Oñati brings together protected architectural heritage and different ways to discover the town: its old town is classified as a historic ensemble, while hiking trails, Arrikrutz Cave and the Ignatian Way offer other perspectives. When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between architecture, guided tours and outdoor activities—and to keep an eye on current visitor and trail conditions.

Old Town and Architecture

Oñati’s old town is classified as a cultural asset in the historic ensemble category. If you would like to learn more about its history, you can plan a guided tour with the Oñati Tourist Office. It starts at Sancti Spiritus University and the Church of San Miguel, then continues along the town’s notable streets and past its palaces. Check the reservation requirements before your trip.

Oñati University is considered an outstanding example of Renaissance civil architecture in the Basque Country. It was founded in 1548; for three centuries, its main subjects were law, medicine, philosophy, theology and literature. This long educational history adds to the interest of the building itself. The university is currently closed for works. If you are planning a visit, check access in advance.

The Church of San Miguel Arcángel also brings together different periods. The building dates from the 15th century and was built on an earlier structure. Inside, the Chapel of the Pietà contains a Renaissance altarpiece considered one of the finest in the Basque Country. The building also includes a Flamboyant Gothic cloister, built above the Ubao stream. Here, architectural history, a notable altarpiece and a distinctive connection between the architecture and the stream come together in one place.

Hiking Trails, Cave and the Ignatian Way

For days focused on outdoor activity, Oñati’s hiking trails offer routes for all ability levels. They include an adapted route in Gomiztegi. As route options and conditions can change, it is a good idea to check current trail conditions before setting out. Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park is protected both as a natural park and as a Special Area of Conservation (ZEC).

Arrikrutz Cave offers another perspective on the area. Its system extends for 15 kilometres of interconnected underground galleries and has yielded notable prehistoric animal remains. The visitor route on the guided tour follows a floating walkway; dynamic lighting is also part of the experience. The visit thus connects the underground landscape with its palaeontological history.

The Ignatian Way also offers another way to plan your trip. The second stage can be divided into two sections for travellers on foot or by bicycle; the route to the Sanctuary of Arantzazu passes through Oñati. The sanctuary is open daily all year round, and guided tours can be reserved. Before your trip, check trail conditions as well as opening times and reservation options.

To choose what to focus on, it helps to make a clear comparison: the old town, university and San Miguel represent architectural and educational history; Arrikrutz focuses on underground galleries and prehistoric finds. Hiking trails and the Ignatian Way complement these visits with routes on foot or by bicycle. This lets you decide which aspects of Oñati matter most for your stay, without having to fit every activity into a single itinerary.

Discover More Destinations

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For the main travel overview: Gipuzkoa.