12 day itinerary for North Spain

Itinerary

A 12-day road trip through Northern Spain sounds like an incredible adventure, especially for a family. Northern Spain is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and fun for everyone!

## Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

• Morning: Arrive in Bilbao. Pick up your rental car and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The building itself is a work of art! Kids will love the giant puppy sculpture outside.
• Evening: Stroll through the Casco Viejo (Old Town) and enjoy some pintxos (Basque tapas) for dinner. Try Bar El Globo for a family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 2: Bilbao to San Sebastián

• Morning: Drive to San Sebastián (about 1 hour). Stop at Getxo along the way to see the beautiful coastline.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at La Concha Beach. The shallow waters are perfect for kids, and there are plenty of beachside cafes.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Old Town. Try Bar Nestor for their famous tomato salad and steak.

## Day 3: San Sebastián

• Morning: Take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city. There’s a small amusement park at the top!
• Afternoon: Visit the San Telmo Museoa to learn about Basque culture. The museum has interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy.
• Evening: Have a family dinner at Bodegón Alejandro, known for its traditional Basque cuisine.

## Day 4: San Sebastián to Picos de Europa

• Morning: Depart for Picos de Europa National Park (about 2.5 hours). Stop in Getaria for a quick snack and to see the charming fishing village.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Cangas de Onís. Visit the Roman Bridge and explore the town.
• Evening: Check into a family-friendly hotel or cabin. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some Cabrales cheese.

## Day 5: Picos de Europa

• Morning: Take a cable car ride at Fuente Dé for breathtaking views. There are easy hiking trails suitable for families.
• Afternoon: Visit the Covadonga Lakes. The scenery is stunning, and there are picnic areas for lunch.
• Evening: Return to Cangas de Onís for dinner. Try Restaurante El Molín de la Pedrera for a cozy atmosphere.

## Day 6: Picos de Europa to Oviedo

• Morning: Drive to Oviedo (about 2 hours). Stop at Llanes for a quick visit to the beach and some ice cream.
• Afternoon: Explore Oviedo’s historic center. Don’t miss the Cathedral of San Salvador and the Campo de San Francisco park.
• Evening: Dinner at Casa de la Bodega, where you can try local Asturian dishes.

## Day 7: Oviedo to Gijón

• Morning: Short drive to Gijón (about 30 minutes). Visit the Jardín Botánico Atlántico for a lovely morning walk.
• Afternoon: Head to the beach! Playa de San Lorenzo is perfect for families, with plenty of space to play.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Taberna del Zurdo, known for its family-friendly vibe.

## Day 8: Gijón to Santiago de Compostela

• Morning: Depart for Santiago de Compostela (about 2 hours). Stop in Avilés to see the Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Centre.
• Afternoon: Explore the Santiago Cathedral and the surrounding old town. Kids will love the lively atmosphere.
• Evening: Dinner at Casa de Xantar, where you can try the famous Galician octopus.

## Day 9: Santiago de Compostela

• Morning: Visit the Museo do Pobo Galego to learn about Galician culture. There are often workshops for kids.
• Afternoon: Take a day trip to Finisterre (about 1.5 hours). Visit the lighthouse and enjoy the dramatic coastline.
• Evening: Return to Santiago for dinner at O Gato Negro, known for its tapas.

## Day 10: Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña

• Morning: Drive to A Coruña (about 1 hour). Visit the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Spend time at Orzán Beach. There are playgrounds nearby, making it great for kids.
• Evening: Dinner at La Bombilla, where you can enjoy local seafood.

## Day 11: A Coruña to Lugo

• Morning: Depart for Lugo (about 1 hour). Explore the Roman walls, which are a UNESCO site.
• Afternoon: Visit the Lugo Cathedral and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the old town.
• Evening: Dinner at Restaurante A Cova, known for its family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 12: Lugo to Bilbao

• Morning: Start your journey back to Bilbao (about 3.5 hours). Stop in Santander for a quick visit to the beach or the Palacio de la Magdalena.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Bilbao. If time allows, do some last-minute shopping or visit any sights you missed.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurante Mina, a family-friendly spot with a great view of the river.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Road Trip:

• Pack Snacks: Keep a cooler with snacks and drinks for the road.
• Frequent Stops: Plan for breaks to stretch legs and explore small towns.
• Engage the Kids: Involve them in planning activities or choosing places to eat.
• Flexible Schedule: Be open to changing plans based on the family’s mood or interests.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Northern Spain! Enjoy your road trip! 🚗✨