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Discovering Northern Spain: A Telegraph Travel Guide

• por Elisabeth Gonzalez Smith
• julio 16, 2024

Are you ready to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of northern Spain? From the lush greenery of the Basque Country to the historic cities of Galicia, the region offers a wealth of experiences for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in delicious cuisine, ancient architecture, or breathtaking natural beauty, northern Spain has something for everyone. Join us as we take a journey through this captivating destination, uncovering hidden gems and must-see attractions along the way. Get ready to be inspired by the beauty of northern Spain with Telegraph Travel.

Is Northern Spain worth visiting?

Northern Spain is a hidden gem waiting to be explored, with its gastronomy, elegant cities, small villages, natural landscapes, and sandy beaches all offering a unique and diverse experience for travelers. Our destination experts have carefully curated road trip itineraries to showcase the best that this region has to offer, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation.

What is the hidden gem in northern Spain?

Santiago de Compostela, a hidden gem in northern Spain, is a beautiful city in Galicia that is definitely worth a visit. The city is home to an impressive Gothic Cathedral, where the remains of Apostle St. James are believed to be. This historical site is a must-see for anyone looking to explore off-the-beaten path destinations in Spain.

With its rich history and stunning architecture, Santiago de Compostela offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. The city’s charming streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, and its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine are sure to captivate visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a new adventure, Santiago de Compostela has something for everyone.

For those seeking a hidden gem in Spain, Santiago de Compostela is the perfect destination. From its breathtaking Cathedral to its picturesque streets, this city offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave a lasting impression. Discover the beauty and charm of northern Spain with a visit to Santiago de Compostela.

What is the secret coast of Spain that tourists forgot?

Escape the crowds and discover the hidden gem of Costa de Almeria in Spain. With its rugged coastlines, desert landscapes, and wild beaches, this secret coast offers a unique and untouched beauty that many tourists have overlooked. Nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, this hidden paradise is waiting to be explored.

Experience a different side of Spain on the Costa de Almeria. This unspoiled stretch of coastline is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. From secluded coves to picturesque fishing villages, this secret coast offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Uncover the beauty of Spain’s best-kept secret on the Costa de Almeria. With its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming villages, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the true essence of Spain. Escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this secret coast – you won’t be disappointed.

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Northern Spain

Discover the enchanting charm of Northern Spain, where hidden gems await around every corner. From the lush green landscapes of Galicia to the stunning beaches of the Basque Country, this region is a treasure trove of cultural riches and natural beauty. Explore the medieval streets of Santiago de Compostela, taste the world-renowned pintxos in San Sebastian, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Gaudi in Barcelona. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Northern Spain is a destination that will captivate your heart and leave you longing for more.

Your Ultimate Travel Companion to Northern Spain

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Northern Spain with our ultimate travel companion. Discover the picturesque villages nestled in the lush green mountains, indulge in the mouthwatering culinary delights of the region, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Bilbao, savoring the renowned pintxos in San Sebastian, or marveling at the stunning architecture of Gaudi in Barcelona, our guide will ensure that every moment of your adventure is filled with wonder and excitement.

From the stunning beaches of the Basque Country to the breathtaking peaks of the Pyrenees mountains, Northern Spain offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler. With our comprehensive guide in hand, you’ll be able to navigate the charming cobblestone streets of Santander, hike through the ancient forests of Galicia, and sample the world-famous wines of La Rioja with ease. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Northern Spain has something to offer everyone. Let our travel companion be your guide as you embark on a journey of a lifetime in this captivating region.

Embark on a Journey Through Northern Spain’s Rich Culture

Embark on a journey through Northern Spain and immerse yourself in its rich culture. From the vibrant streets of Bilbao to the historic architecture of Santiago de Compostela, every corner of this region tells a story of its own. Indulge in delicious pintxos in San Sebastian, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Basque Country, and explore the ancient traditions of Galicia. Northern Spain’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more.

Discover the artistic treasures of Gaudi in Barcelona, marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Pyrenees, and experience the unique blend of modernity and tradition in cities like Pamplona and Oviedo. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Northern Spain has something for everyone. So pack your bags, set out on an adventure, and let the rich culture of this enchanting region sweep you off your feet.

Northern Spain: A Must-See Destination for Travel Enthusiasts

Discover the rugged beauty of Northern Spain, where lush green landscapes meet dramatic coastlines and charming villages dot the countryside. From the vibrant city of Bilbao with its iconic Guggenheim Museum to the picturesque beaches of San Sebastian, there is something for every traveler to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the region as you explore medieval castles, sample world-renowned cuisine, and experience the warmth of the local hospitality.

Venture off the beaten path and uncover hidden gems in Northern Spain, where ancient traditions are still alive and well. Wander through the narrow streets of historic towns like Santillana del Mar, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, or hike through the stunning peaks of the Picos de Europa National Park. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or relaxation on the sandy shores of the Cantabrian Sea, Northern Spain is a must-see destination that will captivate your senses and leave you longing for more.

In a region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, North Spain offers a truly unforgettable travel experience. From the rugged beauty of the Picos de Europa to the charming coastal towns of Galicia, there is something for every type of traveler to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets of Santiago de Compostela or savoring pintxos in San Sebastian, the north of Spain is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags and set off on a journey to discover the magic of this captivating region.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain | Itineraries + Map

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | 10 Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain | Itineraries + Map

Deciding where to go and what to see in northern Spain is no easy feat. There are so many beautiful places worth visiting, so your itinerary will depend on your interests and the length of your trip. Regardless, I can assure you that the north of Spain is full of green landscapes and delicious food, so you won’t be disappointed.

The biggest challenge when traveling in northern Spain is choosing a route since there are different autonomous communities you can go through. The northern part of the country generally refers to the regions of Galicia , Asturias , Cantabria , and the Basque Country , so those are the areas I’m focusing on in this guide.

Each of these communities has lovely places and attractions, so keep reading to discover the best northern Spain itinerary and travel ideas.

Guide to planning your northern Spain road trip

There are numerous beaches, mountains, and cities in northern Spain ’s four autonomous communities, so I recommend planning ahead. This way, you can make the most of your trip and see all the places that match your interests and preferences.

In this guide, I’ll include several itineraries through the north of Spain to help you organize a route through this region. You’ll find travel ideas for a weekend getaway as well as longer trips up to two weeks. I’m also sharing some tips for your vacation and my top 10 best places to visit in northern Spain .

• 10 Best places to visit in northern Spain

Northern Spain map

• Weekend getaway
• 10-day trip
• 15-day trip
• Other tips for traveling to northern Spain

1. Bilbao, one of the best cities in northern Spain

First, Bilbao is one of the most popular cities in northern Spain , so it’s a must-see. It’s located in the Basque Country and has undergone some impressive changes in recent years, making it a hub for culture and history.

One of the crown jewels of Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum , which was designed by famous architect Frank Gehry. In addition to its iconic façade, floral puppy sculpture, and unique structure, the inside of the museum is full of intriguing contemporary art exhibits. If you plan on visiting, I recommend getting your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Besides the Guggenheim, I also suggest watching the sunset from the Marzana Pier, a fun place to socialize and grab drinks. You should also stroll through the Arenal, La Ribera Market, and the arches of Plaza Nueva.

You can get a general overview of the city by taking this free tour . Also, Bilbao has some of the best food in northern Spain , so I recommend going out for pintxos , or tapas. Some common pintxos here include gilda (green olives, gherkins, pickled green chiles, and anchovies) as well as various cheeses and meats.

• Recommended accommodation : If you can, book a room at the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao , one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain that’s located in front of the Guggenheim Museum. It was designed by Spanish artist Javier Mariscal and has a spectacular rooftop terrace overlooking the city.

2. San Sebasti án, a city with some of the best food in northern Spain

Another city in northern Spain ’s Basque Country that you must visit is San Sebastián . It’s always included in the top 5 lists of the most beautiful cities in Spain , and it’s not hard to see why.

One of the most striking features of San Sebastián is that its bay is framed by Mount Igueldo and the island of Santa Clara. This city is home to a couple of urban beaches as well as Playa de la Concha , one of the best beaches in Spain . So, if you’re traveling during the summer, this is a stop you must make along the north coast of Spain .

2. San Sebastián, a city with some of the best food in northern Spain

While you’re here, I recommend taking a stroll along the Zurriola Beach Promenade. Follow it around Monte Urgull, along the Paseo Nuevo, and cross the bay to Ondarreata Beach. There, you can see the Peine del Viento , an impressive sculpture by Spanish artists Eduardo Chillida and Peña Gantxegi.

It’s also worth visiting the city center, which is full of plazas, bridges, buildings, and restaurants. In fact, San Sebastián is another great place to eat in northern Spain , thanks to its delicious pintxos . The best way to sample all the delicious options is by taking this gourmet pintxos tour .

• Recommended accommodation : This city is home to one of the best luxury hotels in Spain that has welcomed famous faces like Woody Allen and Elizabeth Taylor. The Hotel María Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel is across from the Victoria Eugenia Theater and offers stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Urumea River, so it’s a phenomenal place to stay.

3. Cudillero, one of the most charming places in northern Spain

Over in Asturias, Cudillero is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain , so I highly recommend adding it to your northern Spain itinerary . The town’s biggest draw is its unique landscape, which features colorful houses nestled around the blue sea and among the green trees.

In addition, the nearby community of Castañeras is home to Playa del Silencio , one of the best beaches in Spain with virgin sands and a rustic environment. It’s in the shape of a shell that curves around a rocky cliff, which acts as a natural barrier against the wind. This makes the waters here very calm, so it’s a pleasant beach in northern Spain that you can visit for some peace and quiet.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at Casona de La Paca , an old Asturian country house with a welcoming atmosphere. It’s surrounded by lush gardens filled with the typical vegetation of Asturias, so it’s a relaxing place to rest before continuing your trip.

4. Santiago de Compostela, a must-see on your route through the north of Spain

If there’s one thing in the north of Spain that you must do at least once in your life, it’s the Camino de Santiago . This is one of the most important hikes in Spain and a sacred pilgrimage that ends in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.

This city is the perfect place to end such a monumental hike, as it’s full of history and religious significance. One of its most iconic landmarks is its cathedral, which was built at the site where the hidden tomb of the Apostle Santiago was discovered in the 9 th century. Since then, devout followers have been making the pilgrimage here, and in 1805, King Alfonso VI ordered that a Romanesque cathedral be built. You can learn more about the Santiago Cathedral on this guided tour .

I also suggest you go to the Church of San Martiño Pinario, Alameda Park, and the Plaza de Cervantes, as well as stop at some of the bars and restaurants for some delicious Galician food. Another excellent city tour is this one , which goes to sites like the Palacio de Rajoy, the Plaza de Laterías, and the University of Santiago.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Católicos , a beautiful 15 th -century building next to the Santiago Cathedral. It used to be an accommodation for traveling pilgrims, and it still has its original vaulted ceilings, stone arches, and tapestries. It also has two restaurants where you can order Mediterranean and Galician dishes.

5. The Lakes of Covadonga, another place to visit in northern Spain

While you’re exploring the northern region of Spain , you can’t miss the Picos de Europa. Not only is this one of the top national parks in Spain, but it’s also home to the Lakes of Covadonga , a magnificent natural treasure.

If you love nature, I can’t recommend this place enough since it has the most beautiful landscapes in the north of Spain . The famous Enol and Ercina Lakes are gorgeous, and the Queen Viewpoint is the perfect spot to look for native birds like bearded vultures and golden eagles.

Also, some of the best tours through the north of Spain leave from the Lakes of Covadonga, so if you want to discover more about this incredible environment, you can do so. I recommend this excursion , which includes a visit to a vega , a dwelling where shepherds live during the summer to rest and make Gamoneu cheese, a famous product of this area.

• Recommended accommodation : The Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo is in the center of the Picos de Europa National Park, so it’s a good place to spend the night. From here, you’ll have nice views of the Cathedral of Covadonga.

6. Santillana del Mar, a medieval town in the north of Spain

Santillana del Mar is another one of the best places to visit in northern Spain . While its name refers to the town being holy, flat, and by the sea, it has none of these characteristics, which is why it’s also known as “the town of the three lies”. That said, there is a lot to do and see in this Asturian town, so I recommend adding it to your northern Spain itinerary .

First, this is one of the most important medieval towns in the country, with thousands of years of history. The best way to learn more about its great historical and artistic value is by taking this free tour (in Spanish). A guide will lead you through the cobbled streets and past iconic landmarks like the House of the Marqués de Santillana and the House of the Archduchess of Austria.

If you prefer something more adventurous, check out the Altamira Museum and the Neocave, a life-size replica of the original Paleolithic caves. This excursion includes a guided tour of the archaeological wonder, its cave paintings, and other curiosities.

• Recommended accommodation : To make your stay extra special, stay at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , one of the best paradores in Spain . This modern hotel is in the town’s main square and has a private patio.

7. Playa de las Catedrales, one of the best beaches in northern Spain

The northern coast of Spain is absolutely gorgeous, and it has one of the most unique beaches in the entire country. Playa de las Catedrales in Lugo, Galicia is considered one of the best beaches in Spain , so you must include it in your travel plans.

Playa de las Catedrales is one of the most popular tourist attractions in northern Spain , so much so that it’s known by its nickname rather than its original name of Aguas Santas (Holy Waters). Tourists began calling it the “Beach of the Cathedrals” since the gigantic rock formations here create arches and towers that resemble churches.

If you want to visit this beach in northern Spain but if you don’t have a car, consider this excursion from La Coruña. It’ll take you to Playa de las Catedrales as well as the city of Lugo so you can see its Roman wall.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hotel Playa de las Catedrales , which faces the Cantabrian Sea and is within walking distance of Playa de las Catedrales and Arealonga Beach.

8. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an amazing place to see in northern Spain

Back in the Basque Country, in the town of Bermeo, the island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a unique place to add to your northern Spain road trip . This gorgeous setting looks like a fantasy land, and it kind of is since it was one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones .

The island is connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, and you can walk along the 241-stepped path to reach the top. It’s worth the effort to climb these famous stone steps, which lead to a hermitage and a place that’s believed to have been visited by John the Baptist. The hermitage has a bell, and it’s said that if you touch it three times, you’ll have good luck, while others think that if you make a wish here, it’ll come true.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is just over 20 miles from Bilbao, another must-see city in northern Spain . You can easily drive there or take this tour from Bilbao if you don’t have a car. The tour includes a stop at the historic city of Guernica, where the first Nazi air raid occurred.

• Recommended accommodation : The Ureta Landa Gaztelugatxe apartments are a good option since they are surrounded by a beautiful landscape and are located just over a mile from Areaga Beach.

9. C íes Islands, a dreamy place to visit on the coast of northern Spain

Another wonderful stop to include on your itinerary through northern Spain is the Cíes Islands . These islands have a privileged location in Galicia and are full of history and beauty.

Back when the Romans passed through this archipelago, they left behind traces of their culture, including pottery and artifacts. Today, you can see these objects in the Pontevedra Museum along the Lérez River in Galicia. Legend has it that Julius Caesar came here during the persecution of the Portuguese people of herminios, who sailed here after fleeing the troops of the Empire.

9. Cíes Islands, a dreamy place to visit on the coast of northern Spain

In the Middle Ages, various religious communities began to inhabit the Cíes Islands, but they were wiped out in the mid-18 th century by pirates and the English navy. After this, people began repopulating the island, and by the late 20 th century, the area had become a declared Natural Park and a Special Protection Area for Birds.

Since 2002, the Cíes Islands have been part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, along with the archipelagos of Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada. If you come here, you must visit Playa de Rodas , one of the best beaches in northern Spain with impressive pine forests. Be aware that only 2,200 people can visit per day, so it’s best to book this ticket in advance, which includes the ferry ride and permit to access the beach.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Pazo Los Escudos Hotel Spa & Resort , which offers ocean and garden views as well as relaxing spa facilities.

10. San Vicente de la Barquera, the perfect place for a northern Spain holiday

Finally, San Vicente de la Barquera is a spectacular destination in northern Spain that you should visit. This fishing village is on the western coast of Cantabria and is surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

What stands out about this place is its medieval history and architecture, including the Puente de la Maza and the ruins of the Convent of San Luis. You should also check out the old town ( Puebla Vieja ), which has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site.

From there, you can continue along Calle Alta to the Palacio de los Corro, which has been converted into the Town Hall. The Church of Santa María de Los Angeles is at the end of the street, and the Castillo del Rey is also nearby.

Of course, a different way to explore this northern Spanish town is by taking this kayaking excursion through the San Vicente estuary. You’ll get great views of the historic town center while enjoying some exercise.

• Recommended accommodation : Just over a mile from the town center, you’ll find the Posada Punta Liñera . This charming rural property has a terrace overlooking the countryside, the Bay of Biscay, and the beautiful surroundings of Cantabria .

To help you organize your northern Spain itinerary , here is a map with all the attractions and cities I mentioned:

I’m also sharing some ideas for planning a road trip through northern Spain , whether you just have a weekend, or you can stay for a couple of weeks .

Best road trip itineraries in northern Spain

Now that you know the best places to visit in northern Spain , here are some itinerary suggestions for a weekend trip and longer road trips of 4, 7, 10, and 15 days .

Weekend trip to northern Spain

For the best weekend visit in northern Spain , consider spending some time exploring the Basque Country. Below you’ll find the route we took during one of our trips.

Day 1: Bilbao

Bilbao is one of the best cities in northern Spain ’s Basque Country, so I definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary. It’s not very big, so you should be able to see most of it in one day.

If you prefer a guided overview of the city, consider doing this free tour in the morning. If you’re exploring on your own, check out the Guggenheim Museum. It’s worth seeing both the outside and inside of the museum, so book your ticket in advance to avoid long lines.

In the afternoon, walk along the water toward Casco Viejo, where you can see the beautiful Arriaga Theater. This area is also full of bars and restaurants where you can try the most delicious pintxos .

I also recommend visiting La Ribera Market and the Santiago Cathedral, then ending your day in Plaza Nueva.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao , one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain that’s across from the Guggenheim Museum.

Day 2: San Sebastián

The next day, get up early and head to San Sebastián , another lovely city in northern Spain . It’s about 60 miles away, so it’ll take about an hour and 15 minutes to drive there.

Once you reach San Sebastián, check out the Zurriola Beach Promenade and walk around Monte Urgull and Paseo Nuevo. From there, you can cross the bay to Ondarreta Beach, where you’ll find the Peine del Viento sculpture.

Then, head into the city center and discover its plazas, bridges, and buildings. It’s also worth doing this gourmet pintxos tour to try some delicious food. Also, a visit to San Sebastián isn’t complete without a stop at La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : You’ll love the Hotel María Cristina , one of the most luxurious hotels in northern Spain with great views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Urumea River.

4-day trip through the north of Spain

If you have a couple more days to add to your itinerary through northern Spain , you’ll be able to discover some of the charming areas in Cantabria and Asturias.

Day 1: Santander and San Vicente de la Barquera

Start your northern Spain road trip in Santander , Cantabria with a tour of the Magdalena Peninsula. Then, continue along the Sardinero to see the most beautiful beaches in Santander, including Mataleñas Beach and the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. Finish up the morning with a visit to the Botín Center and the Paseo Marítimo.

For the second half of the day, go to San Vicente de la Barquera , which is about 35 miles (30 minutes) from Santander.

Start your visit here by crossing the Puente de la Maza to the ruins of the Convent of San Luis. Then, follow Mata Linares Street to the Puebla Vieja (old town) and see the Tower of the Provost. Along Calle Alta, you can see the Palacio de los Corro, which is now the Town Hall, as well as the Church of Santa María de Los Angeles. If you have time, go to the Castillo del Rey.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Posada Punta Liñera , a rural estate that’s a mile from San Vicente de la Barquera’s city center. It has a lovely terrace that overlooks the countryside and the Bay of Biscay.

Day 2: Llanes and its beaches

After spending the night in San Vicente de la Barquera, get up early and head to Llanes , Asturias. It’s 25 miles away, so it’s only about a 30-minute drive.

Take this opportunity to visit beautiful Gulpiyuri Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain and one of the smallest beaches in the world. It’s also worth seeing Playa de Poo, a family-friendly beach with gentle waves.

In the afternoon, you can visit the port of Llanes and its famous Cubes of Memory, which are painted rocks that serve as a breakwater. Then, take a walk through Llanes’ historic center, which is an Asset of Cultural Interest and a Historic-Artistic Site. Later, enjoy a nice dinner to end your day.

• Recommended accommodation: One of the best places to stay is the Hotel Sablón , which is located on a cliff. Along with lovely views, it offers direct beach access.

Day 3: Ribadesella, Lastres, and Tazones

The next stop on this northern Spain road trip is Ribadesella . It’s also in Asturias, and it takes less than 30 minutes to drive the 20 miles to Ribadesella from Llanes.

Once you arrive, head to the pier where you can take a stroll along the water and through the old town. Check out the Casa de los Ardines, the Casona del Escudo, and the Prieto Cutre Palace, which is now the Town Hall.

Before lunch, I suggest going to Lastres , one of the most beautiful towns in Spain that’s about 20 miles from Ribadesella. It’s known for its steep and narrow streets as well as the Mirador de San Roque, an incredible viewpoint where you can see the town, the sea, and the mountains.

Then, end the day at Tazones , which is less than 20 miles from Lastres. You must walk through the town center and see the iconic shell house (Casa de las Conchas).

• Recommended accommodation : The Apartamentos Rurales Les Mestes has super cozy rooms in a peaceful area of Tazones.

Day 4: Cangas de Onís and Lakes of Covadonga

To start the fourth day of your northern Spain itinerary , go to Cangas de Onís in Asturias. It’s about 45 miles (1 hour) from Tazones, so I recommend getting up early to maximize your time.

The highlights of this city include the Roman Bridge and the old town, where you can people-watch and relax at a cider house ( sagardotegi ), a staple of Basque Country culture.

Then, go to the Lakes of Covadonga , the most beautiful place in northern Spain to end your trip. The Lakes of Covadonga is one of the best national parks in Spain and home to magnificent natural wonders like the Enol and Ercina Lakes. You must explore this impressive landscape, and if you prefer a guide, I suggest this excursion .

• Recommended accommodation : I highly recommend staying at the Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo , which is in the middle of the Picos de Europa National Park and overlooks the stunning Covadonga Cathedral.

7-day northern Spain road trip

A 7-day itinerary through northern Spain is ideal if you want to explore the areas of the Basque Country, Cantabria, and Asturias. You can see my top destinations and recommendations below, but feel free to change things around to suit your travel plans.

Day 1: Hondarribia and San Sebastián

I’d start this trip through the north of Spain in Hondarribia , in the Basque Country. If you have a rental car, you can park it in the lot by the Puerta de Santa María, then walk into the walled city to see landmarks like Plaza del Obispo, Calle Mayor, and Plaza de Armas.

In the afternoon, head to San Sebastián , which is about a 30-minute (15-mile) drive away. San Sebastián is one of the most charming Spanish cities with an impressive town center. It’s also home to some of Spain’s best beaches , including La Concha Beach.

• Recommended accommodation : The best place to stay in is the Hotel María Cristina , one of the best luxury hotels in Spain . it’s across from the Victoria Eugenia Theater and offers great views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Urumea River.

The next day, take some time to explore the hidden gems of San Sebastián. Walk along Zurriola Beach and go around Monte Urgull. If you follow the Paseo Nuevo and cross the bay, you’ll find Ondarreata Beach and the Peine del Viento sculpture by Spanish artists Eduardo Chillida and Peña Gantxegi.

Afterwards, you can go back to the town center to enjoy some delicious pintxos and Spanish cuisine. This gourmet tour is the best option if you want to try all the typical pintxos of this region.

• Recommended accommodation : Return to the Hotel María Cristina for a good night’s sleep before continuing your northern Spain road trip .

Day 3: Bilbao

For day three, wake up early and make the drive to Bilbao , one of the best cities in northern Spain . It’s about 65 miles away, so it’ll take about an hour and 15 minutes by car.

Check out the famous Guggenheim Museum and its stunning exterior, which was designed by architect Frank Gehry. It’s also worth browsing the art exhibits inside, so if you plan on visiting, get your ticket in advance.

I also recommend going past the Arenal, La Ribera Market, and the arches of Plaza Nueva. Depending on your interests, it’s worth doing a pintxos tasting or taking this free tour for more insights into the city.

To end your day, you must watch the sunset from the Marzana Pier. It’s a dreamy location where you can spend a romantic evening with your partner and grab a drink.

• Recommended accommodation : If you can, book a room at the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao , one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain . It was designed by Spanish architect Javier Mariscal and has an impressive rooftop terrace where you can see the city and its surroundings.

Day 4: Santillana del Mar and Comillas

To start this fourth day of your northern Spain trip , get up early and make your way to Santillana del Mar in Cantabria. It’s 75 miles away, so it’s about a 1.5-hour drive.

Santillana del Mar is a medieval Spanish town with lots of historical and artistic value. You’ll love strolling through its cobblestone streets and past picturesque landmarks like the House of the Marqués de Santillana or the Palace of the Archduchess Margarita of Austria. If you have time, book this free tour (in Spanish) or this guided tour to visit the Altamira Museum and Neocave.

Next, continue your journey by visiting the beautiful town of Comillas , which is about a 20-minute (15-mile) drive away. Don’t miss the most important monuments here like the Plaza de los Tres Caños, the Plaza de la Constitución, the Church of San Cristóbal, and the Capricho Villa by Gaudí.

