DISCOVER GETXO
Pintxo Routes
Pintxo Routes
Pintxos in Getxo
Embarking on a pintxos crawl in Getxo isn’t just about eating and drinking; it’s a social ritual and a Basque tradition that you simply must experience. What began as a simple bite-sized snacks to serve with wines or txikitos, pintxos have evolved into a form of miniature haute cuisine.
Unlike traditional tapas, Basque pintxos are more complex affairs. The name comes from the skewer that was originally used to hold the food onto a slice of bread.
The bar as a showcase: Upon entering, you will see the bar counters transformed into showcases, laden with platters of diverse pintxos. Cold varieties can be selected directly from the counter while, on occasion, hot options (cooked to order) typically appear on blackboards.
A matter of trust: Traditionally, one is expected to wait until they have finished before indicating to the staff how many pintxos were eaten to settle the bill.
Timings: This is a quintessential activity for the hours preceding lunch (as an aperitif) or dinner, although in cities such as Getxo, Bilbao or San Sebastián, the sheer abundance of options often turns a pintxo circuit into the day's main meal.
The term ‘pintxo’ has its roots in Donostia – San Sebastián and has gradually spread throughout the territory; in Bilbao and the surrounding area, however, they were originally (and sometimes still are) known as ‘banderillas’.
Perhaps the most iconic of all is the Gilda;whose classic ingredients are green olives, salted anchovies, and piparras (Basque pickled chili peppers) strung on a toothpick. Legend has it that the name was inspired by the film Gilda, starring Rita Hayworth (1946), because the snack, much like the character, is green, salty and a bit spicy
In the bars of Bilbao and sourrondings , one also finds the all-time classics:
Bilbainito: The city’s quintessential banderilla. It consists of a simple yet perfect combination of hard-boiled egg, prawns and mayonnaise, sometimes finished with a dusting of grated egg yolk.
Grillo: A humble but legendary pintxo made with boiled potato, white onion and lettuce, dressed with olive oil and salt. It represents the very essence of the most traditional Bilbaino aperitif.
Where to go for pintxos in Getxo
To traverse Getxo through its bars, we have divided the town into its historic neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct ‘atmosphere’ while honouring its own unique identity. We invite you to join the experience by savouring some of these “miniature culinary delights”
We are aware that many legendary bars are left unmentioned, but our hospitality scene is simply too vast to cover in full! Treat these routes as an initial suggestion, and do not hesitate to wander through any neighbourhood to discover the hidden treasures not listed here.
Algorta
Algorta is not only Getxo's largest neighbourhood, but also the hub of the town’s social life. With its diversity, it offers completely different atmospheres from the bohemian vibe of Puerto Viejo to the bustling commercial hub of the Telletxe area. The ideal spot for those looking for variety and to immerse themselves in the real essence of a Basque pintxos crawl.
Areeta/Las Arenas
The Las Arenas pintxos route is a leisurely and sophisticated route that brings together historical landmarks and the best of local gastronomy just a short walk apart. Enjoy the culinary delights while taking in the views of the estuary and the majestic Suspension Bridge, before heading into the bustling heart of Calle Mayor and Plaza de las Escuelas. The perfect balance between cultural tourism and gastronomic pleasure.
Romo
If you’re looking for an experience off the beaten track, the Romo route is for you. This neighbourhood has its own distinct character, elegant in its simplicity, with bars that retain the charm and character of yesteryear. Perfect for enjoying a quiet drink with locals, where the quality of the food takes centre stage.
Neguri
The Neguri pintxos trail runs along the route linking the Los Chopos area with the station area. This route is a haven for those seeking to escape the crowds. Neguri boasts an exclusive, residential atmosphere, inviting leisurely pace and allowing you to relax and savour every bite and every conversation.
As you’ll see going for pintxos in Getxo is about much more than just eating; it’s about discovering our history bite by bite. These routes are just the starting point for a culinary journey that you can tailor to your own pace; every bar in Getxo offers a unique selection of bite-sized dishes just waiting to be discovered. Whet your appetite, choose your first neighbourhood and come and enjoy our authentic pintxo culture.
