7 day itinerary for North Spain

Itinerary

A week in Northern Spain sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially with a little one in tow. Northern Spain is known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and family-friendly itinerary for your 7-day road trip:

## Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

Morning: Arrive in Bilbao and pick up your rental car. Settle into your accommodation. If you’re feeling adventurous, head straight to the Guggenheim Museum. The building itself is a work of art, and there are often family-friendly exhibits.

Afternoon: Stroll along the Nervión River and grab lunch at a local pintxos bar. Try some delicious Basque tapas!

Evening: Visit the Casco Viejo (Old Town) for a leisurely walk. There are plenty of shops and cafes. Don’t forget to stop by the Plaza Nueva for some ice cream!

## Day 2: Bilbao to San Sebastián (Approx. 1 hour drive)

Morning: After breakfast, drive to San Sebastián. Once you arrive, head to La Concha Beach. It’s perfect for a family day out, and your little one can play in the sand.

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a beachside café. Afterward, take a stroll along the promenade or rent a pedal boat for some fun on the water.

Evening: Explore the Old Town and try more pintxos for dinner. The atmosphere is lively, and there are plenty of options for kids.

## Day 3: San Sebastián to Picos de Europa National Park (Approx. 2 hours drive)

Morning: Depart for Picos de Europa National Park. The drive is scenic, so take your time! Once you arrive, stop at Covadonga to see the stunning basilica and the nearby lakes.

Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch in the park. There are plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy nature. After lunch, take a short, family-friendly hike to stretch your legs.

Evening: Check into a cozy mountain lodge or hotel. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Asturian cider!

## Day 4: Picos de Europa Exploration

Morning: After breakfast, take the cable car to Fuente Dé for breathtaking views. The ride is exciting for kids, and once at the top, there are easy walking trails.

Afternoon: Have lunch at the top or back down in the valley. Spend the afternoon exploring the park. Look for wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax. Enjoy a quiet dinner, perhaps trying some local cheese and meats.

## Day 5: Picos de Europa to Oviedo (Approx. 2 hours drive)

Morning: Drive to Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. Once you arrive, visit the Museum of Fine Arts if your little one is up for it, or just enjoy the beautiful architecture around the city.

Afternoon: Have lunch in the city center. Afterward, visit the Parque de Invierno, a lovely park with playgrounds for kids to enjoy.

Evening: Explore the old town and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try the local dish, Cachopo (breaded meat), which is sure to please everyone!

## Day 6: Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela (Approx. 3 hours drive)

Morning: Depart for Santiago de Compostela. Once you arrive, visit the famous Santiago Cathedral. The architecture is stunning, and there’s a lot of history to explore.

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in the old town. Afterward, let your little one run around in the Parque de la Alameda, which has beautiful views of the cathedral.

Evening: Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to try the famous Tarta de Santiago for dessert!

## Day 7: Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña (Approx. 1 hour drive)

Morning: Drive to A Coruña. Start your day at the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The views from the top are fantastic!

Afternoon: Have lunch at a seaside restaurant. Afterward, visit the Aquarium Finisterrae, which is great for kids and has interactive exhibits.

Evening: Spend your last evening walking along the beach promenade. Enjoy a farewell dinner, soaking in the beautiful coastal views.

Tips for Traveling with a 5-Year-Old:

• Frequent Breaks: Plan for regular stops to let your little one stretch and play.
• Snacks: Keep a stash of snacks and drinks handy for the car rides.
• Activities: Bring along some travel games or books to keep them entertained during longer drives.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your child’s mood and energy levels.

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