What to do at Easter in Vitoria

Vitoria is the perfect place to experience a different kind of Easter. Losing yourself among the corners of the old medieval town and recharging your strength with some pintxos are just some of its attractions. If you have chosen this city as your next Easter destination, read our blog! Discover how to get to Vitoria and get ready to enjoy early spring in the capital of Alava.

What to do this Easter in Vitoria

Travelling to Vitoria this Easter is a plan that offers many advantages. April’s pleasant temperatures make it the perfect month to explore the city. The Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is a good starting point to move around the historic centre. What better start than to be photographed at the famous vertical garden formed by letters that are already a symbol of Vitoria – Gasteiz. The next stop is the Cathedral of Santa María, a Gothic marvel whose interior is well worth exploring. It is even possible to climb the tower of San Miguel, which offers fantastic views. On the way out, it’s a good idea to stroll around and discover unexpected treasures, such as the Plaza de la Burullería and the Villa Suso Palace. At the Rincón del Silencio, you can view the wall on whose posts you can read phrases of the mythical Benedetti. For museum lovers, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Bibat and the Artium, specialising in contemporary art, are highly recommended.

Holy Week processions in Vitoria

Although there are no processions planned for 2021, an exciting proposal is to reproduce the usual route of these culturally significant religious events. Thursday and Good Friday are the most important dates on which the Procession of Silence and the Holy Burial are usually celebrated. Following its route, you can walk through key points such as Plaza de las Desamparadas, Calle Postas, Olaguíbel, Portal del Rey, Cuesta de San Vicente and Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. An inspiring walk that will allow you to enjoy the murals that dot the streets. It is one more attraction in the city, with masterful displays of urban art with such poetic names as “The Shortest Night”, “In the Line of Time” or “The Light of Hope”.

What to see in the surroundings of Vitoria

The parks surrounding the city, known as the Anillo Verde or Green Belt, are one of the must-sees if you do not have much time. These green spaces include the Judimendi, Arriaga, Paseo del Prado and Florida parks. Salburua deserves a separate mention, with lagoons ideal for birdwatching, and the Armentia forest, the starting point for climbing the Montes de Vitoria. If you have more time and all this is not enough for you, you cannot miss wonders such as the Salinas de Añana, located about 30 kilometres from the city. The caves of Valdegovía are another of the recommended sights, an old refuge for hermits which has great historical and scenic value. Other spots not to be missed are the Ulibarri reservoir and the Salto del Nervión, the latter situated between Álava and Burgos. Finally, wine lovers must not miss a route through the Rioja Alavesa wineries, a delight for the senses.

Where to eat in Vitoria

Our first proposal is an afternoon of pintxos in the Old Town, an experience that you have to experience if you visit the capital of Álava. The creativity and variety are surprising, with essentials such as the Bistro-Bar El Gautxo, the Malquerida, the Taberna Txolarre, or Boko, which stands out for its original presentations. If you prefer a restaurant, one of the best bets is the Portalón, very close to the Cathedral of Santa María and the famous sculpture by Ken Follet. If you are looking for a menu of the day, you have numerous attractive options at reasonable prices, such as the Olarizu Restaurant, Jauja or La Regadera. Traditional dishes and a small bill are their best assets. Other options where you can find typical Basque food are the Asador Zabala or the Zaldiaran restaurant.

Finding apartments in Vitoria

If you are planning to travel during the busy Easter period, it is advisable to book in advance to ensure the possibility of choosing a place to your liking. The new Líbere apartments in Vitoria, in the heart of the city, are the best option to move freely and at your own pace. An ideal solution for those who prefer to enjoy their own space.