• Recommended accommodation : I suggest returning to Santillana del Mar and spending the night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , a modern hotel in the main square.

Day 5: Llanes and Ribadesella

If you spent the night in Santillana del Mar, then you can wake up early and drive to Llanes , Asturias. It’s about 40 miles away, so the drive takes about 45 minutes. Once you reach Llanes, check out the port and see the famous Cubes of Memory along the shoreline. Then, take a walk through the old town, which is a declared Historic-Artistic Site and Asset of Cultural Interest.

Grab some lunch, then drive to Ribadesella , which is just 20 miles from Llanes. You should have enough time to stroll along the pier and see the most famous sights in Ribadesella’s old town.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hotel Don Pepe in Ribadesella, a clean hotel with bright and spacious rooms.

Day 6: Cudillero and Luarca

Next, it’s time to visit Cudillero , a must-see area of northern Spain . It’s about 70 miles from Ribadesella, so I suggest getting up early to make the 1 hour and 15-minute drive.

Cudillero is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain and is located on a cliff, so it’s quite scenic. Go up to the La Garita Viewpoint for an amazing perspective of the town, then spend some time exploring the narrow streets of the center. Make your way to the Plaza de la Marina, where you can grab a bite to eat and see the port.

Since Cudillero is pretty small, you should have time to also visit Luarca , which is less than 30 minutes away. This is another charming Spanish town with a bustling port. Take a walk through this small seaside town and discover the Puente del Beso, the Casas de Indianos, and the Gardens of the Fonte Baxa.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Villa de Luarca is an elegant accommodation with a great location by the town center and the beach.

Day 7: Ribadeo, Playa de las Catedrales, and A Coruña

For the last day of this week-long holiday in northern Spain , go to Ribadeo , which is 30 miles from Luarca and a 30-minute drive away.

One of the sites here that you can’t miss is the Plaza de España. It’s where several iconic buildings and monuments are located, such as the Pazo de Ibáñez and the Torre de los Moreno. Some other places to see in town include the Convent of Santa Clara, the lively port, and the Chapel of San Miguel, which has lovely views.

Also, before leaving Ribadeo, you must visit Playa de las Catedrales , a National Monument and one of the top beaches in Spain . Then, get in the car and head to A Coruña , which is about an hour and a half (95 miles) away.

There are many beautiful things to see in this city, so I suggest taking this free tour (in Spanish) to see as much as possible. You could also visit the historic center on your own and check out popular sites like the Galerías la Marina, the Plaza de María Pita, and the Jardines de Santiago.

• Recommended accommodation : The NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre has a great location that’s within walking distance of the center and some of the city’s main attractions.

10-day itinerary for northern Spain

With 10 days in northern Spain , you can expand your itinerary to include the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.

Day 1: San Sebastián

San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful Spanish cities , as well as an excellent starting point for your northern Spain itinerary . Begin your visit with a stroll along Zurriola Beach, then go around Monte Urgull and follow the Paseo Nuevo to Ondarreta Beach. There, you can see the famous Peine del Viento sculpture.

Continue your adventure by walking through the city center and getting lost among the streets, squares, bridges, and historical buildings. To all this, I must add La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain . I also recommend this gourmet tour , especially if you want to try the most popular pintxos in San Sebastián.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hotel María Cristina , one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain that’s across from the Victoria Eugenia Theater. Not only is the inside gorgeous, but you’ll have great views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Urumea River.

Day 2: Bilbao

Bilbao is another city in northern Spain that you can easily explore on foot, and you can see all its main tourist attractions in one day. It’s 65 miles from San Sebastián, so I recommend waking up early to make the one hour and 15-minute drive.

Start your visit to Bilbao with this free tour , or check out the famous Guggenheim Museum . It was built by famed architect Frank Gehry and is known for its floral puppy sculpture out front. If you plan on looking at the art exhibits inside, I suggest getting your ticket in advance.

Afterwards, head toward the estuary and follow it to the Casco Viejo, where you can see the Arriaga Theater. It’s also worth visiting La Ribera Market, the Santiago Cathedral, and Plaza Nueva. Along the way, be sure to stop for delectable pintxos .

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao , one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain . It was designed by Spanish architect Javier Mariscal and is in front of the Guggenheim Museum.

Day 3: Castro Urdiales, Faro del Caballo, and Santander

The third day of this northern Spain road trip begins with a visit to Castro Urdiales , a city in Cantabria with beautiful beaches, a lively port, and an interesting old town. It’s just 20 miles from Bilbao, so it’ll only take about a half hour to drive there.

After spending the morning discovering Castro Urdiales, make your way to Santander, stopping at the Faro del Caballo along the way. This picturesque place is located between some seaside cliffs, and it’s about 25 from Castro Urdiales. Be aware that if you make this pitstop and climb the 763 steps of the cliffs, it’ll cut into your time at Santander, which is 30 miles from here.

Regardless of whether or not you take this detour, you should get to Santander with enough time to walk through the Sardinero and enjoy a cold beer at the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, which offers stunning views.

• Recommended accommodation : The NH Ciudad de Santander is a simple, clean hotel with a great location, so it’s a good value for your money.

Day 4: Santillana del Mar, Altamira Caves, and Comillas

For day four, I suggest making a stop in Santillana del Mar , where you can see the famous Cuevas de Altamira , one of the most important Paleolithic sites in the world. Santillana del Mar is an intriguing medieval town in northern Spain that’s less than 20 miles from Santander, so it’ll only take a half hour to get there.

Use your time in Santillana del Mar to visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, Plaza Mayor, and the historic town center, which is characterized by cobblestone streets and small mountain homes. You can either do this free tour to learn more about the city, or this guided tour , which takes you to the Altamira Museum and the Neocave.

Later, make the 20-minute drive to Comillas , one of the most scenic towns in Cantabria. Here, you can see one of the few works by Gaudí that’s outside of Catalonia, the Capricho Villa. Some other highlights of this city include the Sobrellano Palace, the Chapel Pantheon of the Marquises of Comillas, and the historic center, where you’ll find the Fuente de los Tres Caños (the Fountain of the Three Pipes).

I recommend returning back to Santillana del Mar to spend the night.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , a modern hotel located in the main square.

Day 5: Cabezón de la Sal Sequoia Forest, Llanes, and its beaches

If you spent the night in Santillana del Mar, you’ll be less than 20 minutes from the Cabezón de la Sal Sequoia Forest . This is one of the best places to visit in northern Spain , especially for nature lovers, as the redwoods here reach up to 130 feet tall. The route through the forest takes about two hours and is absolutely breathtaking.

After your forest trek, go to Llanes , which is just 30 minutes away. This Asturian city is full of beaches and coves, although it also has a lovely historic center. Take some time to enjoy the coast as well as the interesting monuments and buildings in town.

• Recommended accommodation : Sleep at the Hotel Sablón , a cliffside accommodation with amazing views and direct beach access.

Day 6: Lakes of Covadonga, Covadonga, and Cangas de Onís

Next, it’s best to get up early so you can make the one hour and 20-minute drive to the Lakes of Covadonga with time to spare. This place is within the Picos de Europa National Park, one of the best national parks in Spain and a must-see during your tour of northern Spain .

This natural wonder is full of pristine landscapes, the glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina, as well as incredible attractions like the Sanctuary of Covadonga. This is where you can take a nature walk, breathe the fresh mountain air, and mingle with the grazing cows.

You can visit the Lakes of Covadonga for free, although I like this guided tour since it starts from Cangas de Onís , another place I recommend visiting. There, you can see the old Roman Bridge and the historic center. It’s full of churches and hermitages, most notably the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of St. Mary and the hermitage of Santa Cruz.

• Recommended accommodation : The Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo is in the middle of the Picos de Europa National Park and offers beautiful views of the Covadonga Cathedral, so it’s the perfect place to rest after a full day.

Day 7: Gijón and Oviedo

The next stop is Gijón , which is about 60 miles away, so get up early to make the 1.5-hour drive. Once you get there, start with a walk along San Lorenzo Beach, then go up to the Cerro de Santa Catalina and see the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture over the water.

Later, check out the Cimadevilla neighborhood, the oldest part of the city with interesting sites like the Palacio de Revillagigedo, Plaza del Marqués, and Plaza Mayor. You can also do this free tour (in Spanish) if you prefer a guided walk through the city.

Depending on how much time you have, you can stop by the port or go to Oviedo , which is about a 30-minute drive away. This city in northern Spain is full of historic attractions like El Fontán Square and the Plaza de la Catedral, where you can see the Cathedral of San Salvador.

I also recommend walking through the city center and looking for the interesting statues of famous figures. For example, on Calle Milicias Nacionales, you’ll find a Woody Allen statue, while San Francisco Park has a statue of the Argentine cartoon character Mafalda. Finally, you can’t leave Oviedo without stopping at La Gascona for delicious cider.

• Recommended accommodation : The beautiful Gran Hotel España is the best place to stay thanks to its spacious rooms and great location by the city center.

Day 8: Ribadeo and Playa de las Catedrales

Ribadeo should be included in any northern Spain itinerary , so don’t miss it. Make sure you get up early so you can drive the 85 miles to Ribadeo from Oviedo, which will take about 1.5 hours.

Among the many attractions here, the Plaza de España stands out. It’s home to two historical monuments, the Pazo de Ibáñez and the Torre de los Moreno. You should also walk through the streets of the city center to see the Convent of Santa Clara and the Chapel of San Miguel, as well as the port.

There are also excellent lookout points here, such as the Ribadeo Watchtower and the Isla Pancha Viewpoint. That said, you should definitely make time to visit Playa de las Catedrales , one of the best beaches in Spain that’s also a National Monument.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hotel Playa de las Catedrales , which faces the Cantabrian Sea and is next to Arealonga Beach. Plus, it’s just a ten-minute walk from Playa de las Catedrales.

Day 9: A Coruña

If you’re leaving from Playa de las Catedrales, then make sure you wake up early enough to make the 1.5-hour drive (95 miles) to A Coruña . This city in northern Spain ’s Galicia region is a must-see, and if it’s your first time here, consider taking this free tour .

If you’re visiting the city on your own, I recommend stopping by the promenade, where you can see the Castle of San Antón and the Sculpture Park of the Tower of Hercules. Another iconic site is the Ciudad Vieja, the old part of the city with some of the best tapas.

You’ll also find some of the best beaches in Galicia here, such as Riazor Beach, a beautiful place in northern Spain to go swimming or sunbathing. Finally, I suggest ending your day with a walk around the port and admiring the amazing views of A Coruña from Monte de San Pedro.

• Recommended accommodation : The NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre has a great location that’s within walking distance of the city center and main attractions.

Day 10: Santiago de Compostela

The last day of this northern Spain itinerary involves a visit to Santiago de Compostela , which is about 50 minutes from A Coruña by car.

Once you reach the city, consider taking this free tour or exploring the tourist attractions on your own. Of course, one of the sites you must see is the Santiago Cathedral, which is the final destination for pilgrims making the trek along the Camino de Santiago, one of the most important hikes in Spain . You can learn all about the secrets of this church by taking this guided tour .

I also recommend roaming the streets of the old city and walking through the Parque de la Alameda, an urban park full of chestnut, eucalyptus, and oak trees. The Mercado de Abastos is a market that’s been around for over a century, so I suggest stopping by to browse or pick up some products. If you like art, the City of Culture of Galicia is a complex of cultural and artistic buildings that you’ll find interesting.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Católicos , a beautiful 15 th -century building next to the Santiago Cathedral. It still has some of its original architecture, as well as two delicious restaurants specializing in Mediterranean and Galician food.

15-day road trip through northern Spain

A 15-day road trip through northern Spain is the perfect opportunity to get to know this area of the country in depth. Here is the route I suggest following:

This 15-day northern Spain itinerary begins in Hondarribia in the Basque Country. I recommend leaving your rental car in the parking lot by the Puerta de Santa María and heading into the city on foot. There, you can visit points of interest like Plaza del Obispo, Calle Mayor, and Plaza de Armas.

After strolling through town, head to San Sebastián , which is about a 30-minute (15-mile) drive from Hondarribia. San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain , as well as where you can see La Concha Beach, one of Spain’s best beaches .

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Hotel María Cristina , one of the best luxury hotels in Spain . It’s across from the Victoria Eugenia Theater and offers great views of the Cantabrian Sea and the Urumea River.

Dedicate day two of your tour through northern Spain by exploring the ins and outs of San Sebastián . I recommend going around Monte Urgull, where you’ll find the Paseo Nuevo. If you follow it to the end, you’ll reach Ondarreta Beach and the famous Peine del Viento sculpture.

Continue your visit by spending some time in the city center, which is full of interesting plazas, bridges, and historical buildings. You also can’t leave San Sebastián without trying the typical pintxos , either by stopping at a café or taking this gourmet tour .

• Recommended accommodation : Spend another night at the Hotel María Cristina , or book this place for your second night if you didn’t stay here the first night.

On day three, wake up early and head to Bilbao , which is 65 miles from San Sebastián, or about a one hour and 15-minute drive away. This is another city in northern Spain that you can explore on foot, so consider taking this free tour to get to know all the main attractions.

Of course, the crown jewel of Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum , which is known for its floral puppy sculpture and mesmerizing architecture by Frank Gehry. If you want to go inside the museum and peruse the art collection, I recommend getting your tickets in advance.

Afterwards, follow the estuary to the Casco Viejo (old town), where you can see the Arriaga Theater. Some other cool places in Bilbao include La Ribera Market, the Santiago Cathedral, and Plaza Nueva. Of course, be sure to stop and try some pintxos that are typical to Bilbao.

• Recommended accommodation : Located by the Guggenheim Museum, the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao is one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain and has a beautiful structure designed by Spanish architect Javier Mariscal.

Day 4: Santander

The next day, take some time to discover the beautiful city of Santander . This free tour is a great introduction to Santander, although you can also explore the city on your own. If you do, I recommend starting with a little tour around the Magdalena Peninsula, one of the most beautiful places in northern Spain .

For your next stop, head to El Sardinero, one of the most popular beaches in Santander. It’s also worth visiting Mataleñas Beach, where you can admire the lovely views from the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse. Another way to get a panoramic perspective of the area is by taking the Río de la Pila funicular.

End your day with a visit to two iconic places in the city, the Botín Center and the Paseo Marítimo.

• Recommended accommodation : The NH Ciudad de Santander is a simple hotel, but it’s clean, well-located, and a great value for your money.

Day 5: Santillana del Mar and Comillas

Santillana del Mar is a must-see in northern Spain , so for day five of your itinerary, I suggest heading there. This medieval Spanish town is less than 20 miles from Santander, so it’s only about a 30-minute drive.

The Cuevas de Altamira is the most famous attraction in the city, although you should also check out the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, Plaza Mayor, and the historic old town, with its cobbled streets and small mountain homes. If you have time, consider this free tour (in Spanish) or this guided tour to the Altamira Museum and Neocave.

That same day, you can go to Comillas since it’s just 12 miles (20 minutes by car) from Santillana del Mar. This city is home to some beautiful structures, like the Sobrellano Palace, the Chapel Pantheon of the Marqueses de Comillas, and the Fuente de Tres Caños (The Fountain of Three Pipes). This is also where you can see one of the few works by Gaudí outside of Catalonia, the Capricho Villa.

• Recommended accommodation : Return to Santillana del Mar and spend the night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , a modern hotel in the main square.

Day 6: San Vicente de la Barquera and Cueva del Soplao

The sixth day of this northern Spain itinerary begins in San Vicente de la Barquera in Cantabria, just 25 minutes away. I suggest starting your visit here by crossing the Puente de la Maza and seeing the Convent of San Luis, an iconic landmark in the city.

Then, cross the town and follow Mata Linares Street to Puebla Vieja , or the old town. Here, you can see the Provost Tower and the Palacio de los Corro, which is now the Town Hall. If you have time, you can visit the Castillo del Rey, although I highly recommend seeing the Cueva del Soplao . This impressive rock formation is a must-see in northern Spain, and you can book a guided tour and entry ticket here .

• Recommended accommodation : Spend another night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , which is very close by.

Day 7: Llanes and Ribadesella

If you spent the night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas , you’ll be just 45 minutes from Llanes , Asturias, the next stop on this northern Spain road trip .

Llanes is a city that’s full of lovely beaches and coves, although the historic old town is also worth seeing. In fact, it has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and a Historic-Artistic Site, so check it out and be sure to see the Cubes of Memory breakwater rocks.

Then, you can grab something to eat and head to Ribadesella , which is 20 miles away. Take a walk through the port and stroll through the old town, which is super scenic and full of historic structures.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Don Pepe is a nice place to stay with spacious rooms and a good location.

Day 8: Gijón

For day eight, drive to Gijón , Asturias, which is 40 miles, or about 45 minutes, from Ribadesella. You can start your visit here with this free tour (in Spanish) or by exploring on your own. There are lots of cool places to check out, such as San Lorenzo Beach, the Cerro de Santa Catalina, and the Elogio del Horizonte, a sculpture by the water.

Then, journey into the Cimadevilla neighborhood, the oldest part of the city where you can see Revillagigedo Palace, Plaza del Marqués, and Plaza Mayor. To end the day, go to the port and Poniente Beach, where you can watch one of the most beautiful sunsets in the north of Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : Hotel Begoña is quite basic, but it’s clean, comfortable, and situated in the heart of the city.

Day 9: Oviedo

Oviedo is another city in northern Spain you can’t miss, and it’s only 30 minutes from Gijón. Among the many attractions here, the Plaza del Fontán, the Plaza de la Catedral, and the Cathedral of San Salvador stand out.

I also suggest going into the city center and looking for some of the interesting statues here, like those of Woody Allen or the Argentine character Mafalda. The former is on Calle Milicias Nacionales, while the latter is in San Francisco Park, another place in Oviedo you should spend some time at.

Moreover, Oviedo is home to three pre-Romanesque churches that you should see: Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo, and San Julián de los Prados. If you feel like going shopping, you’ll find all kinds of goodies on Calle Uría, and for the most delicious food, go to La Gascona.

• Recommended accommodation : The Gran Hotel España is one of the best places to stay. In addition to its spacious, beautiful rooms, it’s close to the city center and several tourist attractions.

Day 10: Cudillero and Luarca

Cudillero is a beautiful Asturian town situated on a cliff, making it one of the best places to visit in northern Spain . It’s about 40 miles from Oviedo, so wake up early in the morning and make the 45-minute drive to this gorgeous city.

Once you arrive, go to the La Garita Viewpoint for a spectacular overview of the town. Then, head down into the city center and walk among the narrow streets as you make your way to Plaza de la Marina. This is one of the liveliest areas of Cudillero with numerous bars and restaurants.

Check out the port, then make the 30-minute drive to Luarca , another lovely city in northern Spain . Here, you can stroll through the town center and see the most popular attractions, such as the Puente del Beso, the Casas de Indianos, and the Jardines de la Fonte Baxa.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Villa de Luarca is an elegant hotel with a great location by the town center and the beach.

Day 11: Ribadeo and Playa de las Catedrales

Spend the next day visiting Ribadeo , another beautiful city in the north of Spain that’s just 30 minutes from Luarca. Among the many attractions in Ribadeo, you can’t miss Plaza de España, which is where the Pazo de Ibáñez and the Torre de los Moreno are located.

As you walk through the town’s streets, you’ll find other interesting sites like the Convent of Santa Clara and the Chapel of San Miguel. It’s worth going inside the chapel for the views, although you’ll also get a nice perspective of the city from the port.

Also, if you want to capture some amazing photos, go to the Ribadeo Watchtower or the Isla Pancha Viewpoint. Finally, make sure you leave enough time to visit Playa de las Catedrales , a National Monument and one of the best beaches in Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : Have a good night’s sleep at the Hotel Playa de las Catedrales , which faces the Cantabrian Sea. It’s right next to Arealonga Beach and just a ten-minute walk from Playa de las Catedrales.

Day 12: A Coruña

For day 12, it’s time to visit A Coruña , an incredible area of northern Spain . It’s about 95 miles from Playa de las Catedrales, so get up early and get the 1.5-hour drive out of the way.

In A Coruña, you can take this free tour (in Spanish) to visit some of the city’s highlights and learn more about its history. If you’re touring the city on your own, I recommend starting at the promenade, which leads to the Castle of San Antón and the Sculpture Park of the Tower of Hercules. Also, be sure to check out the Ciudad Vieja (Old Town), where you can stop for yummy tapas.

After lunch, take a walk along Riazor Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in Galicia. Then, stroll around the port and end your day by watching the sunset from Mount San Pedro.

• Recommended accommodation : You’ll have a comfortable stay at the NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre , which is just a short distance from the city center and several main attractions.

Day 13: Santiago de Compostela

One of the best places in northern Spain that you must add to your route is Santiago de Compostela , which is a 50-minute drive from A Coruña.

Have fun exploring the city on your own or taking this free tour . Santiago de Compostela is the final stop on the Camino de Santiago, a religious pilgrimage and one of the most important hikes in Spain . The route specifically ends at the Santiago Cathedral, which you can learn more about on this guided tour .

You should also spend some time wandering the streets of the Old City, as well as visiting Alameda Park. I also recommend browsing the Mercado de Abastos, where you can buy fresh Galician cheeses and products. If you’re an art lover, you can’t miss the City of Culture of Galicia, a complex full of contemporary galleries and artistic spaces.

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Católicos , an old pilgrim accommodation that’s inside a 15 th -century building. It’s next to the Santiago Cathedral and has some original architectural elements as well as a Mediterranean and Galician restaurant.

Day 14: Vigo

People sometimes overlook the city of Vigo , but if you’re taking a 15-day road trip through northern Spain , you’ll have time to visit it. Vigo is 55 miles (one hour) from Santiago de Compostela, so get up early and make your way there in the morning.

You can take this free tour of Vigo to get a general overview of the city and learn more about its top attractions. Some of the most famous places here include the Praza da Constitución, the Mercado da Pedra, the Plaza de los Pescadores, and the Praza do Berbés.

You should also check out the Bouzas neighborhood, a traditional seafaring community. For the best views, go to Mount O Castro, where you can see the entire city and the Cíes Islands.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Pazo Los Escudos Spa & Beach is one of the best options with a spa and rooms overlooking the ocean and the gardens.

Day 15: Cíes Islands

For the last day of this northern Spain itinerary , take a boat from Vigo and go to the Cíes Islands . You can book this ferry ride , which also includes your permit to access the islands.

These paradisiacal islands are home to Playa de Rodas, one of the best beaches in northern Spain , and the entire world. There are also four awesome trails, so you can find a northern Spain hike to suit your fitness level. The trails are the Cíes Lighthouse (2.1 miles), the Faro da Porta (1.6 miles), the Alto do Príncipe (1.1 miles), and the Faro do Peito (1.6 miles).

Without a doubt, this day out in nature is the best way to end your two-week trip through the north of Spain .

• Recommended accommodation: Spend another night at the Hotel Pazo Los Escudos Spa & Beach .

Best time to visit the north of Spain

The best time to visit northern Spain is during the spring and autumn months when the temperatures are milder. If you plan on going to some parks or natural areas, the autumn season offers the most stunning colors.

That said, the summer weather in northern Spain is more pleasant compared to other areas of the country, so this time of year can also be a good time to visit. You can take advantage of the summer temperatures to enjoy the best beaches in northern Spain .

If you planned on going to the north of Spain in the winter, you still can, although you should be aware that there will be much more precipitation. On the other hand, the prices for flights and hotels will be cheaper.

Main airports in northern Spain and other ways to get there

There are several airports in northern Spain , so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a good place to arrive in the country, regardless of your starting point.

In Galicia :

• A Coruña Airport
• Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport
• Vigo Airport

In Asturias :

• Asturias Airport

In Cantabria :

• Santander Airport

In the Basque Country :

• Bilbao Airport
• San Sebastián Airport
• Vitoria Airport

To find the best flight deals to the north of Spain , I recommend using Kiwi and Skyscanner . We’ve had the best luck finding cheap flights with Kiwi, and you can even activate price-drop alerts and keep track of the flights that interest you.

How to get around the north of Spain

The easiest way to get around during your northern Spain road trip is by renting a car. We have a complete guide on how to rent a cheap car , although I’ll tell you now that we always use DiscoverCars since they offer the best prices.

Of course, if you don’t want to drive, you won’t have any problems getting around since there are all kinds of tours in northern Spain . You can also get to different towns by train or bus, and I recommend checking Omio and Flixbus for discounted tickets .

Other tips for your road trip through northern Spain

If you’ve decided to take a road trip through northern Spain by car, make sure you calculate the driving times in advance so you can plan your route as accurately as possible. This is particularly important if you’re visiting two towns in one day since you’ll want to spend half the day in one town, then head to the other town and spend the night there.

Remember, there are many beautiful places in northern Spain , and the cities I mentioned are just my recommendations. Feel free to add or replace any attractions that don’t fit your schedule or interests. It’s also important to consider the weather, especially if you’re traveling in the winter. You may need snow tires or chains for the car depending on which area you go to.

Always keep water and some food with you in the car and try to keep your cell phone charged so you can make emergency calls or locate the nearest gas station.

Finally, if you want to enjoy the best food in northern Spain , try to avoid the more touristy areas. When in doubt, ask the locals and they’ll give you some great restaurant suggestions.

That’s it for this guide to the north of Spain ! I hope you feel better prepared to organize your northern Spain itinerary , and that you have the best time exploring this gorgeous part of the country.

