Albaola Foundation

Eastern Basque Country


This terrific museum charts the history of Pasaia's whaling industry. At the centre of the story is the San Juan, a galleon that sunk off the coast of Newfoundland in 1565. Models and explanatory panels describe the ship and illustrate how a team of Canadian underwater archaeologists discovered its wreck in 1978. The highlight, though, is the life-size replica of the ship being constructed using the same techniques and materials that were used to build the original.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Eastern Basque Country attractions

1. Faro de la Plata

0.18 MILES

It's a 2.5km walk north from Pasai San Pedro, but the views from around the lighthouse (closed to the public) are worth the effort. It takes about 45…

2. Mater Museoa

0.31 MILES

Docked just south of San Pedro's ferry landing, this 33-metre-long former fishing vessel once plied the Cantabrian Sea and it now serves as a museum of…

3. Casa Museo Victor Hugo

0.37 MILES

French author Victor Hugo spent the summer of 1843 in Pasaia, lodging at this typical 17th-century waterfront house and working on his travelogue En…

4. Monte Ulia

2.21 MILES

Monte Ulia is just moments from the city centre, but in terms of peace and tranquility it's worlds away. To get here, follow the road just behind the…

5. Playa de la Zurriola

2.49 MILES

Stretching 800m in front of Gros, from the Kursaal to Monte Ulía, 'Zurri', as it's known locally, has some excellent waves that draw surfers from near and…

6. Tabakalera

2.67 MILES

Sun-drenched cultural space Tabakalera occupies a beautifully reconfigured tobacco factory dating from 1913. It's a hub for the arts and design, as well…

7. Kursaal

2.67 MILES

Designed by Rafael Moneo and opened in 1999, the Kursaal is one of the city's most striking buildings. Consisting of two cubes made of translucent glass…

8. Parque de Cristina Enea

2.74 MILES

Created by the Duke of Mandas in honour of his wife, the Parque de Cristina Enea is a favourite escape for locals. This formal park, the most attractive…