driving tours northern spain

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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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.

North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

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

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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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.

We are Sabrina and Andreas, two adventurous travelers who never miss an opportunity to discover the world. Whether by plane to distant countries or with our campervan Bruno, we just love to travel. We hope to give you helpful tips for your next trip on our blog.

Sabrina & Andreas Globetrotters, Travelers, Adventurers

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

Check Prices*

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

Check prices*

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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Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Most people that travel to Spain end up in the south enjoying the sun-drenched beaches of Costa del Sol and the Moorish heritage of Andalucia, or in the big cities like Madrid and Barcelona, ​​but there's much more to discover in this Iberian country. We're heading North this time on a road trip from the Basque Country to Navarra, passing through picturesque medieval villages, wild beaches and charming wine regions.

We'll admire Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum and explore all the corners of the Picos de Europa National Park, all while tasting delicious pintxos and Rioja wine.

Our Northern Spain road trip starts in Bilbao and ends in Pamplona, lasting for about three weeks. But you can absolutely make this a shorter trip by skipping a few cities if you don’t have that much time. There are also several possible starting points, so you can follow along or choose a city that fits you and go from there.

Note: The links on this article will take you to a personalised itinerary of each city, which include tips on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay.

Where to Start and End Your Northern Spain Road Trip

We started our trip in Bilbao, as this is one of the major cities in Northern Spain. The city has an airport with international flights but it is also connected to the UK via ferries that depart from Portsmouth. You can also start in San Sebastián, another Basque city, but this one only has a domestic airport, so you'll need to arrange transportation there from another city like Madrid. Another alternative is to begin in the Cantabria region around Santander, which also has ferries from the UK starting in Plymouth or Portsmouth. Depending on where you start your trip, you'll have a different ending point. When returning home, it's best to choose a city with flights or ferry access to your country. There are international airports in Bilbao (Basque Country), Santander (Cantabria) and Santiago de Compostela (Galicia).

Northern Spain Road Trip Duration

It's worth spending at least a week exploring Northern Spain. The area covers eight regions including the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia, Castilla y León, La Rioja, Aragon and Navarra. You can start with a tour to the major cities within each region, such as Bilbao, San Sebastián, Santander, Gijón, Santiago de Compostela, León and Logroño, and spend a couple of days exploring its monuments. Then, you can plan short trips to smaller towns and cities like Zaragoza and Pamplona. Our journey stretches for 23 days and covers most of the region, including the Picos de Europa National Park and the beaches of Cantabria, but you can cut it down to two weeks or less depending on how much time you got.

Day 1-6: Basque Country Road Trip

As the biggest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao is the perfect starting point for a Northern Spain road trip. Once an industrial metropolis, this city dazzles visitors today with its striking architecture. Most people come here to see the Guggenheim museum, but there's much more to cover, including the viewpoint at Mount Artxanda or the 16th-century Basilica de Begoña. We're spending three days here but on this last one, we're heading to the outskirts to visit the towns of Getxo and Portugalete.

After Bilbao, head to San Sebastián , where you can spend some time by the beach and enjoy a meal at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants . Stay here for two days, and then move on to Vitoria-Gasteiz . Despite being the official capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria is the least visited city in the region. One day is enough to visit the city's top attractions including its Gothic cathedral and the lively food market.

Day 7-8: Cantabria

Our road trip continues in Cantabria with a visit to Castro Urdiales , a seaside town with a medieval vibe. Most of its top sites are located on a headland overlooking the water, including the Gothic Church of Santa María and the castle of Santa Ana. Spend one day here and then move on to Santander , the region's capital. Vast sandy beaches, modern art museums and delicious seafood await you in this coastal city facing the Cantabrian Sea. Beyond the beaches, there are also other noteworthy sights such as the cathedral and the Palacio de la Magdalena.

Day 9-11: Asturias

Further west from Cantabria is the region of Asturias. Gijón is the largest city here, featuring lively restaurants and seafront promenades. It's worth visiting the old fisherman's quarter known as Cimadevilla, where you'll find the Cerro de Santa Catalina park and an ancient fort.

After one day in Gijón, drive to Oviedo , the region's capital. Visit its pre-Romanesque churches and get lost in the narrow medieval lanes. Asturias is also famous for its cider, so do not leave without trying this refreshing drink. From Oviedo, you can set off to the Picos de Europa National Park. Part of the Cantabrian Mountains, this mountain range crosses the regions of Cantabria, Asturias and Castilla y León. Here you can visit charming hilltop villages or follow one of the many hiking trails.

Day 12-17: Galicia Road Trip

The next stop is the region of Galicia. We start with a trip to another coastal city, A Coruña . Here you can enjoy a 1.4km sandy stretch, drink Estrella beer and capture landmarks such as the Torre de Hércules, one of the oldest working lighthouses in the world.

Spend two days here and then make your way to Santiago de Compostela , Galicia's capital and a famous pilgrimage site. While you're here, do not miss a visit to the stunning Cathedral and the city's monasteries. If you plan on walking the Camino de Santiago we've also included some tips for you.

After exploring Santiago for two days, move on to Vigo. Standing on the west coast of Spain, Vigo is also blessed with many beaches and provides easy access to the paradisiacal Cíes islands. Spend one day exploring the old town and then explore the outskirts on your second day, visiting places like the Ermida da Nosa Señora da Guía or the Museo Quiñones de León.

Day 18-19: Castilla y León

If you drive inland, you'll end up in the region of Castilla y León. The most northern city here is León , which is also a stop on the Camino de Santiago. The Gothic cathedral is the city's main attraction, but there are other places worth visiting including the Basilica de San Isidoro and the Casa Botines, a striking building designed by Gaudí. For food, make sure to check out the tapas bars at the historic neighborhood of Barrio Húmedo. Our two-day itinerary includes tips on where to eat, so you will not miss a thing.

Day 20: La Rioja

The journey continues in Logroño, the capital of La Rioja. This is the perfect base to explore the charming wine region of the same name. It's worth spending a day in Logroño exploring the city's picturesque squares and churches, before moving on to the vineyards. There are over 500 wineries spread across this region, but also covering Navarra and the Basque Country. If you want to learn more about this Spanish wine and the best local wineries, make sure to check out our La Rioja Wine Route Guide.

Day 21-22: Aragon

From La Rioja, head south to the region of Aragon, where you'll spend two days exploring its capital, Zaragoza. This riverside city is halfway between Madrid and Barcelona. Much less popular than those two major cities, Zaragoza deserves a visit for its historical heritage. Here, Roman theaters, Moorish fortresses and Baroque churches stand alongside each other. Noteworthy sites include La Seo Cathedral, the Aljafería Palace and the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. The Spanish artist Goya was also born nearby, so many of the city's museums showcase his work.

Day 23: Navarre

The last stop on the road trip is Pamplona . This small town is mostly famous for hosting San Fermín, a bull-running festival that has been celebrated here for more than 200 years. If you miss this summer event, you can still enjoy the city's landmarks, such as the cathedral and the surrounding medieval streets. The city is also home to a series of parks, including a Japanese-style garden called Yamaguchi.

Note: The closest airports to Pamplona are San Sebastián and Bilbao, so you can get a flight home from either one of those cities or head further out to the Santander airport.

Northern Spain Train Journeys

Trains are also another alternative when exploring the North of Spain. You can pick the luxurious Transcantábrico train , which travels from the Basque Country to Galicia in about eight days and includes fine dining meals and city tours. Another alternative is the Narrow-Gauge Railways , a slow-paced journey that begins in San Sebastián and ends in the town of Ferrol in Galicia. You can also prolong your trip, by starting in France at the Hendaye railway station. Whichever train you choose, you can expect stunning scenic views along the way.

Northern Spain Road Trip Map From Bilbao

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10 Days In Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary, From Barcelona to Bilbao

Planning a road trip in northern Spain? Here’s the perfect 10 day road trip itinerary takes you from the cultured city of Barcelona in Catalonia to the culinary and architectural haven of Bilbao in the Basque region.

These regions are divine, renowned for their sun-kissed beaches, architectural masterpieces, must see art museums, and rich gastronomic traditions. And wine!

A road trip is the perfect way to take in the wide variety of amazing destinations in northern Spain.

Let’s hit the road for the perfect route from Barcelona to Bilbao. You’ll be rewarded with a world rich in contrasts — tranquil medieval villages, golden sand beaches, dazzling contemporary and Gaudi-designed architecture, the best red wine, and some world class art.

Overview Of 10 Days In Northern Spain

Here’s a snapshot glance at the path you’ll follow for this ten days in northern Spain itinerary:

• Day 1 : Explore Barcelona
• Day 2 : Explore Barcelona
• Day 3 : Drive to the La Rioja region, stop in Zaragoza en route
• Day 4 : Explore La Rioja
• Day 5 : Optional Day Trip to Pamplona

Day 6 : Day Trip To Vitoria-Gasteiz

• Day 7 : Drive To San Sebastian
• Day 8 : Explore San Sebastian
• Day 9 : Drive to Bilbao, stop in Getaria en route

Day 10 : Explore Bilbao

This detailed 10 day Spain road trip itinerary is perfectly adjustable. You can make it shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. I’ve tried to give you a mix of cities, leisurely villages, and nature.

You’ll have four bases for touring Spain’s northern exposures: Barcelona (2 nights), La Rioja region (4 nights), San Sebastian (2 nights), Bilbao (2 nights). Don’t pick up your rental car until you leave Barcelona and drop it off right away in Bilbao. You won’t want a car in these two cities.

10 Day Itinerary for a Northern Spain Road Trip

Days 1-2: explore barcelona.

You start your ten days in northern Spain in the beautiful city of Barcelona . You could easily spend a week in Barcelona and not get bored.

A city like no other, Barcelona is a non-stop feast for the eyes. Barcelona is rich in historic sites, with some of the world’s most unique and fantastical architecture . The city is bordered on one side by mountains and the other by golden sand beaches. Barcelona has nine UNESCO sites.

