Visit Northern Spain, the must-see cities
Spain is a country of countless wonders, but there’s something special about the north of the Iberian Peninsula that attracts travelers in search of natural landscapes and authentic villages. To help you plan your itinerary, check out this unique guide to what to see and do in northern Spain on your next road trip or family vacation.
Regions to visit in northern Spain: Basque Country, Aragon, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia and Castilla y León.
Visit Donostia San Sebastián, coastal city on the Cantabrian Sea
Donostia San Sebastián: province of Guipuscoa, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country in Spain.
Start your exploration of northern Spain with the magnificent city of San Sebastián, one of the Basque Country’s most charming coastal towns. Situated on the Atlantic coast, 20 km from the French border, San Sebastián is famous for its golden beaches such as La Concha and Zurriola.
Start your visit with the historic city center and its church, then stroll along the La Concha promenade and enjoy the incredible view over the bay. To discover the Basque country, we recommend a visit to Bilbao. Located just 1 hour’s drive from San Sebastian, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its unique charm.
Tapas and Pintxos, discover Basque gastronomy
San Sebastián is also renowned for its gastronomy, especially for its pintxos, delicious little bites served in local bars. Be sure to visit the historic district, where every bar rivals in culinary inventiveness.
We recommend you visit this area of San Sebastian to dine in real tapas bars. Here’s a list of the best backstreets to eat in:
- Calle Fermín Calbetón
- Calle Pescadería
- Calle 31 de agosto
Discover the islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: province of Vizcaya, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country in Spain.
A little further west, a 2-hour drive from San Sebastian, lies the sanctuary of Gaztelugatxe. This small hermitage is perched on a rocky island linked to the mainland by a stone bridge. Climb the 241 steps to the top and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the ocean. This mystical spot was even used as a filming location for the famous “Game of Thrones” series.
Don’t forget to book in advance: access is free, but without prior reservation, entry to the site is impossible.
Bardenas Reales a breathtaking semi-desert area
Bardenas Reales: province of Navarre, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country in Spain.
Don’t leave northern Spain without exploring the Bardenas Reales desert. This semi-desert natural park is astonishing for its arid, erosion-sculpted landscapes, similar to those you might find in the American West. Perfect for a looping drive or cycling tour.
Ordesa and Mont Perdu National Park: a natural paradise
Ordesa National Park: province of Huesca, in the autonomous community of Aragon.
Organize a hike in Ordesa and Mont Perdu National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers impressive biological diversity and hidden landscapes worthy of postcards. From easy to challenging, there’s something for everyone.
Visit the small town of Santillana del Mar
Santillana del Mar: located in the autonomous community of Cantabria in Spain.
Discover Santillana del Mar, a perfectly preserved medieval village, often called “the city of three lies” because it is neither holy (Santo), flat (llana) nor maritime (Mar). Stroll along its cobbled streets and admire the old houses and the collegiate church of Santa Juliana.
Organize a guided tour of the Altamira neogrotto
Altamira cave : located in the autonomous community of Cantabria in Spain, a few kilometers from the town of Santillana del Mar.
Not far from Santillana del Mar are the famous Altamira caves. These caves are renowned for their Paleolithic cave paintings. Although access to the original cave is limited, a replica can be found at the Altamira National Museum and Research Center, which is well worth a guided tour.
Planning a hike in Picos de Europa National Park
Picos de Europa National Park: located in the autonomous communities of Asturias, Cantabria and León.
For nature lovers, a hike in the Picos de Europa National Park is a must. This is one of Spain’s first national parks, offering spectacular mountain scenery, deep valleys and unspoilt pastoral traditions. To make the most of your experience, we advise you to book a tour with a local guide, who will show you paths that are little known to the public.
La Ruta del Cares: hiking in Picos de Europa
One of the most popular hikes in this region is the ruta del cares, an impressive trail that winds along the gorges of the Cares River. The hike offers breathtaking views of the steep rock formations and surrounding nature.
A day trip to Castro Urdiales
Castro Urdiales: located in the autonomous community of Cantabria in Spain.
Located on the coast, Castro Urdiales is a small seaside town full of charm and history. Here you’ll discover historic monuments such as the castle-faro and the Gothic church of Santa Maria dell’Assunta. Don’t forget to sample the seafood delicacies at one of the many restaurants in the port.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral: a spiritual jewel
Santiago de Compostela: province of La Coruña, located in the autonomous community of Galicia in Spain.
Another jewel in the crown of northern Spain is the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. This emblematic cathedral marks the end of the famous Camino de Compostela pilgrimage route. Its majestic architecture and sumptuous interior attract thousands of visitors every year, believers and non-believers alike.