A road trip through northern Spain is an unforgettable journey through a realm rich in culture, history, gastronomy, and natural beauty. From the Basque Country to the spiritual center of Santiago de Compostela, you’re in for a treat. This guide aims to cover every aspect of your journey, and with R-TG providing the best car rental offers in Spain, your adventure starts right after landing.
Starting Point: Bilbao
How to Get There: Arriving at Bilbao Airport sets the tone for an easy beginning. Avail the car rental services directly from the Bilbao Airport for hassle-free commencement of your trip.
What to See: Bilbao offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Visit the Guggenheim Museum, a modern architectural wonder designed by Frank Gehry. The Casco Viejo, or old town, offers charming alleys, historic buildings, and bustling markets. If you’re a soccer fan, San Mames Stadium is a pilgrimage spot of its own.
Food: Bilbao is the birthplace of pintxos, the Basque rendition of tapas. These bite-sized culinary delights are best enjoyed with a glass of local txakoli wine.
Stop 1: San Sebastian (Donostia)
How to Get There: A straightforward 1-hour drive from Bilbao via the AP-8 freeway.
What to See: San Sebastian offers two primary beaches: La Concha, known for its calm waters and sunbathing, and Zurriola, which is a surfer’s paradise. The old town, Parte Vieja, is a vibrant maze of bars, shops, and historic landmarks. Make time to visit San Telmo Museoa, a museum dedicated to Basque society and history.
Food: San Sebastian is a foodie’s haven. From Michelin-star restaurants to local taverns, the food scene is dynamic. A must-try is the burnt Basque cheesecake at La Viña, a creation that has earned global acclaim.
Stop 2: Santillana del Mar and Altamira Caves
How to Get There: Expect about a 2-hour drive from San Sebastian via the A-8.
What to See: Santillana del Mar, often cited as the “Town of Three Lies,” boasts cobbled streets, beautifully preserved medieval architecture, and nearby Altamira Caves, world-renowned for their Paleolithic cave paintings.
Food: The region is known for its marinated anchovies and sobaos, a local sponge cake that makes for an excellent breakfast.
Stop 3: Oviedo
How to Get There: A scenic 2.5-hour drive from Santillana del Mar via the A-8.
What to See: Oviedo offers a more urban landscape steeped in Asturian tradition. The Oviedo Cathedral is a spectacle, featuring an amalgam of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The city’s parks, like San Francisco Park, provide a natural respite.
Food: Oviedo is the place to indulge in Asturian cider, often poured from a height to aerate the drink. Pair it with fabada, a hearty bean stew that is a regional classic.
Stop 4: Santiago de Compostela
How to Get There: A longer stretch of roughly 4 hours will take you to Santiago de Compostela. For those dropping off their rental cars, Santiago De Compostela Airport offers convenient options.
What to See: The Santiago Cathedral is the cornerstone of the city, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. But Santiago offers much more: from the narrow, winding streets of its old town to Alameda Park offering panoramic views of the city.
Food: A trip to Santiago is incomplete without trying Tarta de Santiago, an almond cake that is a staple in local cafes.
Tips for the Road
- Navigation: Invest in a good GPS or ensure your rental car comes equipped with one.
- Tolls: The journey does involve some toll roads; hence, having spare change can be a lifesaver.
- Speed Limits: Spain has stringent speed regulations. Abide by them to avoid unnecessary hassles.
- Language: Though English is widely spoken, a rudimentary understanding of Spanish can go a long way, especially in smaller towns.
From bustling urban centers to quaint little villages, from majestic cathedrals to serene beaches, northern Spain is a diverse landscape waiting to be explored. All you need is a car, a good playlist, and an adventurous spirit.
Additional resources:
