Planning a road trip requires plenty of preparation, so we've created the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable road trip across Northern Spain. All you have to do is pack the car, grab some friends, and hit the road! Check it out below.
Santiago de Compostela is the capital city of Spain's northwest Galicia region and is a great starting point for your road trip. The city has a deep and vibrant cultural heritage and is an especially popular destination with visitors interested in Spain's rich religious history. Santiago de Compostela is known as the culminating point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, and it is the alleged burial site of St. James, a biblical apostle.
Situated a 4-hour drive from Santiago de Compostela is the city of Santander, the capital of the Cantabria region on Spain's northern coast. The city lies facing the sea, and is home to a host of great beaches for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a stroll. Make sure to visit the magnificent royal Palacio de la Magdalena, which was constructed between 1908 and 1912 and was subsequently used as a tranquil summer holiday home for the Spanish King Alfonso XIII.
Just a 1-hour drive from the centre of Santander is Bilbao, the well-known capital city of the Spanish Basque Country. The city is brimming with art, culture, and excellent local cuisine, as well as a host of museums, galleries, and modern hotels. Its most famous attraction is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a museum of contemporary and modern art designed by architect Frank Gehry. The museum hosts an array of temporary exhibits and events all year round, so be sure to check the gallery calendar before your visit to see what's on. Once you've had your fill, check out one of Bilbao's Michelin-star restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience.
After leaving Bilbao, hop back in the car and drive for just an hour to reach the resort town of San Sebastian on the Bay of Biscay in the heart of the Basque Country. It's best known for its picturesque beaches and world-renowned upscale restaurant scene. The city sits against a stunning backdrop of lush green hillsides and boasts a charming old town, home to the city's most iconic sights. Don't leave without sampling San Seabsatian's legendary tapas offerings!
| 😎 Quietest month | October |
|---|---|
| 🥳 Busiest month | September |
| 🛏️ Popular accommodation types | Apartment rental and House rentals |
| 🌡️ Warmest weather | July and August |
| 🥶 Coldest weather | January and February |
| 🌧️ Rainiest months | April and November |
Holiday rentals in Northern Spain are between £131 and £186 per night.
When planning a group trip it's useful to know that average Apartment rental in Northern Spain can accommodate 5 people and costs around £154 per night.
Check out our selection of Apartment rental and House rentals to find the perfect holiday rental for Road Trips in Northern Spain.
