7 day itinerary
Norte Espanha
Itinerary
Northern Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and charm of this region. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Bilbao – The Modern Meets the Traditional
Morning: Arrive in Bilbao and check into your hotel. Start your day with a traditional Basque breakfast of “tostada” (toasted bread) with tomato and olive oil, paired with a café con leche.
Midday: Head to the iconic . The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Spend a few hours exploring the exhibits.
Afternoon: Stroll along the and make your way to the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Grab some pintxos (Basque tapas) at a local bar for lunch.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant. Try the “bacalao a la vizcaína” (cod in a red sauce) and finish off with a glass of local txakoli wine.
Day 2: San Sebastián – A Culinary Paradise
Morning: After breakfast, take a bus or train to San Sebastián (about 1 hour). Once you arrive, head to for a morning stroll.
Midday: Explore the Old Town and indulge in a pintxos crawl for lunch. Don’t miss the famous “gilda” (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers).
Afternoon: Visit for panoramic views of the city. You can take a funicular up and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Evening: Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants. Reservations are a must!
Day 3: Picos de Europa – Nature’s Wonderland
Morning: Rent a car and drive to the (about 2 hours). Stop at to see the stunning basilica and the nearby lakes.
Midday: Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Bring some local cheese and bread from the markets!
Afternoon: Hike one of the many trails in the park. The trail is a popular choice, offering breathtaking views.
Evening: Head to for dinner. Try the local dish “fabada asturiana” (Asturian bean stew) and enjoy a cozy night in a rural hotel.
Day 4: Oviedo – A Cultural Gem
Morning: Drive to Oviedo (about 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to the .
Midday: Explore the charming streets and stop for lunch at a local cider house. Don’t forget to try the Asturian cider!
Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and take a leisurely walk through the park.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Asturian restaurant. Sample “cachopo” (breaded meat) for a hearty meal.
Day 5: Santiago de Compostela – Pilgrimage City
Morning: Drive to Santiago de Compostela (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel and head straight to the Cathedral to see the famous shrine of St. James.
Midday: Have lunch in the Old Town, sampling local specialties like “pulpo a la gallega” (Galician octopus).
Afternoon: Explore the historic streets and visit the to learn about the region’s culture.
Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local tavern. Pair your meal with a glass of Albariño wine.
Day 6: A Coruña – Coastal Beauty
Morning: Drive to A Coruña (about 1.5 hours). Start your day at the , a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Midday: Visit the and then grab lunch at a seaside restaurant. Try the fresh seafood!
Afternoon: Stroll along the promenade and relax at . If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip!
Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Old Town. Sample “empanada gallega” (Galician pie) and finish with a local dessert.
Day 7: Return to Bilbao – Farewell to the North
Morning: Drive back to Bilbao (about 1.5 hours). Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs in the .
Midday: Have a farewell lunch at a local café, enjoying one last round of pintxos.
Afternoon: If time allows, visit the or take a relaxing walk in .
Evening: Head to the airport for your departure, or if you have more time, enjoy one last Basque dinner before you go!
And there you have it! A week filled with culture, nature, and culinary delights in Northern Spain. Each day is packed with experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