Attractions and Places To See around Santurtzi - Top 20

Santurtzi offers a rich history. You can visit the ancient Iglesia de San Jorge, one of the town's foundational buildings, or the Casa Torre Palace, an 18th-century Baroque building that now houses the Santurtzi Historical Interpretation Centre. The iconic Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO Human Heritage Site, is also nearby, connecting Portugalete to Getxo.

Santurtzi's deep connection to the sea is evident throughout the town. Explore the bustling Santurtzi Fishing Port, where you can see daily catches and the historic fish market. The Santurtzi Itsas Museoa (Museum of the Sea), located within the Fishermen's Guild building, offers insightful audiovisual presentations and exhibits. You can also visit the Agurtza Museum Boat, a traditional wooden fishing boat converted into an interpretation center focusing on fishing and tuna canning.

The region boasts significant natural beauty. Mount Serantes, at 451 meters, is a prominent feature offering excellent views of the Biscayan coast. Santurtzi is also situated on the picturesque Abra Bay, perfect for enjoying marine views. For a relaxing coastal experience, La Arena Beach is known for its large sandbank and is a popular spot for surfing and strolling along its walkway.

Yes, Santurtzi offers several family-friendly options. La Arena Beach is great for a day out by the sea. The Santurtzi Park, with its diverse tree species and bandstand, provides a pleasant green space for families. Additionally, the Greenway of the Montes del Hierro is an excellent cycle path suitable for families to enjoy the outdoors.

For panoramic views, ascend Mount Serantes, which historically served as a military watchtower and now offers extensive vistas of the Biscayan coast. The Oriol Palace also provides splendid views over Abra Bay. For a more leisurely experience, the Seafront Promenade offers picturesque views of the marine atmosphere and architectural heritage.

The area around Santurtzi is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore various hiking trails, including routes up Mount Serantes. There are also options for gravel biking and running trails that take you through diverse landscapes. For more details on routes, check out the Hiking around Santurtzi, Gravel biking around Santurtzi, and Running Trails around Santurtzi guides.

Absolutely. Santurtzi is famous for its grilled sardines, a local specialty best enjoyed at the port. Every July 16th, an emotive procession for the Monument to the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen, takes place, honoring those lost at sea. The town also features a unique Open-air Sculpture Museum with 14 sculptures distributed throughout the area.

Beyond the historic churches, Santurtzi features the distinctive Town Hall, built in 1905 with slate-clad domes. The magnificent Belle Époque Oriol Palace from the early 20th century is another architectural highlight. Just a short distance away, the Vizcaya Bridge stands as a unique example of industrial architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Guggenheim Museum and its iconic Puppy sculpture are often highlighted for their impressive architecture and artistic impact. Many also appreciate the large sandbank and surfing opportunities at La Arena Beach, as well as the well-maintained Greenway of the Montes del Hierro for cycling and hiking.

Yes, Santurtzi's location on Abra Bay makes it a great starting point for sea excursions. The Marina, one of the most important in Bizkaia, offers opportunities for boat trips. Various sea trips are available, including options for whale watching and 'El Bote Tours' that explore other municipalities along the estuary like Bilbao, Getxo, and Portugalete.

Indeed. The Monument to the Virgen del Carmen honors the patron saint of Santurtzi and fishermen, reflecting the town's deep maritime faith. Additionally, the Monument to 'La Sardinera' on the Paseo de Iparraguirre pays tribute to the traditional sardine sellers, a significant part of Santurtzi's fishing heritage.