4 day itinerary for North Spain

Itinerary

North Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Let’s dive into an exciting 4-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of this beautiful region!

## Day 1: Bilbao – The Urban Gem

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Basque breakfast at a local café. Try some tostada con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) and a café con leche.
• Guggenheim Museum: Head to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Spend a couple of hours exploring the contemporary exhibits.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a bite at the nearby Casco Viejo, the old town. Try some pintxos (Basque tapas) at a local bar. Don’t miss the gilda (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers).
• Stroll through Casco Viejo: Wander through the charming streets, visit the Mercado de la Ribera, and maybe pick up some local goodies.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant. Try bacalao al pil-pil (cod in a garlic sauce) or txangurro (spider crab).
• Nightlife: If you’re up for it, explore the vibrant nightlife in Bilbao. Check out a local bar for some live music!

## Day 2: San Sebastián – The Culinary Capital

Morning:

• Travel to San Sebastián: It’s just about an hour’s drive or bus ride from Bilbao.
• Breakfast: Once you arrive, have breakfast at a local café. A pain au chocolat and coffee will do the trick!
• La Concha Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque La Concha beach. The views are breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Dive into the world of pintxos! Head to the Old Town and hop from bar to bar, sampling different pintxos. Don’t forget to try the tortilla española (Spanish omelette).
• Monte Igueldo: After lunch, take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city and the bay. Perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots!

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred experience at one of San Sebastián’s renowned restaurants. Reservations are a must!
• Evening Stroll: Walk along the beach promenade and enjoy the sunset. It’s a magical way to end your day.

## Day 3: Picos de Europa – Nature’s Wonderland

Morning:

• Travel to Picos de Europa: Head out early to the Picos de Europa National Park (about a 2-hour drive from San Sebastián).
• Breakfast: Pack some breakfast to enjoy amidst nature or stop at a local bakery on the way.

Afternoon:

• Hiking: Spend the day hiking in the park. The Ruta del Cares is a stunning trail that offers breathtaking views. Make sure to bring your camera!
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Local cheeses and cured meats are perfect for this!

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to the nearby town of Cangas de Onís for dinner. Try the local dish fabada asturiana (Asturian bean stew).
• Stay Overnight: Consider staying in a cozy mountain lodge or a charming hotel in the area to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

## Day 4: Oviedo and Gijón – Cultural Exploration

Morning:

• Travel to Oviedo: After breakfast, make your way to Oviedo (about an hour’s drive).
• Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Asturian breakfast of cachopo (breaded meat) or tortilla at a local café.

Afternoon:

• Explore Oviedo: Visit the stunning Cathedral of San Salvador and stroll through the historic old town. Don’t miss the Hayedo de la Biescona, a beautiful beech forest nearby.
• Lunch: Try some local cider and queso de cabra (goat cheese) at a traditional cider house.

Evening:

• Travel to Gijón: Just a short drive away, Gijón is a lovely coastal city.
• Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant. The merluza (hake) is a must-try!
• Evening Walk: Take a leisurely walk along the beach promenade and soak in the coastal vibes.

And there you have it! A delightful 4-day adventure through North Spain, filled with art, food, nature, and culture. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment! Safe travels! 🌍✨