10 Most Amazing Destinations in Northern Spain

Travelers often flock to Spain, drawn to the allure of Madrid’s bustling streets, the Moorish castles in the temperate south, or the vibrant scenes of Barcelona and Valencia. Yet, the true essence of this Iberian nation cannot be fully grasped without wandering through the treasures of its northern territories. From the well-preserved medieval villages to the vibrant wine regions and the stunning coastline of the Bay of Biscay, the north offers a canvas of cultural and natural splendor often overlooked by the casual visitor.

Imagine a realm where every corner tells a story, where the Basque country unfurls its unique language and culinary delights, and the rugged cliffs of the coastline contrast with the tranquil beauty of vineyard-covered valleys. Northern Spain is not merely a destination; it’s an encounter with history and tradition, an experience enriched by the character of its people and the unspoiled charm of its landscapes. Pack your curiosity and prepare to indulge in an adventure through the myriad hidden gems that await in this less-traveled yet magnificent part of Spain.

Most Amazing Destinations in Northern Spain

1. The Peaks of Northern Majesty

Venture into the realm of high mountains and deep valleys at the majestic Picos de Europa National Park. As you scale the trails, take heed of the swiftly enveloping mists, a reminder of nature’s unpredictability. Here, the possibility of snowfall lingers throughout the year, adding a crystalline sparkle to your adventure in any season.

Nature’s tapestry unfolds with forests and venerable oak groves, with the park’s four rivers slicing through the landscape. If you prefer to witness grandeur without the ascent, the Fuentede cable car elevates you over a mile high, offering a vista that sweeps across the park’s splendor.

2. Santander’s Coastal Splendor

As you meander through the verdant paths of Piquio Gardens, the spectacle of Santander’s shoreline unfolds before you. The Playa el Sardinero, a crowning jewel of the Cantabrian coast, lures you with its golden sands that arch gently into a picturesque bay.

The city, rich with maritime heritage, faced transformation when the flames of 1941 reshaped its old quarter. Today, the Municipal Museum of Arts stands proudly, blending contemporary Cantabrian works and revered classics like those of Goya—a mosaic of Santander’s historic resilience and cultural renaissance.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Europe in March (Revealed!)

3. Exploring the Vines of Rioja

Nestled in the undulating hills of northern Spain, the Rioja Wine Region awaits with its lush vineyards and historic bodegas. You might find yourself riding horseback between the endless rows of grapevines, or traversing the terrain in an all-terrain vehicle, the fresh vineyard air filling your lungs. Here, the artistry of winemaking spans over a millennium, with vintners passing down their time-honed craft from generation to generation.

The region boasts more than 500 wineries across its three distinctive areas:

• Rioja Alta: Known for its robust and velvety wines.
• Rioja Alavesa: Offers wines with a fine balance of fruit and oak.
• Rioja Baja: Renowned for its fruitful, aromatic varieties.

Beyond the thrill of tastings, certain wineries enrich your knowledge through classes, where you delve into the noble journey from grape to glass. Each sip tells a story of tradition and passion, rooted in a rich, wine-flavored heritage.

4. Oviedo: A Pilgrimage of History

Oviedo, the heart of Asturias, beckons with its sacred monuments and echoes of ancient pilgrims. Your journey here intersects with the storied Camino de Santiago. Delve into the past with eighth-century sanctuaries such as the San Salvador Cathedral and the Basilica of San Julian de los Prados.

Venture to La Foncalada to encounter a ninth-century fountain that stands as a testament to pre-Romanesque ingenuity. And for a twist of modern culture entwined with historical essence, recall that Oviedo graced the silver screen in Woody Allen’s “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.”

5. Bilbao’s Creative Revival

As you wander through the undulating landscapes of the Basque region, the shimmering titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao catch your eye—an architectural marvel by Frank Gehry that has helped redefine the city’s image. This beacon of modern art stands in contrast with the ancient stones of the Gothic Cathedral of Santiago and the venerated Basilica de Begoña, each a testament to Bilbao’s historical grandeur. It’s a harmonious convergence of past and future.