Gothic Quarter

Begin day 1 with a stroll down the teeming maze-like Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most celebrated central artery near the Gothic Quarter.

It’s an almost one mile walk from Placa Catalunya to the old port, taking you past historic sights in a sensory free fall with a dash of carnival atmospherics.

There’s a lot to see in the Gothic Quarter . You may want to book a guided walking tour . You can also book a guided food tour in the evening.

It’s magical and ancient district of history-steeped back streets and charming squares. The must see sites include Barcelona Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, Placa Reial, Palau Guell, La Boqueria, and Palau de la Musica.

You can’t leave Barcelona without visiting two of Gaudi’s most famous masterpieces — Casa Batllo and La Pedrera . They’re only minutes apart on the the Passeig de Gracia in the Eixample neighborhood.

It’s essential to book skip the line tickets for each site well in advance. You can’t miss these two Gaudi gems, which still seem startlingly modern. Click here for skip the lines tickets to Casa Batllo and here for La Pedrera.

Sagrada Familia

A 5 minute taxi ride away is Sagrada Familia. The basilica is Gaudi’s wildly creative and vertigo-inspiring masterpiece.

It’s the undisputed jewel of Barcelona, with its beige-pink spires that culminate in glitter. Despite being under continuous construction, Sagrada Familia is a place of superlatives both inside and out.

The exterior of the basilica is audacious and “gaudy” in appearance, a mountain (or termite hill) almost. But the interior is entirely sublime.

Gaudi intended it to be a retreat into nature. And, indeed, you could be standing in a majestic star-lit white forest. It’s an astonishing space, an alternative reality full of detail.

Here’s my complete guide to Sagrada Familia . You’ll need to book a skip the line ticket to visit.

To complete your Gaudi architectural tour, visit Park Güell, perhaps at sunset. Park Guell also requires a timed entry pre-booked ticket .

Park Guell might be Gaudi’s most fantastical and hyperactive creation. It’s a large 30 acre public park and bejeweled garden complex, with stunning mosaic art, located on Carmel Hill in Barcelona’s Gracia neighborhood.

You should also explore Montjuic one afternoon or evening. You get there via taxi or glass cable car up to the hilly Montjuic area. Click here for information on taking the cable car.

On Montjuic, you’ll find the Miro Foundation, a beautifully designed museum with works by the Surrealist artist Joan Miro. You’ll also find the Magic Fountain, the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion, National Museum of Catalan Art, Olympic sites, and a botanical garden.

Where To Stay In Barcelona : Mandarin Oriental ,  Cotton House ,  Hotel Arts , The Serras ,  Hotel Cataloinia Passeig de Gracia , Hotel Bagues  

Day 3-4: A Sip To Sip Tour of the La Rioja Region

On day 3 of your 10 days in northern Spain itinerary, pick up your car and head west to the La Rioja region. That will be your base for the next 4 nights.

There, you’ll indulge in wine and/or embark on day trips to the beautiful off the radar cities of Pamplona and Vitoria-Gasteiz. This Napa-like region is small and easily covered by car.

La Rioja is one of Europe’s best wine regions, specializing in world famous lush reds and crisp oak-aged whites. There are more than 600 wineries in La Rioja.

Most wineries require an appointment. La Rioja is studded with medieval villages, grape vines, and modernist architectural works by Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava.

You may want to book a wine tour .

1. Stop in Zaragoza

It’s an approximately 4.5 drive from Barcelona to the La Rioja region. Break up your drive by stopping for lunch in Zaragoza, a good midway point.

Zaragoza is a lovely hidden gem in Spain. Zaragoza is stuffed with Renaissance and Moorish buildings, wonderful museums, and a grand cathedral.

Zaragoza is known for its gastronomy, so you’ll have a delicious lunch on your stopover. Try Casa Lac, Casa Unai, Montal, Celebris, or Cafe Nolasco.

You can also book a guided walking tour or a guided wine tour in the city.

2. Bases for La Rioja

Here are the best four bases for visiting in and around La Rioja. Pick one that matches your personal taste, and visit the others during your time in La Rioja. Or, pick a couple that appeal, if you don’t mind changing your base.

Logrono is the capital of La Rioja. It’s a small city, but the largest one in the region. You’ll find a fantastic selection of hotels, pintxos bars (Tastavin!), and restaurants.

Logrono has a unique mix of an atmospheric medieval quarter, tree-studded squares, and imaginative modern architecture.

If you’re looking for a relaxed rural atmosphere, this isn’t the place for you. If you’re into night life, then Logrono is the perfect place to stay.

If you’re going car-less, you should stay in Logrono and take buses or taxis to your chosen destinations.

Where To Stay In Logrono : Aurea Palacio de Correos , Hotel Sercotel Calle Mayor

Competing with Logrono, Haro is also frequently dubbed the capital of La Rioja. It’s a smaller town.

But it still has an attractive medieval quarter, an intense concentration of historic wineries, and a fine selection of bars and restaurants. (Try Las Duelas.)

It’s not a big city, but there’s plenty to do, see, eat, and drink. On June 29th each year, you can experience the Haro Wine Festival.

Where To Stay In Haro : Eurostars Los Agustinos

Laguardia is located in the Basque side of Rioja wine region, Rioja Alavesa. It is a beautiful and atmospheric medieval town with loads of charm.

The town was originally built as a fortification against Castilian aggression in the 12th century. Despite its diminutive size, there’s still a decent selection of places to stay, restaurants, and wineries.

The titanium-canopied hotel has a Michelin starred restaurant and a spa. It’s also associated with the historic Marques de Riscal winery, which dates from 1858.

Where To Stay In Laguardia : Casa Rural Eruetxe , Hospederia de los Parajes

For a splurge, check into the Hotel Marques de Riscal , just outside Logrono. Frank Gehry’s stunning redesign of a chateau is a true masterpiece and a La Rioja destination in and of itself.

Click here for a guide to the best wineries in Haro and here for the best wineries in Logrono. Be sure to visit Bodegas Ysios. It’s a boutique winery designed, in futuristic fashion, by famed (but controversial) architect Santiago Calatrava

3. Other La Rioja Destinations

If you’d like to do some castle hopping along with wine imbibing, there are a few castles nearby — Castillo de Sajazarra, Castillo de Briones, and Castillo de Davlillo.

Another place you shouldn’t miss is San Millan de la Cogolla. The UNESCO town is the birthplace of Castellano, the modern written and spoken Spanish language.

Visit both Suso Monastery (book online in advance), consecrated in the 10th century, and the nearby Convent of Canas . Between the monasteries, is another great wine bodega, David Moreno.

Day 5: Day Trip To Pamplona

On day 5, if you can tear yourself away from the wineries, head to Pamplona. Pamplona is the leafy and underrated capital of the Navarre region in greater Basque Spain.

It’s a well-heeled university town, home to one of Spain’s most famous and testosterone-fueled festival, the Running of the Bulls, which takes place one week in July.

The San Fermin Festival, a 24/7 party atmosphere, attracts 1 million visitors annually to watch men outrun bulls (or be gored). If it’s not festival time, you can walk the path men and bull follow, called the Encierro. They run through narrow streets to the bull ring, the Plaza de Toros de Pamplona.

But there’s more to Pamplona than bulls. Even if the bulls aren’t thundering down cobblestone streets, picturesque Pamplona will appeal.

It has a grand Gothic cathedral, well-preserved 16th century fortifications, and medieval streets and squares. Pamplona is also a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Pamplona’s old town was beloved by Ernest Hemingway, who used to nibble pintxos and fill up on the local liqueur, Pacharan, at the historic Cafe Iruna. He set part of The Sun Also Rises in the pretty Plaza del Castillo and helped make the San Fermin festival famous.

You’ll also be in foodie heaven in Pamplona. Spain is known for its jamon, queso, and croquettas.

But Navarre is know for the intense freshness and quality of its local produce. If you stay for dinner, try La Olla, Bar Gaucho, El Mercao, or Bodegon Sarria.

Art lovers can head to Pamplona’s Museo de Navarra, which boasts a collection of Goyas, Roman mosaics, and murals. Just outside Pamplona, in the village of Alzuza, there’s a museum dedicated to the great Basque sculptor Jordge Oteiza.

To see it all, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a lovely art-filled small city about an hour from Bilbao. It’s surprisingly overlooked by tourists. But perhaps it won’t be for long, with the good press the town has received in the last decade.

In 2012, Vitoria-Gastiez was named Spain’s Green Capital, for its profusion of pedestrianized squares, gardens, and parks. In 2014, the town was named Spain’s Gastronomy Capital for its delicious restaurants and foodie culture.

In 2021, National Geographic named it among the 25 best travel destinations, calling Vitoria a “timeless place the will define our future itineraries.” I recommend booking a  guided walking tour of the historic center .

At the summit of Vitoria’s old town, you can stroll through the impeccably preserved medieval quarter. The streets are named after medieval craftsmen’s guilds.

Gape at the magnificent and imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria. The Gothic cathedral dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Restoration is ongoing.

Browse in the beautiful Plaza de la Virgen Blanc. In the plaza, you’ll find lots of shops and eateries. Then, take a stroll through the old quarter and under the arcaded passageways of the Paseo de los Arquillos.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is also known as the “painted town” and there are street art murals scattered around the city.

Art lovers can’t miss the Atrium Museum, opened in 2002. In subterranean galleries, you’ll find a fantastic collection of modern art. It includes pieces by Chillada, Miro, and Oteiza. Vitoria-Gasteiz also has a fine arts museum, where you’ll find works by other Spanish artists.

If you stay in town for dinner, head to the Michelin-starred Zaldiaran. Another tasty option is Ikea. If you want pintxos, head to the award winning Sagartoki or Tolono. The tourist office also offers a “Pintxo Map,” so you can do a proper pintxos crawl of the town.

