3 day itinerary for Spagna Del Nord

Itinerary

Northern Spain, or "Spagna del Nord," is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Let’s dive into an exciting 3-day itinerary that will let you soak up the best of this beautiful region!

## Day 1: Bilbao & the Basque Country

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Basque breakfast. Try a "tostada" (toasted bread) with tomato and olive oil, paired with a café con leche.
• Guggenheim Museum: Head to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The architecture is as stunning as the art inside! Spend a couple of hours exploring contemporary art and don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant puppy sculpture outside.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Old Town (Casco Viejo): Stroll through the charming streets of Casco Viejo and grab some pintxos (Basque tapas) at a local bar. Try the "gilda" (a skewer of olives, anchovies, and peppers) and a glass of local txakoli wine.
• Visit the Mercado de la Ribera: This vibrant market is perfect for food lovers. Browse through fresh produce, local cheeses, and cured meats. You might even find some delicious treats to take back home!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant: Enjoy a hearty Basque meal at a local restaurant. Try "bacalao a la vizcaína" (cod in a rich sauce) or "chuletón" (a large steak).
• Evening Stroll Along the Nervión River: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the river. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere.

## Day 2: San Sebastián & the Coast

Morning:

• Travel to San Sebastián: After breakfast, take a short bus or train ride to San Sebastián (about 1 hour).
• La Concha Beach: Start your day with a stroll along the famous La Concha beach. If the weather is nice, you might want to dip your toes in the water!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Old Town: Head to Parte Vieja for more pintxos! This area is known for its bustling bars. Try the "txangurro" (spider crab) or "pulpo a la gallega" (octopus).
• Monte Igueldo: After lunch, take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views of the city and the bay. It’s a perfect spot for some stunning photos!

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the bay. Try the local seafood or a Basque-style risotto.
• Tapas Crawl: After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife. Hop from bar to bar, sampling different pintxos and local wines. Don’t miss out on the lively atmosphere!

## Day 3: Picos de Europa National Park

Morning:

• Travel to Picos de Europa: After breakfast, rent a car or take a bus to Picos de Europa National Park (about 2 hours from San Sebastián). The drive is scenic, so enjoy the views!
• Hiking: Spend the morning hiking one of the many trails. The "Ruta del Cares" is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the gorge and mountains.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in a Mountain Village: After your hike, head to a nearby village like Potes. Enjoy a hearty meal of "cocido lebaniego" (a traditional stew) at a local restaurant.
• Explore the Village: Take some time to wander around Potes, with its charming streets and beautiful architecture.

Evening:

• Return to Bilbao: Head back to Bilbao for your last evening. If you have time, visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum or relax at a local café.
• Farewell Dinner: For your final dinner, indulge in a tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cozy local eatery. Celebrate your trip with some Basque cheesecake for dessert!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider getting a Basque Country travel pass for easy access to public transport.
• Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Spanish or Basque phrases can enhance your experience.
• Local Customs: Don’t forget to try the local customs, like the "pintxo hour" in the evenings!

There you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that captures the essence of Northern Spain. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