I had an absolutely perfect half week in the Basque country of Spain. One day to stroll San Sebastián, a few days to absorb the art that is Bilbao, and my day trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz - where I happened upon their Festival of the Virgen Blanca!
It was a bit haphazard, as I didn't know the schedule or where events were happening, but I stumbled upon enough great moments of games, food stands, and plaza dancing to keep my wandering entertained for the whole day.
Vitoria-Gasteiz is actually the government capital of the Basque Autonomous Community of Spain. The city is situated on several different levels that keep the visitor climbing beautiful steps to new terraced views, cathedrals, and squares. I am so glad I chose this city for my day trip! It was easy to take the bus from Bilbao to Vitoria-Gasteiz (around €6), then I chose to return to Bilbao via BlaBlaCar carpool (about €4) so I could practice my Spanish with the driver. Even without the festival going (always August 4th-9th), Vitoria-Gasteiz has so much to offer in history, architecture, and culture, and I hope you have the chance to experience it like I did.