Day 7-8 : Drive To and Explore San Sebastian

From Vitoria-Gasteiz, it’s a 1:20 drive to your next base, San Sebastian. The New York Times says “To visit San Sebastian, is to fall in love.”

San Sebastian is an incredible seaside Basque city, and tourists flock there. San Sebastian is renowned as a foodie resort town and beachy playground.

Its stunning beach, the crescent-shaped La Concha, is world famous and considered one of Europe’s best beaches. The city’s filigreed balconies and Belle Epoque buildings give it a classical elegance.

San Sebastian’s historic center, Parte Vieja, is picturesque. It’s sprinkled with an endless variety of upscale stores, churches, vibrant pintxos bars, and tony restaurants.

Be sure to check out the beautiful Bell Epoque City Hall, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus, San Vicente Church, and the Cathedral of the Good Shepard.

San Sebastian’s old town also has one of Basque Spain’s best museums, the San Telmo Museum . Housed in a restored convent and a contemporary wing, you’ll find both artifacts and cutting edge modern art.

If you want some exercise to leaven the sunshine and beach time, you can stroll along the dreamy C-shaped beachside trail.

At the far west end, just beyond Ondarreta beach, are metal sculptures — the Comb of the Wind , by renowned Basque artist Eduardo Chillada. It consists of iron installations in the rocks, which seems to “comb” the wind as the water crashes.

Hike up Mount Igueldo for the classic San Sebastian vista. Or, hike up the lesser known Mount Urgull to the local castle, the 12th century Castillo de la Mota. The views are amazing.

If you’re a food traveler, you’ll be in seventh heaven. San Sebastian is frequently called the food capitol of the world. It has 25 Michelin restaurants and boasts three restaurants with the rarest of accolades: a three star Michelin rating. Be sure to book well in advance at Mugaritz, Arzak, or Kokotxa.

San Sebastian also has a thriving pintxos scene. The cardinal rule of Basque pintxos-bar dining is to never stop moving, sampling different haute cuisine bites on your nocturnal journey.

The best ones are Gambara and Txepeta. Or, just wander between Calle Fermin Calbeton and Calle 31 de Agosto and see what’s on offer. You can also go on a guided pintxos and wine tour .

Where To Stay In San Sebastián : Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra ,  Hotel Maria Cristina , Akellare Relais & Chateaux , Hotel La Galeria  

Day 9: Drive To Bilbao, Stop in Getaria

On day 9, you’ll drive from San Sebastian to Bilbao. En route, stop for lunch or a visit in the pretty secret fishing village of Getaria, just 30 minutes from San Sebastian.

Getaria is one of the most charming towns on the Basque coast, jutting out into the sea with an attractive sandy beach (Gaztepe). It’s a pristine medieval fishing village with old world charm, stone houses, and gorgeous landscapes. You’ll have picture-perfect coastline views.

Getaria is home to the Basque regions’s signature drink, txakoli, a sparkling white wine. You can visit several wineries in and around the town. Getaria is also known for its seafood, particularly baby squid and turbot.

Getaria has a pretty Gothic church and is the birthplace of haute couture fashion icon Cristobal Balenciaga. There’s a museum dedicated to his life and work. You get there via an incongruous outdoor escalator at the outer edge of the town.

Try to depart Getaria and arrive in Bilbao by mid afternoon, so you can explore. It’s a one hour drive from Getaria to Bilbao.

Bilbao is an incredibly cool and underrated city in Spain. It’s beautifully situated amid rolling green hills and mountain ranges — an urban landscape in a country setting. Glimmering on the Nervion River, Bilbao is chock full of historic landmarks, Michelin restaurants, and world class museums.

After you’ve arrived and settled in, explore Casco Viejo. Bilbao’s medieval quarter. You’ll find the “seven streets” of the historic center, where Bilbao was born.

They are teeming with lively and quirky cafes, pintxos (tapas) bars, tony shops, and tiny squares. Locals mix with tourists and there’s definitely Basque energy flowing.

The centerpiece of old town is Santiago Cathedral, a 15th century church with a Gothic facade and decorations. It’s free to enter. For 2 euros, you can peak into the cloister from the famous Door of the Angel.

For a pre-dinner cocktail, head to 19th century Plaza Nuevo or the “New Plaza.” It’s a beautiful Neo-Classical arcade square.

Plaza Nuevo is a gourmet heaven. Popular pintxos spots in Plaza Nuevo include Cafe Bar Bilbao, Gure-Tok, and Casa Victor Montes. It’s common custom to hop from bar to bar sampling the wares.

Loosen your belt in Bilbao. Bilbao has 22 Michelin starred restaurants , including one three starred restaurant, and is considered a foodie haven. Azurmendi , with its three Michelin stars, is the jewel of Bilbao. Restaurant Mina is another culinary trendsetter and deserving Michelin star recipient.

Aside from these heavy hitters, Bilbao also has fabulous local restaurants, many scattered throughout its old town. You can find innovative pintxos and food at Irrintzi, La Vina Del Ensanche, Cafe Iruna, and Ledesma No 5.

Bilbao is the Basque region’s premiere city, a foodie destination with great architecture. I advise booking a guided walking tour or a guided food tour .

Guggenheim Museum

Start your final day in northern Spain with a visit to the world famous Guggenheim Museum . It’s locatedin Bilbao’s Abando neighborhood. You can grab breakfast/brunch at the nearby at Sua San, a chic eatery just opposite the museum.

Inaugurated in 1997, Frank Gehry’s twisting shimmering museum is the star of Bilbao. It’s been likened to both a palace and a ship. The museum even has its own Michelin-starred restaurant, Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao, focusing on local Basque ingredients.

The museum exterior courtyards are scattered with world renowned sculptures: Jeff Koon’s massive flowering Puppy, Louise Bourgeois’ 30 foot Maman spider, Anish Kapoor’s Tall Tree and the Eye, and the newest piece Fujiko Nakaya’s The Fog Sculpture.

On the inside, the architecture continues to amaze. There’s a glass-enclosed 50 meter atrium, crowned with a skylight in the shape of a metal flower. Light suffuses the place.

Inside lies a modern art collection on par with Europe’s best modern art museums. You’ll find works by Robert Motherwell, Cy Twombley, Yves Klein, Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, Eduardo Chillada, and Anselm Kiefer.

A highlight for me was walking through Richard Serra’s outsize and powerful Matter of Time steel sculptures.

Book your skip the line ticket here .

Azkuna Zentroa

To the west of Guggenheim lies what may be Bilbao’s most beautiful and interesting building, Azkuna Zentroa . It’s a bizarre but brilliant culture and leisure center. The building was reimagined by French designer Philippe Starck.

On the outside, it’s a mock medieval castle. On the inside, Azkuna is all Starck, an adventure in experiential contemporary art. Its vast foyer is supported by 43 squat stylized pillars.

It houses a public gym, swimming pool (with a glass bottom), a library, a restaurant, tapas bars, a rooftop terrace, and modern art exhibitions.

Mercado de la Ribera

For lunch, head to the foodie paradise of the Mercado de la Ribera food market on the Nervion River. La Ribera is Europe’s largest indoor food hall.

There’s been a market on this site since the 14th century. Today’s beautiful Art Deco building was built in 1929. As part of Bilbao’s urban renewal, the market was restored and reopened in 2011 to acclaim.

You’ll see goat carcasses and pig heads. But you can also check out the beautiful stained glass panels. Bilbao’s wolfish coat of arms is in the largest panel. Across from the Ribera you can admire the beautiful Neo-Baroque Teatro Arriaga, modeled after the Opera Garnier in Paris .

El Ensanche

After lunch, take a stroll through Bilbao’s El Ensache neighborhood. The main boulevard of this tony neighborhood, known as the Gran Via, is Gran Via Don Diego Lopez de Haro. It’s the most cosmopolitan area of the city. There are lots of first rate shops, restaurants, and bars.

On Gran Via, you can also inspect Bilbao’s “Fosteritos.” This is the nickname given to the graceful and sensuous segmented glass entrances to Bilbao’s metro system, designed by architect Norman Foster. The “Fosteritos” were built at the same time as the Guggenheim and are part of Bilbao’s urban architecture.

This area contains some of Bilbao’s most important renovated and eye catching buildings: La Equativo (by Manuel Galíndez), the Banco de Bilbao (by Pedro Guimón), the Naviera de la Sota y Aznar building (by Manuel María Smith Ibarra), and Bilbao Department of Health Building (by Juan Coll-Barreu).

Plaza San Jose is also a must visit square in El Ensanche. It was named after the brilliantly white Church of San Jose.

In the square, you’ll find three over-sized bronze sculptures by Vicente Larrea. Commissioned between 2003-05, the sculptures are made of folded sheets of steel resembling rock formations.

Funicular & Zubizuri Bridge

In the late afternoon, take a funicular ride from the Bilbao’s city center to Mount Artxanda for an aerial view of the city. It’s a must do activity in Bilbao. From the Guggenheim, cross the stark white Zubizuri footbridge and it’s a short walk to the funicular.

The Zubuzuri was designed by the acclaimed (but controversial) Santiago Calatrava, a Neo-Futuristic architect. It’s popularly known as the Calatrava Bridge. The bridge connects El Ensanche with the Calle Campo de Volatin, where you can take a pedestrianized stroll along the Nervion River.

The bridge almost looks like a sailboat on the river. Residents either hate it or love it. The glass tiled footpath became known as the “wipeout bridge” because of its slipperiness after frequent rain in Bilbao.

After enjoying the views, pick another of Bilbao’s fine restaurants for dinner. Or go on a pintxos crawl.

