Northern Spain

Northern Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. With your family of five and your active spirit, I’ve crafted a fun-filled 5-day itinerary that balances outdoor adventures with cultural experiences. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao

Morning:

• Flight from Austin, TX: You’ll likely have a layover, so plan for a full day of travel. Arrive in Bilbao, the heart of the Basque Country.

Afternoon:

• Check-in at a 4-star hotel: Consider the Hotel Gran Bilbao or Hotel Silken Indautxu for a comfortable stay.
• Lunch: Grab a bite at a local pintxos bar. Try Café Bar Bilbao for some delicious Basque tapas.

Evening:

• Explore the Guggenheim Museum: This architectural marvel is a must-see. Spend a couple of hours admiring contemporary art and the stunning building itself.
• Dinner: Enjoy a family dinner at Bistró Guggenheim Bilbao for a mix of local and international cuisine.

Day 2: San Sebastián Adventure

Morning:

• Drive to San Sebastián (1 hour): Rent a car for flexibility.
• Breakfast: Stop at a local café for some pastries and coffee.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking at Monte Igueldo: Take the funicular up for breathtaking views of the city and the bay. There are some lovely trails to explore at the top.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Head to the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and indulge in more pintxos at La Cuchara de San Telmo.
• Beach Time: Spend the afternoon at La Concha Beach. You can swim, sunbathe, or even rent paddleboards for some fun on the water.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Bodegón Alejandro for a more upscale dining experience featuring local ingredients.
• Stroll along the promenade: Enjoy the sunset views over the bay.

Day 3: Picos de Europa National Park

Morning:

• Drive to Picos de Europa (2 hours): Set off early for a day of adventure.
• Breakfast: Pack some snacks or grab a quick bite before you leave.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking: Choose a trail that suits your family’s fitness level. The Cares Gorge hike is stunning and not too strenuous, offering breathtaking views.

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature. There are plenty of scenic spots along the trail.
• Explore Covadonga: Visit the beautiful Basilica de Santa María la Real de Covadonga and the nearby lakes.

Evening:

• Check-in at a local hotel: Consider Hotel La Casona de Tresgrandas for a cozy stay.
• Dinner: Enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Asturian cider.

Day 4: Oviedo and Gijón

Morning:

• Drive to Oviedo (1 hour): After breakfast, head to the capital of Asturias.
• Explore Oviedo: Visit the Cathedral of San Salvador and stroll through the charming old town.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try Casa de la Biriñaca for some local Asturian dishes.
• Drive to Gijón (30 minutes): Spend the afternoon at the beach or explore the Cerro de Sta Catalina for stunning coastal views.

Evening:

• Dinner in Gijón: Enjoy seafood at El Restallu.
• Check-in at a hotel: Consider Hotel Silken Ciudad Gijón for a comfortable stay.

Day 5: Return to Bilbao and Departure

Morning:

• Drive back to Bilbao (1 hour): Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
• Last-minute shopping: Explore the shops in the city center or visit the Ribera Market for local delicacies.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Have a final meal at El Globo, known for its delicious pintxos.
• Departure: Head to the airport for your flight back to Austin.

Tips:

• Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore Northern Spain at your own pace.
• Outdoor Gear: Bring comfortable hiking shoes and outdoor gear for your adventures.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like bacalao (cod) and fabada asturiana (bean stew).

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip! Northern Spain is sure to create unforgettable memories for your family. Safe travels! 🌍✈️