Top reasons to visit Durango
- Cultural Experiences: Durango is rich in Basque traditions, offering visitors a chance to engage with local customs and vibrant heritage.
- Outdoor Adventures: The region boasts picturesque hiking paths and scenic bike routes, perfect for exploring its natural beauty.
- Historic Charm: Stroll through the quaint town, filled with historic monuments and friendly locals eager to share their stories.
- Proximity to Bilbao: A short journey takes you to Bilbao, known for its trendy atmosphere and cultural attractions.
- Diverse Accommodations: From charming country houses to pet-friendly hotels, Durango offers a variety of lodging options for every traveller.
Find great hotels in and around Durango
Durango, nestled in the picturesque Basque Country, offers a delightful selection of accommodations to suit every traveller's needs. From charming country houses to pet-friendly hotels, you can find the perfect base for your adventure. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or a bustling business trip, Durango's hotels provide a range of facilities and services to enhance your stay, making it an ideal destination for all types of visitors.
- Occidental Bilbao: Situated approximately 24km from Durango, Occidental Bilbao is a 4-star hotel that caters to business travellers seeking a tranquil spa-themed experience. With a guest rating of 8.6, this accommodation offers a comprehensive range of wellness amenities including a full-service spa, sauna, body scrubs, and facial treatments, ensuring a relaxing stay. The inviting pool area provides the perfect setting for unwinding after a busy day. Guests appreciate the blend of modern comfort and professional service, making it an ideal choice for those on a work trip or looking to rejuvenate.
- Spirit Hotel Gran Bilbao: Located about 26km from Durango, the Spirit Hotel Gran Bilbao boasts a stellar guest rating of 9.0, making it an attractive option for adventure seekers and business travellers alike. This 4-star hotel is positioned in the heart of the city, providing easy access to local attractions. The hotel features a variety of thrilling adventure sports and recreational activities nearby, including hiking, mountain climbing, and skydiving. With its urban vibe and focus on adventure, this hotel is perfect for those looking to balance work and excitement during their stay.
- Silken Gran Hotel Durango: Located in the heart of Durango, Silken Gran Hotel Durango is a 4-star property that scores an impressive 8.6 from guests. With its emphasis on wellness and relaxation, the hotel features a full spa service including massages, an outdoor seasonal pool, and a hot tub. The poolside bar adds a touch of leisure to your downtime, allowing guests to unwind in style. This hotel is well-suited for business travellers who also wish to indulge in a spa-themed experience while enjoying the convenience of being in Durango.
Where to stay near Durango
Durango, nestled in the Basque Country, offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor adventures. Explore the historical charm of the small town, where friendly locals share their vibrant traditions. Just a short journey away, Bilbao enchants with its trendy atmosphere, while the surrounding landscapes invite you to indulge in exhilarating outdoor activities. Experience the unique vibes of Durango, where every corner reveals a new facet of Basque culture and hospitality.
- Izurtza: Located a mere 3km from Durango, Izurtza is a charming city that offers a blend of cultural experiences. While the number of visitors is relatively stable throughout the year, it tends to peak during the summer months from July to September. Travellers flock to Izurtza for its rich cultural heritage, with highlights including an intriguing industrial museum that showcases the region's historical roots. The city is also home to various smaller museums that provide a glimpse into local life and traditions. Strolling through Izurtza, you will discover quaint streets and friendly locals, making it a delightful stop on your journey.
- Garai: Garai, also situated just 3km from Durango, is a vibrant city that offers a mixture of culture, outdoor activities, and eco-friendly tourism. Visitor numbers are moderately seasonal, peaking in April to May and again in July. The city boasts several landmarks, including a modern sports facility and historic sites that reflect its rich past. Garai is the perfect destination for those looking to engage in outdoor pursuits, such as hiking and cycling, while also enjoying local culture through its symbolic landmarks. The combination of nature and culture makes Garai a must-visit for any traveller.
- Sarria: A quaint village located just 3km from Durango, Sarria is an ideal destination for families, couples, and culture enthusiasts alike. With visitor numbers peaking during the summer months, Sarria offers a variety of experiences, from enjoying the local theatre to exploring its charming streets. The village is home to notable attractions such as a picturesque monument, a scenic marina, and a convention centre that hosts various events. The romantic atmosphere of Sarria, coupled with its family-friendly activities, makes it a perfect spot for creating lasting memories.
Things to do in Durango
Shopping
In Durango, visit local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, including artisan crafts and traditional Basque products. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Mall Eroski in Elorrio, where you'll find a variety of stores and eateries for a more extensive shopping experience.
Recreation
Experience tranquillity at the Aterpe Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy the serene ambience while taking part in yoga sessions amidst nature. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Urkiola Natural Park offers scenic hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.
Adventure
Explore the scenic Urkiola Natural Park, where you can hike through lush forests and admire stunning views from the peaks. For a thrilling experience, try paragliding over the picturesque landscapes, gliding gracefully through the sky while taking in the beauty of the Basque countryside.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Durango offers a blend of lively bars and charming taverns. Enjoy a drink at El Gallo, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, or visit La Taberna for a more laid-back vibe. Don't miss the local music scene that adds to the town's enchanting evening charm.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durango
To save money on your trip to Durango, consider visiting between December and February when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance often yields the best rates, particularly on Mondays, while Fridays are typically pricier. Explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential discounts. Utilise the site’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price to uncover the best hotel deals. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to significant savings during your stay.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durango are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Durango about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Durango is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Durango is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Durango with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Durango
Durango, nestled in the Basque Country, offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and beach experiences. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, historic monuments, and beautiful preserves that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're seeking cultural enrichment or outdoor escapades, Durango's attractions promise an unforgettable getaway for every type of traveller.
- Museum DeLa Paz De Gernika: Located 16km from Durango, this museum offers a poignant exploration of the impacts of war and the quest for peace. Its exhibits reflect the cultural and historical significance of the region, providing a thoughtful atmosphere for visitors interested in understanding the local heritage.
- Monolito en memoria a las personas represaliadas por el franquismo por su opción sexual: Situated within Durango, this memorial rock serves as a tribute to those persecuted for their sexual orientation during the Franco regime. The outdoor setting offers a serene environment, perfect for reflection amid beautiful scenery.
- The Oak of Guernica: Also located 16km from Durango, this historic site is steeped in significance, symbolising the resilience of the Basque people. Surrounded by rich cultural history, it invites visitors to appreciate its legacy and the stories of the past.
Best time to go to Durango
The best time to visit Durango can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Durango falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Durango falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Durango
Flying into Durango, Basque Country, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Bilbao Airport (BIO) is located 27km away, with excellent hotel options like the Radisson Collection Bilbao and Hotel Melia Bilbao, both 5km from the airport. San Sebastian Airport (EAS), 71km away, offers luxurious stays at Arantza Hotela and Parador de Hondarribia, with various transportation services available. Lastly, Biarritz Airport (BIQ) is situated 95km from Durango, with high-end hotels such as Hôtel du Palais Biarritz and Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar, also providing shuttle services. Each airport ensures accessible travel for visitors to the charming town of Durango.