Where To Stay In Bilbao : Hotel Carlton , Vincci Consulado de Bilbao , Occidental Bilbao , Hotel Miro

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 day road trip itinerary for northern Spain. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

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

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Last Updated on March 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

• Destinations
• Travel Guides

Northern Spain road trip: cider, pinxtos and seaside towns

Roxanne de Bruyn

• Northern Spain road trip

Travel planning not your thing? This small-group tour of Northern Spain takes you from Barcelona to Santiago de Compostela, tasting some of the best food from each region on the way.

Northern Spain is a peaceful part of the country, which isn't nearly as popular with tourists as the southern regions. Many visitors are here to walk the Camino - a remarkable experience in itself - and the towns outside of the Camino trail see relatively few foreign travellers.

This is one of my favourite places in Spain to explore by car. With sweeping mountains, medieval villages and turquoise bays, there are many places to visit in Northern Spain which complement long driving days. You have a selection of towns to base yourself in each region, and many interesting day trips to choose from. Some of Spain's most delicious foods also originate in the northern parts of the country.

Northern Spain road trip itinerary

This Northern Spain road trip starts and finishes in Barcelona , initially following the coastline towards Santiago de Compostela.

The route takes you through the quiet regions of Aragon, Asturias, Galicia and Basque Country, giving you a very different view of the country to the big cities and coastal resorts. From the northwestern Spanish coast, we then head back to Barcelona via Burgos and Lleida. Consider hiring a car in Barcelona and spending a few days in the city after you return it.

As I tend to favour slow travel , I haven't prescribed the number of days you should stay in each place. These cities and regions are fascinating enough to keep you occupied for as long as you choose. I will say that you probably want a minimum of two weeks to do this trip, which will give you a few days in each place.

Leaving Barcelona, it's a pleasant, meandering drive towards Aragon, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the Iberian peninsula. Now, the region is strewn with sunflowers in summer and dotted with pretty, medieval villages and towns, complete with walls and church towers.

Stop for photos or to explore some of the villages, then find a spot in or near Zaragoza (Saragossa) to base yourself for the next few days. We stayed in a farmhouse at the edge of the tiny village of Cartuja Baya, which was almost deserted in August and boasts pretty church and quick commute to Zaragoza, but not much else.

Other (probably better) places to base yourself in Aragon include Fuendetodos, a medieval town near the city; Alquézar, a lovely hill town at the base of the Pyrenees; and, of course, Zaragoza itself.

Zaragoza is the fifth largest city in Spain and is well worth visiting while you're in the region. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is a huge (and beautiful) cathedral complex which seldom makes the itinerary of travellers to Spain.

The cathedral marks the spot where Mary appeared to St James, and told him to build a chapel in her name. In turn, she agreed to help him with his mission to bring Christianity to Spain. It's a beautiful church and was reportedly the site of more than a few miracles, including being hit by three unexploded bombs during the Spanish Civil War.

There are also other attractions in Zaragoza, including an ancient Roman forum, a palace and an interesting museum. If you're interested in history, it's worth heading out with a local guide to learn more about this fascinating city.

Wandering through the cobblestoned streets is an experience in itself and there's plenty of excellent food in the city. Just be aware that English isn't widely spoken, so be prepared to practice your Spanish.

Recommendations

Stay at Maribel Boutique Hotel in Alquezar for a romantic escape or Catalonia El Pilar in Zaragoza's old town (note: no free parking at Catalonia El Pilar)

Book a tour of Zaragoza with a local guide to discover more of the city, its stories and its people.

Basque Country

It's a lovely drive from Aragon to Basque Country. As you leave Zaragoza, you'll pass more golden fields and pretty hill towns. Then, the scenery changes as you head towards the mountains. The path through the Pyrenees is beautiful with green trees, twisting roads and dramatic views.

There are some gorgeous beach towns in Basque Country, perfect for a summer trip to Spain. A highlight of the coast is San Sebastian, a popular destination for visitors and home to some of the best food in Spain .

Or, for a different view of the region, base yourself in one of the mountain towns for a few days. Our pick is Balmaseda, a beautiful town with a stunning cathedral framed by the nearby mountains.

Our experience in Balmaseda was delightful. We stayed in a small bed-and-breakfast near the cathedral and soon discovered our hosts couldn't speak English (and we couldn't speak Spanish).

Our time there included finding the only locals who spoke English to help translate, visiting our hosts' cousin's farm, and long, late dinners with them and their friends. Not only did we gain more insight into Basque Country, but we also learnt some basic Spanish along the way.

Balmaseda is tucked into the mountains, but is only a short drive from Bilbao, the de facto capital of Basque Country and an interesting quirky city. Bilbao's old town is wonderful to explore by foot. Visit a few of the great pintxos (bread-based tapas) bars in the city, and explore the Central Market, which has some delicious delicacies on offer.

The distinctive Guggenheim Museum is also worth a visit with enough to see to keep most visitors occupied for a few hours - you can book a guided tour or, if you choose to visit independently, be sure to take advantage of the audio guide included in the admission fee.

From Balmaseda, it's also a scenic drive to the coast, with green mountain roads and lush scenery. The coastal towns are lovely with sweeping ocean views with delicious food. Be sure to try a Basque-style tortilla while you're here– an omelette on a large piece of baguette.

During summer, spend a few days (or a week, or more) in one of these seaside villages, enjoying the good food and long days in the sun. Our pick is Getaria, a lovely, old Roman town with long, white beaches and a fascinating history. It's also a great starting point for day trips along the coast and is only half an hour away from the famous San Sebastian .

Stay at Hotel Convento San Roque in Balmaseda or Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao near the Guggenheim in Bilbao (note: no free parking at the Gran Hotel Domine)

Book a guided tour of the Guggenheim Museum

Leaving Basque Country, the pretty mountain backdrop and green hills continue into Asturias. Probably the least-visited region in Spain, Asturias is quiet and surprisingly beautiful. Gijon and Oviedo are the obvious places to stay, however, there's something wonderfully romantic about basing yourself in the countryside instead.

When we first arrived at our AirBnB in Asturias, I was shocked by how remote it is. We stayed in the hamlet of Positana, nestled high into the mountains with amazing views of sweeping valleys and distant mountains.

There were only about six houses up there and I was initially horrified that there wasn't even a church in the settlement. Once we settled in, we loved the peaceful setting, and we found it a very convenient base for exploring the region.

We stayed in a charming cottage with our host, Rachel, who was English and had been living in Spain for many years. At night we cooked, and had long chats over dinner and local wine. I was enchanted by our tiny enclave high in the hills and marvelled at how bright the stars are at night. During the day we took long drives through the countryside, visiting some gorgeous beaches, and the cities of Oviedo and Gijon.

When you visit Gijon's old town, perched on a clifftop above the ocean, be sure to try the local cider. Asturian apple cider deserves a little aside – made from local apples, it’s a cloudy, slightly sour drink with a very distinctive smell. It comes in dark bottles and is poured from a height, the waiter standing with the bottle over his head, into your glass in a steady stream. The last inch or so of cider is always left behind, due to the sediment, and is then tossed to the side. In the evenings, Gijon’s gutters, like those of many towns in the region, run with cider.

Asturias is also a great destination if you enjoy the outdoors. With three national parks, there are many opportunities for hiking, kayaking , caving and cycling - and many great views. There are also a number of beautiful beaches along the coast.

Stay at one of these beautiful hotels in the countryside: the Castillo Del Bosque La Zoreda , Parador De Corias or Parador De Cangas De Onis

Book a kayaking adventure down the Nalon River

From Asturias, continue west until you reach Santiago de Compostela, where the pilgrims finally end their walk at the cathedral. There are many lovely places to stay in Galicia, especially the beach towns of Combarro and A Guarda, less than two hours away from Porto in Portugal .

However, there's something magical about staying in Santiago de Compostela - the elation of the pilgrims seems to be catching and we spend our time there wandering through the old town, finding tapas and local wine.

From there, drive along the coast to the Rías Baixas, perfect for a summer trip to Spain . Take your time exploring the coastal towns, going on day trips and stopping for lunch by the sparkling bays.

During your stay, try Galician-style pulpo, the locally-caught octopus cooked in olive oil and paprika, and sample Pimientos de Padró, baby green peppers fried in olive oil and dusted with sea salt. The nights in this part of Spain are warm and the days sunny and long. Summer in Galicia is idyllic.

Stay at the Pensión O Xardin de Julia in Santiago de Compostela (you'll have to pay for parking) or at the Gran Hotel Los Abetos on the outskirts of town.

Book a food and wine tour of the Rías Baixas , the perfect way to see (and taste) this beautiful and enigmatic region

Castile-León

On the way back to Barcelona, stop in the lovely region of Castile-León for a night or two. It's capital, Burgos, is famous for its silver cathedral, tree-lined avenues and, of course, excellent food. We stayed in in a little village just outside of Burgos called Vivar del Cid. the birthplace of the legendary El Cid, a medieval Castilian knight who briefly reclaimed Valencia from the Moors during the Reconquista.

While you're in Burgos, take the opportunity to sample the delicacies of the Castile-León region. Try the lechazo ( milk-fed lamb slow-roasted in a wood-burning oven) and the local morcilla (black pudding sausage), easily available at local restaurants. Then spend a day exploring the Ribera del Duero wine region, about an hour's drive from the city.

Stay at the Palacio de Burgos (you'll have to pay for parking) near the cathedral or at the Hotel Santa Coloma del Camino in the countryside.

Book a tour of the Ribera del Duero wine region and try the local reds

Final thoughts

You can take as little as a week to do this road trip or much longer than you prefer. We recommend at least two weeks, which will give you a beautiful introduction to Northern Spain and its diverse, yet distinctive regions.

Taking it slower will give you more time to immerse yourself in the different regions and learn more about their individual history and culture - and the food, of course. It's a quieter, very different pace to busy Barcelona and the perfect contrast to Spain's major tourist destinations.

Need more info about Spain? Read our Spain travel guide to help you plan your trip.

