Spending a week exploring the Basque Country in Spain? We have the ideal road trip Northern Spain! This trip offers everything: rugged nature, vast beaches, atmospheric streets, wine regions, good food (see our posts about North Spain) and the upcoming city of Bilbao! The price level here is also a lot lower than in other areas of Spain. Let’s go!
Road trip Northern Spain
⋆ Day 1 – 2 Bilbao: Rent a car at Bilbao airport to start your trip. Besides the famous Guggenheim Museum, there is much more to experience in this city! Climb to the highest point of the city and walk through the nice neighborhood Casco Viejo where you can admire a lot of street art. Really cool! In Bilbao you can also do some good shopping and not unimportantly: cafes everywhere.
⋆ Day 3 Bilbao – Zumaia – San Sebastián: Definitely make a stop at Zumaia on your way to San Sebastián. The cliffs and coast are very impressive. A little climb, but then reward yourself with good wine in the cozy town!
⋆ Day 4-6 San Sebastián. San Sebastián is enchanting! The stately buildings, nature and lovely beaches makes it a special place in Spain. Climb the beautiful Monte Urgull, stroll through the trendy Gros district and fill your tummy in Casco Viejo! And; go into the sea! The sea temperature is great and many locals take a dip in the morning. Want more? The colorful village of Hondarribia is also fun to visit.
⋆ Day 6-7 Pamplona. Pamplona is a nice stop before you drive into La Rioja. A truly Spanish town with lots of live music, students and atmospheric narrow streets.
⋆ Day 7-8 Logroño – Bilbao. We found Logroño to be the ideal base to explore the Rioja regio in this road trip. Visit the beautiful bodegas in the area, taste exclusive wines and enjoy the beautiful views! You drive back to Bilbao in 1.5 hours.
If you’re looking for the best places to eat, check our articles on Northern Spain! Click here for Bilbao and here for San Sebastián. Follow us on instagram to get more tips on places to go and eat in Spain!
