Discover The Basque Country: A Guide To Pays Basque & More

21 May, 2025

Is there a place on Earth where ancient traditions meet modern vibrancy, where a unique language and culture have thrived for millennia, and where breathtaking landscapes beckon the adventurous traveler? The Basque Country, straddling the border between France and Spain, is that place, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

The Basque Country, known as "Pays Basque" in French and "Pas Vasco" in Spanish (and "Euskal Herria" in Basque), is more than just a geographical location; it is the heartland of the Basque people. Nestled in the western Pyrenees, it gracefully stretches along the coast of the Bay of Biscay, its borders a tapestry woven from the threads of history, culture, and language. The current autonomous community of the Basque Country, established by the Statute of Autonomy of 1979, operates under a government consisting of a president and a parliament. The region encompasses an area of approximately 2,793 square miles (7,235 square km).

The Basque Country is a land of captivating contrasts, where ancient traditions are celebrated alongside contemporary innovation. While Vitoria-Gasteiz officially holds the title of administrative capital, having been so designated on May 20, 1980, the bustling city of Bilbao reigns as the largest urban center, a testament to the region's dynamic spirit. Indeed, nearly half of the 2,155,546 residents of the Basque Autonomous Community make their homes in the area surrounding Bilbao. The city of Bilbao itself is a major metropolitan area. The city itself is famous for its beautiful historic center, museums, gothic cathedrals, and green parks, all within the city.

The Basque Country is not merely a single, unified entity. The territory extends across both France and Spain, giving rise to a fascinating blend of cultures and influences. On the Spanish side, it includes the three provinces of Araba (with Vitoria-Gasteiz as its capital), Bizkaia (with Bilbao as its capital), and Gipuzkoa (with Donostia-San Sebastin as its capital). The French Basque Country, or "Pays Basque Franais," on the other hand, comprising Labourd (Lapurdi), Lower Navarre (Baxenabarre), and Soule (Xiberoa), has its own distinct cultural and linguistic characteristics.

A journey through the Basque Country promises a sensory feast. The dual language signs, a harmonious blend of French and Euskara, the ancient Basque language, greet visitors, while the red and white flags and bunting, symbols of Basque pride, flutter in the breeze. The region's unique culinary traditions, particularly in San Sebastin, the "foodie capital of the world," are a highlight for gastronomy lovers. The coastal towns, such as the vibrant San Sebastin or the charming town of Biarritz, captivate with their scenic beauty, their world-class beaches and cultural offerings, offering a myriad of experiences for every traveler.

In the heart of the Basque Country, travelers can find a wealth of opportunities. From soaring flights to curated tours and convenient car rentals, a trip to the Basque Country has never been easier to plan. The region is readily accessible by flight through Skyscanner, the tours are available at getyourguide.com, and rental cars are available to get you around the region. Nestled in the heart of the region, many cities have a unique culture, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. The capital of the French Basque Country, Bayonne, is a fortified city at the meeting point of the Nive and Adour rivers, with many bridges and the feel of a mini-Paris.

However, within the larger framework, the Basque Country boasts a rich tapestry of diverse locales, each with its unique character and appeal. The charming small towns that dot the landscape, each an authentic reflection of traditional Basque lifestyles, offer glimpses into the soul of the region. Espelette, the world capital of peppers, is only one example of the many towns that offer a unique perspective on the region's vibrant culture.

Here's a table summarizing key information about the Basque Country:

Category	Details
Official Names	Pays Basque (French), Pas Vasco (Spanish), Euskal Herria (Basque)
Location	Western Pyrenees, straddling the border between France and Spain, along the coast of the Bay of Biscay
Autonomous Community (Spain)	Established by the Statute of Autonomy of 1979
Government	President and Parliament
Area	2,793 square miles (7,235 square km)
Administrative Capital	Vitoria-Gasteiz (since May 20, 1980)
Largest City	Bilbao
Provinces (Spain)	Araba (Vitoria-Gasteiz), Bizkaia (Bilbao), Gipuzkoa (Donostia-San Sebastin)
French Basque Country	Labourd (Lapurdi), Lower Navarre (Baxenabarre), Soule (Xiberoa)
Population	Approximately 3.2 million (total in Euskal Herria)
Official Languages	Spanish, Basque, French (in the French Basque Country)
Notable Cities	Bilbao, San Sebastin, Bayonne

San Sebastin, located on the Spanish side, close to the French border, is also a must-see destination for its unique cuisine. San Sebastin is widely known to be the foodie capital of the world. Just an hour's drive from Bayonne, the city offers unparalleled gastronomic experiences.

The Basque Country is a region of intriguing paradoxes. The origins of the Basque people and their unique language, Euskara, remain shrouded in mystery. The language, believed to be one of the oldest in Europe, stands apart from the Indo-European family and continues to be a vibrant part of Basque identity. The traditional ways of life, rooted in fishing, farming, and craftsmanship, have persisted for centuries, and the Basque people's deep connection to their heritage is readily apparent.

The region's history is rich and complex. Founded by the Visigothic King Leovigild, the city of Vitoria, now the administrative capital, reflects the layers of history that have shaped the Basque Country. The historical provinces, each with its own unique story, add to the intricate mosaic that defines the region. The Basque Country is one of Spain's autonomous regions.

Despite the allure of the cities, the true charm of the Basque Country lies in its small towns. These places of refuge, such as Espelette, the world capital of peppers, are authentically Basque. Here, visitors can discover the traditional lifestyles. The architecture, the local markets, and the warmth of the people provide an unforgettable glimpse into Basque culture. Each town has its own unique characteristics that make them an attractive destination.

The total population of Euskal Herria is approximately 3.2 million people. About 2.2 million people live in the Spanish Basque Country and a portion in Navarre. In the northern Basque Country, there is a total of just under 1 million people.

While the Spanish Basque Country and Navarre are official regions of Spain, the French Basque Country isn't an officially recognized region of France. Instead, it is part of New Aquitaine. There is a bit of confusion about what exactly the Spanish Basque Country includes. There are many arguments about the definition of the Basque region.

The city of Bilbao, a vibrant port city, offers a modern and contemporary atmosphere. Located on the mouth of the Nervin River, the city is a hub of innovation, culture, and design. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a modern architectural masterpiece, has become an icon of the city, attracting visitors from around the globe. The city is also famous for its beautiful historic center, museums, gothic cathedrals, and green parks, all within the city.

The Basque Country offers a blend of experiences, from adventure to relaxation. Its diverse offerings, the historical sites, and the beaches of the coast make the Basque Country an ideal place to visit and explore.

Explore the Basque Country, a land where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply a lover of beauty, the Basque Country will enthrall you. From the vibrant cities to the charming villages, the Basque Country will enchant you. Come, explore, and make your own Basque Country memories.

The Cityscape of Bilbao Capital City of Basque Country Stock Image

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The Cityscape of Bilbao Capital City of Basque Country Stock Photo

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Bilbao, the art capital of the Basque Country in Spain. Basque

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