10-Day Northern Spain Road Trip: Must-Visit Places, Budget Tips, and Local Delicacies

Introduction

Embarking on a road trip through Northern Spain is an incredible way to explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine of this fascinating region. From vibrant cities to picturesque coastal towns and charming countryside, Northern Spain offers a little something for everyone. In this guide, we'll take you through the must-visit places, suggested budget, must-try foods, suggested route, where to stay, and some tips to save money along the way. Travel resources to plan your trip.

Must-Visit Places

1. Bilbao: Start your road trip in Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Explore the old town, known as Casco Viejo, and indulge in some pintxos (Basque tapas) at the local bars.

2. San Sebastian: Head east to San Sebastian, a food lover's paradise. Spend a day at La Concha beach, hike up Mount Urgull for panoramic views, and don't miss the chance to try the famous Basque dish, "pulpo a la gallega" (Galician-style octopus).

3. Santander: Continue along the coast to Santander, a charming city with beautiful beaches. Visit the Palacio de la Magdalena and take a stroll along the Sardinero promenade.

4. Picos de Europa National Park: Drive south to the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, known for its rugged mountains and picturesque hiking trails. Don't forget your camera!

5. Oviedo: Head inland to Oviedo, the capital of the Asturias region. Explore the historic city center, visit the stunning Cathedral of San Salvador, and try the local cider.

6. Santiago de Compostela: Drive west to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Visit the stunning Cathedral and wander through the narrow streets of the old town.

7 La Coruña: Finish your road trip in A Coruña, a vibrant coastal city. Take a stroll along the seafront promenade, visit the Tower of Hercules, and indulge in some fresh seafood at the local restaurants.

Suggested Budget

The suggested budget for a 10-day road trip through Northern Spain can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. On average, a daily budget of around €80-€100 per person should be sufficient to cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and attractions.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:

• Accommodation: Budget hotels and guesthouses start at around €40 per night, while mid-range options range from €60-€80 per night.

• Meals: Enjoying local cuisine is a highlight of any trip to Northern Spain. Expect to spend around €15-€20 per person for a meal at a local restaurant.

• Transportation: Renting a car for the duration of your trip will cost approximately €30-€50 per day, depending on the type of vehicle.

• Attractions: Many attractions in Northern Spain, such as museums and cathedrals, have affordable entrance fees ranging from €5-€10 per person.

Must-Try Foods

No road trip through Northern Spain would be complete without indulging in the region's delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try foods:

1. Pintxos: These bite-sized Basque tapas are a culinary delight. Don't miss the opportunity to try classics like "pintxo de tortilla" (Spanish omelette) and "gilda" (olive, anchovy, and pickled pepper skewer).

2. Fabada Asturiana: A hearty Asturian bean stew made with white beans, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage). Perfect for a chilly day!

3. Pulpo a la Gallega: This Galician-style octopus dish is a true delicacy. Tender octopus is cooked with paprika, olive oil, and served on a bed of potatoes.

4. Empanadas: These savory pastries filled with meat, fish, or vegetables are a popular snack in Northern Spain. Perfect for a quick bite on the road.

5. Tarta de Santiago: A traditional almond cake from Santiago de Compostela. It's moist, delicious, and often dusted with powdered sugar and adorned with the Cross of Saint James.

Suggested Route

Here's a suggested route for your 10-day road trip through Northern Spain:

Day 1: Bilbao

Day 2-3: San Sebastian

Day 4: Santander

Day 5-6: Picos de Europa National Park

Day 7-8: Oviedo

Day 9: Santiago de Compostela

Day 10: A Coruña

Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and the amount of time you have available.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of accommodation options available throughout Northern Spain, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some suggestions:

1. Bilbao: Stay in the city center near the Guggenheim Museum for easy access to the main attractions.

2. San Sebastian: Look for accommodation in the city center or near La Concha beach for convenience.

3. Santander: Consider staying near the waterfront or in the city center for easy access to the beach and attractions.

4. Picos de Europa National Park: Look for charming guesthouses or mountain lodges in the nearby towns of Potes or Cangas de Onis.

5. Oviedo: Stay in the historic city center to be close to the main sights and restaurants.

6. Santiago de Compostela: Look for accommodation near the Cathedral or in the charming old town.

7. A Coruña: Consider staying near the seafront promenade for beautiful views and easy access to the city's attractions.

Tips to Save Money

1. Travel during the shoulder season: Consider visiting Northern Spain in the spring or fall when prices are lower, and crowds are smaller.

2. Cook your own meals: Take advantage of the local markets and grocery stores to prepare your own meals occasionally. This can help save money on dining out.

3. Use public transportation: In cities like Bilbao and San Sebastian, public transportation is efficient and affordable. Consider using buses or trams instead of taxis.

4. Look for free attractions: Many cities in Northern Spain offer free entrance to museums and attractions on certain days or during specific hours. Take advantage of these opportunities.

5. Plan your activities in advance: Research and book your activities and attractions in advance to take advantage of any online discounts or deals.

6. Take advantage of local menus: Many restaurants in Northern Spain offer a fixed-price menu del día (menu of the day) at lunchtime, which often includes several courses at a reasonable price.

7. Stay in budget accommodations: Consider staying in budget-friendly guesthouses, hostels, or apartments to save money on accommodation.

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Conclusion

A road trip through Northern Spain offers a unique opportunity to discover the region's stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the vibrant cities of Bilbao and San Sebastian to the charming coastal towns and breathtaking national parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With careful planning, a reasonable budget, and an appetite for adventure, your 10-day road trip through Northern Spain is sure to be an unforgettable experience.