If you have any questions, or if you want to share your favorite destinations in northern Spain , leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you. Have a fantastic trip!

Ascen Aynat

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Incredible Northern Spain Road Trip: 7-Day Itinerary

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The wonderful surprise about this 7-day Northern Spain road trip is that the farther west you move from Bilbao to Santiago, the more remote and authentically Spanish it gets. Be prepared for small towns along rocky coastlines, delicious meals of octopus and pintxos in standalone restaurants tucked in the cliffside ( nothing fancy, rather deliciously local ), and a generally serene and slow, non-connected world.

I spent about a month doing this route in September last year because I like to travel slowly and meet friends along the way. This weeklong, more off-the-beaten-path itinerary is the best of the best stuff that I liked, and it optimizes the drive times so you’re not constantly on the road. Here’s the high-level itinerary:

• 2 Days: Basque Country – Bilbao – Guggenheim Museum – Gaztelugatxeko – San Sebastian
• 2 Days: Asturias – Picos de Europa Hikes – Town of Llanes – Gijon
• 3 Days: Galicia – Playa de las Catedrales – Santiago De Compostela

I would recommend more time in Bilbao, San Sebastian , and the region around Llanes , especially if you’re keen on hiking portions of the Picos de Europa mountains.

Table of Contents

Northern Spain Road Trip: Full 7-Day Itinerary

You can land in Madrid or Barcelona and take a connecting flight to Bilbao Airport or San Sebastian Airport (smaller, but services a lot of European airlines). I started in Bilbao, rented a car, and went wild on this itinerary.

DRIVING TIP : Driving from one end of northern Spain to another, from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostela, takes about 6 hours , so nothing on this road trip is too long of a drive when you break it up into 7 days.

Day 1: Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum

Today is about exploring the food scene (tapas and pintxos) of the Basque Region and visiting one of the most famous museums in Spain.

I booked a guided tour because it came recommended by a local friend, and headed towards the big dog built of flowers, where the museum is located. It is one thing to wander the Guggenheim Museum on your own looking at the pretty pieces of art and saying “ ooo !”, and it’s another completely to have an art history guru walk you through the context and purpose of each piece and have a discussion around it.

➡️ Book a guided tour, as there’s a lot of context behind the art: Guggenheim Museum Private Tour with Admission . ⬅️

I spent the afternoon walking around and getting acquainted with the vibe of the city. I loved Casilda Iturrizar Park .

You are in the Basque Region now, and it is all about the Pintxos ( adorably pronounced “pinch-ohs” ), the most intelligent way to eat a variety of foods and not over-stuff yourself. These are small snackies, bites of meats, cheeses, and pickled delicacies on fresh toasty bread.

If it’s a bar-hopping kind of night, start at La Antigua Cigarreria  and make your way around the winding streets, grabbing pintxos as you go.

PRO TIP : Order a “Marianito Preparado” and enjoy a super yummy spin on the Italian negroni with Spanish flair!

Day 2: San Sebastian & San Juan de Gaztelugatxeko

Today is a little road trip east to San Sebastian, where the drive is 1.5 hours each way. On the way to San Sebastian, stop at Gaztelugatxeko ! I spent a couple of hours on the hillside overlooking the sea and grabbing lunch at the restaurant there.

In San Sebastian, here are some of my favorite places to visit:

• La Concha Beach : Renowned for its picturesque bay and fine sands, La Concha is perfect for sunbathing, and enjoying the views.
• Parte Vieja (Old Town) : Explore the little streets, filled with historic buildings, busy pintxo bars, and trendy shops.
• Monte Igueldo : Offers panoramic views of the city and coast. Accessible by a funicular, it’s a great spot for photos and lazy walks.
• Miramar Palace : A historic building with beautiful gardens with splendid views over La Concha Bay.

I would make a reservation and grab dinner at one of the many Michelin-rated restaurants in town. To be honest, no matter where you eat, low-key or high-end, know that this is one of the biggest gastronomic towns in Spain, backed by Anthony Bourdain himself. Mornings or late afternoons are best for popular spots to avoid crowds.

For pintxos, visiting during traditional meal times will have you feeling the Spanish vibe. It’s an easy 1-hour, 15-minute drive back to Bilbao afterward.

Day 3: Explore Llanes

A little hidden gem on the northern Spain road trip is the town of Llanes in the mountainous Asturias Region, just 2 hours away from Bilbao. Llanes is known for its beautiful beaches around town, a well-preserved old town with medieval streets, traditional architecture, and the impressive Basílica de Santa María, and the stunning Picos de Europa mountains are nearby, which we are hiking tomorrow.

Here are the best things to do in Llanes:

• Playa de Toró : A unique beach known for its peculiar rock formations
• Playa de Gulpiyuri : A hidden and unusual inland beach, set in a meadow and accessible only by foot.
• Cuevas del Mar Beach : A stunning beach known for its natural caves.
• The Historic Center : Stroll through the charming streets, visit the Basilica, and see the ancient defensive tower, Torre de Llanes.
• Paseo de San Pedro : A scenic cliffside walkway with spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea and the town – I did this after lunch and it was great!

Don’t leave Llanes without sampling the local Asturian cuisine, including fresh seafood, cheeses (like the famous Cabrales), and sidra (cider).

Or grab a bocadillo from the bakery, and head to one of the beaches above. Bocadillos are little sandwiches on fresh baguettes filled with meat (Fuet salami or Jamon Iberico) and a spread (tomato or butter). They are delicious, fresh, and always cheap!

Day 4: Hike the Picos de Europa

You’ve been eating like a little chunk this whole time, so it’s time to hit the trails! Get into the mountains and do a hike in the Picos de Europa.

➡️ Book a Guide for a Day Hike in the Picos de Europe Mountains. ⬅️

Either choose your own adventure or grab a professional mountain guide and journey through the Vega del Torro and down to Lake Moneta – this was one of the highlights of my trip.

Here are some AllTrails treks that I also have my eye on for next time:

• Ruta del Cares (Hard, 13 miles) : Known as the “Divine Gorge,” this trail is one of the most popular hikes, offering stunning views of the gorges (a shorter, easier alternative ).
• Lagos de Covadonga (Hard, 10 miles) : This hike includes the famous glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina and offers spectacular mountain views.
• Fuente Dé – Cable Car and Hike (Hard, 4.6 miles): Take the cable car up and hike around the upper parts of the mountains for breathtaking views.

Day 5: Gijon & Playa Madre

The drive from Llanes to the first stop of the day, Playa Madre, is 40 minutes. I spent the morning on Playa Madre, and if you’re up for a little detour drive, this is worth it: Mirador del Fitu . The drive from Playa Madre to Gijon for the afternoon is another 40 minutes

I spent a few lazy days in this cute city just wandering, doing a little shopping, sleeping, and bar hopping. Plenty of brewpubs and delicious restaurants around.

My best advice is to visit a Sidrería to see how cider is poured from a height to aerate it (similar to Turkish tea ). I also love walking around Cimavilla , the old fisherman’s quarter, full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and sidrerías (cider bars). I recommend eating your way through Gijon at night, especially fresh seafood and traditional dishes like fabada Asturiana.

Day 6 : Playa de las Catedrales

The drive from Gijon to Playa de las Catedrales is 1.5 hours along the coast. After you explore the caves and arches, it’s another 1.5 hours on to Santiago de Compostela, where I made a home base for the last bit of the road trip.

Playa de las Catedrales , or the Beach of the Cathedrals, is a stunning natural wonder located in Galicia, Spain. Known for its awe-inspiring rock formations, this beach is famous for its towering arches and cave-like structures that resemble the buttresses of a cathedral, hence its name.

The beauty of Playa de Las Catedrales is dramatically altered by the tide , so best to visit during the morning. During high tide, it appears just like a regular beach, but low tide reveals the magnificent arches and caves.

➡️ Local Site To Schedule a Time To Visit Playa de Las Catedrales ⬅️

There is also a wooden walkway about 12km long along the coast next to the entrance to the beach and a few local restaurants in the nearby little town of Rinlo – I loved Restaurante a Mirandilla . Go for the baked octopus ( pulpo ), it’s a specialty of Galicia!

Spend the afternoon making your way to Santiago de Compostela for dinner in the old town. This is where I spent a few days diving into the history around El Camino pilgrimage walk and the Galician culture.

Day 7: Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a destination of its own, not just the end of our road trip. This is where all the pilgrimages and caminos end and the capital of the Galician region. Most, if not all, of Santiago de Compostela’s top tourist attractions are located in the Old Town.

The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is a ‘holy moly’ sight to see. Looking up at the massive cathedral literally left me as breathless as when I saw the Vatican for the first time. The tomb beneath the cathedral’s main altar is the burial site of St. James, and it’s the final destination of all pilgrimage walks in the region.

FUN FACT: It is just one of three known churches built over the remains of an apostle. The other two are St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica in Chennai, India.

➡️ Grab A Guided Cathedral Tour for more fun facts. It’s super cheap and educational! ⬅️

After the Cathedral tour, walk around the old town and explore the little shops and wine bars. Right around sunset, head into the Parque de Alameda for a walk.

Grab dinner at O Gato Negro and try percebes . Percebes, or “Lucifer’s Fingers”, is a delicacy along the Galician and southern Portuguese coasts. They are nicknamed not just because of their devilish appearance, but because they’re super hard to get. Give it a go – it’s an unusual regional food that you can’t have just anywhere.

Map: Road Trip Through Northern Spain

If you were to drive from one end to another, from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostela, it would take you 6 hours total.

Unique Places I ❤️ In Northern Spain

Beyond the major cities of San Sebastian, Bilbao, Gijon and Santiago de Compostela, which are all amazing, here are my favorite little places to visit on this northern Spain road trip.

✅ Gaztelugatxeko

Gaztelugatxe is not a town but a small islet on the coast of Biscay in the Basque Country, Spain, about 30 minutes from Bilbao. The islet is connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge, which leads to a narrow path with over 240 steps.

It’s best known for being the hermitage of Saint John the Baptiste de Gaztelugatxe. This place has gained international fame, especially after being featured in Game of Thrones as the fictional Dragonstone.

✅ Town of Llanes

Llanes is an ideal destination for people looking for a blend of beach time, hiking the Picos de Europa, and a fish-forward foodie scene. It’s a small town, but the combo of natural beauty and traditional Asturian charm makes it a memorable stop in northern Spain.

✅ Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is an iconic symbol of modern and contemporary art. It’s one of those museums you should visit once in your lifetime, similar to the Prado in Madrid and the Louvre in Paris.

My Favorite Thing: Outside the museum stands one of its most famous installations, “Puppy” by Jeff Koons, a gigantic floral sculpture of a West Highland Terrier, showcasing a living, organic artwork contrasting with the metallic facade of the museum.

Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum is a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. Not only that, but it has played a pivotal role in the transformation and revitalization of Bilbao from an industrial city into a cultural hub. It houses an impressive collection of thought-provoking modern and contemporary art, and its exhibitions are constantly evolving.

✅ Picos de Europa Mountains

The Picos de Europa mountains, located in Northern Spain, are a part of the Cantabrian Mountains. The highest peak is Torre de Cerredo, standing at 2,650 meters (8,690 feet). It’s a popular destination for hikers and there are plenty of day hikes to go on.

✅ Playa de las Catedrales

Playa de las Catedrales is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Galicia. The beach is renowned for its massive rock arches and caves, which can be seen and explored at low tide. These formations resemble the flying buttresses of Gothic cathedrals, giving the beach its name. I think the beach provides an interesting glimpse into the power of the sea and what erosion and tides can show you.

PRO TIP: It’s crucial to check the tide schedule before planning your visit. The times for low tide change daily, so it’s important to align your visit accordingly. Also, wear water shoes when you visit, lots of slippery rocks.

During peak times, a free ticketing system is in place to protect the beach from overcrowding. You can reserve these online through the official website of the Xunta de Galicia.

Where To Stay in Northern Spain

Following the weeklong Northern Spain road trip, here is where I stayed each night, with hotel recommendations I loved.

Bilbao [2 nights]

From Bilbao, I made a day trip to San Sebastian, which is 1.5 hours away. I opted to drive back to Bilbao because it was more cost-effective, and I liked the grungy vibe in Bilbao better.

📍 Luxury: Vincci Consulado de Bilbao – View of the Guggenheim Museum, a fantastic hotel with great services, breakfast, and breakfast. 📍 Mid-Range: Bilder Boutique Hotel – Charming and modern hotel in Old Town Bilbao, great value and service.

Llanes [2 nights]

This was my home base in the Asturias region, opting for one day of beach hopping in Llanes and one day of hiking the Picos de Europa Mountains.

📍 Luxury: Hotel Rural La Lluriga – A country estate, this family-run, cozy hotel is an amazing little nature escape, with a pool, gardens, 100-year-old trees, a reading room, and a fireplace. Great home base for exploring the region. 📍 Mid-Range: Don Paco – Right in the heart of town, this hotel is actually a restored convent. Think high vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and fireplaces with modern furniture and decor.

Gijon [1 night]

To break up the drive from Llanes to Santiago de Compostela, I spent a day in Gijon and took a little cooking class.

📍 Mid-Range & Chic: El Moderne Hotel – great for a night, has a dark masculine modern vibe to it, great price for the amenities and location.

Santiago de Compostela [2 nights]

On the way from Gijon to Santiago de Compostela, I stopped and spent a morning at Playa de Las Catedrales, but because there is not much else around, I kept driving the 2 hours all the way to Santiago and spending the last 2 nights sleeping in the beautiful town.

📍 Chic & Cozy: RoomPEDRA – A super nice little apartment, great for a 2-night stay, 5 minutes walk from the Cathedral. It’s not the usual luxury hotel I recommend, but I really liked how clean and cozy it was, and the fact that it had a kitchen because I was a bit tired of eating all my meals out. 📍 Mid-Range: Hotel Altaïr – cute boutique hotel just outside Casco Viejo (Old Town) so you can actually find parking. Comfy rooms, beds, and all the exposed brick you can get.

Getting Around Northern Spain

This route can be done by either renting a car or sorting out the public transportation – busses and trains – from city to city. I recommend renting a car and doing this as a road trip.

This is what I personally use to check prices: Discover Cars: Rental for Northern Spain Road Trip

The public transportation and Uber in Spain , especially up north in the more rural areas of this road trip are not great (or existent).

Where should I start my road trip?

I recommend starting in Bilbao or San Sebastian and renting a car to take you along the road trip to Santiago de Compostela. From here, you can either take half a day to drive back or return the car in Santiago de Compostela and fly back home.

There is a small fee that rental car companies impose if you rent in one city and return it in another, but it should not be much because you’re in the same country.

Is Driving in Northern Spain easy?

Yes, it is. Not only are the roads in good condition, but the northern Spain road trip has you driving along the rocky coastline for a few hours every couple of days.

For the longer drives from Gijon to Playa de las Catedrales, here are a few unique ways to pass the time – from road trip games to documenting your trip for friends and family!

Budgeting For A Northern Spain Road Trip

General costs depend on the time of year you go. I went in September and the weather was gorgeous, still good for the beaches and hiking, and a little past the high summer season. That said, here are some numbers and tips for you.

TOTAL COST : ~€1,200 for a weeklong road trip.

• Car Rental: $100/week
• Hotels : $60-90/night
• Food : $30-50 a day per person
• Wine : About $2 for a glass of amazing Rioja wine ( and Spaniards have a very generous pour!)

FAQ: Northern Spain Road Trip

Here are a few frequently asked questions about going on this road trip.

Is Northern Spain worth visiting?

Firstly, this region is fairly inexpensive and scenically gorgeous – you’ll have the sea on your right and the mountains on your left as you make your way west along the coast. Best of all, cell reception is spotty ( nightmare for some, heaven for others ), but it forces an unplug from a hectic world, which I truly appreciate.

And secondly, you’ll be driving, hiking, and eating along the 1,000-year-old pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela . This is known as the Way of St. James or the Camino de Santiago in Spanish.

Over 200,000 pilgrims (people like you and me) travel to the city each year from various starting points all over Europe. I would love to do this walk one day for many reasons – health, inner peace, being one with nature, be one with myself.

All in all, Northern Spain is more than just Barcelona and San Sebastian. Be brave, and come see for yourself!

When Is The Best Time to Visit Northern Spain?

The best times for hiking, beach days, and generally sunniness will be in the summer or fall seasons. I went in September and the weather was a little chilly at night but sunny and warm during the day.

How Many Days Do I Need To Visit Northern Spain?

To really give it a solid go, from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, I recommend a minimum of 1 week . You can follow the 7-day itinerary of my road trip through Northern Spain above. I spent 3 weeks altogether doing this same route, spending 3x the time in each place, and I still felt like there were things I was missing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For This Trip?

If you’re traveling outside of your home country, and especially if you’re out there hiking and adventuring, I recommend getting some travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

SAFETYWING: Nomad Travel Insurance

Travel medical insurance with SafetyWing is my favorite because it’s flexible, less expensive than the other big insurance companies at ~$40 a month worldwide, and it covers COVID-19 quarantine situations. Here’s the link so you can look into it.

What should I pack for this road trip?

This northern Spain road trip is about a few nights out in towns like San Sebastian and Bilbao (where people dress nice), beach life, a day of hiking the Picos de Europa and visiting the famous Santiago de Compostela church. A lot to pack for, but here’s my packing list beyond the basics like toothbrush and passport:

• Backpack : A comfortable daypack for hiking and city exploring.
• Casual Outfits: T-shirts, tank tops, and comfortable shirts for the daytime.
• Nicer Outfit : A couple of dressier outfits for nights out in San Sebastian and Bilbao. Think smart-casual – a nice dress or blouse and skirt for ladies, and chinos with a polo or button-up shirt for men.
• Swimsuit : At least 1 swimsuit, cover-up, and one pair of flip-flops, a compact and quick-drying towel
• Hiking Gear : A pair of good hiking pants and a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt to protect against the sun and brush. I hiked in my sneakers and opted to leave the hiking boots at home.
• Types of Shoes : Comfortable walking shoes like sneakers (that you can do a day hike in the mountains in), one pair of flip-flops, and a pair of nicer shoes for evenings (I did opt for a low heel and it was ok).
• Light Jacket : A lightweight, waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather, especially in the mountains and coastal areas. Sometimes at night, even in the summer, there’s a chill in the air.
• Accessories : Sunglasses, a hat or cap for sun protection, and a lightweight scarf for cooler evenings.
• Travel Adapters : If you’re coming from outside Europe.

👉 PRO TIP: Pack light, because you’ll be moving your luggage frequently on the road trip. Opt for a carry-on suitcase or backpack that’s easy to handle.

Final Thoughts: Northern Spain Road Trip

I loved road-tripping through Northern Spain. I spent 3 weeks going from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, and have put together a maximized 7-day Northern Spain itinerary that hits all the good spots.

This road trip also highlights some of the churches and cities famous for their history and food. Speaking of, most of this road trip is an adventure into the world of pintxos, riojas, and ciders of the Basque and Galician regions. So if this is your vibe, take the trip!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

One Week In Northern Spain, The Perfect Itinerary For “Green Spain”

Planning a vacation in northern Spain? Here’s my guide to an epic one week road trip in northern Spain.

This itinerary starts and ends in the exciting cultural and culinary city of Bilbao. It covers all the top must visit attractions, towns, and historic landmarks in the Basque, Cantabria, and Asturias regions of Spain.

I fell utterly in love with northern Spain on a recent geographical cure. It earns its nickname of the “Natural Paradise.”

I’ve written about Barcelona in many other posts.

This itinerary focuses on the less touristy and drop dead gorgeous regions of natural beauty — the Basque country, Cantabria, and Asturias.

If you’re an “is it pretty?” person, northern Spain is for you.

Overview Of One Week In Northern Spain

Here’s a quick snapshot of my recommended one week itinerary for a self drive road trip in northern Spain. It’s a loop that starts and ends in Bilbao.

You’ll have two bases, Bilbao and Oviedo. I give you tips on where to stay in each city.

• Day 1 : Explore Bilbao
• Day 2 : Day Trip To San Sebastian
• Day 3 : Day Trip To San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
• Day 4 : Drive To Oviedo, stops in Santillana del Mar and Comillas
• Day 5 : Explore Oviedo
• Day 6 : Day Trips to Cudillero and Gijon
• Day 7 : Drive Back To Bilbao, stop en route in coastal villages

One Week In Northern Spain Itinerary

I drove to northern Spain by car from southern France .

If you’re doing the same, I stopped in two idyllic little towns on the way, the elegant town of Pau France in the French Pyrenees and the colorful Basque town of Hondaribbia just over the Spanish border.

READ : 10 Day itinerary for Southern France

Because I don’t like to switch hotels or Air Bnbs every night, I based myself in two cities in northern Spain, Bilbao and Oviedo.

From there, I could access the best sites — spectacular coastlines and natural wonders, tiny medieval villages that seem stuck in time, and the cultural hotspots of the two cities.

If you’ve been to sunny Andalusia in southern Spain, you’ll find that these two regions of Spain are utterly different. You’d hardly believe you were in the same country.

Andalusia is sunny and sand-baked with Moorish goodies galore. In contrast, Northern Spain is a glossy green, with mountains reaching to the sky and rocky coves and crescent beaches that beckon.

READ : Most Beautiful Towns in Andalusia

Here’s my step by step guide to touring northern Spain by car in one week. A car will give you much more flexibility. It’s not that expensive, if you can drive a clutch.

And it’s perfectly safe and easy to drive, as long as you don’t venture into a busy city center or a tiny medieval village with one way lanes. Most of the places on my itinerary can be accessed by bus, but it won’t always be easy.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

Here’s how you should spend 7 blissful days in northern Spain

Day 1: Bilbao: Art and Starchitecture

On day 1, explore your starting point, Bilbao, pronounced Bilbow.

It’s the cultural hotspot of the Basque region. Bilbao is beautifully situated amid rolling green hills and tucked between mountain ranges.

It’s a surprising and avant garde place, casually combining historic Spanish flair with modern starchitecture.

Bilbao is no longer the industrial city that people think of from past decades, though it’s still agreeably down to earth.

READ : Complete Two Day Itinerary for Bilbao

Bilbao is a great Spanish city to explore if you fancy art, culture, and ancient cobbled lanes. It’s alive with local energy.

Bilbao is a hip haven for foodies, overflowing with fantastic restaurants, many of the Michelin variety.

While you’re there, visit the iconic Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum, stroll the “seven streets” of the historic center (Casco Viejo), and indulge in the inventive tapas.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of historic Bilbao. Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket and tour of the stunning Guggenheim Museum. Bilbao is also a fantastic place to take a guided gourmet food tour .

I have big love for Bilbao. Here’s my complete guide to the must see sites in Bilbao .

Day 2: San Sebastian: International Culinary and Beach Capital

Bilbao is a great base for day trips in northern Spain . Your first point of call is San Sebastian.

This Basque city is objectively beautiful, and tourists flock there. It’s renowned as a foodie resort town and beachy playground. Its stunning beach, La Concha, is world famous and considered one of Europe’s best beaches.

If you’re a food traveler, you’ll be in seventh heaven.

San Sebastian is frequently called the “ food capitol of the world. It boasts three restaurants with the rarest of accolades: a three star Michelin rating.

San Sebastian also has a thriving pintxos scene. Pintxos are the Basque version of tapas.

You can spend the day wandering around and indulging in these haute cuisine mini meals.

San Sebastian’s historic center, Parte Vieja, is picturesque, though I found it fairly underwhelming. It’s much tinier than Bilbao’s Casco Viejo and the sites will be quickly exhausted.

It’s also quite touristy. If you don’t like crowds, try to visit San Sebastian in the off season.

While you’re in San Sebastián, you may want to book a guided walking tour of the old town . If your’e a foodie, you should definitely consider a guided food tour when you’re there. I booked this 3 hour I Travel Food Food tour and loved it.

You can get from Bilbao to San Sebastian by train or bus. You can also book a full day guided day tour from Bilbao . Or book a guided day tour that includes San Sebastián and winery visit .

Day 3: Gaztelugatxe: a Natural Wonder

On day 3 of your on week in northern Spain itinerary, take an easy day trip to the absolutely jaw dropping San Juan de Gaztelugatxe .

It’s a magical spot only about 45 minutes from Bilbao. Gaztelugatxe is really a must see destination in the Basque Region. And now it’s TV-famous.

In the wildly popular HBO series Game of Thrones, Gaztelugatxe appears as Dragonstone — the haunting ancestral home of Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons.

In real life, Gaztelugatxe is a fantastical ancient stone foot bridge winding up to a tiny hermitage chapel on Spain’s Bay of Biscay.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Gaztelugatxe , and hiking to the chapel.

It’s easiest to drive to Gaztelgatxe. But you can also book a guided day tour from Bilbao .

When you’re done with your hike, head to nearby Bakio beach to cool off. But if you want a more beautiful beach, drive a little further to beautiful Sopalena Beach. It’s one of the best beaches in Basque Country, where cliffs drop into the ocean.

When you’re done gasping over the ethereal place, head back to Bilbao. Tuck into some nummy food at one of its fine restaurants. Bilbao has 22 Michelin starred restaurants.

Like San Sebastian, it’s considered a foodie haven. Azurmendi is the jewel of Bilbao and this restaurant alone is worth a trip to city. Restaurant Mina is also quite wonderful. You can also book an evening guided food tour .

