Things To Do
in Munguía
Munguía is a small Basque town inland from the Cantabrian coast, set among rolling green hills and rural countryside. It blends traditional Basque charm with easy access to larger cities and the coastline, making it a peaceful base for day trips. The town offers friendly local hospitality, weekly markets, and scenic walks through farmland and woodlands.
Expect a relaxed pace, güean views, and a warm Basque welcome.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a stroll through Mungia’s cobblestone streets, admiring traditional Basque architecture and hidden courtyards. The morning light highlights the centuries-old façades of historic buildings and the serene town square. Local shopkeepers welcome you with warm smiles as you soak in the town’s quiet charm.
Pause for a leisurely lunch at a family-run tavern, sampling freshly made bacalao pil-pil and local cheeses. Afterward, explore the 15th-century Church of San Pedro, marveling at its elegant stonework and stained glass windows. Wander through small artisan shops, discovering handcrafted souvenirs and local produce.
As dusk falls, join the locals for pintxos at a lively bar on Plaza Andra Mari, savoring each bite accompanied by a chilled txakoli. The evening buzz crescendos with Basque chatter and live acoustic music drifting through the square. End the night with a gentle walk under lantern-lit arches, feeling the town’s warm embrace.
Start at the historic chapel of San Juan Bautista, exploring its ancient crypt and serene gardens. The tranquil atmosphere invites reflection as sunlight filters through centuries-old stained glass. Meet a local guide who shares stories of pilgrimages and sacred art.
Enjoy a traditional Basque lunch at a nearby granary-turned-restaurant, feasting on slow-cooked lamb and seasonal vegetables. Continue to the Monastery of Armentia, marveling at its cloister and frescoes. Inhale the scent of aged stone corridors and blossoming rose bushes in the cloistered courtyard.
Return to Mungia for evening mass in the church belltower, listening to melodic hymns echoing off ancient walls. Afterward, join parishioners for a communal meal in the church hall, tasting homemade empanadas and cider. The flicker of candlelight and gentle laughter makes for a soul-soothing end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-140 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Basque experience close to Bilbao
- Strong local cuisine and welcoming communities
- Limited nightlife within Munguía itself
- Public transport sometimes requires planning or a car for remote sights
- "Kaixo" - Hello
- "Zer moduz zaude?" - How are you?
- "Eskerrik asko" - Thank you
- "Mesedez" - Please
- "Nola deitzen zara?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Munguía
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, stone facades, and the parish church provide classic Basque town photography moments, especially during early morning or golden hour.
A hilltop viewpoint just outside town offers sweeping vistas of green valleys and distant Basque hills—perfect for landscape shots.
Photograph traditional Basque rural architecture with whitewashed walls and dark timber accents along narrow lanes.
Early market activity, local vendors, and colorful produce create vibrant, documentary-style images.
Food in Munguía
Munguía Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salt cod in a rich red pepper and tomato sauce, a classic Basque dish often found in local taverns.
Must-Try!
Tuna and potato stew with peppers and onions, a coastal staple enjoyed in Basque homes and taverns.
A lightly sparkling Basque white wine—a perfect pairing for pintxos and seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional town market offering fresh produce, cheeses, seafood, and regional products on market days.
Casual bars and stalls around town squares serve pintxos, chistorra dishes, and other Basque bites to go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is typical when meeting someone new; Basque people value polite conversation and modest dress. Basic Spanish phrases are appreciated; Basque greetings (e.g., 'Kaixo') are a nice touch in local circles.
Meals are social occasions; wait to start until everyone is served and keep voices moderate in public spaces. If offered food at a home, it’s polite to accept a small portion.
Safety
Tipping in Munguía
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Spain. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service in restaurants is common practice.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common. Keep some cash handy for small markets and cafés; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with mild evenings; coastal breezes help keep temperatures comfortable inland. Expect holiday crowds closer to Bilbao, with plenty of outdoor terraces and markets.
Golden light and harvest markets; rain becomes more frequent, so bring a light shell and a compact umbrella. Colors in the countryside peak during late autumn.
Mild to cool with cool mornings; frosts are possible on higher ground. Cozy cafes and traditional Basque stews are welcomed after chilly walks.
Fresh greens, blooming flowers, and pleasant temperatures. Humidity and showers are common, so carry a light rain layer for outdoor activities.
Munguía at Night
Hiking in Munguía
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle ridge trail with panoramic views of the Basque countryside; suitable for a half-day hike from Munguía.
A short forest walk through a famous beech forest known for striking seasonal colors, especially autumn.
Scenic routes in the nearby Gorbeia area with varying difficulty, offering extensive mountain scenery and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Munguía by plane.
Main international gateway to the Basque Country; convenient access to Munguía by road or rail, typically within 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport offering connections to several European destinations; practical for a Basque Country itinerary, though farther from Munguía than Bilbao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with Basque heritage who often speak Basque and Spanish, contributing to a strong local culture and identity.
A mix of long-term residents from across Spain, adding regional diversity to the town.
Tourists and expatriates drawn by Basque cuisine and proximity to Bilbao.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Basque sport enjoying regional popularity; often demonstrated and taught in local clubs.
Community leagues and local clubs are common; enjoying games or casual play is a typical local pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Munguía.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Basque dishes feature vegetables, cheese, and grills. Look for mushroom or pepper-based stews, ratatouille-style dishes, and salads; you can often customize meat dishes to omit meat.