soaking in the flora and fauna that call this sanctuary home. Don’t forget to pack some light snacks to refuel along the way as you connect with nature.
After a vigorous morning hike, explore the park's visitor center to learn more about the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the region. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch with stunning mountain views, taking the time to relax and appreciate the tranquil surroundings. Optionally, if you’re up for it, embark on a short and rewarding climb to the peak for panoramic vistas.
Return to Durango as the sun begins to set, and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local Basque restaurant. Sample seasonal dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, paired beautifully with a glass of cider. Cap the night off with a leisurely stroll around town, perhaps enjoying a nightcap at a nearby tavern.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚆Local transportation (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (week) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and strong culinary scene
- Compact, walkable town with scenic surroundings
- Rich Basque heritage and architecture
- Easy day trips to nature reserves and coast
- Limited upscale nightlife
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some visitors
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared to major cities
- "Kaixo" - Hello
- "Eskerrik asko" - Thank you
- "Mesedez" - Please
- "Nola zaude?" - How are you?
- "Non dago komuna?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Agur" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Durango
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow cobbled lanes lined with timber-framed houses, perfect for golden-hour photography and street portraits.
Quiet riverbank with gentle reflections and distant hills; great for tranquil sunrise shots.
Short climbs yield panoramic views of the valley and surrounding greenery, ideal for sweeping landscape photography.
Food in Durango
Durango Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful array of small bites on bread, common in bars throughout the old town.
Must-Try!
Cod simmered in a rich red pepper and onion sauce, a Basque favorite.
Baked spider crab, often served warm with breadcrumbs and olive oil.
Spiced blood sausage or Basque sausage, typically grilled and enjoyed with potatoes or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional local market offering seafood, produce, and regional ingredients; great to sample prepared bites and chat with vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días'; Basque people may also appreciate a courteous 'Agur' when leaving.
Pintxos are shared; be patient and social, and expect a relaxed pace in dining rooms and bars.
Safety
Tipping in Durango
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving a small extra for good service at bars/restaurants is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains handy at small bars and markets, and some venues may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with frequent showers; lush greenery and blooming flowers enhance outdoor photos.
Warm days (often 20–25°C); enjoy long daylight hours, outdoor dining, and scenic hikes. Pack sun protection and water.
Cooler temperatures with vibrant foliage; comfortable conditions for walking and photography with colorful backdrops.
Milder than inland Spain but cooler and wetter; some higher trails may be muddy or closed after rain; cozy cafés are inviting.
Durango at Night
Hiking in Durango
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A premier mountain hike with forested slopes and panoramic views; suitable for experienced hikers.
Dramatic limestone valleys and varied routes with options for different fitness levels.
Rolling beech forests and limestone outcrops with multiple looping trails.
Airports
How to reach Durango by plane.
Major international hub close to Durango; frequent connections across Europe and beyond; about 1 hour by car depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport serving Spain and Europe; roughly 1.5-2 hours by car.
Coastal airport serving northern Spain; roughly 2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Basque community with a distinct language and customs.
Other Spaniards and residents from nearby areas.
Tourists from Europe and beyond drawn by Basque culture and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Basque sport popular in the region; courts and clubs can be found nearby.
A common pastime; local teams and public fields accessible to visitors.
Popular outdoor activities thanks to surrounding mountains and valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durango.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pintxos bars offer vegetable-based options; look for tortilla, roasted peppers, grilled vegetables, or seasonal veggie plates. Vegetarian-friendly menus are common in cafes and taverns; ask staff for recommendations.