Where To Stay In Bilbao

Bilbao has some beautiful hotels. Check out  Vincci Consulado de Bilbao , a Riverside landmark with a nautical theme and views of the Guggenheim. The  Occidental Bilbao  has smart guest rooms and a massive swimming pool. 

For a real splurge, check out the Hotel Carlton , a five star beauty with old world charm.

There are some nice boutique hotels too, like the artsy designer-styled  Hotel Miro  near the Guggenheim Museum. Gran  Hotel Domine  has sleek modern decor and views of Jeff Koon’s  Puppy  sculpture.

Day 4: Drive to Oviedo with Beautiful Stops En Route

Now, it’s time to head to your next base, Oviedo.

The distance between Bilbao and Oviedo isn’t that far, about 2:45. So if you start early, you’ll have time for two stops along the way.

To my mind, the best two places to spend half a day are Santillana del Mar and Comillas in the Cantabria region.

Cantabria is spectacularly beautiful, dotted with rolling hills and cows. It’s so verdant and eye catching, you can almost imagine that you’re in a Van Gogh painting.

1. Santillana del Mar: a Magical Medieval Village

There’s a car park right outside Santilla del Mar. Park and take your pedestrian only stroll in the jewel of Cantabria.

Santillana del Mar is Cantabria’s most charming hamlet and one of the prettiest villages in all of Spain.

It’s a “living museum” — a delightful warren of dreamy cobbled streets, caramel colored architecture, and romantic wrought iron Juliet type balconies.

At the end of its main drag, Calle Santa Dominga, is the Collegiate Church, which is the most important religious Romanesque monument in Cantabria.

Here’s my complete guide to Santilla del Mar . To see all the sites and secret spots, you may want to book a 2 hour guided walking tour .

By northern Spain standards, the town is somewhat touristy. But, hey, it’s in rural Spain and nothing like busy Barcelona , so don’t be put off. I wasn’t even remotely fazed.

2. Comillas: Unexpected Architectural Gems

After you’ve fueled up on some hot chocolate and churros, it’s time to head to Comillas.

The town isn’t as picturesque as Santillana del Mar, though it has a wide beach for you to sun bathe when you’re done site seeing.

But mainly it’s impressive for its architecture. You’d never expect to fin such treasures in an unassuming, almost unknown, small town in Spain.

Comillas has two main sites, both architecturally interesting — Gaudi’s El Capricho and Sobrellano Palace.

El Capricho is a rare Gaudi building outside his more well known Modernist architecture in Barcelona .

I like to think of El Capricho as Gaudi’s sunflower villa. El Capricho was a youthful project for Gaudí.

In 1883, Máximo Díaz de Quijano commissioned Gaudí to build him a summer villa. Quijano, an amateur musician and botanist, chose the lilting name El Capricho, which means whim or folly in Spanish.

Gaudí designed the villa. But he’d also begun work on his famous opus, the Sagrada Familia . So his fellow architect Cristóbal Cascante supervised the villa’s construction.

The villa became a museum in 2010. When you enter, you can sit down and watch an orientation video with English subtitles.

A short walk up the hill, not far from El Capricho, you’ll find Sobrellano Palace.

The rather over the top Neo-Gothic palace was commissioned by Antonio López, the first Marques of Comillas, and designed by Juan Martorell.

The palace was a vanity project. It was the fashion for aristocrats to have fancy country estates. Interestingly, Sobrellano Palace was the first building in Spain to have electricity.

You can only visit the palace on a guided tour. There’s hourly tours (in Spanish) that last 40 minutes.

But you can cast your eyes on Gaudi-designed furniture, magnificent fireplaces, paintings, and stained glass. Outside the palace is a beautiful chapel-pantheon, also Gothic in design.

Day 5: Fairytale Oviedo: Sculptures & Cider

I just loved storybook Oviedo. The sparkling clean capitol of the Asturias region of Spain is a vibrant and enchanting place.

Like a giant museum, it’s filled with beautiful architecture and dotted with whimsical sculptures. It’s surely one of the most beautiful and historic places in northern Spain. To see it all, you can book a guided walking tour .

Woody Allen famously loves Oviedo, which he describes as “a delicious, exotic, beautiful, clean, pleasant, tranquil and pedestrianised city, like it didn’t belong to this world, like it didn’t exist … Oviedo is like a fairy tale.”

Allen filmed portions of his 2008 film Vicky Cristina Barcelona in Oviedo. There’s a statue-monument to him on Calle Milicias Nacionales, created by the Spanish artist known as Santarúa.

Founded in the 8th century, Oviedo is also an ancient place. It’s delightful old town makes you want to stroll endlessly through its parks and plazas, gazing in admiration at its colorful terraces and balconies.

During your walkabout, be sure to take in Oviedo’s must see sites — the flamboyant San Salvador Cathedral, the Romanesque churches, the stately Plaza Alfonso II, and the university.

Of special note is the San Miguel de Lillo chapel, just outside Oviedo. It’s a pre-Romanesque royal chapel from the 9th century used by King Ramiro I.

It was designated a UNESCO heritage site in 1985. It’s a 30-40 minute uphill walk or 10 minute drive from the Oviedo city center.

Be sure to indulge in the local Asturias cuisine while in Oviedo. It’s hearty, to say the least. Think meat, fish, and strong stinky cheeses.

Be sure to try fabada, which is a local dish made of beans, sausage, bacon, and ham. Oviedo has many fine restaurants. But I recommend La Corte de Pelayo or La Genuine de Cimadevilla.

Try the the local tipple, Asturias cider. For a proper Sideria, head to Calle Gascona to best sample the local drink. Cider is poured from an impressive height — performance art style — and meant to inject effervescence into a flat drink.

To me, it seemed a little bitter and acidic. I think it’s best sipped with food.

Day 6: Cudillero: Color by the Sea

The next day you’re off to the ridiculously eye catching fishing village of Cudillero, which might be Spain’s prettiest seaside village.

Cudillero is just 40 minutes from Oviedo and well worth the detour. A place of hills, you’ll have to park outside the teeny tiny town and walk in.

In Cudillero, white and pastel houses are piled in a mishmash on top of each other.

There’s a pleasingly startling contrast between the terra cotta roofs and the blue sea. It’s said that each house in the village matches the color of the owner’s fishing boat.

There are ample cafes to rest your feet, feast on seafood, and take in the sweeping views of the village and the sea.

Picture perfect Cudillero is really a must see gem in northern Spain. Don’t miss it; it only takes a half day.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can add nearby Gijon to your itinerary for Day 6. It’s less than 40 minutes from Cudillero. Spend a half day there or relax over cocktails and dinner.

Or you can book a guided day tour from Oviedo that includes Cudillero and other villages in Asturias .

Gijon is a handsome oceanfront city. It’s packed with buzzy cider bars, cafes, and fishing village vibes.

It doesn’t have the crumbling old world charm of Cudillero. But it’s definitely worth a visit.

If you have enough time, take a walk along Gijon’s coastal path. Hugging the crystal clear Bay of Biscay, it goes from Playa de San Lorenzo, Gijon’s main beach, towards La Nora.

Where To Stay In Oviedo

The Eurostars Palacio de Cristal is a luxury hotel with minimalist modern architecture and great city views. The Hotel and Spa Princesa Munia is a hotel fit for royalty. It has beautifully decorated rooms and a stunning spa.

Hotel Fruela is more low key luxury in the historic heart of Oviedo. Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes is in a handsomely restored mansion. It boats designer rooms and an excellent superfood oriented breakfast.

Day 7: Oviedo To Bilbao

On day 7 of your one week in northern Spain, you’ll drive back to Bilbao. Ah, what a beautiful drive this is. The coast is spectacular.

My flight back to the US was from Bilbao, a much more central hub than Oviedo.

I stopped in 3 villages — Llanes, Ribadesella, and St. Vicente de la Barquero.

They were all incredibly lovely in their own distinct way. You could easily plop yourself down for a week to admire them, preferably in Llanes.

1. St Vicente de la Barquera: a Town Awash in Water

The beautiful village of St. Vicente de la Barquera had my heart at first sight. The drive toward the town is breathtaking.

The ancient Puente de la Maza, with its 28 arches over the river, welcomes you. St. Vicente is surrounded by gorgeous beaches — Meron, Tostadero, and Oyambre.

The pretty village dates from Roman times. For centuries, St. Vicente de la Barquera was a stop on the pilgrimmage to Santiago de Compostela.

Step back in history at the Castillo del Rey, San Vicente’s 13th century medieval castle. From atop the hill, you have beautiful views of the town and, on a clear day, the Picos de Europe mountain range.

2. LLanes: Sophisticated Beach Resort

You don’t necessarily expect sophisticated charm in Asturias, a Spanish region known mostly for its incredible natural beauty.

But LLanes is a cosmopolitan European town. In fact, I was quite captivated by Llanes.

Others adored the beachy town too, judging from the number of people strolling through the vibrant old center, eating and drinking at the many restaurants and cider houses.

Try Covadonga Restaurant on Street Manuel Cue, if you’re hungry and need a lunch break.

Llanes boasts a well preserved medieval city with ancient palaces, still housed within the remains of crumbling city walls. It has a doughty defensive tower, an active harbor, fantastic beaches, and top notch views.

LLanes would make a good base for Asturias, if you want to settle in and relax. It has 32 beaches within its jurisdiction.

Walk out to the breakwater to see Los Cubos de Memoria or The Cubes of Memory. It’s an installation of 66 cubes designed and painted by famous Basque artist Augustin Ibarrola.

The brightly colored work (which was a bit faded when I clapped eyes on it), is the artist’s Andy Warhol -like unsettling contrast between art and nature.

3. Ribadesella: Pretty Port Town

Ribadesella is an old port city, and also very picturesque. Its beautiful broad beach makes it a popular holiday spot.

For a little history, take the 10 minute stroll inland to the UNESCO-listed Cueva de Tito Bustillo .

It’s a series of connected caves with a veritable feast of prehistoric drawing. They date back 35,000 years to the Palaeolithic era.

More Than One Week In Spain?

If you have more than 7 days in northern Spain, there are some great things to add to your itinerary.

1. Picos de Europe

If you have extra time before landing in Bilbao or elsewhere, take a day or two to explore the Picos de Europe, a national park.

The park’s quite large, covering the Asturias, Cantabrian, and Castilla regions. With its breathtaking scenery, it attracts mountaineers and regular adventurers alike.

There are mountains, gorges, verdant valleys, and the stunning Lakes of Covadonga. You may think you’ve fallen into Switzerland.

The atmospheric villages in the Picos de Europe are worth visiting too — Covadonga, Canga de Onis, and beautiful medieval Potas.

If you’re brave, take the Fuente De cable car, named Teleferico Fuente De. You’ll ascend to a rocky plateau, at an elevation of over 6200 feet.

Once there, from the Miradour del Cable, you’ll have epic panoramic views over the Picos (if it’s not a foggy day).

You can book a guided day tour to the Picos from Oviedo or Dijon.

2. Bilbao To Barcelona

Since you are landing in Bilbao at the end of this one week in Spain itinerary, you can keep on driving to Barcelona.

I have a 10 day itinerary that takes you from Barcelona to Bilbao . You can reverse the itinerary and trek from Bilbao to Barcelona.

3. Basque Spain

Alternatively, from Bilbao, you can explore more of Basque Spain.

Basque Spain is unexpectedly and energetically diverse. Every time I’ve traveled there, I’ve been seduced by its breathtaking landscapes, art-filled museums, and UNESCO landmarks, north to south.

This 10 days in Basque Spain itinerary coves Bilbao and San Sebastián. But it also take you to some beautiful small towns and wine regions in Basque Spain.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week in northern Spain itinerary. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• 30+ Hidden Gem Towns in Spain
• 3 Day Itinerary for Barcelona
• 3 Day Seville Itinerary
• 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid to Seville
• 10 Day Road Trip in Basque Spain
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 25 Famous Landmarks in Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary for Andalusia

If you’d like to visit northern Spain, pin it for later.

5 thoughts on “One Week In Northern Spain, The Perfect Itinerary For “Green Spain””

Hello! I’m really enjoying your Basque and Northern Spain posts but I’m curious – why don’t you mention the Rioja wine country as somewhere to stay/visit? Is it not that popular for tourists? (I live in Northern California and the wine country is a huge travel destination here!) I’m curious if you have insights about the Rioja area as a place to spend a few nights between Bilbao and San Sebastian.

Yes, it’s popular. I think I mentioned it in my Basque Spain article and in my article on day trips from Bilbao.

Hi! I am curious to know if you had any encounters with the asian hornet (vespa velutina) on your trip? At what time (and year) did you go?

No, I didn’t. I was there in late June to early July.

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Last Updated on March 21, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Northern Spain Travel Itinerary | 9 Perfect Days

A northern spain travel itinerary is one of the most spectacular road trips you can take in Spain. Northern Spain is a region full of scenic highlights. The sea here is usually very rough, the cliffs very steep and yet the landscape here is characterized by dense forests and green meadows. It rains quite a lot, at least much more than in the more popular region of Andalusia in the south of Spain. Northern Spain has so far been spared from mass tourism, so you rarely see foreign license plates along the way.

This is somewhat surprising, as northern Spain is not short of spectacular sights. In addition to the rugged coastline, there are beautiful beaches that are reminiscent of the beaches of the Algarve in Portugal. There is also a high mountain range right on the coast where you will feel like you are in South Tyrol. And the most striking highlight, which you wouldn’t expect to find here, is an arid desert that reminded us strongly of the Atacama Desert in Chile.

We’ll now tell you the best way to pack all these northern Spain highlights into a two-week itinerary and what important tips we have for your northern Spain road trip.

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary – Overview

The itinerary for our northern Spain road trip is clearly based on the natural must sees of northern Spain and the most beautiful scenic sights. We have largely left out cities, partly because we are more nature than city types and partly because there are only a few cities in northern Spain that we think are really worth seeing. Exceptions, such as San Sebastian, prove the rule here.

Our route starts in the east of northern Spain in San Sebastian and ends in the west in Santiago de Compostela. The route can therefore be used to travel to Portugal and discover the highlights of Portugal on a road trip .

Facts about the Northern Spain Travel Itinerary

Duration: 7-10 days Kilometers: 1200 km Best time to travel: June-August (peak season) or May/September (quieter off-season) Further information : Travel route on Google Maps

Highlights on the route

Bardenas Reales Playa de las Catedrales Picos de Europa San Sebastian

Northern Spain Road Trip Day 1 | San Sebastian

We start our northern Spain travel itinerary in the north-east of Spain on the border with France, where a very special city awaits you.

Although we are not really city people and prefer to be out in nature rather than in civilization, San Sebastian totally blew us away. Our northern Spain travel guide said it was the “most beautiful city in the world” and although we tend to have an aversion to such exaggerations, we wanted to give the city a chance. And what can we say, it was really worth it.

The old town of San Sebastian is super small, but also really worth seeing. There are medieval walls, beautiful churches, authentic restaurants and lots of charm. There is also a great city beach framed by Concha Bay. You can climb the hills that rise up on both sides of Concha Bay and enjoy a wonderful view of the sea and the old town from the top.

Accommodation Recommendation

Not to miss

• Be sure to climb one of the two hills at Conchas Bay
• Treat yourself to a few delicious pintxos in the old town
• Further information : San Sebastian Donostia | The 6 Best Things To Do

Day 2 | Bardenas Reales

The highlight of today’s northern Spain travel itinerary is about 2 hours south of San Sebastian. And you will hardly believe your eyes when you see this area for the first time. And you will hardly meet any other people here, because the Bardenas Reales is a little insider tip in northern Spain.

The spectacular Bardenas Reales is a rugged and inhospitable desert in the Navarra region and is located some distance from the coast of northern Spain, but is still worth the long journey.

The desert is a spectacular highlight in northern Spain and should not be missed on any northern Spain travel itinerary.

The Bardenas Reales consists largely of bizarre, ochre-colored clay landscapes spread over several hundred square kilometers. Sometimes you feel like you’re in the American Grand Canyon, although everything is much smaller here.

The semi-desert Bardenas Reales de Navarra covers over 400 km² and is therefore roughly the size of Cologne. You can drive through it in half a day and see landscapes that you wouldn’t expect.

Find out more about this incredible desert here:

• Bardenas Reales Spain | 8 Things To Know Before You Go

Not To Miss

• Stop as often as possible to marvel at the scenery
• You won’t need more than one day on site (including arrival and departure)
• Further information : Bardenas Reales Spain | 8 important tips for your visit

Day 3 | Bilbao

Bilbao is not the most beautiful city in Spain, but as it is on the route of a northern Spain round trip, it is still a good stop. It will take you just under 2.5 hours to get from the Bardenas Reales desert back to the coast.

Bilbao is actually an industrial and port city but is still visited by many tourists. This is because it is home to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. Its exterior is the real highlight for many, but inside it houses some famous modern and contemporary works of art. The museum is absolutely worth a visit for art lovers.

If you are more interested in architecture or technology, we can recommend a very special ferry, which is actually a bridge. The Puente de Vizcaya (Vizcaya Bridge) was inaugurated on July 18, 1893, making it the oldest floating ferry in the world.

The special thing about it is that you are pulled across the Nervion River on a platform. The platform is suspended from a 45 high bridge that spans 160 meters across the river. You can cross the river in your car for just a few euros. You can also reach the upper part of the bridge by elevator and cross the structure on foot.

• If you are not interested in art, then the city is not particularly worth seeing
• But if you want to visit the museum, then you should spend 1-2 days here
• Tickets for the Guggenheim Museum (no queuing): buy here*

Day 4-5 | Picos de Europa

On your northern Spain road trip today, you will continue along the coast and pass Santander. The city itself is not really worth seeing, but it has an impressive coastline to offer. Here you can walk for miles along the sea and climb over the rugged cliffs.

It is best to park behind the soccer pitch on a large meadow (Google Maps ) and set off from there. There are great views for several kilometers in both directions.

About an hour further on is one of the most impressive national parks in Spain. The Picos de Europa (in the national park of the same name) are a high mountain range on the coast of northern Spain and totally remind us of the Dolomites in South Tyrol. The mountain massifs are over 2000 meters high and there are many opportunities to hike and discover the fantastic mountain world.

One hike in particular is considered one of the most beautiful ones in Spain and is definitely the most spectacular in the Picos de Europa. On the Ruta del Cares , you hike over 11 km along a gorge that is only a few meters wide in places.

But there is also plenty else to discover. Beautiful mountain lakes in picture-book scenery, authentic mountain villages and narrow serpentines that wind their way up the mountains.

• More about the Picos de Europa: Picos De Europa | 6 fantastic highlights you have to see

• Make sure you do the Ruta del Cares hike
• There is an incredible amount to see and discover here. The routes are also very long due to the mountains. Take your time
• Further information : Picos De Europa | 6 fantastic highlights you have to see

Day 6 | Playa de las Catedrales

Today we continue along the coast for about 2 hours in a westerly direction. On the way, you will pass the beautiful Silence Beach. Although there are hardly any parking spaces and pebbles instead of sand, the beach is still well worth a visit. But today’s destination is even more impressive.

Playa de Catedrales is probably the most spectacular beach in northern Spain and probably in the whole of Spain. This beach should definitely not be missed on your northern Spain road trip.

The beauty of Playa de Catredales is due to the numerous rocks and arch-like rock formations on the beach and the fact that almost the entire beach is under water at high tide. This means you can only visit the beach and the crazy rock formations at low tide.

Because it is so beautiful, you are of course never alone on the beach. Playa de Catedrales is extremely popular and always well frequented. As a result, you even have to buy limited tickets to visit the beach in high season.

You can find out where to park at Playa de Catedrales, where to get tickets and everything else you need to know here:

• Playa de las Catedrales | Tips on the beach, parking & camping

• Bear in mind that the beach can only be visited at low tide.
• Apart from the spectacular rocks, the beach is also suitable for swimming and lying on the beach
• Further information : Playa de las Catedrales | Tips on the beach, parking & camping

Day 7 | Cova da Doncella

About an hour to the west, right by the sea, lies a wonderful little attraction. The Cova de Doncella is a small but beautiful cave right on a steep cliff in the Galicia region. The way down here is not easy to find. You have to park in this parking lot (Google Maps ) and then walk about 500 meters through a beautiful dense forest. When you reach the cliff, turn right onto a small path and after a few meters you will find yourself in front of the small cave entrance.

You will almost have to crawl to get through, but at the end you will be rewarded with a fantastic view. You can also walk around on the narrow rock that you can see from the cave opening.

There is also a beautiful beach right next door, which is not within walking distance, but can at least be reached by car in a few minutes. Praia Abrela offers a very wide sandy beach with gently sloping waters. There are picnic tables and a beach bar in summer. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed.

• Not only the sights described above are beautiful and totally worth seeing, but also the route and landscape itself.
• So don’t forget to enjoy the panorama from time to time and stop to marvel at the beauty of Galicia.

Day 8 | Cabo Ortegal & Sierra de la Capelada

Cabo Ortegal is a cape on the north coast of Galicia and a very special highlight in northern Spain. There is a lighthouse, which was built in the 1980s and protects shipping from the steep cliffs and numerous rocks in the water in the often very rough sea.

The view from this small cape is truly indescribably beautiful. You look out over the numerous rocks that rise out of the sea in front of you and on which thousands of seabirds nest.

To the southwest of the cape is the Serra da Capelada with its numerous steep cliffs, which look really fantastic from Cabo Ortegal.

The Serra da Capelada is a 20 km long mountain range in Galicia and, at 620 meters, is the highest elevation in south-western Europe. The cliffs drop steeply down to the sea and offer an impressive spectacle with the rugged coastline and rough sea.

The road winds here at some distance from the coast over the numerous hills and through many tight bends along wind farms and great nature and always offers beautiful viewpoints of the coast.

Fun fact : There are free-roaming horses and herds of cattle throughout the Serra da Capelada, which can sometimes be right on the road. So be sure to drive carefully here.

• Take advantage of the numerous viewpoints along the road
• Don’t miss the opportunity to see the rugged coastline
• There are free-roaming horses and cattle everywhere. Be especially careful if you have a dog with you!

Day 9 | Santiago de Compostela

The destination of our route through northern Spain is a very well-known city in the northwest of Spain. Santiago de Compostela is known as the destination of the Way of St. James. But even if you are not interested in pilgrimage, this city in the far west of northern Spain is well worth a visit.

The highlight of Santiago is certainly the large square in front of the cathedral, where all the pilgrims arrive after a long journey and celebrate the end of their journey. No matter when you arrive here, you will definitely see some happy pilgrims on the floor of the cathedral square.

But even apart from that, the old town of Santiago de Compostela is very beautiful and invites you to take a long stroll through the city.

• Santiago is the destination of all pilgrims, so you’re sure to come across a few.
• Soak up the atmosphere on Cathedral Square and stroll through the historic old town. But you don’t need to spend more than a day here.

The most beautiful beaches in northern Spain

Northern Spain not only has spectacular cliffs and rocky coasts to offer, but also beautiful beaches that reminded us of the Algarve . For a list of the most beautiful beaches in northern Spain, just take a look here:

• The 7 most beautiful beaches in northern Spain

Northern Spain Road Trip | The Best Travel Tips

There are regional official languages in northern spain.

In the northern Spanish regions of Galicia, Navarre, the Basque Country, Cantabria and Asturias, there are regional dialects in addition to Spanish that some people learned at school.

These dialects are official languages and so place names and other designations on signs are always described in two languages. This can sometimes be confusing, as some dialects have nothing to do with Castilian Spanish, which is the official national language.

How many days should you plan for a tour of northern Spain?

We recommend planning at least one week for a tour of Northern Spain. However, it is also no problem to stay in this region for 2 weeks or even longer. In addition to the rugged coastal landscape, there are also wonderful beaches where you can relax in summer.

Northern Spain – The best time to visit

Northern Spain is much harsher than, for example, the Andalusia region in the south. The weather is correspondingly less appealing. It rains much more here and the hours of sunshine cannot be compared with the sun-drenched regions in southern Spain. The Spanish Atlantic coast is even considered the rainiest region in Spain. As a result, you should be prepared for a lot of rain here.

The main season is the summer months of July and August. Here you have the best chance of good weather with around 25 degrees. However, this is also when most of the other tourists are out and about. We therefore also recommend the low season with the months of May/June and September. However, it is a little cooler here and swimming in the sea is not always pleasant.

How much does a round trip to northern Spain cost?

Prices in Spain are generally comparable to those in Germany, but tend to be slightly lower. You pay a little less than in Germany, especially in supermarkets.

Is northern Spain very touristy?

In contrast to Andalusia or the Algarve in Portugal , northern Spain is not touristy at all. Most of the tourists you will meet are locals or French. The north of Spain is not really on the agenda for Germans. If at all, then as a transit region on the way to Portugal .

Of course, it can still get quite crowded at the tourist hotspots in summer. In general, however, the region is far from being overrun by mass tourism.

Northern Spain Camping | Is Northern Spain suitable for camping?

Northern Spain is perfect for vanlife and a round trip in a motorhome. There are many great opportunities for free-standing and wild camping in the countryside. We have summarized all the information you need for camping in northern Spain in a separate article.

• Northern Spain camping & free standing 2023 I The 8 most important tips

We hope you enjoyed our route and our tips for a round trip to Northern Spain. If you have any questions, please write us a comment!