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Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 28 June 2023

Plaza del Callao by night, Madrid

Burgos Cathedral

General view of Donostia-San Sebastián

Playa de La Concha, Donostia-San Sebastián

Hondarribia, Basque Country

Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Santiago Cathedral, Bilbao

Aerial view of Santander

Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar, Cantabria

Potes, Cantabria

Gaudí's ‘Capricho’ monument, Comillas, Cantabria

Lake Ercina in Covadonga, Picos de Europa

Leon Cathedral

Stained glass windows of the Cathedral of León

9 days – Madrid & North of Spain by car

Discover some of the key destinations in the North of Spain in this itinerary starting from the capital, Madrid. Head to Basque country to visit the gastronomic gems of San Sebastian and Bilbao with a stop in Burgos. Continue to explore the rugged coastline of this part of Spain as you drive past beautiful fishing villages and evergreen meadows including the beautiful port city of Santander. Visit the mountains and lakes and stunning scenery of the Picos de Europa National Park before heading back to Madrid via León and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia.

route PROGRAMME

Day 1: madrid.

Arrive at Madrid Barajas airport. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 2: Madrid – Burgos - San Sebastian

Leave the city lights and drive to the picture book city Burgos (242 kms/2 hrs 40 mins). You can enjoy lunch here and admire the beautiful limestone buildings that give the city its unique character such as the Burgos Cathedral.

Continue to Basque country onto to the city of San Sebastian (214 kms/2 hrs 15 mins). Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 3: San Sebastian & Hondarribia

Also known as Donostia, this city is a gastronomic jewel that boasts a significant number of Michelin stars. Eating at one of these restaurants is a simply unique experience. Visit the Old Town (Parte Vieja), sample Pintxos(tapas) in Casco Viejo (Downtown), stroll around La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful bays in the world or take the funicular to Monte Igueldo for fantastic views of the city.

If there is time, drive 23 kms (30 mins) near the French border to the lovely town of Hondarribia , known for its seafaring tradition and a must visit. Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 4: San Sebastian – Bilbao - Santander

Drive along the dramatic coastline of the Basque Country to Bilbao , also famous for multiple Michelin star restaurants and the Guggenheim Musuem. Visit the Ribera market, one of Europe´s largest indoor food market, sample the pintxos in the Old Town and admire its unique architecture found all over the city.

Enroute to Bilbao, you can also choose to stop by at the colourful coastal village of Bermeo , the surfer’s paradise of Mundaca , the lovely islet of San Juan de Gaztelugaxte or the charming town of Lekeitio . (San Sebastian – Lekeitio – Bermeo – San Sebastian: 152 kms/ 2 hrs 40 mins) & (San Sebastian – Bilbao: 102 kms /1hr 10 mins).

Continue to the capital of the Cantabrian Region, Santander , known for its amazing beaches, incredible food and surrounding mountains (100 kms/ 1 hr 10 mins). Overnight in Santander.

Day 5: Santander & trip to Santillana del Mar OR Altamira Caves OR Comillas

Spend the morning relaxing on the beaches of Mataleñas, Los Molinucos, Sardinero or Magdalena or admire the magnificent royal Magdalena Palace and explore the surrounding peninsula.

Post lunch, head to the medieval town of Santillana del Mar (30 kms/30 mins) or the UNESCO World Heritage Altamira Caves (36 kms/32 mins) just outside the town or further ahead to the coastal village of Comillas , known for Gaudi´s iconic ‘El Capricho’ building. (54 kms/45 mins). Overnight in Santander.

Day 6: Santander – LLanes – Potes OR Cangas de Onis.

Continue to drive along the Cantabrian coastline to the Asturian coastal resort of LLanes (91 kms/1 hr). Take a walk along the San Pedro walk leading from Sablon beach for lovely views, visit the sculpted rocky cliffs and unique geological formations called ‘jesters’ of Cuevas del Mar beach and photograph the interesting ‘Cubes of Memory’ breakwater stones along the harbour.

Continue to the the mountain town of Potes OR Cangas de Onis to use as a base to visit the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park, depending on which part of the park needs to be explored.

OPTION 1: LLanes - Potes From Llanes, head to the small town of Potes in the heart of Picos de Europa (65-85 kms/1 – 1.5 hrs depending on the route). Overnight in Potes. OPTION 2: Llanes – Cangas de Onis From LLanes,  head to the town of Cangas de Onis , located at the edge of the mountains, stopping enroute at the colorful town of Ribadesella (LLanes – Ribadesella – Cangas de Onis: 55 kms/1 hr). Overnight in Cangas de Onis. Overnight in Potes OR Cangas de Onis.

Day 7: Picos de Europa National Park

OPTION 1: From Potes: Explore Picos de Europa national park characterised by high massifs, deep ravines, lush mountain meadows and vast glassy lakes. You can enjoy hiking, trekking, biking or any of its walking trails. You can also also visit Fuente Dé (23 kms/24 mins) and take the cable car, one of the longest single-span aerial lift in Europe, up into the heart of Picos de Europa. Overnight in Potes. OPTION 2: From Cangas de Onis: Explore Picos de Europa national park characterised by high massifs, deep ravines, lush mountain meadows and vast glassy lakes. You can enjoy hiking, trekking, biking or any of its walking trails. Visit Covadanga from where you can enjoy magnificent views from the mountain lakes of Enol and Ercina.

Overnight in Cangas de Onis.

Day 8: Picos de Europa National Park – León

OPTION 1: From Potes: Today, head to the historic city of León (155 kms/2.5-4 hrs). You can head straight to the city or take the scenic route via Riaño. OPTION 2: From Cangas de Onis: Today, head to the historic city of León via Riaño(160 kms/3 hrs). You can head straight to the city or take the scenic route.

Overnight in Leon.

Day 9: León - Madrid

Depart back to the capital city of Madrid (337 kms/3.5 hrs), with a stop in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia . Explore this medieval city including a visit to the Roman Aqueduct and the Alcazar, stroll along its medieval streets and shop for local souvenirs.

You may wish to extend your stay in Madrid and spend more time visiting this iconic city or depart to Madrid Barajas airport for your flight back home.

main DESTINATIONS

The capital of Spain is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with plenty to do and countless attractions to enjoy.

The city of the famous Aqueduct is 90 kilometres from Madrid.

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Join us in for the biggest classic car pilgrimage to Europe and be a part of the popular Circuit Historique de Laon, the largest and most popular event of its kind in Europe with over 700 cars attending this event every year.

JEC Club Tours

Call us to discuss your  next driving tour, 01732 879153, open monday to friday 9am to 5pm .

northern Spain & the

Picos de europa, enjoy a driving holiday in northern spain and discover a land of contrasts. from beaches to mountains this lovely part of spain, encompassing cantabria and eastern asturias, is a treasure trove of landscapes full of winding scenic roads, great cities and untouched villages, haute-cuisine and superb local fare. all of this is criss-crossed by the ancient camino de santiago, europe’s most important pilgrim way., the picos de europa  on the borders of asturias, cantabria and castilla y león, is probably the most stunning national park in spain, or even europe. the contrasts within these 300 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, that link cantabria and asturias, are amazing. small mountain villages are tucked away in the higher slopes and are almost completely isolated. deep gorges that plunge vertically down into deep river valleys, sparkling lakes and magical forests make this an adventure playground just begging to be explored. la rioja  is a beautiful wine region in northern spain characterized by its scenic patchwork of vineyard covered hills and medieval villages. the flagship grape of rioja is the noble tempranillo, used to create delicious reds and blended with other regional grapes like mazuelo, garnacha tinta, and graciano. weather,  galicia, asturias, cantabria, and the basque country predominantly have a maritime climate, characterised by warm summers and mild winters. take advantage of our late summer offer - october weather is similar to may, 20c average temperature and similar rainfall as july & august..

Northern Spain & the

Picos de europa  tour itinerary.

Drive to Plymouth/Portsmouth to board an evening Brittany Ferries sailing to Santander or Bilbao.

10 Day tours include a 1 night crossing

11 Day tours include a 2 night crossing 

 Look What's Included

• Return Brittany Ferries Crossing from UK to Spain - see other crossings options above

• 2 Berth Inside Cabin Accommodation on the return ferry crossings

• 1 Night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas

• 3 Nights at the Parador de Cangas de Onis

• 1 Night at the Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga

• 2 Nights at the Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

•Breakfast each morning & dinners as meal basis shown below

• Detailed Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions

• Commemorative Tour Rally plate

• Car Parking at the Hotels

See our selection of  wonderful hotels, all of which have been hand-picked for their quality, facilities and location

*Please note: Brittany Ferries routes are based on a fluid pricing policy which can fluctuate subject to capacity. Our prices are based on our estimated rate for this period and may be subject to change at the time of booking.

Dates & Prices

Northern Spain & the Picos de Europa Tour

including excellent Parador Hotel Accommodation

*Please note: All prices shown above are per person and based on 2 persons sharing a car and a twin/double room & cabin Meal Basis - Hotels: Breakfast each morning & 6 Dinners Single room occupancy supplements - June & Sept £800 / October £650.00

Other Tours to The Picos de Europa

& THE PYRENEES

June & September

PORTUGAL, DOURO VALLEY

& the picos de europa.

THE PICOS DE EUROPA

& douro river cruise.

August/September

Northern Spain Touring Holidays

Take a northern Spain touring holiday and discover a different side of Spain. Far from the crowds further south, here you’ll find the best gastronomy and wines, unspoilt beaches set beneath soaring mountains and a tapestry of unique regional cultures criss-crossed by the Caminos de Santiago.

Northern Spain is a paradise for walking, wildlife and outdoor activities and you’ll find a warm welcome wherever you go.

Real travel within easy reach

Numerous flights and seven ferries a week from the UK to North Spain mean that the region has never been easier to get to.

