Northern Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
This 7-day road trip will take you from the culinary paradise of San Sebastian to the spiritual heart of Santiago de Compostela, with stops in Bilbao, Picos de Europa National Park, Aviles, and the enchanting Cathedral Beach.
Along the way, you’ll experience the best of Basque, Cantabrian, and Galician culture, cuisine, and scenery.
Exploring Northern Spain
Northern Spain is a captivating region that often flies under the radar compared to its sun-drenched southern counterpart.
From the rugged coastlines of the Basque Country to the incredible stunning green landscapes of Galicia, Northern Spain is well worth exploring.
Popular Cities and Destinations:
The journey through Northern Spain often begins in San Sebastian (Donostia), a coastal city renowned for its excellent food offerings, with its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and busy pintxo bars.
The city’s La Concha Beach is one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches, a magical place to chill out.
Further west lies Bilbao, a city transformed by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. This architectural marvel and the revitalised riverside and charming Old Town make Bilbao a must-visit destination.
In Asturias, the Picos de Europa National Park offers breathtaking dramatic mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and picture-perfect green valleys. It’s a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Nearby, the coastal town of Aviles offers a mix of medieval charm and modern culture.
Galicia, in the far northwest, is home to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Its stunning cathedral and historic Old Town are steeped in spiritual and cultural significance and is a must visit historic site for all pilgrims.
Nearby, Cathedral Beach (Playa de las Catedrales) ranked as one of the best beaches in Spain has towering rock arches and caves carved by the Atlantic Ocean.
Scenery and Beaches:
Northern Spain’s coastline is a dramatic contrast to the Mediterranean south. Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and emerald-green landscapes characterise the Costa Verde (Green Coast) in Asturias and Galicia. Beaches like Cathedral Beach and Rodiles Beach are perfect for exploring or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Culture and Heritage:
The region is deeply rooted in tradition, with its own languages (Basque, Galician, and Asturian) and unique customs. Festivals like San Sebastian’s Tamborrada and Santiago de Compostela’s Fiestas del Apostol showcase the vibrant local culture.
The Camino de Santiago, a centuries-old pilgrimage route, remains a powerful symbol of faith and endurance.
Food and Drink:
The Basque Country is famous for its pintxos (small tapas-like dishes), while Asturias is known for its hearty fabada (bean stew) and sidra (cider). Galicia is a seafood lover’s dream, with dishes like pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and empanada gallega (savoury pie).
Day 1: San Sebastian – A Culinary Paradise
Explore San Sebastian:
Start your journey in San Sebastian (Donostia in Basque), a city renowned for its world-class cuisine and beautiful beaches. Begin your day with a stroll along La Concha Beach, one of Europe’s most picturesque urban beaches. Then, head to the Old Town (Parte Vieja), where you’ll find narrow streets filled with pintxo bars, shops, and historic buildings.
Visit the San Telmo Museum (Entrance €10), which showcases Basque history and culture, and climb Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city and coastline. If you have time, drive to Monte Igueldo for even more breathtaking views.
Where to Eat:
- Bar Nestor: Famous for its tortilla de patatas and txuleton (giant steak).
- La Cuchara de San Telmo: A must-visit for creative pintxos like foie gras with apple compote.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Londres y Inglaterra: A charming beachfront hotel with stunning views of La Concha.
- Hotel Zenit San Sebastián: A modern, mid-range hotel near the city centre.
» Check the availability of Hotels in San Sebastian.
Day 2: San Sebastian to Bilbao (100 km, ~1.5 hours via AP-8)
Drive: Take the AP-8 motorway west to Bilbao. The drive is short and scenic, with views of the Basque countryside.
Explore Bilbao:
Bilbao is a city transformed by art and architecture. Start at the Guggenheim Museum (Entrance Tickets), an architectural masterpiece housing contemporary art. Nearby, you’ll find the Puppy, a giant floral sculpture by Jeff Koons.
Stroll along the Ría de Bilbao to the Casco Viejo (Old Town), where you can visit the Santiago Cathedral (Entrance Tickets) and shop for souvenirs. Don’t miss the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets, for a taste of local produce and pintxos.
Where to Eat:
- Café Iruña: A historic café serving traditional Basque dishes.
- El Globo: Known for its delicious pintxos and lively atmosphere.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Miró Bilbao: A stylish hotel located near the Guggenheim Museum.
- Hotel Bilbao Plaza: A comfortable, mid-range hotel in the city centre.