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Northern Spain on a Road Trip

Northern Spain is still an underrated destination, even though it offers the perfect combination of magical villages, wide green landscapes, and dreamy beaches. If it’s not yet on your Spain bucket list , add it now! To convince you, here are amazing places to visit in northern Spain that will surely put a smile on your face.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary Summary

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

To give you some inspiration, here’s what my northern Spain itinerary looked like:

Day 1: San Sebastian (suggested hotel: Atotxa Rooms in San Sebastian or Olaskoaga Goikoa in a nearby village).

Day 2: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe + Bilbao (suggested hotel: Hotel Los Angeles or Posada Araceli in Santillana del Mar).

Day 3: Comillas + Santillana del Mar (suggested hotel: Hotel Los Angeles or Posada Araceli in Santillana del Mar).

Day 4: San Vicente de la Barquera + Llanes + Playa del Gulpiyuri (suggested hotel: Hostal Poncebos in Poncebos or Logis Hotel Restaurante La Casa de Juansabeli in Arenas de Cabrales).

Day 5: Covadonga Lakes + Oviedo (suggested hotel: Hotel Casona Selgas or Casona de La Paca in Cudillero).

Day 6: Cudillero + Luarca + Playa del las Catedrales (suggested hotel: Hotel San Briz in A Pontenova or Casas Rurales TAReira in Taramundi).

Day 7: Os Teixois + driving through Ribeira Sacra + Ribadavia (suggested hotel: Hotel Panton or Agua de Mar Hotel Boutique in Vigo).

Day 8: Islas Cies + evening in Vigo (suggested hotel: Hotel Panton or Agua de Mar Hotel Boutique in Vigo).

Day 9: Combarro + Santiago de Compostela (suggested hotel: PR Blanco in Santiago de Compostela).

Day 10: A Coruña (suggested hotel: Hotel Brisa or Hotel Lois in A Coruña).

Northern Spain Travel Tips

Is northern spain worth visiting what is it known for.

If you love a combo of unspoiled ocean beaches, sleepy fishing villages, historical cities, and vast green landscapes, you’ll love northern Spain.

It’s an incredible area where you can reconnect with nature, enjoy amazing food, visit intriguing manmade landmarks, and discover a unique side of Spain.

When to Visit Northern Spain

In terms of weather and crowds, late spring and early summer are ideal for traveling through northern Spain.

I visited in late June and absolutely loved it – it gets darker very late, so you can really make the most of every day.

Where Should You Base Yourself

You can plan so many different itineraries when visiting northern Spain.

If you want to see several regions (like I did), you should travel from one place to another because there’s a lot of distance to cover.

If you want to focus on one region, base yourself in one spot. Traveling by car, you don’t have to stay in a big city, and you can enjoy the fantastic rural accommodations northern Spain has to offer.

Start by marking all the places you want to visit on a map and see where it makes sense to base yourself because the options are endless.

Places to Visit in Northern Spain’s Basque Country Region

San sebastian.

With one of the dreamiest beaches in Spain ( La Concha ), stunning lookout points, and a beautiful old town, San Sebastian is easily one of the best cities to visit in northern Spain.

It’s worth spending at least 24- 48 hours in San Sebastian , but it can also be a great base for exploring the Basque Country region.

Beyond its charm and beauty, it is also a HUGE foodie destination. If you’re a hardcore foodie, you’ll be delighted to know this city is home to an astonishing number of Michelin-starred restaurants .

It also invented the pintxo, so San Sebastian is where you’ll find some of the best pintxo bars in Spain .

What exactly are those? They are a type of tapas/snack/mini-meal popular in northern Spain, and they consist of a piece of bread with different toppings.

The old town is filled with these pintxo bars, so you can take a guided food tour or create your own tour.

Be sure to also head to La Viña , the restaurant that invented the world’s creamiest and best cheesecake.

Other things to do in San Sebastian:

• Take the funicular to get to Monte Igueldo lookout point, overlooking La Concha beach
• Wander through the old town and see the San Sebastián Cathedral
• Take a Basque history bike tour
• Visit the San Telmo Museum
• Take a tour of a traditional cider house
• Take a day tour to the town of Hondarribia and other nearby fishing towns

How much time to spend there: 1-2 days.

Where to stay: After spending the day in the city, I actually stayed at a cozy rural accommodation called Olaskoaga Goikoa in a nearby village called Aia (perfect for those looking for utter quiet). You can browse its latest prices or find plenty of highly-rated accommodations in San Sebastian itself like Atotxa Rooms , Aldamar , and the luxurious Hotel Maria Cristina.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

One of the best things to do in northern Spain is to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet on the Basque coast.

It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge, and a small church dating from the 10th century stands on top of it.

You can have a full view of it from the parking lot, but if you want to get to the islet itself, you’ll need to walk down the road and climb over 200 steps.

Fun fact:  Scenes for the 7th season of ‘Game of Thrones’ were shot in San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (hint: Dragonstone). You can even take a Game of Thrones guided tour from the city of Bilbao.

How much time to spend there: A couple of hours.

If you’re an architecture and culture lover, the unique city of Bilbao is for you.

With its unique structure, its most famous highlight is, of course, the Guggenheim Museum of Art (designed by infamous architect Frank Gehry), but there’s so much more to it.

Architecture fans will love beautiful buildings in the city center like the Arriaga Theater, Chavarri Palace, and Basilica de Begoña while culture lovers will enjoy the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, Itsasmuseum (maritime museum), and the iconic Guggenheim Museum .

Whether you have a few hours or a weekend in Bilbao , you can also wander through the Casco Viejo (old quarter), relax in Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, and explore Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest indoor market.

Other things to do in Bilbao:

• Take a free walking tour of Bilbao
• Take a free walking tour of modernist Bilbao
• Take a food tour

How much time to spend there: 1 day.

Best Places to Visit in North Spain’s Cantabria Region

Santillana del mar.

Fun fact: Santillana del Mar is known as ‘The Town of Three Lies’ since it is neither holy (Santa), nor flat (Llana), nor is it by the sea (Mar). It is also known as one of the prettiest medieval towns in northern Spain.

But pretty is an understatement – it is pure magic! The rustic stone buildings, flower-adorned balconies, and enchanting vibe make it a real must-see gem.

How much time to spend there: Half a day.

Where to stay: I loved staying at Hotel Los Angeles . The staff was incredibly welcoming and the hotel was very cozy and felt authentic. Browse its latest prices and availability. A higher-rated option is Posada Araceli .

Even if you’ve never been to Barcelona, I’m quite sure you’ve heard about Antoni Gaudi.

If you haven’t, it’s time to get to know the genius architecture behind some of Barcelona’s most beautiful and unique buildings.

Each one of them is a work of art, and I am a true fan of his. Luckily, he also scattered some of his gems outside of the Catalonia region.

In the small town of Comillas, you can find ‘El Capricho de Gaudi’ (Gaudi’s Caprice). It was built as a summer villa for Máximo Díaz de Quijano, a Spanish immigrant who returned to Spain after having made his fortune.

During your visit, you can enjoy all areas of the building including the interior and the gardens.

Even if you’re not an architecture fan, give this treasure a moment of appreciation, as it is one of the most unique things to see in northern Spain.

San Vicente de la Barquera

Although there isn’t a whole lot to do in San Vicente de la Barquera, this sleepy fishing village/town is worthy of at least a coffee or lunch break.

Whether you’re entering San Vicente de la Barquera from the bridge on the East (on the N-634) or walking up to the medieval San Vicente Castle and Church of Santa María de los Ángeles, you’ll be rewarded with some remarkable views.

There are also quite a few beaches nearby that you can check out, like Playa de Meron, Playa de Gerra, and Playa de Oyambre.

Stunning Places to See in Northern Spain’s Asturias Region

Llanes is the perfect little coastal town.

Not only does it have two fantastic beaches, Sablon Beach and Puerto Chico Beach, but also an adorable port and old town with cobbled alleys and a few landmarks (like the Duque de Estrada Palace).

It’s also a great base for exploring the Picos de Europa National Park.

How much time to spend there: A few hours – half a day.

Playa de Gulpiyuri

Located only 100 meters from the Cantabrian Sea, Playa de Gulpiyuri is a flooded sinkhole that creates a 40-meter magical little beach.

Although the water level isn’t high enough to take a proper swim, it’s still one of the greatest hidden gems in Spain and one of the best beaches in Asturias .

Also, try to visit when the tide is high, or else the water will almost completely disappear.

Getting there: Navigate to Playa de Gulpiyuri, and you should be getting to a parking lot. From there, you’ll see signs leading to the beach within only a few minutes.

How much time to spend there: A few hours.

Lagos de Covadonga

Located in the national park of Picos De Europa, the beautiful lakes of Covadonga are one of the best places in northern Spain.

Going up the winding road to see them, you’ll need a moment to truly understand that you’re not actually in Switzerland!

The landscape is wide and green, the lakes are mesmerizing, and completing the scenery, cows, goats, and sheep are wandering around. Yes, I’ll repeat it, it’s Spain!

Getting there:  I think the easiest way to get to the lakes is by car all the way to the parking lot near the Entrelagos lookout point and Bar Restaurante Mª Rosa.

However, from late spring to early fall, access to the lakes by car is restricted, and you may need to use public transportation if you don’t get there very early in the morning. Get all the details here.

You can also visit the lakes with a guided day trip from Gijon or a day tour from Oviedo .

Where to stay near Lagos de Covadonga: If you want to wake up to magnificent views, I recommend staying at Hostal Poncebos which sits on the turquoise Cares River (I specifically wanted to stay there because of the surrounding scenery, which didn’t disappoint). Browse its latest prices and availability. Another highly-rated nearby option is Logis Hotel Restaurante La Casa de Juansabeli .

Oviedo is a city like no other. Its history, culture, gastronomy, elegance, peacefulness, and enchantment will win you over in a second, and you’ll love the mix of modern and old.

On the one hand, it’s a great place to go shopping and feast on Michelin-starred meals.

On the other hand, it has a medieval flavor, and it’s home to a few UNESCO sites like the Basilica of San Julián de los Prados and the Church of Santa María del Naranco.

On your visit, you can also admire the Catedral Metropolitana de El Salvador de Oviedo, visit the Archaeological Museum of Asturias or the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias, and wander through the El Fontan market.

It really is one of the best cities in northern Spain, and it is one of a kind, so you should definitely put it on your itinerary.

How much time to spend there: Half a day – one day.

Your north Spain trip would not be complete without visiting Cudillero. It is a small, charming fisherman’s village, packed with colorful houses, that seem to be built one on top of the other.

You don’t need much more than a stroll in the village’s streets, and a cup of coffee in front of the colorful scenery.

Fun fact #1: A legend says that Vikings were the ones to found Cudillero.

Fun fact #2:  Each house in the village matches the color of its owner’s fishing boat.

Where to stay: I loved staying at Hotel Casona Selgas . It ticked all the boxes for me – clean, comfortable, beautiful decor, and great hosts. Read more reviews and check the latest prices. A higher-rated option is Casona de La Paca .

Another gem that’s worth visiting on Spain’s northern coast is the town of Luarca.

Its streets are full of old town charm and there are many cafes and traditional taverns, but the crowning glory is its beautiful big harbor.

OS Teixois Ethnographic Site

The ethnographic site of Os Teixois demonstrates the use of several hydraulic devices used by local villagers in their daily life, for several centuries running.

It also showcases traditional rustic stone buildings, which are my favorite kind of buildings.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to take a guided tour, but I am quite sure that it helps to fully learn everything there is to know about this place.

Where to stay near Os Teixois: Only a few miles away, I stayed at Hotel San Briz . I loved its location in a quiet town, as well as its on-site restaurant, and the staff was more than welcoming. Browse the latest prices and availability here. A higher-rated option is Casas Rurales TAReira en Taramundi .

Most Beautiful Places in Northern Spain’s Galicia Region

Playa de las catedrales.

Cathedrals Beach is an amazing and unique beach on the Galician coast. Its name derives from the natural architecture which was created by the Atlantic Ocean.

During high tide, the waves make the beach almost completely disappear, so it is something to consider when planning a visit.

When the low tide arrives, it reveals the true majestic beauty of this beach: magnificent cliffs, rocky arched formations, and hidden caves free for you to explore.

Access:  Access to the beach is free , but during summer and Easter it is limited . All you need to do is make a reservation , and you are ready to go!

Ribeira Sacra Wine Region

Probably one of the lesser-known wine regions in Spain , Ribeira Sacra is located in the eastern part of Galicia in the valleys of the rivers Miño and Sil.

The Romans made wine in this area more than 2,000 years ago, and monks continued to do so in the Middle Ages.

Apart from driving through the beautiful vineyards, you can also check out local wineries, but be sure to contact them in advance for tours in English.

You can also check out this day tour to Ribeira Sacra from Santiago de Compostela .

Have you ever wanted to visit a place just because of a very specific spot? I’ve added Ribadavia to my northern Spain road trip itinerary because of a unique bakery.

I’m always happy to explore my Jewish heritage around the world, so I was thrilled to visit La Tafona da Herminia, a tiny bakery dedicated to the Hebrew sweets of Spain, which was once home to a thriving Jewish community.

Update: Herminia has retired and the place is currently closed.

But beyond this little gem, Ribadavia is a town that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

It is a former seat of the Kingdom of Galicia, its Jewish quarter is one of the best in Galicia, and its medieval atmosphere is well-preserved. You can also visit the Ribadavia Castle and the Ethnological Museum.

Cies Islands, I’m yours.

The Cies Islands were one of my favorite places to see in northern Spain. They consist of three islands: Monte Agudo, O Faro, and San Martiño.

The first two islands are connected by a strip of sand, also known as Rodas Beach. Its white sand and turquoise water are all you need on a hot summer day.

Along with the dreamy beaches, there are walking trails for you to enjoy the wild nature surrounding you.

For me, that’s the best thing about these islands; you get to combine relaxation in the sun, with hikes that reveal amazing views.

Getting there:  Luckily, the islands are only a 30-minute ferry ride away from the city of Vigo , and I booked my ticket via Naviera Nabia .

Good to know #1:  Currently, you also need a permit to visit the islands ( easily request it here ), so consider purchasing these ferry tickets that already include the permit (note that the confirmation email will also tell you to get them physically at the ticket office).

Good to know #2:  The Cies Islands are a natural reserve and a part of the Atlantic Islands National Park. Therefore, there is no accommodation on the islands except for a camping area .

Good to know #3:  There are no waste bins on the islands. So, make sure to take your litter with you back to the mainland.

Good to know #4: Get to the port in advance because it can be a bit confusing to find your ferry (lots of people, lots of ferries), even though you’ll see plenty of service providers that will direct you to the right spot.

Where to stay in Vigo: I stayed at Hotel Panton , a family-run hotel in central Vigo. Read reviews and check its latest prices. A higher-rated option is the Agua de Mar Hotel Boutique .

It is impossible not to fall in love with Combarro, the sweetest little fisherman’s village, which proudly displays Galician traditional stone houses and granaries (that are still in use!).

Besides the captivating architecture, the place has a unique feel to it, something magical I can’t quite explain. Being one of the highlights of my northern Spain trip, it is deserving of at least a short stroll.

Santiago de Compostela

As the final destination of the famous pilgrimage route, Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James), Santiago de Compostela is a must-see in north Spain.

The legend says that to honor St. James, the impressive Santiago de Compostela Cathedral was built on the spot where his remains were supposedly found, so there’s no wonder why the entire Old Town is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Santiago de Compostela is also home to a few other Spanish landmarks like the 18th-century Palace of Raxoi and the medieval Monastery of San Martiño Pinario, but I admit that beyond the cathedral, this city didn’t wow me as other places in Galicia did.

I don’t usually do this, but there was a tourist train going out of the cathedral’s square, and it was actually a nice way to see a little bit of the city.

You can also take a free walking tour and visit the cathedral with a guide .

Where to stay: I stayed at PR Blanco , located near the cathedral, offering private parking and comfortable rooms and apartments. Browse its latest prices and availability.

Both lively and laid back and both traditional and modern, A Coruña is an easy-to-love city.

On one hand, you’ll find historic buildings like the town hall at María Pita Square, San Anton Castle, and UNESCO listed Tower of Hercules, which dates back to Roman times.

On the other hand, you can enjoy attractions like the National Museum of Science and Technology, the Fenosa Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Finisterrae Aquarium.

A Coruña is home to many other museums, as well as scenic viewpoints overlooking the city and the Atlantic coast, fantastic restaurants, and relaxing beaches like Playa del Riazor and Playa de las Lapas.

How much time to spend there: One day.

Where to stay: I stayed at Hotel Brisa , which is located right near Riazor Beach (some of the hotel’s rooms also offer beach views). Read reviews and book it here. A higher-rated option is Hotel Lois .

Places I Wish I Hadn’t Missed in Northern Spain

My northern Spain bucket list is huge (I even had to skip out on regions like La Rioja And Navarre on my trip), but here are a few of the top places I wish I hadn’t missed.

Potes, Cantabria

Situated on the Cantabrian side of the Picos de Europa National Park, Potes is a village that seems like an ideal stop on a road trip.

Not only is it surrounded by the mountainous scenery of the park, but it also has an old quarter with centuries-old houses and landmarks.

I love places that combine historical and traditional architecture with nature, so Potes would have probably been right up my alley.

For that reason, I would have also loved to visit  Barcena Mayor , considered the oldest village in Cantabria.

Playa Del Silencio, Asturias

The untamed coastline of northern Spain boasts hundreds of picture-perfect beaches, but the one that got my attention was Playa del Silencio (also known as Playa de Gavieiru).

It is a part of the Protected Landscape of the Western Coast of Asturias and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.

I honestly don’t know why I didn’t include it in my itinerary because it’s located right between Cudillero and Luarca.

Somiedo Natural Park, Asturias

Road-tripping through the Picos de Europa National Park was an incredible experience, so I wish I had time to visit Somiedo Natural Park, another notable natural space in the area.

There’s a lot to do in this park, but I would have loved to see its lakes (Lagos de Saliencia and Lago del Valle) and visit its  brañas , which are groups of  teitos , traditional stone huts with straw roofs once used as houses by shepherds.

Lugo, Galicia

Being the only city in the world surrounded by intact Roman walls (which were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Lugo is literally one of a kind.

In addition, the 12th-century Lugo Cathedral is a well-known stop on the Camino Primitivo (one of the paths of the Camino de Santiago).

If these famous Spanish landmarks are not enough, the entire historic center seems like a wonderful place to explore. 

Cape Finisterre, Galicia

What makes the rugged Cape Finisterre (Cabo Fisterra in Galician) intriguing to me is that the Romans believed it was the ‘end of the earth’ ( Finis Terrae  in Latin).

It’s actually close to being Europe’s westernmost point, but that title goes to Cabo da Roca in Portugal.

That said, its 19th-century lighthouse IS the westernmost in Europe, and the entire peninsula is a popular destination on the Camino de Santiago.

Other Spain Travel Guides

Read more about Spain:

• Best Spanish road trips (including a road trip itinerary for southern Spain )
• Long weekend breaks in Spain
• 55 things you need to know before visiting Spain
• Novels set in Spain
• Spain themed gifts
• Spain travel quotes
• Unusual things to do in Barcelona

Read more on European road trips:

• Best road trips in Portugal
• Lisbon to Porto road trip
• Northern Portugal road trip
• Best road trips in Italy
• Best road trips from Milan
• Northern Italy road trip
• Northwest Italy road trip itinerary

When are you planning on visiting northern Spain ? Tell me in the comments and pin this northern Spain travel guide for later using the share icon on the right bottom corner!

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

18 thoughts on “20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Northern Spain on a Road Trip”

Northern Spain is absolutely amazing!! Delicious food all around, long beaches, green forests, plenty of outdoor activities with breathtaking views… The perfect holiday destination!

Couldn’t agree more!

Hi Or, Great post, lots of useful information! Looking for my trip to the area 😎

Thank you! Let me know if you have any questions 🙂

Do you have a map of your Northern Spain Roadtrip?

Hey, Becky! I’ve added a map – I hope it helps 🙂

I love your recommendations! But I keep my land Asturias! Although luckily in Spain we have some fantastic places to not get bored. Regards

Thanks, Sergio! I agree, it’s impossible to get bored in Spain 🙂

Amazing post! I have been to Southern Spain last year & I really enjoyed it. However, your blog is making me think whether I should’ve visited Northern Spain as it does feature some beautiful tourist attractions. I’ll share this blog with my wife & we’ll then see if we want to Apply for Spain Visa to explore these alluring attractions. Keep sharing such helpful information about other European countries as well.

Thank you and you should most definitely visit northern Spain too 🙂

Hi Or you post is great. Booked to visit northern Spain beginning of August starting off in Burgos but your post has wetted out appetite you have covered all the sort of places we like and in great detail, learnt more from your post than dozens of other offerings. Thanks

Thanks, Russell! This is what I’ve managed to see on my road trip and that’s after somehow prioritizing which places to visit in each region (mission impossible), so I’m happy you find this post inspiring and helpful 🙂

Thank you so much for this post. Can you let me know how much time you allocated to this trip if you were to do in one hit ?

You’re welcome, Lisa! I’m happy this is helpful. This road trip took me about 9 days. I’d say you need at least say 9-10 days to enjoy each and every place. Plus, it’s a lot of distance to cover since this route goes through several regions.

my daughter is attending her first semester of college in Valencia. thank you so much for the blog it has really helped with planning my trip there to see her in October

Thank you so much, Michelle! I’m really happy to know my blog was helpful! I hope you have a great time in Valencia 🙂

I haven’t been to Spain yet but your photos are making me itch to go! Especially Cudillero – it looks adorable!

Spain is incredible, and there are so many places to visit 🙂 Cudillero is such a charming village, and you should definitely go someday!

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

How to get to Northern Spain

Tips to drive in spain, best time to visit northern spain, what to pack for a roadtrip through northern spain, the ultimate northern spain itinerary, first stop: exploring galicia – santiago de compostela and the end of the earth, santiago de compostela, finisterra, the end of the world, paris dakar in santiago de compostela, moving into castilla y león: ponferrada, astorga and leon, third stop: asturias. tierra querida (beloved land), picos de europa, the most cosmopolitan part of this northern spain itinerary: bilbao, san sebastian, spanish surfer paradise, san sebastián, last stop of this northern spain itinerary: the (not so wild) pamplona, the best one-week northern spain itinerary, discover northern spain in 10 days or in two weeks.

This itinerary can start either in Santiago de Compostela or if you reverse it, in Pamplona. Even though Santiago de Compostela is a larger city than Navarra, I do not think there are many international flights arriving there. So, if you fly in from abroad, you will most likely end up in either Madrid or Barcelona. From there, there are multiple flights a day to either destination.

Once in your destination, I would recommend you to rent a car. As mentioned before, it is indeed possible to move from stop to stop using buses and trains, but it will be complicated. While a trip by car will be 2h, by bus it can be up to 7 or more.

I was in this area of Spain last time about 5 years ago. The roads were all new, wide and it was very easy to drive there. Spanish people are not the best drivers in Europe, but we are also not the worst. As long as you have experience driving on the right side of the road, the mechanics should not be a problem.

A possible issue you may encounter though, are the signs. Some parts of Spain, specially Galicia, the most occidental part of Spain, don’t have enough signs on their roads. If you decide to rent a car, either bring a GPS with you from home or make sure that the rental comes with one. Spain will be much easier to navigate with it.

I think that the best time to start this Northern Spain itinerary is around the end of Spring. From May until mid-August you should be (mostly) fine. Although Spain is known for having a very moderate climate and warm temperatures, Northern Spain is an exception. It rains in Galicia every week and often it does not stop for days. Other stops in this itinerary have better sun/rain ratios but then the wind comes into play. In general, I think that the best time to visit Northern Spain is by the end of spring and early summer: the weather will be warm, the rain will be at its lowest and, in general, tourists will still not be everywhere.

In this area of Spain, you can go from scorching sun to insane wind and hail within minutes. Because of this, the layer-up system is the way to go when visiting Northern Spain. Bring comfortable shoes, one pair closed, one pair open. The closed pair of shows will help you when you are in the mountain by keeping your feet away from snakes and spikes. The open pair will be perfect for visiting the cities and heading to the beach. Although be prepared, there will be lots of rocks in many coastal areas so it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have some rock shoes around for that too.

Spain is a land of colors and contrasts. Of easy-going and pragmatic people. Of sweet and sour if you ask me. Visiting Spain in a short period of time is unattainable, but you can always go back repeatedly and enjoy different areas. To make sure you discover the most, I will be writing a series of posts with detailed itineraries for different areas. This one, the first, will be about one of the lesser known parts: the North. Here I present you the ultimate Northern Spain Itinerary.

This itinerary is planned from West to East. Starting from North East, in Spain we have Galicia. This amazing area of Spain is well known for having some of the best food in the country. From very weird seafood to the best beef on town.

You can read more about the fantastic foods we have in town in this very extensive post: Best food around Spain

Something else you can expect from Galicia are never-ending green fields. Lots of rain and very warm people. Galicia has four individual regions, although my favorite of them all is Santiago de Compostela. This beautiful city is the end of the many “Camino(s) de Santiago” that run through Europe and gets its name from the Santiago apostle.

This beautiful town receives millions of pilgrims that arrive after walking hundreds of kilometers. Even though officially it is an activity for those who believe in God, many people from around the globe come to walk the camino just because of the social side of it. 

