5 day itinerary for Northern Spain

Itinerary

Northern Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Let’s dive into a delightful 5-day itinerary that will take you through some of the region's highlights. Buckle up for an adventure!

## Day 1: Bilbao – The Urban Gem

Morning:
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Grab a coffee at the museum café and soak in the views of the Nervión River.

Afternoon:
Stroll through the Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao. Explore the narrow streets, pop into local shops, and don’t miss the Mercado de la Ribera for a taste of local delicacies. Try some pintxos (Basque tapas) for lunch!

Evening:
Head to the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum if you have time, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the river. For dinner, indulge in a traditional Basque meal at a local restaurant. Try the bacalao al pil-pil (cod in a garlic sauce) – it’s divine!

## Day 2: San Sebastián – The Culinary Capital

Morning:
Travel to San Sebastián (about 1 hour by bus or train). Start your day at La Concha Beach. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the bay.

Afternoon:
Explore the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and embark on a pintxos crawl for lunch. Sample a variety of pintxos from different bars – the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and chistorra (Basque sausage) are must-tries!

Evening:
After a day of eating, relax at the beach or take a funicular up to Monte Igueldo for panoramic views of the city at sunset. For dinner, treat yourself to a Michelin-starred restaurant if you’re feeling fancy!

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

Morning:
Rent a car and head to the Picos de Europa National Park (about 2 hours from San Sebastián). Start your adventure at Covadonga Lakes. The scenery is breathtaking, and you can take a leisurely hike around the lakes.

Afternoon:
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, visit the Covadonga Sanctuary, a beautiful church nestled in the mountains.

Evening:
Drive to Cangas de Onís for dinner. Try the local fabada asturiana (Asturian bean stew) at a cozy restaurant. Spend the night in a charming rural hotel or guesthouse.

## Day 4: Oviedo – The Asturian Capital

Morning:
After breakfast, head to Oviedo (about 1 hour from Cangas de Onís). Start your day at the Cathedral of San Salvador and explore the historic center.

Afternoon:
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias and then enjoy lunch at a local cider house (sidrería). Don’t forget to try the traditional Asturian cider – it’s poured from a height for the perfect fizz!

Evening:
Stroll through the Parque de San Francisco and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For dinner, sample some cachopo (breaded meat dish) at a local eatery.

## Day 5: Santiago de Compostela – The Pilgrimage City

Morning:
Drive to Santiago de Compostela (about 3 hours from Oviedo). Start your visit at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its stunning architecture and the famous Botafumeiro.

Afternoon:
Explore the charming streets of the old town, and don’t miss the Mercado de Abastos for lunch. Try some pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus) – it’s a local specialty!

Evening:
Wrap up your trip with a leisurely dinner at a traditional Galician restaurant. Enjoy some tarta de Santiago (almond cake) for dessert. If you have time, catch a local music performance or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Renting a car is a great way to explore Northern Spain, especially for reaching the Picos de Europa.
• Language: While Spanish is widely spoken, learning a few Basque and Galician phrases can enhance your experience.
• Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the mountains. Layering is key!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your adventure in Northern Spain! Each day is packed with culture, nature, and, of course, delicious food. Enjoy every moment! 🌍✨