» Check the availability of Hotels in Bilbao.
Day 3: Bilbao to Picos de Europa National Park (200 km, ~2.5 hours via A-8 and N-621)
Drive: Take the A-8 motorway west and follow the N-621 towards Picos de Europa. The drive takes you through lush green valleys and dramatic mountain scenery.
Explore Picos de Europa:
Spend the day exploring this stunning national park. Start at the Covadonga Lakes (Lagos de Enol), two glacial lakes surrounded by towering peaks. Then, visit the Basilica of Covadonga (free), a sacred site dedicated to the Virgin of Covadonga, the patron saint of Asturias.
Adventure seekers can take the Fuente de Cable Car (€20 round-trip) for panoramic views of the mountains. Hiking trails abound, so choose one that suits your fitness level and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Where to Eat:
- Restaurante El Redondo: A cosy restaurant serving hearty Asturian dishes like fabada (bean stew).
- Casa Marcial: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative takes on traditional cuisine.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Picos de Europa: A comfortable hotel with stunning mountain views.
- Parador de Cangas de Onís: A historic hotel located near Covadonga.
» Check the availability of Hotels Near the Picos de Europa.
Day 4: Picos de Europa to Aviles (120 km, ~2 hours via A-8)
Drive: Take the A-8 motorway west to Aviles. The drive is scenic, with views of the Cantabrian coastline.
Explore Aviles:
Aviles is a charming town with a rich cultural heritage. Start at the Oscar Niemeyer Centre (free), a modern cultural complex designed by the famous Brazilian architect. Then explore the Old Town, with its medieval streets and historic buildings, such as San Nicolas de Bari Church.
Stroll along the Ría de Aviles and enjoy the town’s relaxed atmosphere. If time permits, visit the Museo de la Historia Urbana de Aviles (Entrance is FREE) to learn about the town’s history.
Where to Eat:
- Casa Lin: Known for its traditional Asturian dishes like cachopo (breaded veal stuffed with ham and cheese).
- La Serrana: A popular spot for seafood and local specialities.
Where to Stay:
- NH Collection Palacio de Aviles: A luxurious hotel set in a historic palace.
- Hotel Don Pedro: A mid-range hotel located in the city centre.
Check the availability of Hotels in Galicia.
Day 5: Aviles to Cathedral Beach (150 km, ~2 hours via A-8)
Drive west on the A-8 motorway to Cathedral Beach (Playa de las Catedrales). The drive takes you through the lush landscapes of Galicia.
Explore Cathedral Beach:
This natural wonder is famous for its dramatic rock formations and arches that resemble a cathedral's spires. Visit at low tide to explore the caves and arches up close. Check the tide schedule in advance, as access to the beach is restricted during high tide.
Where to Eat:
- Restaurant A de Laxe: A seafood restaurant near the beach known for its fresh fish and shellfish.
- O Naseiro: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Galician cuisine.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Spa Isla de la Toja: A luxurious hotel located on a nearby island, offering spa facilities and stunning views.
- Hotel Pazo de Sedor: A charming rural hotel set in a historic manor house.
Check the availability of Hotels in Aviles.
Day 6: Cathedral Beach to Santiago de Compostela (150 km, ~2 hours via AP-9)
Drive: Take the AP-9 motorway south to Santiago de Compostela. The drive is straightforward and takes you through the rolling hills of Galicia.
Explore Santiago de Compostela:
Santiago is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Start at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Guided Tours available), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most important religious landmarks. Attend the Pilgrim’s Mass (held daily at noon) and see the famous Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner swung during special ceremonies.
Explore the Old Town, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares like Plaza del Obradoiro. Visit the Mercado de Abastos, a bustling market, to sample local produce and seafood.
Where to Eat:
- O Gato Negro: A traditional Galician restaurant known for its pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus).
- Casa Marcelo: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Galician cuisine.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel A Quinta da Auga: A luxurious hotel set in a restored 18th-century paper mill.
- Hotel Rua Villar: A charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town.
Check hotel availability in Santiago de Compostela.
Guided Tours of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
Day 7: Santiago de Compostela – Farewell to Northern Spain
Spend your final day exploring more of Santiago. Visit the Museo das Peregrinations (The Pilgrims of the St. James Walk) to learn about the history of the Camino de Santiago, or relax in Alameda Park, which offers stunning views of the cathedral.
Before you leave, indulge in one last meal at Abastos 2.0, a trendy restaurant located in the Mercado de Abastos, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialities.