Santiago houses tones of hotels and hostels as well as many activities suited for everybody. The main one, anyways, has to be the Cathedral. This is one of the oldest cathedrals in Spain, built more than one thousand years ago. One of the most curious things about this cathedral is the Botafumeiro. This is a very weird… Instrument? That hangs from the ceiling and on specific days, it is balanced inside the cathedral while expelling smoke with a very interesting smell.  The smell is similar to a fermented bag of sweaty socks.

After spending a while discovering the Cathedral and its façade, you can dedicate the afternoon to explore the city by joining a free walking tour and learning about all the curiosities and history of the old quarter. They will take you to the best places to see the city and you will also have an interesting and active afternoon.

Halfway through the afternoon take your car and drive to Finisterra. The name of this place literally means the end of the Earth and it was believed to be the end of the known world during Roman times. It is also the most Occidental point of Spain. It will take you about one hour to reach this place from Santiago de Compostela. You can visit Finisterra by car (ideally) or by bus. Once there, you will find lots of people just enjoying the sunset over the cliffs of Galicia. Many of them taking pictures. Some of them singing to the sun while playing the guitar or the ukelele. It is a beautiful sight and well worth a visit.

If you have a more relaxed itinerary in mind and want to spend more days around the North of Spain, you can spend much more time in Finisterra. In this small cape, there is also another one of the “camino(s) de Santiago”, a fantastic lighthouse and a small boot symbolizing one of the pilgrims. With a few extra hours, you can also taste more local delicacies, visit the harbor or just enjoy the small cobblestone streets around town.

If after all of this, you can still move (and are quite brave), there’s an additional activity almost only known by the locals: The Paris-Dakar. This is a historic race that originally started in Paris and ended up in Dakar, the capital of Senegal. It crossed mountains, desserts and much more. It was an epic race. Well, the version of it in Santiago de Compostela may still be epic, but that will mostly depend on you.

The Paris-Dakar in Santiago de Compostela is a bar-itinerary in a street in the old town of the city. Why the name though? Well, the first bar in this route is “Café Bar Paris”, and the last one is “Restaurante Dakar”. You get it now, right? Well by foot, there’s barely 200m between them (less than a tenth of a mile). The enduring part of this race though is that you need to stop on every bar in the street between these two and have a pint. Usually these now include a small tapa to go along, but they still remain pretty cheap.

You may think, well, there won’t be many bars between these two, right? Well, think again. The minimum bars you will visit during this tour are 28. You can do as the locals and grab a white sheet of paper and get signatures from the bartenders to prove you have been there. If that does not sound enough challenging to you, and you want to be a little extra… the route today has expanded to neighboring streets and many more bars participate on this activity. The total number of bars you can visit within this itinerary goes up to 40 stops.

So, what do you think? Are you ready for this type of Paris-Dakar? Or are you already quitting only in the first stop of this Northern Spain Itinerary?

Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela

If you decide to spend the first night of this Northern Spain itinerary in Santiago de Compostela, there are many options available for you regarding accomodations. For example, if you are looking for a simple, clean and well located hotel, my first recommendation would be Miradorio de Belvís . It is nice, cheap and a good hotel in my opinion. If you want to go to more fancier options, You can go to a proper castle and stay at Hotel A Quinta Da Auga . Spend a couple of additional days relax in the spa and take in the surroundings.

Assuming you did not do the Paris-Dakar the previous night. Or that if you did it you did not do all 40 stops, the ideal would be to start the day early. Then, you can drive up to the Las Médulas in León. This site, recognized by the UNESCO as a world heritage site, was the largest open sky mine during the reign of the Roman empire. They exploited this area for decades and found lots of gold. Today, even though 17 th centuries have passed since their closure, it is still possible to witness their mark and see how they worked the land. There are a few historical sites that explain in more detail how they mined the land and their gains.

Your next stop, a little bit over 2h down the road, would be Ponferrada. This small town is really not well known, and quite small. I don’t think it requires a full day visit. But it has a beautiful castle: the templars castle. As the name suggests, this castle was given to the templar knights in the 12 th century and throughout history has been a place where knights and pilgrims met.

After a short visit to the Castle, you can move then to Astorga. This small town is located between Ponferrada and the capital of the county, León. Even though most people will overlook this tiny city, it has one unique characteristic that I think makes it worth a visit. My reason is simple: it homes the Episcopal Palace of Astorga.

And why is this palace of importance? Well, this building is one of the only three sites built by Antoni Gaudi (the architect behind some of the most amazing buildings in Barcelona) outside of Catalonia. This beautiful building, also known as Palacio Gaudi, currently houses the museum of the roads (sounds weird, but the original name is the Museo de los Caminos). This museum showcases artifacts, sculptures and paintings from the Roman to the Gothic period. It is possible to visit it and the entrance fee is, today (March 2020), only 3€!

Other interesting places in Astorga

Another very interesting thing about Astorga are some specific sweets of the region. You know we Spaniards love our food. Even though there are larger areas with dishes in common, it is also possible to find city/town-specific delights. And it is the case for this small town. These sweets are small and square millefeuilles with a hole in the middle. Then, once cooked, they submerge them in a bath of sweet syrup. They are the type of sweet that you can only eat one piece before having a sugar crush. But they are also very nice.

To spend the night, you will be heading to León. Yes, we have a town that it is called lion. Although in this case it qualifies as a city. This is the perfect spot to spend one or two nights and get a real feeling of León halfway through this Northern Spain Itinerary.

Although there are many things to see and visit, these are some of the most interesting ones: the Cathedral, the square in front of it, the Casa Botines (another one of Gaudi’s pieces of art) and the wet neighborhood. In the latter, you can go have some shorts (cortos). These are smaller than a pint and always come with a free tapa on the side. Usually by having four or five of these you can have a proper meal. And like in Santiago de Compostela, you can also do some pub crawling. If you are feeling fancy, you can also decide to sleep on the beautiful Saint Mark Convent (Convento de San Marcos). This parador, previously an abbey, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Besides how amazing and luxurious it currently is, this abbey has been from a hospital and a pilgrim home to a prison. Actually, one of the most praised authors of Spanish literature, Francisco de Quevedo, was kept there. He used the time to write some new and later-well-known pieces. If you decided to book this amazing location, be prepared to feel like a member of the Spanish court from many centuries ago. It is a unique experience.

If you are interested in something a bit more modern or budget friendly, the Abad San Antonio hotel (****) is also a fantastic option. Rooms for two don’t even reach the $50 (45€).

The following stop in this itinerary through Northern Spain is one of the most amazing sections of Spain: Asturias. This is not a very well-known area outside of the country, but it receives lots of national tourists.

The first stop that I suggest you to take is Cabo Vidio or Cape Vidio. Even though it is a little bit out of the way coming from León, I do believe it is worth the visit. From Cape Vidio you have an advantaged view of some of the most breathtaking cliffs in Spain. Both to the east and to the west. It is the perfect spot for some panoramic shots that will look fantastic in your wall.

Want to know how to take the best panoramic shots without spending a lot of money on a wide angle lens? Here you have it: Panoramic Shots, the wide angle of the poor.

Moving on to the East, you can then decide whether you want to make multiple stops along the coast on. I think that the very picturesque towns deserve some minutes, but if you are in a rush, then your next stop could be Gijón.

Some of the nicest things to do in Gijón is to just wander through the seaside, sunbath (if visiting during the summer) on its beach, and then enjoy some of the amazing local restaurants. Gijón is a nice spot to spend the night or just a meal, but if there is something you need to do when there is to go to a sidrería. Sidra or cider, is the typical drink of the region. And tradition says that it needs to be thrown from above your head to aerate and get the best possible flavor. It is lovely to watch and one of the most typical things you can do there.

Following up this Northern Spain itinerary you will find yourself next in Llanes. This tiny town is lost between cliffs and beaches and it is one of the most picturesque locations you will find in Europe. If you decided to follow this Northern Spain Itinerary you may think of skipping it, but believe me when I tell you that you should not. With green hills, adorable little houses and rock formations from out this world, Llanes is the delight of anyone who visits both during summer or winter. If you are visiting during the hottest season, rent a bike and explore the surroundings of this natural marvel. In case you visit during winter, walk along the beach and finish the day with a good plate of local stew.

If you have the time, then, Llanes can also be the perfect basecamp to drive to Picos de Europa. These are some of the highest set of mountains in Spain and also some of the most protected. In Picos de Europa you will find many animals that are on the verge of extinction or that only exist there. Among them, eagles, the “bonebreaker” or quebrantahuesos, some bears and several unique species of mountain goats. It is possible to spend weeks hiking through these mountains seeing different things every single day.

Where to stay to visit the Picos de Europa

If you decide to spend some extra days in Llanes to discover the Picos de Europa, there are some nice options for you. Most accomodation in this area will be from very cheap to cheap, although there will be a wide range of comfort levels included in these options. A cheap but very nice option would be Hotel Don Paco (about $45 or 40€ the night for a double room). On the other end, with views to the mountains and still keeping a rustic feel to it, there is Hotel Balcón de la Cuesta . This is not exactly in Llanes but close enough, and the views from their rooms are somethings worth waking up to. And the price is also not much higher, ranging around the 100€ ($110) per night for a double room in high season.

After Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville, Bilbao is the fifth largest city in Spain. Once an industrial hub, gray and dusty, Bilbao has reborn in the last two decades to become a referent in art, and specially, in gastronomy.

Bilbao houses one of the most well know museums in the world: the Guggenheim Museum. The beautiful building where this museum is located presents one of the most well-known profiles in the artistic world. Other areas in the city that are a must-see are: the Old Town, the New town and the museum of Arts.

Even though the question to what to visit can be answered easily enough, when we consider where to eat, we may face a challenge. Bilbao and its surroundings have the highest accumulation of Michelin-star awarded restaurants in Europe. Only in the city, over 30 restaurants have this honor.

In case you want something more ordinary, Bilbao, or the Basque Country is also the place where the pintxos were born. These are small tapas that you buy per piece from one to three euros each, along with a beer or some of the local wines. The current trend of “toothpick” bars that is becoming widely popular across Spain was born here. If you decide to spend some days in Bilbao, just spend some hours jumping from bar to bar and enjoy the local delicacies. You will not regret it.

Where to stay in Bilbao

Bilbao is one of the most well known cities in Northern Spain. Also, it is home of an extremely rich culinary culture. All of these reasons combine to make this city a bit more expensive than other stops in this Northern Spain itinerary. But do not worry, there are also options for the likes of everybody. In the cheapest end, costing only 65€ per night (approx $70), you can find the Guesthouse H30, offering modern appartments located in the heart of the city.

Going for the more luxurious option, you can find both Tayko Bilbao , with a luxurious industrial vibe rich in black and whites while cozy. Another high end option would also be the Grand Hotel Domine Bilbao , a more traditional hotel, but located in front of the Guggenheim Museum. The cost of Tayko per night is around 100 to 150€ per night ($110-$170), while the cost of Domine is about twice that amount.

On your way to the next stop, you can make a small detour and visit Guernica. This town is depicted in the famous painting by Pablo Picasso by its own name. Painted at the end of the civil war, in 1937, Picasso wanted to make this piece of art as an anti-war manifesto, showing how people and animals were suffering during the conflict. This painting is one of the most well known of the artist and a fine example of cubism. It is currently in the Museo del Prado in  Madrid.

After doing some exploration of this historic town, head to San Sebastian to discover the next stop in this Northern Spain itinerary. This lovely city celebrates every year one of the most well known cinema festivals in Spain, the San Sebastian International Film Festival . The sign of this festival is a shell. A clam shell to be exact. This is actually the symbol of the city because it represents the beach of San Sebastian. With this shape… it kind of makes sense.

A city of art

San Sebastián, or Donosti, as it is known in the local language, is a windy and clear city with lots to offer. Spending a day in San Sebastián you can discover all the “Shell’s Beach” or la Playa de la Concha have to offer. Walk until the westernmost part of that beach and you will find there a piece of art by Eduardo Chillida: El Peine de los vientos. Or translated, the Wind’s comb. According to the artist, it is a representation of how the wind combs the sea before entering the bay to give it its white wavy look.

Also around la Playa de la Concha you can find “ La Perla ”, this spa center with more than a century on its back is one of the most well-known centers of physiotherapy using sea water. They also have lots of alternative therapies and spa treatments, so if you want to splurge on something different… This is your best chance!

San Sebastian also has lots of baroque buildings and constructions from the end of the 1800s. It is a lovely place where you can just wander through the streets and take in the sights. In addition, it is also possible to visit the small island in the bay or climb the mountains around it. The views are well worth it and if the weather is nice, you will enjoy it.

Surfers’ Paradise

Because of how extremely windy this town is, it is heaven for surfers. If you enjoy wave-riding, and already have quite some experience, San Sebastián can be a perfect spot to spend a few weeks. There’s almost always wind and the waves are usually wild. And there are plenty of surf schools around the bay, so you can rent out the material there quite easily.

If you are considering where to eat in San Sebastian, I would recommend you again to go have some pintxos. Euskadi (or the Basque Country), is amazing in this regard.

Where to stay in San Sebastian

Of course, if you want to spend a night in San Sebastián you will not look for the same type of accomodation that you would need if you spend a month there, so here you have some options for both. If you only want to spend one or two days in this city, but you still want to stay on the cheap end, the Pension del Mar will be a good option for you. For only 60€ ($67) you will have a nice room in a quiet location.

On the more luxurious end, another interesting option would be Hotel Arbaso, a modern yet cozy hotel located in the center of the city. The price per night of this hotel is in the high 200 dollars/euros per night. If you want to spend a few weeks in Donosti (aka San Sebastián), I would go for AirBnB options. An interesting well rated option is this one, and the price for a month is only a bit above 2000€ ($2200).

One of the most beloved locations of Ernest Hemingway was Pamplona. He lived there for an important part of his life and loved spending time at its bars and streets. Captivated by the San Fermines (when bulls run along with people through the streets of Pamplona), Hemingway wrote “The Sun Also Rises”. This piece happens around the celebration of San Fermines and brought the attention of the international public to this great party.

Even though San Fermines only last for one week (from July 6 th until the 13 th ), Pamplona is mostly known for it. Outside of these dates, the city is a quiet, clean and relaxed location well worth a visit. Some of the nicest places to visit in this last stop in your Northern Spain Itinerary is the city hall square as well as the cathedral, a very interesting mix of neoclassical and baroque styles. If you want to walk for a bit longer, a very interesting place to visit are the city walls of Pamplona . This military structure covers over 5km (~3 miles) and takes you back in history to the time when Spain had to keep France at bay. Which was the case for an important part of our history.

If you decide to extend your stay and you like wine, drive South to one of the many wineries in the area and enjoy the gold that is the local red wine. You can there learn about how wine is made and buy some of the most unique bottles you will find.

If you only have one week, then start (1) in Santiago, move on the next day (2) to León without doing any of the previous stops. Then drive North until Gijón and enjoy the life of the city (3). The following day you will make it to Los Picos de Europa and enjoy some trekking to get out of the car and stretch your legs (4). Then, the following day (5), you will reach Bilbao, where you can have dinner in some of the most amazing restaurants in the country. Finally, spend one day (6) discovering the shell in San Sebastian and go to your final destination: Pamplona (7).

I believe that in two weeks you can fully see all the small spots and places I have recommended in this post without having to skip any.

If you plan to visit Northern Spain in 10 days, then you can skip Finisterre, Cape Vidio and maybe Gijón. Must do’s, in my opinion, would be Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao and Pamplona.

I hope this post is useful to you and please tell me if you decide to follow my tips!

And thank you for reading up until here!

Share the love if you enjoyed the post =)

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27 Comments

I love Northern Spain! I walked the camino three years ago and I fell in love with the area. Great info – I hope to go back soon.

Thanks for this informative post! We are planning on doing a longer road trip from Italy over to France and are thinking of squeezing a bit of northern Spain in there. This post just convinced me 🙂

Having walked the Camino de Santiago from Roncevellas to Santiago de Compostela, you’ve brought back many magical memories. Along with added locations that you’ve visited as part of the drive.

Oh, it must have been a great experience!

I had never thought that Northern Spain was this beautiful and I was very wrong! We mostly hear about East and South Spain so it’s nice to discover something new! Your pictures are beautiful and it looks like you had such a great time exploring!

Yes! Most people only think of Andalusia, and while that region is great, there is so much more to explore than that!

I recently spent some time in Northern Spain and immediately wanted to go back. Would love to walk some of the Camino de Santiago one day!

Those mountain views are seriously stunning!

We did a road trip/hiking holiday in Northern Spain last autumn, but we spent time further East in Aragon and Catalonia. I think you would love that area too as the Pyrenees and canyons are simply stunning.

I need to go back and explore further West! I LOVE the views you have shared.

I am from Catalonia and I have spent many summers around the Aragon Pyrenees, but since I want to do another itinerary around this section I preferred to separate them. While they are both North of Spain, most people will consider the coast of the Cantabric the North. Let me know if you enjoy this area too!

I’ve always wanted to go to San Sebastian, but reading this makes me want to explore the whole of Northern Spain! Thanks for the great tips!

San Sebastian is great, but only one of the many amazing zones in the North of Spain. Check out Bilbao too, since it is nearby and if you like wine, then visit some Rioja wineries. The whole region is beautiful.

Amazing blog! I love Spain so much, I need to get back to explore more of Northern Spain!

Wonderful itinerary! I used to study in the North of Spain.

It’s really a great article.A nice piece of information we get and it really great working for us when we in northern Spain

Thanks Gina! I hope you find it useful when you visit this amazing zone of Spain! It is truly one of the most beautiful areas in Europe!

I am so keen to get back to Spain and explore the north. Thanks for sharing!

Great itinerary! I was supposed to be going to this area on a girls trip last year to celebrate our 50th birthdays. It was bitter sweet to read this post as it looks amazing. We will make it there one day & I will come back here for all the info.

Well we are all delaying our plans due to the pandemic, but you can still do this trip for you 50+Covid birthdays. These years, we are not using them, so do like me and don’t count them!

So far I’ve only travelled around the south, but the north has so many fascinating places to visit as well! Thanks for your tips – I’ve added some new places to my list!

Well the North and the South is clearly different. Where Southern Spain is very laid back the North is… more intense, let’s just say =)

Such an informative post! And so many places I want to see in Spain. I really haven’t explored this country as much as I want to. Hopefully, I’ll manage it soon.

Yes, Spain is great. And there’s so much more to it than fiesta and siesta. This region has a great cultural offer.

It’s such a beautiful region to explore! I did a mini road trip in this area and visited Bilbao and San Sebastian a long time ago. I loved it! Definitely recommend this trip and I hope to see more of the cities that you recommend

Ohh both San Sebastián and Bilbao are great, specially their restaurants. I need go back soon!

wow those mountain goats are beautiful! There’s so many things to do, and the outdoor options are endless. And a stay at Hotel A Quinta Da Auga looks amazing 😍

The whole region of Picos de Europa is truly amazing. And if you can splurge and go to a nice hotel, it’s even better!

At age 19, I studied in Madrid and travelled a bit in all areas of Spain. I knew I wanted to someday buy a house inSpain! 38 years later I found my perfect stone cottage about 1/2 hr south of the Picos de Europa! It is in a tiny village in the province of Palencia, ( Castilla y Leon), a few kilometers south of Cantabria. We have explored all this area and love the history, the countryside, the people and the FOOD. Best part of Spain!

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The Ultimate Northern Spain Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From Catalonia’s unspoilt coastline and Aragon’s scenic architecture to quaint cities in the Basque Country, this northern Spain road trip offers something for everyone.

Is there any better way to see a country than grabbing a set of car keys and having the freedom to explore at your own pace? If this is your favourite way to travel, then how about exploring the north of Spain?

Often it’s when you decide to travel slowly and go off the beaten track, you start stumbling across hidden gems. You’ll take a wrong turning and end up in an authentic Spanish town that isn’t in any of the tourist guide books!

While this road trip through northern Spain takes you to a few famous places, it also gives you the opportunity to explore lesser-known regions. You’ll experience spectacular vineyards a short drive from San Sebastian, the hiker’s paradise that is Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park and stop by some truly underrated Spanish cities.

A road trip here through the north of Spain offers so much. Spend your time admiring the scenic coastlines in Catalonia and Asturias, before marvelling at the architecture of Castille and León.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll fall in love with the culinary scene in the Basque Country. It’s absolute pintxos heaven! Meanwhile, if you’re keen on the great outdoors, there are plenty of gorgeous green spaces and natural wonders to explore.

Spain is often associated with summer beach holidays, but it’s worth remembering that many of the interior parts of the country offer just as much natural beauty, with vineyards, mountains, canyons, olive groves and picturesque towns! This road trip itinerary will introduce you to several authentic experiences.

So, whether you’re looking for travel inspiration or you want to start planning your itinerary, this guide will cover all of the best places to visit in Northern Spain on a road trip.

Weather in Northern Spain

This region of Europe has warm summers and cool winters. The majority of people visit during the summer holiday season, when the weather is warmest.

If you want to make the most of the great outdoors, time your trip between May and September. It’s the ideal time for beach days or countryside hikes. During this time, temperatures range between lows of 16°C (61°F) and highs of 26°C (79°F). If possible, I’d suggest avoiding the peak summer (July and August) and travel in May, June or September. You’ll enjoy cheaper prices and won’t be battling against big crowds at the big attractions!

It gets pretty chilly in Spain in winter , but there’s a bit of magic to it! Between January and March the temperatures in the north of Spain range from 4°C (39°F) to 15°C (59°F).

Northern Spain Road Trip Map

If you’re happy to move at a pretty moderate pace, moving on every single day, you could just about fit this itinerary into one week.

However, I’d recommend moving a little slower so you can soak up all the little details in each destination.

Here’s a handy map to go with this northern Spain road trip itinerary, which you can save to make your planning stress-free.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary – Places to Visit in Northern Spain

Northern spain road trip: stop 1 – barcelona.

Barcelona is a great city to start your road trip from. Not only is it an incredible destination in its own right, but it’s also easy to reach by plane. There are lots of car rental options too, both from the airport or the city centre.

Marking the start of your Catalonia road trip , you’ll quickly fall in love with Barcelona’s scenic shoreline with sweeping views of the Balearic Sea. Enjoy the city’s unique ambience courtesy of street musicians and tapas bars dotted in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets. I challenge you not to get lost in this mini maze – it’s very easily done, especially after a few glasses of Cava!

At the centre of Barcelona’s bustling social scene is tree-lined La Rambla, which boasts restaurants, cafés, and avant-garde architecture. It’s always busy with tourists, but I’d avoid most of the restaurants around here! Many are classic tourist traps, serving vats of low-quality paella at inflated prices. You’ll find more authentic dining experiences in the small bars in the Gothic Quarter.

La Boqueria food market is located just off this main street and is an excellent place to take in the amazing ingredients of Catalonia. For a very special meal, book in for a tasting menu experience at Michelin-starred Disfrutar . I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice and I would regard these meals as the best meals I’ve ever eaten! Genuinely!

If you’re interested in art there are lots of great attractions in Barcelona. You could visit the Picasso Museum , the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or the Fundacio Joan Miro . Oh, and don’t miss a visit to one of Gaudi’s many masterpieces. His unique style is visible throughout the city at locations such as La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. I was enchanted by these spots – I’m sure you will be too!

If you fancy a beach day, there’s also a large beach in the city centre, lined with beach bars. It’s amazing how much there is to do in this Spanish city. There really is something for everyone!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 2 – Costa Brava or Catalonia

If time permits, you might want to head north of Barcelona to Costa Brava, before heading to Montserrat. One of Spain’s most mesmerising coastlines, the area oozes charm with its whitewashed towns and fishing villages.

Alternatively, I loved the area south of here, which includes the underrated Tarragona, Reus and Siurana.

Siurana was a new discovery for me on one of my most recent trips. It’s one of the prettiest villages in Spain and sits on top of a hill in the Prades Mountains. I’d recommend spending a couple of hours there. It’s pretty small so you can wander the streets looking at the Moorish castle, the pretty houses and perhaps stop for a coffee.

The best part about Siurana? The views! Head towards the rocky cliffs and look out over the huge gorge which is filled with a bright turquoise reservoir. I’d suggest visiting first thing in the morning and you should have it all to yourself!

If you want to learn more about Gaudi, but don’t fancy tackling the crowds in Barcelona, I’d suggest stopping by Reus. This small city is where Gaudi was born. You can learn all about his life and architectural wonders at The Gaudi Centre , before checking out some of the city’s buildings which inspired him.

You can read my detailed guide on how to tour this region by car in my Catalonia road trip post.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 3 – Montserrat

Montserrat is another must-visit on your road trip through Northern Spain. The area’s top attraction is the Benedictine Montserrat Monastery, perched on a rocky crag surrounded by magnificent cliffs.

Just getting there is a bit of an adventure, as you reach the monastery via cable car! Once there, enjoy panoramic views of the Catalonian countryside while soaking in the sights and history of the monastery.

Montserrat to Zaragoza: 266 km / 2h 46min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 4 – Zaragoza

Next stop on your journey from Montserrat is Zaragoza, the capital of the Aragon region. This is a great place for museums, architecture, and historical monuments, including the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar .

In between sightseeing, I’d recommend a bit of restaurant-hopping at Plaza del Pilar so you can taste some authentically Spanish delights. For a real flavour of the region, sit down to dinner at Restaurante La Borde de Chema . This rustic restaurant offers Aragonese dishes including roast goat, along with plenty of regional wines.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 5 – Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

Step away from the glitz and glamour of city life with a visit to the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. This hiker’s paradise has several trails to choose from, each leading to sweeping views of the mountains.  

