Northern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days of Basque, Cantabrian & Asturian Charm
Discover the vibrant cities and stunning coastlines of Northern Spain on this 10-day journey. Begin in Bilbao, travel by bus to Santander, and conclude your adventure in Oviedo, with a day trip to Gijón by train.
- 1Bilbao
- 2Santander
- 3Oviedo
Day 1: Arrive in Bilbao
Begin your Northern Spain adventure by arriving in Bilbao and settling into the city. Spend your afternoon exploring the historic Casco Viejo, soaking in its medieval atmosphere.
Highlights
- Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO), the recommended international gateway.
- Transfer to the city centre; the Bizkaibus A3247 offers direct service to Bilbao Intermodal in 20-25 minutes.
- Wander through Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s medieval old quarter, filled with historic streets and lively plazas.
Day 2: Modern Art and Architecture in Bilbao
Immerse yourself in Bilbao's modern art scene and architectural marvels today, focusing on its world-renowned museums.
Highlights
- Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, celebrated for its bold architecture and contemporary art.
- Explore the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, showcasing outstanding Basque, Spanish, and European works.
- Stroll along the Paseo de Abandoibarra, the riverside promenade offering excellent views of the Guggenheim and public art.
Day 3: Panoramic Views and Riverside Strolls
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Bilbao and a leisurely walk along the river, discovering more of the city's charm.
Highlights
- Take the funicular up to Mirador de Artxanda for sweeping views over Bilbao.
- Discover the Euskal Museoa, devoted to Basque archaeology, ethnography, and local history.
- Admire the Puente de Vizcaya, an iconic 19th-century bridge and a symbol of Bilbao’s industrial heritage.
Day 4: Travel to Santander and Explore the Peninsula
Journey by bus from Bilbao to the coastal city of Santander. Upon arrival, begin your exploration with the stunning Península de La Magdalena.
Highlights
- Take a bus from Bilbao, Estación de Autobuses to Santander, Estación de Autobuses; tickets start from €8.
- The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Explore the iconic Península de La Magdalena, featuring a grand palace, gardens, and scenic walking routes.
Day 5: Art and Coastal Charm in Santander
Delve into Santander's cultural offerings and enjoy its elegant seafront, combining art with picturesque bay views.
Highlights
- Visit Centro Botín, a leading modern and contemporary art centre known for its exhibitions and bay views.
- Walk along the elegant Paseo de Pereda, a seafront promenade linking gardens and monuments.
- Savour local Cantabrian anchovies (Anchoas De Cantabria), a prized tapa in Santander.
Day 6: Santander's Maritime History and Dramatic Cliffs
Discover Santander's rich maritime heritage and experience the dramatic natural beauty of its coastline.
Highlights
- Explore the Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico, an excellent museum covering seafaring history and marine ecology.
- Visit the historic Faro de Cabo Mayor lighthouse for sweeping Atlantic views and dramatic cliffs.
- Enjoy a walk along Cabo Mayor, a dramatic headland viewpoint perfect for sunsets.
Day 7: Journey to Oviedo and Historic Center Discovery
Travel by bus to Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, and spend your afternoon discovering its charming historic centre.
Highlights
- Take a bus from Santander, Estación de Autobuses to Oviedo, Estación de Autobuses; tickets start from €15.
- The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Wander through Oviedo's historic centre, admiring its unique architecture and atmosphere.
Day 8: Oviedo's Pre-Romanesque Treasures
Explore Oviedo's significant pre-Romanesque monuments and its impressive Gothic cathedral, key highlights of Asturian heritage.
Highlights
- Visit Santa María del Naranco, a UNESCO-listed pre-Romanesque royal church with elegant architecture and hilltop views.
- Discover the nearby San Miguel de Lillo, a 9th-century Asturian church also with UNESCO status.
- Explore the Catedral de San Salvador de Oviedo, known for its Cámara Santa and Camino de Santiago links.
Day 9: Coastal Day Trip to Gijón
Embark on a day trip by train to the coastal city of Gijón, exploring its oldest quarter and an iconic sculpture with sea views.
Highlights
- Take a train from Oviedo to Gijón; the earliest departure is 00:03 and the latest return is 23:33, with tickets starting from €3.
- Explore Cimavilla, Gijón's oldest quarter, featuring steep lanes, sea views, and lively cider bars.
- Visit Elogio del Horizonte, a hilltop sculpture by Eduardo Chillida offering dramatic sea views.
Day 10: Depart from Oviedo
Conclude your Northern Spain journey with a departure from Oviedo, reflecting on the diverse experiences of the Basque Country, Cantabria, and Asturias.
Highlights
- Depart from Oviedo, Estación de Autobuses.
- The recommended international airport for departure is Asturias Airport (OVD).
- Alternatively, consider Santander Airport (SDR) or León Airport (LEN) for your onward journey.