See Related: Top Destinations in Southern Spain

6. Gaztelugatxe

On the rugged coast of Biscay, Gaztelugatxe stands as a natural fortress, its name echoing the Basque words for “castle” and “rock.” A traditional stone bridge, arching gracefully over the surf, leads you to this islet. At its peak, you’ll find a cherished hermitage devoted to St. John.

Climbing Instructions:

• Steps to Summit: 231
• Advice: Ascend at a leisurely pace to avoid discomfort
• Reward: Unparalleled coastal panoramas

Feel the ascent’s challenge in your legs, but remember, the sight from above promises to capture your breath as surely as the climb.

7. Unveiling Pamplona

Famed for its adrenaline-packed Fiesta de San Fermín, where you dodge thundering bulls in July, Pamplona captures a sense of daring like few other cities. It’s a historical beacon, once the heart of the Kingdom of Navarre, now beckoning adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Stroll through Pamplona and find yourself stepping into the Plaza de Toros, the world’s fourth largest amphitheater for bullfighting. Begin your pilgrimage here on the Camino de Santiago, absorbing the essence of the city through its verdant parks and time-honored structures that beckon a leisurely exploration.

8. Santiago de Compostela

As you tread the cobblestone streets of Santiago de Compostela, the echoes of medieval pilgrims whisper with each step. Nestled in Galicia’s embrace, this city captures the culmination of the Camino de Santiago’s spiritual quest.

Behold the grandeur of the local cathedral, its spires reaching to the heavens—a beacon to weary travelers for centuries. Within its hallowed walls, tradition holds that the remains of Apostle St. James reside, marking this place as a poignant symbol of devotion. The city’s vibrant plaza pulses with the convergence of history and the joy of journey’s end, offering a profound sense of accomplishment and reflection.

9. Santillana del Mar

Traverse the cobbled streets of Santillana del Mar, where history is etched in stone and modern vehicles give way to the timeless charm of pedestrian exploration. Not far west of Santander, you’re a mere 20 miles from the echoes of the city, yet deep within the heartland of Cantabria’s rich heritage.

Essentials for Travelers:

• Comfort Footwear: Essential for navigating the village’s medieval pathways.
• Proximity to Santander: A short journey connects you to this historical enclave.

As you wander, ponder the local adage that Santillana del Mar, despite its name, boasts neither the flatness suggested nor proximity to the sea, and saints are notably scarce. Instead, its moniker honors Santa Juliana, whose resting place graces the revered Colegata, a religious site of note in the region.

Notable Attractions:

• Colegata Church: The final resting place of Santa Juliana and an architectural marvel.
• Museum of Inquisition: A grim reminder of the past with artifacts of historical significance.

Nearby, the prehistoric whispers from the Caves of Altamira paint a narrative of human legacy, their ancient murals a testament to the area’s longstanding resonance. Here, the old and new converge, shaping a narrative that is uniquely Santillana del Mar’s to tell.

See Related: Best Beach Vacations in Europe

10. San Sebastian: A Coastal Jewel

Visual Guide to Northern Spain

Nestled in the heart of Basque country, a stone’s throw from France, San Sebastian captivates with its hilly backdrop and the shimmering sands of La Concha—the city’s crowning beach and one of the finest in any metropolis. Wander through the Old Town, where each tavern brims with life, offering a taste of local festivity.

Although much of the city’s architecture emerged in the 19th century, following fiery devastations wrought by English and Portuguese forces in 1813, it stands today in regal splendor. Delight in the jazz rhythms permeating the air each July, echoing from Europe’s longest-standing jazz festival, and immerse yourself in a myriad of other cultural celebrations that fill the city’s calendar.

Related Resources

• Top Places to Visit in Europe You Can’t Miss
• Best Tours in the World for Avid Travelers
• Best Nature Destinations Around the World