It can be a tough decision to figure out what places to visit in Spain. While the obvious choices are the iconic cities of Barcelona and Madrid, we would highly recommend looking to northern Spain for some lesser known, but equally incredible, destinations. Join us on a 12-day Globus tour to uncover the highlights of northern Spain (plus a bit of Portugal thrown in there for good measure!).
Pamplona
Pamplona is famous for its contentious annual Running of the Bulls event. However, there is much more to Pamplona than meets the eye! It proved to be a city of inspiration for Ernest Hemingway in the 1920’s, and you can still visit his favourite café to this date – Café Iruña. Wander down the Calle Estafeta, the famous street blocked off every July for the Running of the Bulls; indulge in trying as many pintxos (small bar snacks) as you possibly can; or lose yourself in one of its top-notch art galleries.
San Sebastian
Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea’, San Sebastian is a popular destination for its beaches and food scene. Did you know that San Sebastian has the second most Michelin stars per capita in the world? You (and your stomach) would be disappointed to not get amongst the Basque cuisine. When we aren’t restaurant-hopping, you’ll find us exploring the heart of the city, Parte Viaje (the Old Town). With its pedestrian-friendly streets, you can easily explore amongst the historic buildings to your heart’s content.
Bilbao
Bilbao is known for being one of the most stylish cities in northern Spain, and the biggest in Basque Country. Travellers flock from all over the world to visit the Guggenheim Museum, housing a wide range of modern and contemporary artworks. It has a unique structure that towers above the river, making it visually appealing from the outside too!
Santiago de Compostela
The northern Spain city of Santiago de Compostela is a revered place to visit. As the finishing point for the Camino de Santiago walk, it is extremely humbling to watch pilgrims arrive after their journey of 780 kilometres. Even if you’re not religious, you can choose to attend a mass at the Santiago Cathedral where the priest will welcome the pilgrims who have arrived that day. Afterwards, spend some time in Santiago de Compostela’s historic quarter that is surrounded by incredible churches, palaces and monasteries.
Oviedo
For those who are avid cider fans, Oviedo is the city for you! Asturias (the northern Spain region Oviedo is found in) is famous for its sidra, so it’s only fitting that you should make your way to a local sidería. In particular, Calle Gascona is nicknamed ‘Cider Boulevard’ so we guarantee you can find a cosy spot to enjoy a local cider.
La Toja Island
The charming island of La Toja is found on the north-west coast of Spain, connected by a driveable road above the sea. Due to its small size, there isn’t as much to see or do compared to the cities mentioned above, but it is worth a visit. Don’t miss its historic chapel that is covered entirely in seashells!
Interested in uncovering the highlights of northern Spain now? Take a look at this Globus tour that will help you uncover the highlights of northern Spain!
