Pasajes, Spain Cruise Port

Off the Bay of Biscay is the pretty Basque fishing village of and cruise port of Pasajes, Spain, home to around 16,000 residents. Tucked inside the Harbor of Pasaia and flanked by the Mount Ulia ridge and the Jaizkibel mountain range, the town's history goes back at least to 1203 where records show its name as Oiarso. Also called Pasaia, the name was eventually changed to "Pasage" by the French Gascons, which translates to "port." Around the 15th century, the town's name became what it is today. Pasajes is famous as the birthplace of Blas de Lezo, the Spanish admiral best remembered for fighting in the 1741 Battle of Cartagena de Indias, where the Spanish fought back the British. There are many architectural sites to explore, and traveling around by foot is the best way to do so. Here are some of our favorite experiences when cruising to Pasajes, Spain:

Literature fans will want to visit the Casa Museo Victor Hugo, dedicated to French author Victor Hugo. Hugo spent the summer of 1843, and the second floor of this museum showcases some of his first editions, various prints, and period furniture. The town's tourist office is on the first floor.
For maritime history, check out the Albaola Foundation, which displays a timeline of Pasajes' whaling industry. There’s a life-sized replica of the ship San Juan, which sunk near Newfoundland in 1565 but wasn’t discovered until 1978.
For a gorgeous view and a bit of climbing, visit the lighthouse known as Faro de la Plata. Although the lighthouse itself is not accessible to the public, its exterior looks like a mini-castle. Watching the large ships sail through the port is a peaceful way to pass the time.
For some more walking, follow the coastal path that leads from Pasajes to the larger port city of San Sebastián. If you choose to make the entire walk, it will take several hours; however, you can enjoy the shorter version and still enjoy sea views and unique cliff formations. There's also a beach around the halfway point, great for a swim.

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