Posted on January 28, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Vitoria is the gateway to Spain’s vibrant Basque region. If you’re flying into Vitoria Airport, you’ll find Vitoria car rental desks in the main arrivals hall of the airport. Vitoria is located 41km to the south of Bilbao, in the northeast of Spain. It was known as a quiet, unassuming hamlet until the 1980s,when it was selected to be the headquarters of the Basque region’s government. Vitoria is the perfect base from which to explore the Basque country. Scenic drives are in plentiful supply here. Easy day-trips include the town of Ezcaray, famous for its upmarket town houses, especially the Palace of the Count of Torremuzquiz. From here, it’s possible to travel on to the Valdezcarey winter sports centre, which is located at the source of the River Oja. You could also try making the trek to La Rioja’s highest point, Pico de San Lorenzo, alternatively make your way to the famous Romanesque church of Tres Fuentes at Valganon.

 A Brief History:

Vitoria developed over time from a small hamlet called Gasteiz. It first came to prominence when it was chosen to be a stronghold against Castille in 1181. During the middle ages, Vitoria continued to grow, eventually mushrooming into a town of three streets, crossing the hill from north to south. Visitors to the town can still see the remains of the old dwellings and buildings. Throughout medieval times, Vitoria was renowned for its craftsmen and guilds. These in turn inspired street names. By the 18th century, the city had expanded outside of its walls. It was during this period that the famous Plaza de Espana was built.