Direct flights to Bilbao, Santander, Asturias, La Coruña or Santiago de Compostela make point-to-point touring in north Spain easy. Follow the Camino de Santiago, head into or over the mountains or discover a particular region – you’re sure to find adventure

Independent self-drive touring with all the info and support you need Bespoke itineraries – designed and organised by our experts Fly to Spain and we’ll include a car or bring your own vehicle and we’ll build in the ferry.

Choose from our north Spain touring holidays

Showing 15 results

Fly or ferry >

Special interest >.

Camino del Norte NC1

Bilbao to santiago by the coastal route.

Based on 14 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Camino del Norte – Out and Back NC7

Santander – santiago – circular tour.

Taste of the North NC3

Bilbao – la rioja – coastal cantabria tour.

Based on 7 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Mar y Montaña NC4

Natural highlights of cantabria & asturias.

Grand Tour of Northern Spain NC6

North coast, picos de europa & the interior.

The Toledo Run IC5

Northern spain to toledo via the heritage cities of castilla y león.

Discover Galicia NC5

Galicia – a circular tour of the celtic province.

Based on 10 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Discover Asturias NC8

Northern spain’s ‘natural paradise’.

Discover Cantabria NC9

Cantabria, the heart of northern spain.

Camino del Frances NC2

Pyrenees to santiago by the inland route.

Based on 9 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Western Pyrenees Circular Tour PC5

Navarra and aragon – circular.

Wine & Mountains Tour PC4

Navarra – huesca – la rioja – bilbao.

The Porto Run – Santander to Porto PO7

Santander to porto & back in two weeks.

Based on 14 nights self-drive independent tour in Portugal and Spain

Camino Portugues, Porto to Santiago Tour PO3

Porto to santiago by the coastal route.

Based on 10 nights self-drive independent tour in Portugal

Discover Navarra NC10

A journey around the kingdom of navarra, bespoke northern spain touring holidays.

Our expert team will help you plan your trip – adapting the route to fit with your preferred flights and ferry crossings, taking into account your personal needs and interests be it gastronomy, bird watching, Rioja wine tasting, Romanesque architecture… you name it!

Our northern tours cover Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia, the Picos de Europa, Castilla & León and La Rioja – some follow the Camino de Santiago whilst others are of our own invention. We also have options further south into inland Spain and the Pyrenees which can combine well with our north Spain tours – please do ask about options.

If coming by ferry or flying into and back from the same Spanish airport you may find it helpful to consult our Circular Tours page.

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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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10 Epic Spain Road Trips - Maps, Itineraries and Tips

Want to experience an amazing Spain road trip but not sure where to go? Choose from these 10 stunning routes for your road trip in Spain with our guides, detailed itineraries and insider tips.

Whether you're looking to relax in the mountains off the Costa del Sol, navigate the narrow streets of Toledo or take a stroll down Barcelona's Las Ramblas, we can help you plan the perfect Spanish road trip for you.

Best Spain road trips comparison

We have driven up and down and across Spain a lot of times over the past 15 years. Before we dive into the ideas, here's the complete list of the best road trip routes with key information. Scroll down to see more detail on each one.

Whether you want a relaxing drive along the coast or drive around the entire country of Spain, here are the 10 amazing options for a Spain road trip to pick from.

1. Andalucia road trip

A perfect way to explore Spain is to drive around Andalucia . If you love the sun, beaches and perfect mountain hideaways overlooking the sea, Andalucia is the place for you.

If you are more into culture and love grandiose cathedrals, medieval fortresses and jaw dropping architecture, Andalucia is also a place for you.

If, however, you just want to walk around historic towns and love traditional hearty Spanish food, you guessed it - Andalucia is your perfect destination.

The perfect Andalucia road trip will take you on a loop including coastal destinations such as Nerja, Malaga, Marbella, Gibraltar and Cadiz before going inland to discover Ronda, Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

This drive will scale mountains with breathtaking views and take you to the mesmerising Mezquita cathedral in Cordoba and the unique Moorish Alhambra complex in Granada.

You'll relax in the world famous Andalucian white villages of Mijas, Benahavis and Casares and mingle with new money in Puerto Banus' marina full of expensive supercars, people with too much plastic surgery and the world's biggest yachts.

Road trip length: 11 days

Total distance: 518 miles

2. Drive Spain's Mediterranean coast

Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip - just make sure you put sun screen on your left arm if you're driving - the sun gets hot!

Start your road trip with a mini-break in Barcelona where you can visit sights such as La Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and unique buildings designed by Gaudi. There are few cities that offer as much as Barcelona so it's a perfect start to the Mediterranean coast trip.

Next leg takes you south to Valencia - a seriously underrated Spanish city that offers culture, food and sunshine aplenty with an amazing historical centre.

Once you've crossed over the Sierra Nevada mountains, your trip continues to Granada, Costa del Sol, Seville and Cordoba.

You will do an abridged version of the Andalucia road trip above, but get a much broader view of Spain having driven from one corner to another.

Hugging the coast for virtually the entire trip means that you are always a few minutes away from a beach - something that can provide welcome distractions on your way.

This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages.

Road trip length: 14 days

Total distance: 1,385 miles

3. Castille Leon - visit the heart of Spain

If you're flying in and out of Madrid, the Castille and Leon road trip can be an amazing way to explore Spain without having to drive all the way to the coast or spend weeks on the road.

This road trip through Spain's heartland comes in a loop that starts and ends in the Segovia province.

You will start in the historic city of Segovia itself - famous for some of Spain's best architecture and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After a day of exploring, the route heads west towards Salamanca via Arévalo. Arévalo is a small historic town famous for its Mudejar architecture and art giving it a special protected status in Spain and Salamanca is an ancient city with two cathedrals - the New one (it is actually called that) began construction in 1513!

From Salamanca, you can check out other beautiful historic towns of Ledesma and Zamora before a stop in Valladolid - the assumed capital of the Castille and Leon province. Its medieval history can be seen throughout the city - the Spanish Monarchy even made Valladolid their home in the 17th century!

After a visit to the city that shares its name with the Castile and Leon region, the trip ends with a drive through the Ribera del Duero wine region - hugely underrated relative to Rioja and the Portuguese Douro wine further down the same river valley.

The end of the trip gets you to Pedraza back in the Segovia province before taking a short drive back to Madrid's airport.

You can extend this road trip to include the historic Spanish cities of Leon and Burgos in the north of the province, but that will add a lot of mileage and time to your trip and southern Castille and Leon has a huge amount to see already - you can easily spend 2 weeks exploring this part of Spain and see new places every day.

Road trip length: 7 days

Total distance: 345 miles

4. Northern Spain road trip

So often overlooked in favour of Costa Brava, Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip exploring the mix of cultures, fantastic food and rocky shore scenery.

The road trip starts in the capital of Spain's Basque country - Bilbao. This is a place worth spending a couple of days in to explore its old historic centre, the surrounding mountains and the spectacular world-famous Guggenheim museum.

There is something for everybody in Bilbao with superb pintxos in street bars and michelin-starred restaurants, medieval streets and modern boulevards.

The road trip then moves west along the coast to Santander, before further stops in Santillana del Mar, the Picos de Europa national park and Gijon.

This trip includes a mix of beaches, historic Spanish cities and exploring nature - a perfect mix for a Spanish road trip!

Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna.

Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way.

Depending on your flights, you might have to do a drive back along the coast to Bilbao or down to Porto or Madrid - this is one heck of a trip that you won't find in many recommendations or guides!

Road trip length: 10 days

Total distance: 737 miles

5. Basque country and Pyrenees

Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and... mountains.

The Basque country is a unique part of Spain - they have a prominent local language, cities that make up two prominent medieval kingdoms (Basque and Navarre) and a unique link to the Pyrenees. In medieval times, Basque country spanned the mountain range, including parts of France on the other side.

Today the region fervently focuses on its culture. As you travel in major cities such as Bilbao, San Sebastian and Pamplona, you will get to try the local pintxos tradition. In some ways similar to tapas popular in the rest of Spain, pintxos are smaller bite-size snacks served in bars and charged by number or by plate.

If you get out of the tourist areas, you will find local pintxo bars where the snacks are free as long as you keep buying the drinks!

The Pyrenees are an amazing mountain range that is not high on many tourists' radars.

Often overlooked in favour of trips to the Alps or even Sierra Nevada further south in Spain, the Pyrenees are an older mountain range with a lot of peaks over 3,000m above sea level.

The roads through the Pyrenees are fantastic and can make for really great road trips with the added bonus of hardly any other cars as you drive around. There are some fantastic hotels if you want to really relax and go off the grid for a few days - we have stayed at The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees and cannot recommend it highly enough - it is expensive but super luxurious and worth it!

A small number of rooms have stunning views of the surrounding hills with morning fog climbing towards the peaks and you can relax in a jacuzzi looking out over the landscape before having an amazing dinner in the hotel's gastro restaurant.

After a few days of luxuriating, it's time to drive down from the mountainside and make your way to Pamplona - a historic city famous for its July bull running festival has far more to offer than the medieval tradition. Narrow streets, beautiful stone buildings and fantastic local coffee shops are great for unwinding in late morning.

The drive back to Bilbao airport is a little under 2 hours to get you back home!

Total distance: 240 miles

6. Driving tour of Catalonia

There is a whole lot more to Spain's Catalonia region than Barcelona. You can spend weeks travelling around the area and still not see dozens of amazing villages, secret beaches, mountain waterfalls or quirky museums.

If you want to base yourself in Barcelona, instead of going on a road trip, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration on where you can get to!

A great route around the region can start and end in Barcelona to make it easy with flights.

From Barcelona, head south along the coast to Tarragona with a stop in Sitges and the option of relaxing in one of a few great beaches along the way.

From Tarragona, this trip goes inland towards Montblanc and all the way to La Seu d'Urgell in the Pyrenees via Solsona.

