Pintxos Crawl in Algorta Old Quarter
Tucked behind the port, the old fishermen's quarter of Algorta is a labyrinth of steep, whitewashed lanes lined with pintxos bars that are completely unknown to the average Bilbao day-tripper. This is where Getxo locals actually eat and drink — and the standard is ferociously high.
Where to Start: Puerto Viejo de Algorta
The Puerto Viejo (old port) square is the natural anchor for a crawl. Bar Tontorroi on the harbourside is the local institution, famous for its anchovy-and-pepper pintxos and ice-cold txakoli poured from a height in the traditional Basque style to aerate the wine.
From the port, climb the steep Calle Andra Mari into the heart of the quarter. The streets here are barely wide enough for two people side by side, the buildings are painted in faded ochre and blue, and nearly every doorway conceals a bar with a counter loaded with small plates.
What to Order
Look for bacalao al pil-pil (salt cod in a trembling garlic-olive oil emulsion), gildas (the classic Basque skewer of olive, guindilla pepper and anchovy), and whatever the chalk-board special is — it will almost certainly be seasonal and local.
Txakoli, the local sharp, lightly sparkling white wine, is the default drink and costs around €2–3 a glass. If you want something more substantial, ask for a glass of Rioja Alavesa; the Basque side of Rioja is just an hour inland and the wines here are excellent and fairly priced.
Rhythm and Etiquette
The local rhythm is one or two pintxos and one drink per bar, then move on. Don't rush — part of the pleasure is the conversation at the bar, the clatter of glasses and the smell of the plancha. Most bars get busy from 13:00–15:00 for lunch and again from 20:00 onwards.
Pintxos are typically €1.50–€3 each. Keep your receipt or count your sticks honestly — the honour system is alive and well in Algorta and locals take a dim view of anyone who tries to game it.
More of Getxo
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Getxo →
