Onil(Spain) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

The best area to stay in Oñati for cultural immersion is the historic old town center, particularly around Plaza del Ayuntamiento and Calle San Francisco. This district is home to Iruña Palace, a 16th-century noble residence now housing the Museum of Basque Culture, and the Church of Santa María la Blanca, a striking example of Gothic architecture.

Staying here offers direct access to traditional Basque taverns, where guests can enjoy local dishes like pintxos and txakoli wine. The neighborhood’s cobbled streets, centuries-old stone buildings, and quiet courtyards reflect the town’s deep-rooted heritage. Many guesthouses and boutique hotels, such as Hotel Euskadi, blend historical charm with modern comfort. Being centrally located also makes it easy to walk to festivals, religious processions, and the annual San Sebastián Film Festival screenings held locally.

For the most authentic Basque experience, choose Eskualdun Hotel, a family-run inn nestled in the heart of Oñati’s old quarter. Originally a 19th-century merchant house, it has been meticulously restored to preserve original Basque stone masonry, wooden beams, and hand-painted tiles.

Guests enjoy breakfast featuring local txakoli wine, fresh tortilla de patatas, and leche frita—a traditional sweet custard. The hotel hosts weekly Basque music nights with live txalaparta drumming and folk singers from nearby villages. Staff speak both Spanish and Euskara, the Basque language, and offer personalized tours to hidden gems like the Hermitage of San Juan de la Peña and ancient sheep trails through the Urkiola Natural Park. Staying here means living the culture, not just visiting it.

Visitors to Oñati can enjoy several unique cultural activities that highlight its Basque identity. One must-try is the Txakoli Tasting Tour, a guided walk through local taverns where you sample crisp, dry Basque white wine paired with regional pintxos like anchovy on toast or cheese croquettes.

Another highlight is attending a Basque folk dance performance at the Town Hall Square during summer festivals, often accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the txalaparta (wooden percussion instrument). You can also join a traditional weaving workshop hosted by local artisans, learning how to craft intricate patterns using natural dyes and wool.

For history lovers, the Archaeological Trail near the San Juan de la Peña Hermitage reveals pre-Roman burial sites and medieval inscriptions. These immersive experiences provide genuine insight into the region’s enduring traditions and community spirit.

The best time to visit Oñati is between May and September, when the weather is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This period coincides with major cultural events, especially the Festival of Santa María de la Asunción in late May, featuring parades in traditional Basque costumes, live music, and street food stalls.

July and August bring lively open-air theatre performances at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and nightly markets filled with local crafts and wines. For nature enthusiasts, early September offers ideal conditions for hiking in the Urkiola Natural Park, while also marking the start of the grape harvest season—a great time to participate in wine-making workshops at nearby vineyards.

With pleasant days and vibrant festivities, these months deliver the perfect balance of comfort and cultural immersion.

The most photogenic spots in Oñati include the Church of Santa María la Blanca, whose Gothic façade and stained-glass windows create dramatic light effects, especially at golden hour. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is another favorite—surrounded by centuries-old stone buildings, arcades, and seasonal flower displays, it offers rich textures and vibrant colors.

Don’t miss the ancient oak grove in Parque Marqués de Elera, where towering trees form a natural canopy perfect for ethereal, moody shots. The Iruña Palace courtyard, with its intricate stonework and central fountain, provides a stunning backdrop for architectural photography.

For candid moments, visit during the Festival of Santa María when locals wear traditional Basque attire—perfect for capturing authentic cultural portraits. These locations combine history, beauty, and atmosphere, making them ideal for both travel and fine art photography.

Yes, several hotels in Oñati offer curated local guided tours as part of their guest services. Casa de los Tosos and Hotel Altara provide expertly led walks through the historic center, including visits to the Church of Santa María la Blanca, the Iruña Palace Museum, and hidden alleyways lined with traditional Basque stone houses.

Tours often include insights into Basque architecture, religious traditions, and the town’s role in regional history. Some packages feature a farmers’ market tour, where guests meet local producers selling artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and organic vegetables.

Guides speak Spanish, English, and Euskara, and many hotels partner with local cultural associations to offer immersive experiences like traditional cooking classes, folk music sessions, or even a one-day resident program where guests assist in preparing festival meals. These tours deepen understanding and foster meaningful connections with the community.