
Old Town Alde Zaharra
Alde Zaharra, Bermeo's historic heart, captivates with its charming port, narrow cobblestone streets, and authentic Basque maritime spirit.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days for exploring

Old Town Alde Zaharra
Best Time
Sunny days for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alde Zaharra, Bermeo's historic heart, captivates with its charming port, narrow cobblestone streets, and authentic Basque maritime spirit.
"A beautiful small typical Basque port with friendly people and rich history."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and some inclines mean comfy shoes are a must for exploring Alde Zaharra! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Port
The fishing port is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bermeo Port
The heart of the town
A picturesque fishing port brimming with colorful boats and local life. The perfect spot for a stroll and soaking in the maritime atmosphere.

Old Town Streets
Alde Zaharra
Lose yourself in the labyrinthine cobblestone streets, discovering traditional Basque architecture and charming hidden squares.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Views
Coastal viewpoints near Bermeo
While not directly in Alde Zaharra, the iconic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a must-see nearby, offering dramatic coastal vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Alde Zaharra
Bermeo's Coastal Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and some inclines mean comfy shoes are a must for exploring Alde Zaharra! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Port
The fishing port is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
🌊 Explore the Coastline
Beyond the old town, the cliffs offer spectacular views. Consider a walk for breathtaking scenery. :hiking_boot:
🍽️ Savor Local Flavors
Bermeo is known for its gastronomy. Try fresh seafood at a local restaurant. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and some inclines mean comfy shoes are a must for exploring Alde Zaharra! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Port
The fishing port is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. Don't miss it! :camerawithflash:
🌊 Explore the Coastline
Beyond the old town, the cliffs offer spectacular views. Consider a walk for breathtaking scenery. :hiking_boot:
🍽️ Savor Local Flavors
Bermeo is known for its gastronomy. Try fresh seafood at a local restaurant. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bermeo's Alde Zaharra for its authentic Basque charm, picturesque fishing port, and beautiful coastal surroundings. The historic streets offer a delightful atmosphere for exploration, though some note the terrain can be challenging. It's a place that captures the essence of a traditional coastal town.
"Bermeo is beautiful village with its old city .the people are friendly and proud of their identity and culture.
Beautiful small typical basque port."
Rachni Hakim
"Beautiful place."
Carlos Perera
"Although it was a rainy day, it was nice to walk and wander around. The port is worth seeing, plus there are restaurants and bars if you want to have a drink. In addition, the landscapes are very beautiful, spectacular cliffs..."
Adriana Ghita
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alde Zaharra is the historic center of Bermeo. You can reach Bermeo by car, with parking available near the port, or by public transport. Buses connect Bermeo to nearby cities like Bilbao. Once in Bermeo, Alde Zaharra is easily walkable from the port area.
Yes, Bermeo is accessible by bus from Bilbao and other towns in the region. The journey offers scenic views of the Basque coast.
The best way to explore Alde Zaharra is on foot. Its narrow, winding streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, allowing you to discover its charm at your own pace.
There are parking areas available in Bermeo, particularly around the port. However, during peak season, these can fill up quickly.
Absolutely! Bermeo and its Alde Zaharra are a popular day trip from Bilbao, offering a taste of coastal Basque life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Alde Zaharra is a public historic district, so there are no tickets required to wander its streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
Alde Zaharra is always accessible as it's a living part of the town. Shops and restaurants within the old town will have their own operating hours.
There are no entrance fees for Alde Zaharra itself. You are free to explore the streets and public areas at any time.
While you can admire the exterior of many historic buildings, access to interiors often depends on whether they are private residences, shops, or museums with their own admission policies.
Yes, guided tours are often available that can provide deeper insights into the history and culture of Alde Zaharra and Bermeo. Check local tourist information for options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sights include the picturesque Bermeo port, the historic Church of Santa María, and simply wandering the charming, narrow streets like Calle San Jerónimo.
Yes, Alde Zaharra is generally suitable for walking with children, but be mindful of the cobblestones and occasional steep inclines. Keep a close eye on them in the narrow streets.
You'll find a mix of traditional shops, artisan boutiques, and souvenir stores. Some shops offer local crafts and products.
Public restrooms are typically available near the port area and in some public squares within or adjacent to Alde Zaharra.
The atmosphere is authentic and lively, especially around the port. It's a place where you can feel the strong maritime and Basque identity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bermeo is renowned for its fresh seafood. Look for restaurants around the port that specialize in grilled fish, 'marmitako' (tuna stew), and other local delicacies.
Many bars in Alde Zaharra offer delicious pintxos, the Basque version of tapas. Explore the streets and pop into bars that catch your eye for a culinary adventure.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to ask about specific dishes.
'Txikiteo' is the Basque tradition of going for small drinks (txikitos) and accompanying pintxos. You can experience this by hopping between bars in Alde Zaharra.
Besides seafood, try 'Gilda' (a classic pintxo), 'Bacalao al pil-pil' (cod in garlic-olive oil sauce), and local Basque cider or wine.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bermeo port with its colorful boats, the narrow cobblestone streets, and the historic Church of Santa María are prime photo locations. Look for charming doorways and balconies.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most flattering light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones. The port is also vibrant with activity in the mornings.
While Alde Zaharra itself is best explored from within, viewpoints overlooking the port and the coastline can be found by walking towards the edges of the old town or higher ground.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and the port. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the narrow streets. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the water.
Drone regulations vary and can be strict in populated areas and near coastlines. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours when the port is most active and the streets are safer for exploration. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the terrain can be uneven. While there aren't many dedicated playgrounds within the old town itself, the open spaces around the port offer room to move. Look for family-friendly restaurants that can accommodate children, and perhaps pack some snacks and drinks for younger ones.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Embrace the 'txikiteo' culture by hopping between bars for pintxos and drinks – it's a social way to experience local life. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or other travelers. The cobblestone streets are perfect for aimless wandering, allowing for personal discovery and reflection.
📸 Photographers
Look for architectural details, traditional Basque signage, and the textures of the old stone buildings. The Church of Santa María provides a striking focal point. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and capture a more serene atmosphere. Remember to bring a versatile lens and be prepared for uneven terrain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Maritime Heart of Bermeo
Exploring the port area offers a glimpse into this enduring legacy. Look for the traditional fishing boats, the nets being mended, and the lively atmosphere of the fish market (if operational during your visit). This connection to the sea influences everything from the local cuisine to the proud identity of the Bermeo people. It’s a living history that you can feel as you walk through the streets and along the waterfront.
For those interested in maritime heritage, Bermeo also boasts the Arrantzaleen Museoa (Fishermen's Museum), which further details the town's fishing traditions and the lives of its sailors. This museum provides valuable context to the visual experience of the port and the old town, making your visit more enriching.
Navigating Alde Zaharra's Streets
Getting lost is part of the experience here. Each turn can reveal a hidden plaza, a quaint shop, or a traditional bar perfect for a pintxo and a drink. The architecture is a key feature, with tall, narrow houses often adorned with wooden balconies, showcasing the distinctive Basque building style. Pay attention to the details – the carved doorways, the colorful window frames, and the historical plaques that might tell a story.
While the old town is compact, it’s worth taking your time. Don't rush through; instead, pause to observe the local life, listen to the chatter from open windows, and soak in the authentic atmosphere. The Church of Santa María stands as a significant landmark within the old town, its presence adding to the historical gravitas of the area.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit