10 day itinerary
Northspain
Itinerary
North Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. With your love for good food and hiking, I’ve crafted a delightful 10-day itinerary that includes Bilbao and , along with some beautiful hikes and culinary experiences. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao
- Morning: Arrive in Bilbao. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Head to the . The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Don’t forget to snap a pic with the giant puppy sculpture outside.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at , where you can indulge in some traditional Basque pintxos. Try the bacalao a la vizcaína (cod in a red sauce) – it’s divine!
Day 2: Bilbao to
- Morning: Visit the Casco Viejo (Old Town) for breakfast. Grab a coffee and a pastry at .
- Afternoon: Take a scenic drive or bus to (about 1 hour). Check into your accommodation and then head to for a stroll.
- Evening: Dinner at for some exquisite Basque cuisine. Don’t miss the txangurro (spider crab) dish!
Day 3:
- Morning: Start your day with a pintxos tour in the Old Town. Try for their famous tomato salad and for anchovies.
- Afternoon: Hike up to for panoramic views of the city. You can take the funicular or hike the trails if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Evening: Dinner at for a modern twist on traditional dishes. The tasting menu is a great way to experience a variety of flavors.
Day 4: Day Trip to Picos de Europa
- Morning: Early start for a day trip to (about 2 hours by car). Pack a picnic!
- Afternoon: Hike the Cares Route (Ruta del Cares), a stunning 12 km trail that offers breathtaking views of the gorge. It’s a moderate hike, so wear good shoes!
- Evening: Return to and enjoy a casual dinner at , known for its creative pintxos.
Day 5: to and
- Morning: Drive to (30 minutes). Explore this charming fishing village and visit the .
- Afternoon: Enjoy a seafood lunch at , famous for its grilled fish. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach to .
- Evening: Return to and relax with a casual dinner at for more pintxos.
Day 6: to Bilbao
- Morning: Head back to Bilbao. Stop at to visit the and the famous .
- Afternoon: Arrive in Bilbao and visit the . It’s a hidden gem!
- Evening: Dinner at , a Michelin-starred spot that offers a fantastic tasting menu.
Day 7: Day Trip to
- Morning: Drive to (about 35 minutes). Hike the 241 steps to the hermitage for stunning views.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view. Afterward, explore the nearby town of .
- Evening: Return to Bilbao and have dinner at , a historic café with a lovely atmosphere.
Day 8: Bilbao to
- Morning: Drive to (about 1.5 hours). Visit a winery for a tour and tasting. is a beautiful option.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, trying some Rioja wine and tapas.
- Evening: Stay overnight in a charming village like . Dinner at for a cozy atmosphere and delicious local dishes.
Day 9: to Bilbao
- Morning: Explore more wineries or take a short hike in the .
- Afternoon: Head back to Bilbao. Spend some time shopping or exploring any missed spots.
- Evening: For your last night, treat yourself to dinner at , a Michelin-starred restaurant with a fantastic view of the estuary.
Day 10: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café. If time allows, take a final stroll along the river.
- Afternoon: Depart from Bilbao, taking with you wonderful memories of North Spain!
There you have it! A perfect blend of culture, hiking, and, of course, amazing food. Enjoy your adventure in North Spain! If you have any questions or need adjustments, just let me know! 🌍🍷🥘