Be sure to pack your camera for this stop on your road trip! It’s one of the most photogenic places on this itinerary, so no doubt you’ll want to snap a lot of photos!

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park to San Sebastian: 252 km / 3h 10 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 6 – San Sebastian

The Basque Country is renowned for its food scene. Every year, many people visit Northern Spain (myself included!) purely for a wining and dining experience like no other. It’s hardly surprising, after all San Sebastian in the Basque Country has the most Michelin-starred eateries per capita in Europe! In fact, there are more in this one city per capita than in London, and that’s really saying something!

The Basque Country even has two restaurants with ‘Green Stars’, Azurmendi and Enoko, which have been recognised for their sustainable, ethical and environmental approach.

There are two sides to eating out in San Sebastian. You can either go high end with Michelin starred tasting menus, or eat the local way with dish after dish of pintxos (small dishes).

The old town of San Sebastian is filled with tiny restaurants specialising in individual dishes such as Spanish tortillas, prawns on skewers and slow cooked pork. The best way to enjoy a trip like this, is by stopping for food and drinks at multiple bars across an evening – like your very own pintxos tour .

It can be difficult knowing what to eat at each place, so I’d thoroughly recommend a pintxos tour like this one . The guide will give you tips on what to order, how to eat it and all the insider knowledge to make the most of your time in San Sebastian.

While you can’t go wrong with most restaurants here, I’d recommend the incredible steak, tomatoes and fried padron peppers at Bar Nestor as well as the famous San Sebastian cheesecake at La Viña! I popped all my top recommendations together in my post about the best pintxos in San Sebastian .

Also, if you’re looking for an extra special meal, how about going for a Michelin Starred meal with a view at Mirador de Ulia? We had a very memorable meal there!

San Sebastian is also a great beach destination, with turquoise waters, white sand and some great surf spots too!

If you want to get off the beaten track in this region, how about spending a day wine tasting? Just 30-minutes away by car you’ll find wineries including   Hirutza , where the local Txakoli wine is produced. This is a dry and lightly sparkling white wine, which is absolutely delicious!

The vineyards are in a really spectacular location too, with huge mountains and lush green valleys all around. Once you’ve toured the winery, you’ll get to taste some of the wines for yourself, paired with a few pintxos of course!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 7 – Bilbao

Bilbao, the capital of the Basque Country, is home to centuries-old alleyways and modern-day architecture. The bustling city is small enough that you can explore it on foot, but big enough to keep you entertained for many hours.

One place you simple have to visit is the world-famous Guggenheim Museum , set by the Nervión River. This art gallery has an incredible collection, as well as being housed inside a curved metal masterpiece by one of my favourite architects, Frank Gehry.

This is another great city for pintxos, so be sure to spend some time in the Old Town refuelling. You could also dine at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in Bilbao.

For one of the best viewpoints in the Basque Country, make your way to Gaztelugatxeko Doniene, made famous by Game of Thrones. The scenic hike is around 3km and features several fortified viewpoints. The views are worth the tired legs, I promise you!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 8 – Santander

Afterwards, stop by Santander, where you can enjoy some seaside fun on the small town’s myriad of beaches. Dive into the water or enjoy a trek to the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse.

Away from the coastline, grab a bite at Plaza de Canadio before exploring Santander’s Cathedral. It features two churches built on top of one another.

Santander to Llanes: 89 km / 56 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 9 – Llanes and Piloña

As you drive from Bilbao to Llanes and Piloña, the road trip scenery really steps up a notch! Take in the views of the mountains and rolling hills which serve as the ultimate driving backdrop!

Llanes is a small-town region boasting medieval magic at every corner, as well as beautiful beach views. After some of the more touristy stops on this trip, this area is more chilled out and authentic.

Once in Piloña, you could hike up to the Area Recreativa del Monte Cayon, where sweeping views over Asturias’ Picos de Europa await. Alternatively, opt for a more strenuous hike at Picos de Europa, a green paradise surrounded by mountains.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 10 – Gijon and Oviedo

Gijon has a whole load of charm! The city’s old town, nestled on top of a cliff, is filled with a mix of fine-dining and casual eateries and boasts iconic Roman baths and a scenic promenade.

Oviedo, the region’s capital, is a compact city with a lively atmosphere owing to its student population. Enjoy a culinary extravaganza at the city’s many tapas bars ( Gloria Oviedo isn’t to be missed) and fine dining spots. There’s plenty more to do in Oviedo too, including shopping, museum-hopping, and marvelling at the city’s architecture.

Oviedo to León: 125 km / 1h 28 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 11 – León

León, the northernmost city in the region, is ready to welcome you with open arms. Top of the list of attractions here is the Catedral de León, which boasts impressive towers and colourful windows.

For a quintessential Leon experience, stroll through Plaza Mayor and enjoy a bit of people watching. This is also a great area for trendy restaurants, tapas bars, and impressive architecture.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 12 – Valladolid and Salamanca

South of León is Valladolid, a small city famed for its architecture. The Cathedral of Valladolid is a sight to behold, as is the Museo Nacional de Escultura and the exhibits inside.

The final stop in the region is Salamanca, which has a burgeoning foodie scene that really delivers the heart and soul of Northern Spanish cuisine. In between the culinary experiences, enjoy visits to the Old and New Cathedral , Clerecía Church, and the Convento de San Esteban’s plateresque. For incredible viewpoints over some of the city’s attractions, be sure to visit the Roman Bridge.

Where to Stay on a Northern Spain Road Trip

If you’re wondering where to stay in northern Spain, here are a few of my top choices along this route.

Hotel Palafox , Zaragoza

This is a great luxury hotel, offering sweeping city views from the rooftop pool.

Hotel Carlton , Bilbao

This grand hotel in Bilbao offers spacious rooms with chic decor and a great restaurant serving regional delicacies.

Hotel Villa Soro , San Sebastian

Enjoy a tranquil and chic hotel stay, just a short walk from the old town. This smart villa offers a country-house feel for your foodie city trip. Wondering how to get around? This hotel offers free bikes, making it easy to get around and see the sights. 

Parador de Turismo de León , León

This luxury hotel’s rooms feature antique furnishings and a balcony. There’s also a restaurant serving the region’s top wines.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my Northern Spain road trip itinerary. There are so many great places you could visit, it’s been hard to narrow it down to just a handful.

My best advice is to use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to add some extra spots along the way too. If you’re wondering where else to visit in Spain, check out my southern Spain road trip itinerary .

For more great road trip itineraries, check out my detailed guides to driving northern Italy and southern Italy .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips

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Northern Spain offers an exquisite coastline, breathtaking natural and architectural sights, numerous world-class museums, and exceptional Spanish food.

This Northern Spain road trip itinerary takes you through some of Spain’s most stunning natural scenery, atmospheric coastal towns, and beautiful national parks. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural experiences at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and culinary delights.

We traveled from Pamplona to Santiago de Compostela on a motorbike, and in this North Spain road trip guide we share travel tips, the best routes between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect road trip through the north of Spain.

Getting to Spain

Whether you’re taking a north of Spain road trip in a car, motorcycle, campervan or motorhome, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular part of the Iberian Peninsula.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

RELATED POST: Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips

Fly into Pamplona Airport to start your roadtrip in northern Spain. If you’re coming from further afield, head to Madrid Barajas International Airport , or Barcelona-El Prat Airport and drive through Spain to Pamplona. It’s easy to add stops along the way and extend your road trip to include both these cities. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

At the end of this linear road trip, you could head south through Vigo into Portugal and fly out of Porto Airport , or take the fast route back to Madrid in 6 hours, or go via León and Burgos to Pamplona , which takes around 7 hours.

Are you planning to rent a car in Spain? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a roadtrip in Spain.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Spain. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find campsites and places to stay along the route, and park for the night on a mountain pass, flower filled meadow of with a glorious view of the sea.

Best Time for a Northern Spain Road Trip

March to may.

Spring is a fantastic time to visit Spain, with temperatures warming up across the country, blooming wildflowers and lush greenery in the mountains, although you can expect a few rainy days – that’s why it’s called Green Spain! You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

In summer, Northern Spain enjoys beautiful weather and the prospect of outdoor adventures and activities. It’s not as hot as in southern Andalucia , but still warm enough to swim in the sea and eat al fresco.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for a Spanish trip . The grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vines aflame.

December to February

The winter months in northern Spain can be very cold. Most people travel here during this time for winter sports, with the northern region experiencing the most snow and rain in Spain. It’s not the best time for a road trip, as the roads can be challenging to drive.

Is this your first time visiting Spain? Get all the information you need in our Spain Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

North Spain Road Trip Map & Route

The starting point for our eight day Northern Spain ultimate road trip itinerary is Pamplona in Navarre province. The route heads west along the Cantabrian Coast, hitting all the top spots, highlights, and must-sees along the way.

You’ll pass through the autonomous communities of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, each with their own unique history, culture and tradition.

We’ve added a couple of side trips which need a bit of extra driving, but really enhance this itinerary if you have a few extra days.

• Get the Travel Guides
• DK Eyewitness Northern Spain
• Insight Guides Northern Spain
• Lonely Planet Spain

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Pamplona – San Sebastián – Bilbao – Santander – Llanes – Oviedo – Lugo – A Coruña – Santiago de Compostela

• Distance 900km
• Duration 8-10 days
• Drive Time 10 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Day 1: Pamplona to San Sebastian

The first day of your Basque country road trip starts in Pamplona and ends in the seaside town of San Sebastián.

Pamplona 

Start your northern Spain road trip in Pamplona , a charming city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.

Walk along Pamplona’s 16th century walls to see breathtaking city views and the adjacent countryside. From there, make your way to the Plaza del Castillo. The square is in the middle of the city, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and shops, perfect for buying all those Spanish souvenirs !

A short walk from the square, you can find other landmarks;

• Monumento al Encierro: a bronze sculpture depicting participants in Pamplona’s iconic annual bull run which takes places during the San Fermín Festival .
• Pamplona Cathedral : A magnificent Gothic building with stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a museum that houses some of the cathedral’s most precious treasures.
• Plaza de Toros de Pamplona: Pamplona’s bullring (established 1922) which is currently used for bullfighting and other sporting events.

A great way to see the city is by taking a Pamplona city walking tour . You’ll walk the route of the festival of San Fermín, discover Hemingway’s favorite places as he wrote The Sun Also Rises , and learn about the historic significance of the city.

Enjoy the local cuisine at Verduarte or Restaurante Kabo for a Michelin-starred lunch.

If you want your Spanish road trip to coincide with Pamplona’s annual Running of the Bulls Festival , which takes place on 7th-14th July , you will need to book accommodation at least a year in advance .

San Sebastián

Approximately 51 miles north of Pamplona is the beautiful seaside city of San Sebastián , which boasts stunning beaches, a rich cultural heritage, and exceptional cuisine fresh from the sea. On your way there, stop at Azpirotzeko Behatokia, an observation deck with beautiful views of the mountainous surroundings.

Spend a couple of hours on La Concha Beach . This stunning crescent-shaped beach is close to Santa Clara Island and famous for its clear waters and picturesque architecture. For exquisite views of San Sebastián’s old town and the bay, walk up Mount Urgull or take the funicular to the top. 

History enthusiasts will appreciate the San Telmo Museum in a beautiful 16th century convent. It features many exhibits, including art, artifacts, and interactive displays.

If you prefer something more hands-on, participate in this highly-rated gastronomy tour and cooking class to learn about the local ingredients and traditional Basque cooking techniques.

Enjoy a twist on traditional Spanish pintxos (tapas on bread with a toothpick piercing the middle to hold it all together) at Mendaur Berria or go to Trikuharri Taberna Jatetxea – don’t be fooled by the exterior, the food is amazing!

• Where to Stay in San Sebastián

Upmarket: Akelarre Relais & Châteaux – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Boulevart Donostia – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Pensión Amara – Booking.com | Agoda

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Side Trip

Between San Sebastián and Bilbao is the dramatic island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, jutting out into the Bay of Biscay. It may remind you of somewhere you’ve seen before, and you’d be right if you’re a Game of Thrones fan – San Juan de Gaztelugatxe doubled as the island fortress of Dragonstone, which featured in season 7 of the blockbuster show. 

The island is connected to the mainland by a man-made stone bridge that contains 241 steps and snakes its way to the highest point of the promontory. Once at the top of the island, you will find the chapel with a bell on its facade which you should ring three times and make a wish, although we’re not sure it works as our wishes didn’t come true!

With a back story which includes being used as a defence against the King of Castile, Alfonso XI, and being attacked by Sir Francis Drake and his pirates, this raw and wild spot deserves its place in history.

To get here will add another hour and 20 minutes onto the drive time for the day, or you can take a Game of Thrones day trip from Bilbao and see this and the other nearby GOT filming sites; Muriola Beach in Barrika which played the part of King’s Landing beach, and Itzurun beach in Zumaia, which became Dragonstone beach.

Day 2: San Sebastián to Bilbao

The second day of your eight day itinerary is filled by only one place: the vibrant and exciting coastal city of Bilbao.

About 63 miles west of San Sebastián is Bilbao . You need a full day in this modern, vibrant city known for its outstanding cuisine, marvelous architecture, and world-class museums. 

When in Bilbao, explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum with this skip-the-line guided tour . Designed by Frank Gehry, this museum is located by the waterfront in the Abandoibarra district. The city’s most iconic landmark boasts an impressively modern and contemporary art collection.

The museum’s exterior is something to behold, with its curves and titanium cladding reflecting the light, emulating fish scales, and huge sculptures dotted around, like Puppy by Jeff Koons.

Explore the rest of Bilbao’s old town, Casco Viejo . It offers charming squares, shops, and historic buildings. Visit the Gothic Cathedral of Santiago in the city center, replete with stunning stained glass windows and ornate altars.

Take Artxanda’s Cable Car, which is actually a funicular railway, up Mount Artxanda, one of Bilbao’s most emblematic spots which offers stunning city views and the surrounding countryside.

End the day with a delicious meal at Il Basilico , or if you’re die hard carnivore visit Sugarra in the Uribarri neighborhood for their Kamado grilled T-bone steak.

• Where to Stay in Bilbao

Mid-Range: Radisson Collection Bilbao – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Casual Arriaga Guest House – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Day 3: Bilbao to Santander

The third day of this northern Spain trip lets you explore Laredo and Santander, as you move into Cantabria.

If you made an early start this morning, make a stop at Castro Urdiales , a charming seaside town. Perched on a hill jutting into the sea are the city’s main landmarks, the Gothic Church of Santa María, the medieval castle of Santa Ana, and the Hermitage of Santa Ana, all of which are worth a visit.

From here, drive 25 minutes west to the charming coastal town of Laredo , nestled between the Treto estuary and Santoña bay in the province of Cantabria. 

Visit the beautiful La Salvé Beach, at 5km it is one of the longest beaches in the region. Here you can enjoy golden sand, clear waters, and activities like surfing and windsurfing, and then take a walk on the Paseo de la Costa promenade for scenic views of the Bay of Biscay.

Explore the narrow streets of Laredo’s old town to see historic buildings and landmarks, including the magnificent Gothic church of Santa María de la Asunción. If you travel through Laredo during August you can enjoy the colorful Battle of the Flowers Festival, and in September the Fiestas de la Virgen del Puerto includes parades and live music concerts.

Laredo is known for its traditional seafood dishes, like marmita de bonito (tuna stew) and chipirones en su tinta (squid in ink). Try these for lunch at Restaurante La Viña de Laredo or El Pescador .

A short drive, 29 miles from Lardeo, is the capital of the Cantabria region, Santander . En route there, stop at Parque Mitológico de Mina Pepita (Mina Pepita Mythological Park). The park offers stunning geological formations and sculpture installations representing Cantabria’s most iconic mythological characters.

Once in Santander, visit the Palacio de la Magdalena. This early 20th century palace, built initially for the Spanish royal family, sits atop a hill offering scenic city views.

Other notable architectural landmarks to explore are Santander Cathedral in the city center and the majestic Palacio Real de La Magdalena . 

Nature lovers will enjoy walking through the lovely Jardines de Pereda, home to various plant and flower species. Or you can go to Playa del Sardinero, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Cantabrian anchovies are famous the world over, and just along the coast from Santander is Santoña, a fishing port that produces canned anchovies in olive oil – those cute colorful little tins you see all over Spain and Portugal.

Spend a delightful morning taking a boat trip to the fishing village of Santoña , learning about the history of fishing here and visiting an anchovy factory, where you get to try this deliciously salty fish.

Explore the traditional market, Mercado del Este, for fresh produce, seafood, and other local specialties, or treat yourself to dinner at La Gruta De Jose with its captivating, cave-like interior, or El Serbal for excellent sea views and a Michelin-star menu.

• Where to Stay in Santander

Upmarket: Hotel Real – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Soho Boutique Palacio de Pombo – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Plaza Pombo B&B Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Spain. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Day 4: Santander to Llanes

The fourth day of the itinerary offers the historic Santillana del Mar and Llanes in Asturias.

Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a picturesque medieval town less than half an hour’s drive from Santander. It is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and beautiful surroundings.

Santillana del Mar is often called the town of the three lies or el pueblo de las tres mentiras ; it’s not holy (santi), flat (llana) nor by the sea (del mar) .

The most significant landmark in Santillana del Mar is the Altamira Caves on the city’s outskirts. These prehistoric caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites containing the first human cave paintings. 

Due to their delicate nature, access is limited. Still, a cave replica is available to visit at the Altamira Museum. The museum also holds other exhibitions dedicated to the history and culture of the Cantabrian region.

Visit the impressive Romanesque church, Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, closer to the town center. The church features a stunning abbey and beautiful stained glass windows.

If you are fascinated by the medieval era, plan your trip to Santillana del Mar for July. During this time, the town comes alive with knights, musicians, and medieval performers during the annual Medieval Festival.

End your day with a delicious meal at Restaurante Gran Duque or El Bisonte Rojo. 

About 31 miles from Santillana del Mar, stop at Bufones de Santiuste . The bufones (blowholes) are a natural phenomenon created by limestone erosion caused by rain and the sea. This erosion forms cracks in the stone, almost like a chimney, through which water shoots up in the air. These jets of water can reach up to 30 meters high!

Upon arrival in Llanes , visit the Basilica de Santa Maria del Concejo or the Llanes Museum – both in the city center. Afterward, walk along the scenic Paseo de San Pedro, which offers stunning coastline views and the town’s historic buildings.

Watch the sunset while relaxing on Playa de Toró beach, one of the most popular beaches in Llanes. Enjoy some cuisine, including arroz con bogavante (lobster rice) and fabada asturiana , a hearty bean stew made with chorizo, morcilla, and pork belly, at Mirador de Toro or Restaurante La Marina .

• Where to Stay in Llanes

Upmarket: Silken Spa La Hacienda De Don Juan – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Don Paco – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Sablón – Booking.com | Agoda

Picos de Europa Side Trip

This is the perfect point in your north Spain road trip to explore the small but perfectly formed Picos de Europa, so called because they were the first landmark to be seen by sailors of old on approaching the continent.

The Picos are a miniature masterpiece wedged between three great river gorges. 40km across with the highest peak of Torre de Cerredo at 2650m, the Picos de Europa National Park is home to fabulous hiking amongst the tortuous landscape, shaped by millennia of ice and water, unique wildlife like the bearded vulture, and breathtaking views everywhere you look.

The drive up to Covadonga is one of the most scenic drives in northern Spain, but if driving into the mountains isn’t for you, pick up a Picos Mountains day trip from Cangas de Onís , and relax whilst someone else drives and you admire the scenery!

Day 5: Llanes to Oviedo

The fifth day of your Asturias road trip takes you through Colunga and ends the day in Oviedo. 

About 27 miles west of Llanes is the small town of Colunga , known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and striking natural surroundings. 

Before arriving in Colunga, make a stop at Ribadesella for the Tito Bustillo Cave, discovered in 1968, which contains 25,000-year-old Paleolithic rock art, perfectly preserved after the cave’s original entrance collapsed thousands of years ago, and only discovered in 1968.

Once in Colunga, start by visiting the Jurassic Museum of Asturias to explore the history of dinosaurs through life-size models, fossils, and interactive displays.

Follow it up with a visit to the 17th century Chapel of San Roque and the 13th century Church of Santa Maria, which offers magnificent Gothic architecture. Both churches can be found near the city center.

Venture slightly out of the center to relax on Playa de la Griega beach or take on one of Colunga’s several hiking trails. 

The Ruta de las Xanas trail, named after the mythical creatures said to inhabit the area, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside as you hike a gorge cut into the rock where stalactites from old caves are exposed.

If you venture further out, you can explore Sierra del Sueve, an incredible Cantabrian mountain range, on foot or by bicycle to experience breathtaking views.

En route to Oviedo , stop at Restaurante Feleches (just off the A64) for a hearty local lunch. 

Oviedo is the capital of the Asturias province and has much to offer visitors. An excellent introduction to the city is a walk along the Oviedo City Walls, dating back to the 9th century, to see incredible views of the town and its surrounding countryside.

Visit the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador, which features stunning stained glass windows and an impressive altarpiece. Keep to the tune of the arts and explore the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias , which boasts art from local and international artists, including Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali. 

Explore the beautiful San Francisco Park and see if you can find the statue of Mafalda, created by Argentine graphic humorist Joaquín Salvador Lavado Tejón.

Walk through Oviedo’s historic center towards the Plaza del Fontán. Here you will find a lively square with a traditional market where you can sample great local cheeses, cured meats, and other local delicacies. 

Alongside all that fantastic produce, Oviedo is also the home of Spanish cider. You’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard.   Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular, and if you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the opportunity to canoe the nearby Nalón river , surrounded by the natural beauty of Asturias. With a little white water to get your adrenalin pumping, and calmer stretches to relax and enjoy, this is the perfect antidote to hours behind the wheel!

If you still have space for dinner, treat yourself to the Michelin-star Cocina Cabal . For a cheaper alternative, yet loved by the locals, try Meson El Viso .

• Where to Stay in Oviedo

Upmarket: Gran Hotel Las Caldas – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Barceló Oviedo Cervantes – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Gran Hotel España – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Austria.

Day 6: Oviedo to Lugo

The sixth day of the northern Spain itinerary offers Gijón and the historic town of Lugo. 

Travel 30 minutes to Gijón , a beautiful coastal town with stunning natural landscapes. You can experience the local flora at the Jardín Botánico Atlántico , the Atlantic Botanic Garden, or by hiking in the Monte Deva Natural Park, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea. 

Stroll along the Playa de San Lorenzo (San Lorenzo Beach), a beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning sea views, before continuing to Lugo.

Just after Ribadeo as you head west along the coast, stop at the breathtaking La Playa de las Catedrales , or in the local Galician dialect, Praia das Catedrais.

This natural monument is located on the Cantabrian Ridge, a flat surface located between the Cantabrian Sea and the mountainous foothills, which generates a type of linear coastline where the formation of beaches at the foot of cliffs and sandbanks is common.

The beach is also known as As Catedrais and is a must-see on any Northern Spain road trip itinerary. Try and time your visit with a low tide , so you can explore the narrow corridors between the cliffs, cracks, and caves and pass under its huge arches.

The trip from Gijón to Lugo is the longest on this itinerary, covering 153 miles as you cross from Asturias into Galicia. Stop halfway at Restaurante San Miguel in Ribadeo for a great lunch and a view. 

After the drive to Lugo, you will appreciate the opportunity to stretch your legs. Walk along Lugo’s well-preserved Roman walls, which date back to the 3rd century and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the top of the walls, you can enjoy beautiful city views.

Some other highlights of the old town include the Romanesque 12th century Cathedral of Santa María, the even older 10th century Igrexa de San Pedro, and the busy Plaza Mayor, which is lined with cafés, shops, and restaurants.

Museo Provincial de Lugo , or Provincial Museum, is dedicated to regional archaeology and art. The museum was established in 1932 but has been in its present location, the former San Francisco convents, since 1957.

Afterward, dine at Las Cinco Vigas or La Pizzeria di Toto for the best pizza in town.

If you are in Lugo during June, see if you can experience the annual Arde Lucus festival, which celebrates the town’s Roman heritage. 

• Where to Stay in Lugo

Upmarket: Hotel Monumento Pazo de Orbán – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Forum Ceao – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Mendez Nuñez – Booking.com | Agoda

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Day 7: lugo to a coruña.

The seventh day of your Galician road trip lets you visit Betanzos and the beautiful A Coruña.

Northwest of Lugo is the small town of Betanzos , located in the province of A Coruña. 

Betanzos has a charming and historic town center with many narrow streets, old buildings, and historical landmarks such as the Church of Santa María del Azogue. Visit the Museo das Mariñas in an old convent to explore Galician art, crafts, and objects related to the town’s history.

Take a relaxing walk along the river Mandeo to see the Ponte Viejo , or old bridge, or stroll through the Jardines del Pasatiempo, a park designed in the 19th century with an exciting layout of hidden paths, sculptures, and fountains. Go for lunch at A Artesa da Moza Crecha .

Betanzos hosts several festivals throughout the year, so see if you can catch the Medieval Festival in July and the Festa de San Roque (patron saint festival) in August.

A Coruña is a beautiful city just half an hour from Betanzos. Start your visit with a trip to the Tower of Hercules , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the world’s oldest working lighthouse (built in the 1st century) and offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.

