9 day itinerary
North Spain
Itinerary
A road trip through Northern Spain is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine of the region. Here’s a fun and engaging 9-day itinerary that will take you through some of the highlights of Northern Spain. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Arrival in
Morning: Arrive in , the vibrant capital of the Basque Country. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Head to the iconic . The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Don’t forget to snap a pic with the giant puppy sculpture outside.
Evening: Stroll through the and enjoy some pintxos (Basque tapas) at a local bar. Try the “gilda” (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) – it’s a must!
Day 2: to (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)
Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to .
Afternoon: Once you arrive, head to for some sun and relaxation. You can also take a walk along the promenade.
Evening: Explore the and indulge in more pintxos. Don’t miss out on trying the local specialty, “txangurro” (spider crab).
Day 3:
Morning: Take the funicular up to for breathtaking views of the city and the bay.
Afternoon: Spend some time at the beach or visit the to learn about Basque culture.
Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant (if you’re feeling fancy) or a cozy local eatery.
Day 4: to (Approx. 2.5 hours drive)
Morning: Depart for . The drive is absolutely stunning, so take your time!
Afternoon: Arrive and explore the charming village of . Visit the Basilica and the nearby lakes.
Evening: Settle into a cozy mountain lodge and enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local specialties like “cocido lebaniego” (a traditional stew).
Day 5: Picos de Europa
Morning: Go for a hike in the park! The Ruta del Cares is a popular trail with jaw-dropping views.
Afternoon: After your hike, visit the charming town of and see the famous Roman bridge.
Evening: Relax at your lodge and enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
Day 6: Picos de Europa to (Approx. 2 hours drive)
Morning: Depart for , the capital of Asturias.
Afternoon: Explore the historic center, including the stunning and the charming streets filled with shops and cafes.
Evening: Try the local cider (sidra) and a traditional Asturian dish like “fabada” (bean stew) at a local restaurant.
Day 7: to (Approx. 3 hours drive)
Morning: Hit the road to , the famous pilgrimage city.
Afternoon: Visit the magnificent , where the remains of St. James are said to be buried.
Evening: Wander through the old town and enjoy a Galician dinner. Don’t forget to try “pulpo a la gallega” (Galician-style octopus)!
Day 8: to (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)
Morning: Depart for .
Afternoon: Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a stroll along the beautiful promenade.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant and take in the sunset over the Atlantic.
Day 9: to (Approx. 6 hours drive)
Morning: Start your journey back to . It’s a longer drive, so consider stopping in charming towns like or along the way.
Afternoon: Arrive in and do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Evening: Celebrate the end of your road trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your adventures in Northern Spain!
Tips for the Road:
- Make sure to have a good playlist ready for the drive!
- Keep an eye out for local markets and roadside stands for fresh produce and snacks.
- Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and charming towns along the way.
I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your road trip through Northern Spain! Safe travels and enjoy every moment! 🚗✨