On your route across the north of Catalonia, you are spoilt for choice with the Garrotxa volcanic national park and the village of Santa Pau worth visiting, a detour into Andorra and towns like Besalu and Castellfollit de la Roca all great options before you arrive in Figueres.

After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum.

The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. There are tonnes of great places to stop including Roses resort, the canals of Empuriabrava, L'Escala and Begur. A drive inland to Girona is optional before you make it down to the relaxation end of the journey with beach stops in Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar on the menu.

There are few parts of the world which have so much to see in such a compact region both culturally and in nature. If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain.

Road trip length: 9 days

Total distance: 520 miles

7. Historic central Spain - Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla - La Mancha is one of the largest regions of Spain and also one of the least well known by tourists.

Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east.

Exploring this region brings a mix of natural sights and beautiful historic Spanish cities. As with the Castille Leon trip, it's easy to start and finish in Madrid if that's where you can get easy flights to.

This Spain road trip starts in the most famous city in the La Mancha region - Toledo. Toledo is famous as a blend of Christian, Muslim and Jewish religions and cultures. It was the capital city of the Visigoth Empire, Spanish Moors and later of Spain at some points during the course of history.

After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel.

There is a lot to see in this part of Spain including the infamous windmills made famous by Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote. The majority of the region is set on a plateau with occasional barren hills.

The trip continues east to Cuenca and Siguenza - both stunning towns but in completely different ways and both very different from a lot of typical Spanish destinations.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are a number of national parks on the way where you can stretch your legs on a hike or just take a scenic detour.

Total distance: 380 miles

8. Galicia road trip

Getting to and from the region can be tough so you might have to adjust the route depending on where you're travelling from.

The plan with this road trip is to go all the way round the Galician coastline starting from As Catedrais beach. If you don't know it by name, you've definitely seen pictures of giant rocks and archways on the sandy beach before.

Although this trip is only 5 days long, you'll spend a few of these driving along small coastal roads. Our tip is to ignore the navigator which will send you inland along faster roads. Keep the sea to your right as you go and you're unlikely to go too far wrong.

After passing the Vixia Herbeira cliffs, you'll arrive in A Coruña. Other than the Hercules Tower, the main sight here is the light house. Naturally.

Take a day to see the city and its surroundings - seafood here is amazing as it's a functioning port supplying much of the region and beyond.

The trip then continues around the coast to Santiago de Compostela. You can take the direct short cut but you will miss out on a whole lot of stunning scenery, ocean-facing cliffs and spectacular locations for light houses - on the shoreline, on cliffs and even on their own islands.

After exploring the historic and religiously important city, the route goes back towards the coast and passes Pontevedra on the way to the pretty town of Vigo.

This might not be so much of a Spanish road trip as a gentle breeze along the coast (and there will be a lot of breeze!), but it's definitely one to keep in mind if you want to unwind and keep yourself away from the tourist traps around Spain.

Road trip length: 5 days

Total distance: 322 miles

9. Road trip around Mallorca

Many don't associate Mallorca with a road trip, but the island has a huge amount to offer beside the beaches and clubs.

Flying in and out of Palma means that's a great place to start and finish your trip.

Palma is the capital and often overlooked by visitors who go straight from airport to their preferred corner of the island. The city actually has a lot to offer so it's great to spend the first or last night here depending on your flight times.

Make sure you check out the huge Cathedral (you really can't miss it) and the part of the city around the market (only open in the morning).

Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around.

Start by heading along the narrow cliff roads along the coast to Valdemossa and Soler - the two very popular destinations to the north of Palma. After that the road trip continues all the way to Port de Pollença before heading across the island to Cala Mesquida.

Once you've navigated the tourists, a short drive down the coast takes you to Cala Agulla where the beaches are empty and the sun is just as hot for some relaxation.

To wrap up the trip, you've got to stop off at the resort town of Cala d'Or before making your way back to Palma.

A short trip with a lot of breathtaking views and cliffs in the north and resorts with fantastic beaches on the south can be the perfect way to unwind on a short break!

Total distance: 175 miles

10. The full circle - A complete road trip around Spain

If you have time on your hands and feel adventurous, a road trip around the entirety of Spain can be an amazing way to delve into the culture, see all the corners of this amazing country and really get immersed.

One key disclaimer is that while this one sits high on our list of bucket list trips, we haven't actually done the full trip - it's a long drive!

But if you're brave enough, you can start wherever along the route you like as you it goes in a loop.

Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba.

After exploring central Spain with stops in Toledo and surrounding towns and a tour of Madrid, the drive continues into Spain's Duero valley, Valladolid and on to Galicia's Vigo, Santiago de Compostela and A Coruna while taking in breathtaking views of ocean-facing cliffs and huge waves.

The trip continues along the north coast stopping off at Santander, Bilbao and San Sebastian before detouring off into the Pyrenees and the historic cities of Pamplona and Zaragoza. A mini Catalonia tour to end the trip wraps up the route that will take at least a month to complete if you want to do things other than driving.

If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! We'd love to see how you get on!

Road trip length: 35 days

Total distance: 2,800 miles

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Totally Spain Travel Blog

The Spain & Portugal Travel Specialists since 2000

Northern Spain Parador Tour | 10 Days Self-Drive

Totally Spain has paired up with Spanish Paradores, one of our favourite Spanish hotel chains, to bring you this unique 10-night Self-Drive Northern Spain Parador Tour of one of our favourite parts of the Iberian Peninsula – Northern Spain and the stunning regions of Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia. Experience some of the best food in Spain along with some of the finest beaches and coastal scenery. As well as dramatic mountain areas and charming towns and cities such as Bilbao, San Sebastian, Santander and Santiago de Compostela. And best of all? No crowds. This tour provides a terrific overview of the area and will no doubt leave you wanting to return for more.

Northern Spain Parador Tour

Days 1 & 2: Bilbao – Friday & Saturday night

Your Northern Spain Parador Tour commences with your arrival in Bilbao where we transfer you privately from Bilbao airport to your centrally located 4-star Bilbao hotel.

Enjoy all this wonderful city has to offer including pre-booked tickets to the Guggenheim museum so you don’t have to wait in line. Tuck in to delicious Basque tapas and local Riojan wines in the city’s many idyllic cafes and bars. Discover the charming Old Quarter and riverside walkway. And shop to your heart’s content at unique independent boutiques and big name stores. All within easy walking distance of your hotel. First-timers to the city can take part in a walking tour of the city of Bilbao with an expert guide whereas repeat-visitors might prefer a tapas tour, cookery class or wine-tasting in the city’s old quarter. On the second day you might like to make a day-trip to Gaztelugatxeko – made famous in the Game of Thrones. Stop off at one of the many fine eateries in the Basque country for lunch – you have to try ‘al pil pil’. If you want something really exclusive make a booking at the Michelin-starred restaurant Azurmendi (near the city) or Asador Etxebarri (30-mins drive) which was voted 10th Best Restaurant in the World in 2015. For more ideas on what to see and do, read our city guide to Bilbao .

One of the star’s of any visit to Bilbao – it’s the Puppy! photo credit: fernando_villadangos-2830891 via pixabay

Day 3 Hondarribia – Sunday night

It’s time to go east towards the French border to one of Northern Spain’s most picturesque fishing towns. If it’s your first time in Northern Spain, why not stop off in San Sebastian on your way – to walk on the famous Concha beach and dine on some of the exclusive tapas. Read our guide to San Sebastian city here . We can arrange a tapas tour for you or a cookery class if you’d prefer a structure activity there. Later that afternoon, drive onto Hondarribia to the Parador (the first of six on this trip!) and relax in the sumptuous surroundings.

Located in the medieval town of Hondarribia on the Bidasoa estuary close to the French border, the Parador de Hondarribia was a defensive fortress founded in the year 980 by the Navarrese King, Sancho Abarca. photo credit: Hondarribia Parador Paradores of Spain

Colour and charm in abundance in downtown Hondarribia. photo credit: MRodas Hondarribia via photopin (license)

Day 4 Argomaniz – Monday night

Today you say good-bye to the coast as you’re driving inland on your Northern Spain Parador tour to a Parador that’s closeby Vitoria-Gasteiz – the capital city of the Basque Country with a few wonderful squares for dining out. Argomaniz itself is a stunning building and you’ll find many charming monasteries and chapels on its doorstop that are well-worth exploring. Read more here about Vitoria and its nearby villages . You can also reach some great wineries – and we can book a tasting tour for you in the many Rioja-Alavesa or Riojan wineries that are closeby – read our guide to Laguardia here .

The stunning 17th Century Renaissance Palace in Argomaniz known as the Larreas Palace as well as the Viceroy of Mexico’s Palace. photo credit: Argomaniz Parador Paradores of Spain

Plenty of plazas perfect for a stroll in Vitoria-Gasteiz. photo credit: santiagolopezpastor Vitoria via photopin (license)

Days 5 & 6 Limpias – Tuesday & Wednesday nights

We’re leaving the Basque Country today for Limpias in the Cantabria region. Drive to the Parador of Limpias and after a relaxing stroll on the grounds, head for the coast at Laredo or Santona – home to some amazing fish and seafood. We can book a table for you at one of the many Michelin-starred dineries in Cantabria – read the guide here . For your second day in Cantabria we’ve included a visit to the Centro Botin in Santander. Afterwards we suggest you enjoy a meal in a typical tavern or take in some tapas in Santander’s Puertochico area.  Later perhaps take a boat tour of the bay offered by Los Reginas and enjoy the wonderful views of the Magdalena Palace and the Lighthouse. Or you might want to visit the charming UNESCO-listed  Santillana-del-Mar medieval village.