For more scenic views, walk through the tranquil San Carlos Gardens or bike along A Coruña’s seafront promenade, the Paseo Marítimo. While at the coast, catch an hour or two of the sun at a beach – both Playa del Orzán and Playa de Riazor are good options. 

A Coruña ‘s most famous product is Estrella Galicia, a delicious blonde beer beloved in Spain. Visit MEGA Estrella Galicia , a beer museum within Estrella Galicia’s brewery in A Coruña to learn the history, origins, and traditions of this famous beer, and get to pull your own draught beer.

End the day at Pulpeira de Lola la Antigua de Melide (their octopus is a must-try menu item) or Terreo Cocina Casual for a Michelin-starred experience.

• Where to Stay in A Coruña

Upmarket: NH Collection A Coruña Finisterre – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Attica21 Coruña – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hostal La Provinciana – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Day 8: A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela

The final day of the northern Spain trip is spent in Santiago de Compostela before you head on to your next destination or set homeward. 

Approximately 45 miles south of A Coruña is Santiago de Compostela , a gorgeous city famous for being the end of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. It is thus fitting that it is also the final destination on this northern Spain itinerary. 

Even if you’re not a pilgrim, you can still walk a section of the Camino de Santiago and become a pilgrim for the day. This highly rated semi-guided walk of the Camino de Santiago takes you lets you experience arriving in Santiago like a pilgrim, seeing your first view of the Cathedral from Monte do Gozo , the Mount of Joy, and walking the last 4 miles / 7km on the French Way, one of the most important pilgrimage routes in Christianity.

Once in the city, you should visit the beautiful Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the city’s most iconic landmark and an important pilgrimage site for Catholics. Anyone can admire the Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with its grand façade, stunning interior, and a crypt containing the tomb of St. James.

Galicia is famous for its delicious seafood, and mussels are a particular specialty. Grab our recommended boat trip and winery tour and explore the south Galician rivers and ancient villages famous for wine, with delicious fresh mussels and local Spanish wine to sample onboard.

• Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela

Upmarket: A Quinta Da Auga Hotel Spa Relais & Chateaux – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Parador de Santiago de Compostela – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel A Tafona do Peregrino – Booking.com | Agoda

Spanish Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Spain.

• Search for affordable flights to Spain with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Spain with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Spain with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Spain with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Driving in Northern Spain

Touring northern Spain by car is easy, with a good network of Autovias (A) and Autopistas (AP). The latter were toll roads until 2020 when many (but not all) became toll-free.

Fuel and parking are some of the cheapest in Europe making Spain a really cost-effective place to take a road trip. 

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle or you’re in a rental car for your road trip in northern Spain follow our driving in Spain tips;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Spain.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• You must carry two warning triangles for the front and rear. These warning triangles are now being phased out and from 1st July 2021, a new law requires that a V16 flashing emergency light is used, although both means of advising other traffic will be legal until the end of 2024.
• You must also carry a reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers) and a spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.  
• If you wear glasses you must also carry a spare pair in the vehicle.
• The use of winter tires in Spain is regional. Look out for traffic signs indicating that winter tires or snow chains are compulsory where you are.
• Anything with a screen (television, video, DVD, etc.) which could distract you when driving should be positioned where you can’t see it. This doesn’t apply to a sat nav but you must not touch or program your sat nav unless parked in a safe place.
• Using radar detection equipment is prohibited under Spanish law and new regulations from January 2021 mean that it will also be illegal to be in possession of such equipment .
• On roads with single carriageways, the speed limit established may not be exceeded by more 20km/h when overtaking

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• Travel Guide

A Wonderful Northern Spain Road Trip – A 10-Day Itinerary

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Nicolle Fulk

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Embarking on a road trip is an exhilarating and liberating way to explore a new destination. And when it comes to embarking on a road trip in Northern Spain, you are in for a treat. The region is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and charming coastal towns. A 10-day road trip through Northern Spain allows you to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of this region, from the bustling streets of Bilbao to the picturesque beaches of San Sebastian, and from the rugged mountains of Picos de Europa National Park to the historic streets of Oviedo and Santiago de Compostela. On this journey, you will experience the perfect balance between natural wonders, cultural sites, and gastronomic delights. Each day will be filled with new discoveries and unforgettable moments, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Driving through Northern Spain provides the flexibility to stop and explore at your own pace. You can venture off the beaten path, take detours to hidden gems, and truly connect with the local culture and traditions. The roads are well-maintained, and the signposting is excellent, making it easy to navigate your way through this enchanting region. This 10-day itinerary will take you from Bilbao to San Sebastian, Santander, the Picos de Europa National Park, Oviedo, and Santiago de Compostela, before returning to Bilbao. It showcases the diversity and highlights of Northern Spain , offering a glimpse into its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

Your Northern Spain road trip begins with your arrival in Bilbao, a vibrant city that blends modernity with a rich history. Bilbao is known for its world-class museums, trendy neighborhoods, and delicious Basque cuisine. Once you land at Bilbao Airport, pick up your rental car and make your way to your hotel in the city center. After settling in, take some time to explore the city. Start your journey at the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture that houses an impressive collection of art. Marvel at the unique design of the building and immerse yourself in the intriguing artworks on display. From the museum, stroll along the Nervion River and soak in the picturesque views of the city. Make your way to the charming Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, lined with charming shops, bars, and restaurants. Stop by the Plaza Nueva, a bustling square filled with lively cafes and a perfect spot to enjoy some people-watching. No visit to Bilbao is complete without indulging in some delicious Basque cuisine. Head to one of the many pintxos bars in the city and treat yourself to a culinary feast. Pintxos are small bites of deliciousness, similar to tapas, that are meant to be enjoyed with a glass of local wine or cider. Sample an array of pintxos, from savory ham and cheese combinations to delectable seafood creations. As the day comes to a close, return to your hotel and rest up for the adventures that lie ahead. Tomorrow, you will have a full day to explore the wonders of Bilbao before continuing your Northern Spain road trip.

Day 2: Exploring Bilbao

Today is dedicated to fully exploring the vibrant city of Bilbao. Start your day by visiting the iconic Ribera Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe. Indulge your senses as you wander through the stalls filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and an array of colorful goods. Pick up some snacks and treats for later in the day. Next, make your way to the stunning Bilbao Cathedral, also known as Santiago Cathedral. This magnificent Gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 14th century and is a prominent symbol of the city. Step inside to admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the serene atmosphere. Just a short walk from the cathedral, you’ll find the Arriaga Theatre, a historic building that is known for its grandeur and elegance. Take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s fascinating history and see the opulent interiors. Afterwards, head to the Euskalduna Palace, a striking modern building that hosts cultural and artistic events. Explore the exhibits and learn about the Basque culture and heritage. The palace is also located on the waterfront, offering picturesque views of the river. For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Museo de Bellas Artes is a must. This renowned art museum houses an impressive collection of Spanish and European art, ranging from the medieval period to contemporary works. Spend your afternoon browsing the diverse collection and admiring masterpieces by renowned artists. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bilbao. Stop by one of the city’s charming bars for a refreshing drink or sample more pintxos at one of the local taverns. As the day draws to a close, reflect on the beauty and charm that Bilbao has to offer. Tomorrow, you will continue your Northern Spain road trip as you make your way to the stunning coastal town of San Sebastian.

Day 3: San Sebastian and its beautiful beaches

On the third day of your Northern Spain road trip, make your way from Bilbao to the stunning coastal town of San Sebastian. Known for its pristine beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere, San Sebastian is a true gem of the Basque Country. Upon arriving in San Sebastian, head straight to La Concha Beach, one of the most iconic and picturesque beaches in Europe. With its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning backdrop of hills, La Concha Beach is a true paradise for beach lovers. Find a spot to lay your towel, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the Bay of Biscay. After relaxing at the beach, take a stroll along the picturesque promenade, lined with elegant buildings and lively cafes. As you walk, you’ll eventually reach the Old Town, known as Parte Vieja. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while exploring its narrow streets filled with charming shops, pintxos bars, and vibrant squares. Sample a variety of delicious pintxos, savoring the unique flavors of the Basque cuisine. Once you’ve satisfied your taste buds, make your way to Monte Urgull, a hill that offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Sebastian and its coastline. Climb to the top to admire the scenery and discover the historic sites, such as the Castillo de la Mota, a 12th-century fortress. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the beautiful Miramar Palace and Gardens. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea, the palace and its gardens provide a serene and idyllic setting. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the views of the coastline. For dinner, head back to the Old Town and indulge in a sumptuous Basque meal. San Sebastian is renowned for its culinary scene, boasting a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants. Treat yourself to a gastronomic experience at one of these world-class establishments or opt for a traditional seafood feast at a local tavern. As the day comes to an end, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of San Sebastian and its stunning beaches. Tomorrow, you will continue your Northern Spain road trip as you make your way to the charming city of Santander.

Day 4: Journey to Santander

Get ready for another exciting day of your Northern Spain road trip as you leave San Sebastian and embark on a journey to the beautiful coastal city of Santander. Known for its stunning beaches, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Santander offers a perfect blend of tranquility and liveliness. As you make your way from San Sebastian to Santander, take the opportunity to enjoy the scenic drive along the northern coast of Spain. The route offers breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and the rugged coastline, dotted with charming fishing villages and picturesque cliffs. Upon arriving in Santander, head straight to the breathtaking Playa Primera de El Sardinero. This beautiful sandy beach is divided into two sections: El Sardinero and La Magdalena. Spend your morning basking in the sun, taking a relaxing swim in the azure waters, or simply strolling along the promenade and enjoying the coastal views. After a refreshing beach experience, make your way to the stunning Palacio de la Magdalena. This majestic palace, perched on a rocky peninsula, was once the summer residence of the Spanish royal family. Take a guided tour to explore the elegant rooms, learn about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views of the bay. Next, head to the city center and discover the vibrant atmosphere of Santander’s historic district. Stroll along the charming streets filled with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and traditional cafes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cathedral of Santander, a beautiful Gothic-style cathedral located in the heart of the city. Step inside to admire its intricate architecture and tranquil ambiance. To immerse yourself in the local culture, visit the Mercado del Este, a bustling market where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. Take your time to explore the stalls, chat with the friendly vendors, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or snacks for later. In the evening, head to one of the city’s waterfront restaurants and indulge in the delectable seafood dishes that Santander is famous for. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine and savor the flavors while enjoying the stunning views of the harbor. As the day comes to a close, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and charm of Santander. Tomorrow, your Northern Spain road trip will take you to the magnificent Picos de Europa National Park, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await.

Day 5: Discovering the Charm of Santander

On the fifth day of your Northern Spain road trip, take the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the charm of Santander. This beautiful coastal city offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a lively atmosphere.

Start your day by visiting the breathtaking Magdalena Peninsula, home to the stunning Palacio de la Magdalena. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay of Santander. Explore the graceful architecture of the palace, which was once a summer residence for the Spanish royal family. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.

Afterwards, head to the Centro Botín, a modern art and cultural center located on the waterfront. This architectural marvel houses a wealth of contemporary artworks and exhibitions. Spend some time exploring the galleries and admiring the innovative designs of the building.

For a taste of Santander’s rich history, visit the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This maritime museum showcases the region’s maritime heritage through a collection of exhibits and artifacts. From seafaring traditions to marine ecosystems, learn about the diverse aspects of the Cantabrian Sea and its significance to the local culture.

Take a break from sightseeing and head to one of Santander’s beautiful beaches. Playa El Sardinero is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. Soak up the sun, take a dip in the refreshing waters, or simply relax on the sandy shores while enjoying the coastal breeze.

In the evening, explore the bustling streets of the city center. Wander through the charming plazas, such as Plaza Porticada and Plaza Pombo, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Stop by one of the local cafes or bars to experience the vibrant nightlife of Santander.

Before concluding your day, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the city’s traditional restaurants. Indulge in the flavors of Cantabrian cuisine, which is known for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and artisanal cheeses. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or sidra, a refreshing apple cider typical of the region.

As the day comes to a close, reflect on the experiences and memories you have made in charming Santander. Tomorrow, your Northern Spain road trip will continue as you venture deeper into the stunning landscapes of the Picos de Europa National Park.

Day 6: Visiting the Picos de Europa National Park

Prepare to be amazed as you embark on a memorable adventure to the Picos de Europa National Park on the sixth day of your Northern Spain road trip. Known for its dramatic mountain peaks, lush valleys, and abundant wildlife, this natural paradise offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor exploration opportunities.

Begin your day by driving to the Fuente Dé cable car station, which will transport you high into the heart of the Picos de Europa. Step into the cable car and enjoy a thrilling ascent, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you breathless. Take a moment to absorb the beauty of the rugged landscape.

Embark on a hiking adventure along the well-marked trails that meander through the park. From leisurely strolls to challenging ascents, there are options for every level of hiker. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, so keep an eye out for wildflowers, birds, and perhaps even a glimpse of ibex or chamois.

One of the must-see natural wonders in the park is the Covadonga Lakes, a pair of glacial lakes nestled amidst the mountains. Admire the crystal-clear waters and their reflection of the surrounding peaks. Explore the area on foot and discover the Santa Cueva de Covadonga, a cave chapel that holds religious significance for the region.

As the day progresses, take a break and enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning landscapes. Find a scenic spot, unpack your delicious provisions, and savor the serenity of the surroundings.

For an adrenaline rush, consider trying your hand at rock climbing or canyoning, with guided tours available for those looking for an adventurous experience. Delve into the deep gorges and rocky cliffs for an unforgettable adrenaline-filled adventure.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to absorb the beauty and tranquility of the Picos de Europa National Park. Capture some final photographs of the breathtaking landscapes before retracing your steps back to your accommodation.

Tomorrow, your Northern Spain road trip will continue as you make your way to Oviedo, where you will explore the historical sites and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Day 7: Exploring Oviedo and its Historical Sites

On the seventh day of your Northern Spain road trip, venture into the historic city of Oviedo, where ancient architecture, rich history, and cultural treasures await. Oviedo is the capital of the Asturias region and is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town, impressive cathedrals, and traditional cider culture.

Start your day by exploring the historic heart of Oviedo, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a stroll through the charming streets and admire the beautiful examples of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning Oviedo Cathedral, also known as the Holy Saviour Cathedral. Marvel at its intricate facade and step inside to admire the stunning altarpiece and elegant cloister.

Next, make your way to the San Miguel de Lillo Church, a pre-Romanesque gem located on the outskirts of the city. This architectural masterpiece is known for its intricate carvings and is a testament to the region’s rich history.

As you continue exploring, visit the nearby Santa Maria del Naranco, another impressive pre-Romanesque structure that was originally built as a recreational palace. Admire the elegant design and learn about its fascinating history.

After immersing yourself in Oviedo’s architectural wonders, take a break and indulge in some traditional Asturian cuisine. Oviedo is famous for its gastronomic delights, including the hearty Asturian bean stew, succulent roasted meats, and, of course, the renowned sidra, or cider. Visit a traditional cider house to sample this bubbly beverage, poured in the traditional Asturian style.

In the afternoon, delve into the city’s cultural scene by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias. Explore its diverse collection of artworks, ranging from medieval to contemporary, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s artistic heritage.

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Campo de San Francisco, a beautiful park in the city center. Breathe in the fresh air, admire the lush greenery, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

As the day comes to a close, reflect on the historical treasures and cultural experiences you’ve encountered in Oviedo. Tomorrow, your Northern Spain road trip will take you to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

Day 8: Journey to Santiago de Compostela

On the eighth day of your Northern Spain road trip, leave Oviedo behind as you embark on a memorable journey to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. This enchanting city is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance.

As you make your way from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela, take the opportunity to enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful Galician countryside. Marvel at the lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages along the way.

Upon arriving in Santiago de Compostela, the first stop on your itinerary should be the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. This grand Romanesque cathedral is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for thousands of devout pilgrims who have walked the Camino de Santiago. Admire the intricate facade, enter the hallowed interior, and pay your respects at the tomb of Saint James the Apostle.

Afterward, explore the charming streets of the historic city center. Get lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with traditional buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. Visit the vibrant marketplace, Mercado de Abastos, where you can find an array of local produce, fresh seafood, and artisanal products.

Make your way to the beautiful Alameda Park, a peaceful green oasis where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Marvel at the panoramic views of the city from the park’s terraces, and take a moment to reflect on the journey you’ve embarked on.

For a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture, visit the Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago, located in the former hospital for pilgrims. Explore the exhibits that showcase the significance of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage and its impact on the region throughout the centuries.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene and indulge in some traditional Galician cuisine. Sample the famous pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), fresh seafood dishes, and the region’s delicious tarta de Santiago (almond cake).

As the day draws to a close, you can join the evening pilgrim ceremony at the Cathedral, where pilgrims from all around the world gather to celebrate the completion of their journey. Witness the captivating atmosphere as the Botafumeiro, a large incense burner, swings through the cathedral, filling the air with a sweet scent.

Reflect on the spiritual significance and cultural heritage of Santiago de Compostela as you prepare for another exciting day of exploration tomorrow.

Day 9: Immersing in the Cultural Heritage of Santiago de Compostela

On the ninth day of your Northern Spain road trip, dive deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Santiago de Compostela. This mystical city offers a wealth of historical sites, cultural treasures, and a vibrant atmosphere that will captivate your senses.

Begin your day by exploring the charming streets of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the well-preserved medieval architecture and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling squares and narrow alleys. As you wander, you’ll encounter numerous cultural and historical sites.

Visit the Monastery of San Martín Pinario, a magnificent Baroque monastery. Take a guided tour to admire its stunning cloister, beautiful church, and the impressive library filled with ancient manuscripts and religious texts.

Next, make your way to the Plaza de Quintana, where you’ll find the grandest entrance to the Cathedral. Observe the Portico of Glory, a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture, before entering the cathedral itself. Take your time to explore the sacred space and marvel at the beauty of its interior, including the crypt and the chapel of the relics.

Afterward, climb to the rooftop of the Cathedral for panoramic views of the city. Ascend the towers and enjoy stunning vistas over the rooftops of Santiago de Compostela and the surrounding countryside. Capture some memorable photographs of this iconic landmark.

Continue your exploration by visiting the charming Rúa do Franco, a street known for its abundance of traditional Galician eateries. Treat yourself to some local delicacies, such as empanadas or Galician-style seafood dishes, as you soak up the lively atmosphere of this gastronomic hub.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Casa del Cabildo, a historic building that houses the Museum of Pilgrimage. Dive into the history and significance of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage through the museum’s exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

As the day progresses, consider taking a leisurely stroll through the peaceful parks and gardens of Santiago de Compostela. The Alameda Park, with its elegant promenades and arboretum, offers the perfect retreat for relaxation amidst nature.

In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife of the city. Head to the lively Plaza de Cervantes, where you’ll find a variety of bars and restaurants buzzing with activity. Sip on a refreshing drink, chat with locals and fellow travelers, and savor the lively ambiance.

As you reflect on the cultural immersion and historical exploration of Santiago de Compostela, you’ll be filled with admiration for this remarkable city. Tomorrow, it will be time to return to Bilbao, marking the end of your unforgettable Northern Spain road trip.

Day 10: Return to Bilbao

On the final day of your Northern Spain road trip, bid farewell to Santiago de Compostela as you begin your journey back to Bilbao. It’s time to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had, the memories you’ve made, and the diverse beauty of Northern Spain that you’ve discovered.

As you make your way from Santiago de Compostela to Bilbao, take the opportunity to enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque Galician and Basque landscapes. Marvel at the rolling hills, charming villages, and lush green valleys along the route.

If you have time, consider making a stop at one of the charming towns along the way, such as Lugo or Gijón, to explore their unique attractions and savor some local specialties.

Upon arriving back in Bilbao, take a moment to revisit any favorite spots or experience any attractions you may have missed on your first day. Whether it’s revisiting the Guggenheim Museum to appreciate its distinctive architecture, indulging in more pintxos in the lively Casco Viejo, or simply strolling along the Nervion River promenade, take this final opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Alternatively, you may choose to explore some of the other attractions in Bilbao that you didn’t have a chance to visit on your initial arrival. The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, showcasing a vast collection of art from various periods, or the Basilica of Begoña, an impressive religious site with panoramic views of the city, are just a couple of suggestions to consider.

As the day draws to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting region of Northern Spain and reflect on the remarkable journey you’ve undertaken. Remember the stunning landscapes, the rich cultural heritage, the vibrant cities, and the warm hospitality that you’ve experienced along the way.

As you return your rental car and prepare to depart, treasure the memories and plan your next adventure. Northern Spain will always have a special place in your heart, and the road trip through its wonders will be a tale you will want to share for years to come.

Embarking on a 10-day road trip through Northern Spain has been an incredible adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. From the vibrant streets of Bilbao to the stunning beaches of San Sebastian, the historic sites of Oviedo, and the spiritual significance of Santiago de Compostela, this journey has showcased the diverse beauty and charm of the region.

Throughout this road trip, we have immersed ourselves in the local culture, indulged in delicious cuisine, and explored the historical treasures that Northern Spain has to offer. We have marveled at the impressive architecture of cathedrals and palaces, soaked in the beauty of picturesque beaches, and hiked through the rugged mountains of Picos de Europa National Park.

Northern Spain has captivated us with its warm hospitality, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. The region’s unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy has left a lasting impression. Whether it was savoring pintxos in a bustling bar, attending an evening pilgrim ceremony at the cathedral, or simply enjoying the leisurely drives through picturesque countryside, every moment has added to the richness of our journey.

We have been privileged to discover the hidden gems and secret corners of this region, venturing off the beaten path and making memories that will last a lifetime. The flexibility of a road trip has allowed us to truly experience Northern Spain at our own pace, connecting with its people, places, and traditions in a meaningful way.

As we conclude this road trip, we bid farewell to the charming cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm embrace of Northern Spain. But the memories and experiences we have gained will stay with us forever. We leave with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for this remarkable region and the treasures it holds.

As we reflect on the adventures and beauty we have encountered, we are inspired to continue exploring the world, discovering new destinations, and embarking on future road trips that will create even more incredible memories.

Until then, as our journey through Northern Spain comes to an end, we take with us the spirit of adventure, the joy of discovery, and a longing to return to the wonders that this region has to offer.

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Highlights of Northern Spain

7 days, barcelona to bilbao.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Spain is often described as a collection of small nations, each with its own unique flair, and this seven-day adventure takes you through two of its most vibrant regions: Basque and Catalonia. From the colourful streets of Barcelona to the laid-back vibes of San Sebastián, you’ll get an authentic taste of Spain’s food, art, and culture. Capture unforgettable photos of the stunning countryside and centuries-old cathedrals, unwind with a glass of wine in Logroño’s lush vineyards, and dive into the legendary cuisine of San Sebastián. Immerse yourself in the Basque way of life before wrapping up in cosmopolitan Madrid. All in just a week? Oh yeah, we made it happen.

Barcelona to Bilbao

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12.

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Trees planted for this trip: 7

Places visited

Day 1 barcelona.

Arrive at any time. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this vibrant city.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 barcelona/logroño.

Travel by train to the La Rioja wine region of Spain and the city of Logroño, visiting a local winery shortly after arriving for a tasting. In the evening, set off with your CEO on a tavern crawl to sample small plates of food, called pintxos, very delicious and typical to this part of Spain, which will serve as a light dinner.

Meals included:

Day 3 logroño.

Take advantage of a free day in Logroño to discover wine country as you please. Options include a day tour to the nearby town of Haro, visit wineries or see some of the sights in the city like the cathedral or the Museum of La Rioja.

Day 4 Logroño/San Sebastian

Travel through the Navarre region today from Logroño to San Sebastian with many stops on the way. First, stop in the town of Obanos for a hike along a portion of the famed Camino de Santiago trail. Continue by bus to the town of Olite to visit the grand palace then stop in Pamplona for a bit of free time to explore. End the day's travels on the coast at San Sebastian and check into the hotel.

Day 5 San Sebastian

Start the morning with an orientation walk of San Sebastian with your CEO before enjoying the rest of the day free to get the most out of the city's vibrant centre, waterfront and the incredible food. Some options to choose from could be a visit to a local cider house, take a bike or a walking tour or join a cooking class.

Day 6 San Sebastian/Bilbao

Catch a morning bus from San Sebastian to the city of Bilbao. Set off with your CEO on an orientation walk before enjoying the rest of the afternoon free to explore. Choose to visit the stunning Guggenheim Museum, or climb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria for beautiful views over the city.

Day 7 Bilbao

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Foodie Moment: Pintxos (Tapas) Experience, Logroño
• Your Foodie Moment: Wine Tasting at a Local Winery, Logroño
• Hike a portion of the Camino de Santiago from Obanos to Puente la Reina
• Entrance and visit to the royal palace of Olite
• Visit Pamplona
• Orientation walks in San Sebastian and Bilbao
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (6 nts).

6 breakfasts, 1 dinner Allow USD230-300 for meals not included.

Transportation

Public bus, private vehicle, train, taxi, walking.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $739.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

Save on your next holiday

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The Belfast Telegraph, in association with Travel Department, offer a great selection of guided holidays. Travel Department are experts in guided travel with 28 years experience perfecting tours to more than 100 destinations worldwide. Our holidays typically include flights, accommodation, transfers and guided excursions and we offer everything from city breaks and sun holidays to cultural breaks and far off adventures. Our friendly and knowledgeable local guides will accompany you throughout and be on hand to offer local knowledge and insight into your chosen destination. Our customers tell us that it's the combination of inspirational guides and the company of like-minded people that make Travel Department holidays so special.

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