The Palace of Eguilior was the summer headquarters of King Alfonso XIII’s Council. The palace belonged to Don Manuel de Eguilior, the Count of Albox, and is attributed to the architect Emilio de la Torriente.photo credit: Limpias Parador Paradores of Spain

Waterways in Cantabria’s Limpias. photo credit: Mikel DLM IMG_3084 via photopin (license)

Days 7 & 8 Picos de Europa – Thursday & Friday nights (Fuente De Parador (1nt) & Cangas de Onis Parador (1nt))

Prepare to go back inland as you head to the Picos de Europa mountain range. En route, you might want to stop off briefly to see El Capricho by Antoni Gaudi in Comillas. The drive from the coast to Fuente De is a dramatic one – as you travel through the Hermida Gorge and finally get your first glimpse of the majestic Peaks.  On the way, stop and discover some of the local wine, cheeses or liquor makers in the market town of Potes before checking into the Parador at Fuente De.  This afternoon – time permitting – or tomorrow morning, take an included ride on the cable-car (it’s right beside the Parador) to see the beauty and expanse of the Picos mountain range. Later, set off for Asturias and the other side of the Picos mountains.

Although this Parador is not in a historic building, its stunning location at the foot of the Picos de Europa, beside the famous cable car taking visitors high into the mountains, is unbeatable. photo credit: Parador Hotels Fuente De Parador

For the beauty of the rock formations, it has to be the Picos de Europa. photo credit: Leticia Roncero Touching the Sky via photopin (license)

You’re staying inside the mountains for another day – and passing into Asturias to enjoy the Roman bridge, the Lakes of Covadonga and the Sanctuary which is located inside a cave containing the remains of Pelayo – a king and symbol of Christian resistance in medieval Spanish history and literature. Overnight at the Parador at the Cangas de Onis by the River Sella and enjoy the local meats, fish and cheeses over dinner.

Located just outside the town of Cangas de Onis this 5* Parador, the former Monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva, was declared a National Monument in 1907. photo credit: Parador Hotels Cangas de Onis Parador

Lake Enol at Covadonga, Picos de Europa. photo credit: Randy Durrum Lake Enol, one of the Lakes of Covadonga in Asturias, Spain via photopin (license)

Day 9 Vilalba – Saturday night

After the mountains, it’s time to explore Galicia. You’re staying at the Parador of Vilalba – a small town best known for its medicinal springs. You can visit the nearby walled city of Lugo and what about taking on some of the Camino de Santiago? The Camino del Norte actually passes through Vilalba so if you want to stretch your legs, you walk along some of the Way and get a sense of the history of the route which continues onto Arzua when the Camino meets up with the French route and carries on into Santiago.

Vilalba was the capital of this fertile region known as Terra Cha and the tower was where the Counts of Vilalba lived. The Parador’s impressive medieval Galician tower, dominates the urban and rural landscape of Vilalba. photo credit: Parador Hotels Vilalba Parador

The calm and tranquil woods at Vilalba on the Camino de Santiago. photo credit: Manu gomi via photopin (license)

Day 10 Santiago de Compostela – Sunday night

Today after check-out, you drive to Santiago de Compostela, your final destination on your Northern Spain Parador tour and a magical place. The   pedestrianised old quarter of Santiago is very charming and atmospheric with the Camino pilgrims giving the city centre a very medieval feel. The jewel in the crown of this enchanting city is Plaza del Obradoiro where you’ll find the cathedral and the Parador, known as Hostal dos Reis Catolicos. After check-in, enjoy a refreshing drink on the Parador terrace overlooking Obradoiro Square. You’ll want to visit the Cathedral and if you’re in luck you’ll get to see the botafumeiro in motion. If you arrive in early, we recommend a visit to the city food market and for later on in the day, you might wish to take in a wine tasting – remember, Galicia is home to some wonderful wine territories such as the Rias Baixas. You can read more about our guide to Galicia & the Rias Baixas wineries here . Seafood is king here in Galicia and we encourage you to try the delicious ‘pulpo’, clams, mussels and more.

Santiago’s Cathedral in the Plaza del Obradoiro – where all roads lead to – especially if you’re walking the Camino! Photo credit: Catedral de Santiago de Compostela via photopin (license)

One of Spain’s best loved Parador hotels (and one of the oldest hotels in the world) started out as a royal hospital in 1499 to accommodate pilgrims traveling to Santiago. photo credit: byb64 Dans l’église, ancien hôpital des Pèlerins, aujourd’hui Hôtel des Rois Catholiques, St Jacques de Compostelle, province de La Corogne, Galice, Espagne. via photopin (license)

Day 11 – Santiago Airport – Monday

Today is when you drop off the car rental and fly home from Santiago’s Airport. Buen viaje and we hope it’s just the first of many trips with us. We pride ourselves in repeat custom and hope you will be no different! [NB You might be tempted to follow up with our Southern Spain Parador tour here ]

Tempted to take this trip?

We’ll take care of everything on the ground for you as well as pre-booking some top sights. We’ll arrange your car rental too and provide you with comprehensive documentation so that you make the very most out of your time in Northern Spain so as you see all the best places.

Trip Price: from 1,289 euros per person sharing, which includes:-

• 10 nights accommodation in a standard double room with ensuite bathroom (8 nights in Parador hotels and 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Bilbao including buffet breakfast daily)
• Car Rental (VW Golf or similar) with unlimited mileage, basic collision damage waiver and theft insurance. Pick-up Day 3 in Bilbao. Drop-off Santiago de Compostela city Day 10.
• Pre-booked entrance tickets to Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and Centro Botin in Santander
• Return journey on cable car in Fuente De, Picos de Europa National Park
• Comprehensive documentation including road & city maps, guides & suggested itineraries

Itinerary Terms & Conditions

• Price is valid for travel in 2019 and subject to availability.
• This tour must commence on a Friday
• The itinerary is not available in July and August
• You need to book and manage your own flights
• Your hotel in Bilbao will be advised at time of booking

Would you like to enquire about this 10 night Parador Tour of Northern Spain or have Totally Spain arrange your very own private custom Spain tour?

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Self Drive Tours & Trips in Spain

Travel off the beaten path, stop at photogenic hotspots and plan your own itinerary. With a predefined route and a map, a self-drive adventure throughout Spain is the ultimate road trip with 23 self drive holiday packages from 5 days to 10 days to choose from. Read here about the Spain 10 day itineraries .

24 Self Drive tour packages in Spain with 15 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Down South, Self-drive

Loved our self drive tour in Andalusia.

Tenerife North & South, Self-drive

The apartments in the North and South were both clean and well kept. The breakfasts were good. Our room location in the North was a major problem. Our room was 415 which sounds good, but we had to take the elevator to the 4th floor and walk 49 stairs one way to our room. As we are in our 70's and we were vacationing in Europe for 6 weeks we had a large suitcase and carryons also. With no help on the stairs with our suitcases it was difficult to get to and from the room. We discussed this with the receptionist and we could not change as the hotel was full. I feel that we should never have been given this room to start with. The staff was excellent in both apartments both North and South.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

Must of Andalusia, Self-drive

The tour covers the "Andalusian Trinity" of Seville, Cordoba, and Granada. Accommodations in Seville were lovely, but about 5 k outside town, too far to walk. There was a bus that went to Plaza de Espana. The accommodations in Granada were also far from the center and a bit past their prime but right on the tram and bus lines. The car was brand new and comfortable. The hotel in Seville was luxe. The one in Grenada had seen better days.Cordoba was a nightmare as our visit coincided with the Fiesta de Flores and the streets and parking lots were mobbed. The highlight was the Alhambra in Grandada (not included, book in advance). I did not see any "value added" for booking through tourradar. The next time, I will just reserve the rooms and rent a car myself.

Andalusia Essentials, Self-drive

Excellent choice of hotels, hire car was spacious and new. Friendly staff replied to my (many) questions in a friendly and helpful manner. Granada and Seville are truly amazing places to visit and so is Cordoba but 2 days in the both the former locations and 1 day in Cordoba was the perfect combination with a beach 1/2 day at Torremolinos at the start and the end to relax. Will use you guys again !

Heart of Andalusia 6 Days, Self-drive

The locations on our trip were amazing! Wish we would have had more time at each stop. The car and hotels were great! We had a small issue with the car rental return because we needed to return the car prior to the time the business opened. They did make accommodations for us but it did cost us an additional fee. Overall, great communication from customer service! Thank you!

Madrid to Andalusia, Self-drive

Best of Catalonia, Self-drive

Andalusia Highlights, Self-drive

Bilbao and Santander, Self-drive

Heart of Andalusia 8 Days, Self-drive

Undiscovered Castilla, Self-drive

Classical Extremadura, Self-drive

The Northern Gateway, Self-Drive

• Food & Culinary

Tropical Coast and Nature, Self-drive

Heart of Spain, Self-drive

What people love about self drive tours in spain.

The apartments in the North and South were both clean and well kept. The breakfasts were good. Our room location in the North was a major problem. Our room was 415 which sounds good, but we had to take the elevator to the 4th floor and walk 49 stairs one way to our room. As we are in our 70's and we were vacationing in Europe for 6 weeks we had a large suitcase and carryons also. With no help on the stairs with our suitcases it was difficult to get to and from the room. We discussed this with the receptionist and we could not change as the hotel was full. I feel that we should never have been given this room to start with. The staff was excellent in both apartments both North and South.

The tour covers the "Andalusian Trinity" of Seville, Cordoba, and Granada. Accommodations in Seville were lovely, but about 5 k outside town, too far to walk. There was a bus that went to Plaza de Espana. The accommodations in Granada were also far from the center and a bit past their prime but right on the tram and bus lines. The car was brand new and comfortable. The hotel in Seville was luxe. The one in Grenada had seen better days.Cordoba was a nightmare as our visit coincided with the Fiesta de Flores and the streets and parking lots were mobbed. The highlight was the Alhambra in Grandada (not included, book in advance). I did not see any "value added" for booking through tourradar. The next time, I will just reserve the rooms and rent a car myself.

Regions in Spain

• Andalucia (11)
• Southern Spain (8)

Travel Styles

• Spain Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Days in Spain: Best Itineraries 2024/2025